PCM?
11-23-2016, 08:00 PM
#2
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Model: Cherokee
Update
Jump started. Runs fine for around 5 minutes then voltmeter begins to drift down to about 11, then drops to zero and check gauges light comes on. I'd love to get it running this evening, although not looking good.
11-23-2016, 08:51 PM
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Update 2
Thanks nujeepguy. Just got back from second attempt. I disconnected alt power connection and reattached. Started because battery was semi-charged. Voltmeter starts out at around 13+, then drifts to 12, then between 11 and 12, then drops to zero and check gauges light comes on. Doesn't look good for Thanksgiving drive, but if anyone has any obvious items to check, it would be great.
11-24-2016, 12:59 PM
#5
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Year: 1997
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0L
My first guess is the alternator has gone bad. New does not always good. First thing i would do is inspect and clean all the grounds. This includes the PDC connections. Make sure the belt is tight. Belt tension should be in the 180-200ft lbs. range. I use a Krikit II (Gates part #91132).
Next thing i would do (just be sure) is check the voltage with a multimeter, engine off. It should be in the 12.6-13v range. The closer to 13v, the better. Start the engine and let it idle. It should be in the 13.6-14.5v range. The closer to 14v, the better. Whatever reading you get it should stay close to that, even with lights and accessories on.
Next thing i would do (just be sure) is check the voltage with a multimeter, engine off. It should be in the 12.6-13v range. The closer to 13v, the better. Start the engine and let it idle. It should be in the 13.6-14.5v range. The closer to 14v, the better. Whatever reading you get it should stay close to that, even with lights and accessories on.
11-25-2016, 09:55 AM
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Thanks Stock 97. I took it in. I'm very limited in working space -- live in an urban high-rise. I am semi-channeling my adolescent days, when fixing cars was the norm. Starting to enjoy the self-reliance mode again, but there are always practical limitations. Very glad I found this forum and the abundance of information available on the internet. Very different from the days when it was a treat to even have a Chilton manual!
11-25-2016, 12:02 PM
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Update 3
You were right (if I believe Good Year). They say alternator tested out bad. So frustrating. Can't trust buying anything. Never know for sure if you trust the shop.
For the database, it was a re-manufactured Duralast alternator from AutoZone.
For the database, it was a re-manufactured Duralast alternator from AutoZone.
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11-25-2016, 01:03 PM
#8
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Year: 2000
Model: Cherokee(XJ)
Engine: Golen 4.6L
That's the tension for a brand new belt that has never been run. The tension for a used belt is 140-160 lb ft. New belts are installed tighter because they are expected to stretch almost immediately upon first use.