Hi guys. I've got a 96 cherokee, 4cyl, 5 spd manual transmission. Went to start her up yesterday and no crank. I replaced the ignition switch, but no dice. The research I've done so far has led me to the neutral safety switch as the next likely solution.

However, I can't find any info on where it's located on the 4 cyl manual model. Does it even have one? I called pep boys and they don't list one for a 5spd manual. Also, does this sound like it may be my problem? Battery is new and starter looks good as well. Thanks.

 

There is no NSS in a manual. The functional equivalent in terms of the starting system is the clutch interlock switch. It rides on the plunger for the master cylinder at the top of the clutch pedal. It should close the starting circuit when the pedal is fully depressed. Sometimes floor mats can get jamme up there and cause problems

 

Thanks, but now that I recall, my Jeep would start in gear even without the clutch depressed. Found this out the hard way a couple times when I left it parked in 1st on a hill, forgot, and jolted to a stall the moment I turned the key. Come to think of it, I may have done this recently before I had the problem......could this have caused my issue?

Also saw a bunch of post that suggest 96 and earler don't have a clutch interlock switch. Can anyone confirm this?

More importantly, what's my next step to diagnosing this? Looking like it's turning into an electrical nightmare and my knowledge in that department is especially lacking.

 

Could it be the CPS?

 

It could be. Will it start with the key in RUN if you jump the starter itself? (shorting out the solenoid with a screwdriver will apparently get it going)

 

Some info on the clutch switch, with pics for a '97. I don't know if 96 is similar
https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f2/clutch-bypass-83454/

There also *may* be a relay in the PDC... on automatic versions there is a a start relay in the PDC that grounds through the NSS and completes the ignition circuit to the starter solenoid. I don't know if the manual version has the same relay, but might be worth swapping a few around. If you have a clutch safety switch I'd bet the relay is there.

 

Can't find the stupid diagram but this is the 97+ circuit flow:

Battery +
-> fuse in JB
-> ignition switch RUN
-> relay in JB, battery +
-> clutch interlock switch
-> relay in PDC, fuse in PDC, battery+
-> starter solenoid, hardwire to battery+
-> starter

 

Does the battery show 12+ volts, did you clean all the connections from the battery to the starter. Just because they look good on the outside doesn't mean there good on the inside. If you have the 2 bolt clamp on type battery cable ends make sure their clean and shiny where the cable is inserted and wire brush the bare cable end. Everyday I deal with no crank problems on cars and most are caused by loose/dirty connections that look good from the outside.