a week ago i bought this 98 xj classic. 4.0 auto, 169xxx miles.

problems: The previous owner smashed up the drivers side front. The windows didnt work, the idler pulley squealed and it starts hard.

The jeep will crank forever sometimes on the first try, but always fires up on the second turn of the key. it runs down the road fine other than the cranking issue. what would be a good place to start with that?

i fixed the windows (broken wiring harness in the door)
found a new fender of the same color and built a bumper ( pics to come)
fixed the idler pulley

 

Might need a new fuel pump if takes a second time to turn the key.

 

Sounds like a defective check valve in your fuel pump module assembly, allowing fuel pressure in your fuel rail to bleed off. If you cycle the ignition switch to RUN (without cranking the engine) several times, then crank the engine and it starts, it's probably the fuel pump.

 

that was my thinking too, i just did pumps in my 96 f250 because of the leak down. kinda weird though as it doesnt matter if i crank for 3 seconds or 30 on the first try, it always starts on the second even if i dont cycle the key to the off position and just leave it in the run postion.