Not starting, help with what to check?
Hi, I have an 89 cherokee that is my daily driver. I had an issue before with that not starting after any rain. Changing a fuse fixed the issue. Well it has been starting every time for months, no issue. Last night we had rain and a freeze so everything is covered in ice. Skated over to the Jeep and it turns over fine but will not start. I messed with the fuses in case that was an issue again but it didn't fix the issue. Fuel pump seems to be working fine. I don't know what would have happened over night. Any ideas what and how to check. I beat the ice off the hood and got that opened so that's a start lol.
CF Veteran




Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 5,840
Likes: 117
From: In the middle of Minnesota!
Year: 1999
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
Moisture related no starts can be related to the "secondary ignition system". Meaning tuneup parts.
When was the last time you replaced the distributor cap, rotor, plugs and plug wires?
When was the last time you replaced the distributor cap, rotor, plugs and plug wires?
OK I have it started. I found a youtube video and there is a plug that I assume is to the cps ( the plug sits up on top of everything right on the middle to drivers side near the window). I unplugged it for a few minutes and plugged it back in and it started up.
CF Veteran
Joined: Nov 2017
Posts: 3,700
Likes: 238
From: Groton, MA
Year: 1995
Model: Cherokee(XJ)
Engine: I6 4.0L
If nobody's advised it already - if you replace your CPS, spring for the Mopar - you don't want to screw around with failure prone aftermarket brands since it's a PITA to replace.
Senior Member

Joined: May 2012
Posts: 925
Likes: 5
From: Fort Erie, CANADA
Year: 1987
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
May want to pull the coil and clean up the prongs to ensure good contact. Also, I would clean up the grounds on the dipstick if you haven't done that recently.
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