Hi all. Im new to this forum.
I have a problem with my '89 cherokee. Its a 4.0L auto. Ive had it for about a year and it runs like a clock. But this morn when i tried to start it it stopped strait away after releasing the starter key. It ran perfectly yesterday. Ive searched forums around and checked my various manuals.
Here is two things that i feel i should mention. The day before yesterday i changed the egnitionwires. Had no problem though. I have had problems with a loose connection at the alternator before, but i pinned that and it should be sorted.
The car runs normal as long as i hold key. If i try to put it into gear it coughs and dies. Lights, radio and so on appears to work as normal

So here is what i have done and checked.
Ive got fuel pressure.
Ive change all relays (4 under bonnet by the bat. and two in footwell pas. side)
Checked n double checked connections to alternator.
Checked new ignition wires.
All hoses seems fine.
Ive had a look at the wiring underneath the bonnet, but havent checked absolutely all.
Checked all fuses

and still no luck. Any ideas is highly appreciated as i live in the mountains and need a car to get around.

 

Hi The car is running!
Of course im very happy, but i dont know why. I suspect that it was on of the relays in the passenger side as it had a bit of corrosion on the plug. i gave it a bit of the good old WD40 and my theory is that it needed a bit of time to work.
But it bugs me not knowing what was wrong. I would still be happy to hear thoughts on the issue or is there anything i should check now? i dont want to have the same problem in a week.

thanks again
- Andreas

 

Mine was doing that too, I would start it and I'd have to keep my foot in the gas to keep it idling. I traced mine back to a frozen part/sensor under the hood since I had it boil over, then it sat and froze...

 

Replace the ignition switch. I'd bet it has some worn contacts. Only thing related to "holding the key"

Good Luck!

 

yep thats what it sounds like