My 97 GCL 5.2 kept dying today I had to have my foot on the gas to keep it going till the engine got to normal running temp. This is the first time it has done this what could it be

 

I would start with cleaning the throttle body and IAC. You can take the IAC out or spray carb cleaner through the passage while its running and you will probably have to mess with the throttle to keep if running if you do method 2. With engine off and old tooth brush is handle to clean the throttle body/throttle plate while you hold the throttle open with other hand.

The IAC is the little round thing thats mounted to the throttle body with I think 4 wires going to it. You can take it off with 2 torx screws (T15?) You can clean it better by taking it off. Its best to unplug the PCM or battery to allow it to relearn the idle strategy, unplugging the PCM for a few minutes is enough.

 

96 ZJ 4.0 42 re here.... HAD I KNOWN ALL I HAD TO DO > was replace the Idle Air Control Valve or IAC and then unplug the three harnesses behind the coolant reservoir that power the PCU or ECU... man. I had to unplug twice and then she idled fine. Took her around the block and she Idles better than ever. around 1400 in neutral and around 600 in gear at 0mph or park. THIS GUY KNOWS WHATS UP! SHOUT OUT TO @JNICEWAN THANKS BROTHER JEEP LYFE!