1991 Jeep Cherokee Refuses to run
#1
Newbie
Thread Starter
Join Date: Apr 2018
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Model: Cherokee(SJ)
1991 Jeep Cherokee Refuses to run
ive Had my 91 Cherokee about a year now and it’s been great until about six months ago when it wouldn’t start. It turned over but just wouldn’t catch. Since then I’ve had problems with it dying at random either at idle or while driving, no warning no sputtering just instantly dead. Giving gas doesn’t help. Also refusing to start altogether as it did before and as of now I haven’t gotten it to start in weeks. In tracking this issue (and a few other things along the way) I have since replaced the head&gasket, distributor, fuel pump and filter, o2 sensor, all new spark plugs, new radiator (twice), battery is okay, fuses are good, all the wiring I can tell is good. Have spark fuel air and pressure. Timing is on and when it runs it sounds great! I’m running out of ideas and maybe forgot a few things here.
The only code the computer throws that It shouldn’t be is 41 alternator field control circuit open or shorted. does this mean a bad alternator or where should I be looking?
The only code the computer throws that It shouldn’t be is 41 alternator field control circuit open or shorted. does this mean a bad alternator or where should I be looking?
#2
CF Veteran
Join Date: Sep 2012
Location: In a large sandbox
Posts: 1,623
Likes: 0
Received 9 Likes
on
9 Posts
Year: 1998
Engine: 4.0
Welcome to CF. The code 41 is specific to the alternator itself; it's toast. Replace it before you get it running by chance and it leaves you stranded somewhere inconvenient.
This https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f2/ is normally the place to post a question regarding stock XJ's and may explain your lack of responses.
Let us know what you find out.
This https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f2/ is normally the place to post a question regarding stock XJ's and may explain your lack of responses.
Let us know what you find out.
#3
CF Veteran
ive Had my 91 Cherokee about a year now and it’s been great until about six months ago when it wouldn’t start. It turned over but just wouldn’t catch. Since then I’ve had problems with it dying at random either at idle or while driving, no warning no sputtering just instantly dead. Giving gas doesn’t help. Also refusing to start altogether as it did before and as of now I haven’t gotten it to start in weeks. In tracking this issue (and a few other things along the way) I have since replaced the head&gasket, distributor, fuel pump and filter, o2 sensor, all new spark plugs, new radiator (twice), battery is okay, fuses are good, all the wiring I can tell is good. Have spark fuel air and pressure. Timing is on and when it runs it sounds great! I’m running out of ideas and maybe forgot a few things here.
The only code the computer throws that It shouldn’t be is 41 alternator field control circuit open or shorted. does this mean a bad alternator or where should I be looking?
The only code the computer throws that It shouldn’t be is 41 alternator field control circuit open or shorted. does this mean a bad alternator or where should I be looking?
I think this field control circuit, or regulator, is contained in the PCM, not the alternator on that year model. If so they are non repairable and you change the pcm.
A toasted PCM might also cause your failure.
#4
CF Veteran
Join Date: Sep 2012
Location: In a large sandbox
Posts: 1,623
Likes: 0
Received 9 Likes
on
9 Posts
Year: 1998
Engine: 4.0
This is true but it's very uncommon relative to alt failures. Cleaning corroded ECU/ECM/PCM pins can sometimes salvage them.
OP, double-check the alt wiring and connectors very closely, particularly the green wire. Also, have you load-tested the alt?
Hopefully a mod will move this thread.
OP, double-check the alt wiring and connectors very closely, particularly the green wire. Also, have you load-tested the alt?
Hopefully a mod will move this thread.
#5
CF Veteran
This is true but it's very uncommon relative to alt failures. Cleaning corroded ECU/ECM/PCM pins can sometimes salvage them.
OP, double-check the alt wiring and connectors very closely, particularly the green wire. Also, have you load-tested the alt?
Hopefully a mod will move this thread.
OP, double-check the alt wiring and connectors very closely, particularly the green wire. Also, have you load-tested the alt?
Hopefully a mod will move this thread.
#6
CF Veteran
Join Date: Sep 2012
Location: In a large sandbox
Posts: 1,623
Likes: 0
Received 9 Likes
on
9 Posts
Year: 1998
Engine: 4.0
Non-sequitur. Just because the code is related to voltage reg does not mean it is not the alt. Worn/damaged brushes, broken connection on alt can, and often do, trip code 41.
#7
CF Veteran
He says it wont start. Unless I'm wrong, you can take the alt right out and still start it. So that is why I say pcm. We can agree to disagree.
Trending Topics
#9
CF Veteran
Join Date: Sep 2012
Location: In a large sandbox
Posts: 1,623
Likes: 0
Received 9 Likes
on
9 Posts
Year: 1998
Engine: 4.0
Ok, OP, now that I have a few minutes to clarify something for you (and 97 grand), your voltage regulator is not in the ECU/ECM. The voltage regulator on your '91 is...wait for it...on your alternator. They did not begin using the PCM-internal unit until the '92 MY when they switched from Delco to Nippondenso units. Case closed. Check your alt and wires/connections.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
Lil Beast
Stock XJ Cherokee Tech. All XJ Non-modified/stock questions go here
42
02-23-2013 01:07 AM
chantal73
Stock XJ Cherokee Tech. All XJ Non-modified/stock questions go here
13
09-12-2012 01:09 AM
poppajeep
Stock XJ Cherokee Tech. All XJ Non-modified/stock questions go here
21
08-30-2011 01:08 PM
goneboating06
Stock XJ Cherokee Tech. All XJ Non-modified/stock questions go here
12
09-15-2010 01:12 PM
Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)