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Engine pulses at idle

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Old Mar 1, 2016 | 10:08 AM
  #1  
CBacon's Avatar
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From: Springdale, Arkansas
Year: 1998
Model: Grand Cherokee
Engine: 5.2
Default Engine pulses at idle

I have a 98 ZJ with a 5.2. For some reason the rpm fluctuates while it idles. This doesn't happen all the time but enough to spark my curiosity. The plugs, wires, rotor, cap, and coil are all new. I run cleaner through the injectors regularly. Any ideas on t
what might cause this?
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Old Mar 1, 2016 | 01:50 PM
  #2  
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From: Oroville, CA
Year: 1995
Model: Grand Cherokee
Engine: 4.0 with all of the noise and clatter
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Is the defrost or A/C on while this happens?
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Old Mar 1, 2016 | 08:33 PM
  #3  
wingless's Avatar
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Year: 1994
Model: Grand Cherokee
Engine: 5.2L Magnum V8 220hp 285ft-lbs
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Welcome to the forum!

When was the timing chain last changed?
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Old Mar 1, 2016 | 08:44 PM
  #4  
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From: Springdale, Arkansas
Year: 1998
Model: Grand Cherokee
Engine: 5.2
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The heater was on last time it happened and I doubt if the timing chain was ever changed. It had 230,000 on it when i bought it and now has 256,000. I have replaced a lot of part that were obviously original. It also has a whistle under the hood from time to time that I suspect is a vacuum leak but it is right behind the A/C pump and I dont see any vacuum lines there.
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Old Mar 2, 2016 | 05:34 AM
  #5  
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From: Manlius, east of Syracuse, NY
Year: 2000 XJ Sport & WJ Laredo
Model: Grand Cherokee (WJ)
Engine: 4.0L
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Wadaya think, Busted? Plenum gasket?
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Old Mar 2, 2016 | 06:21 AM
  #6  
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From: Springdale, Arkansas
Year: 1998
Model: Grand Cherokee
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That is what I'm thinking. It whistles more when it is cold and then goes away as it warms up but doesn't always make a sound. some days yes, some days no.
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Old Mar 2, 2016 | 12:31 PM
  #7  
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From: Oroville, CA
Year: 1995
Model: Grand Cherokee
Engine: 4.0 with all of the noise and clatter
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Originally Posted by dave1123
Wadaya think, Busted? Plenum gasket?
Most likely.
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Old Mar 2, 2016 | 04:22 PM
  #8  
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Year: 1998
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Engine: 5.2
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Great! Thanks guys..
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