Jeep Cherokee XJ 97 Crank no start sometimes it sputters

[Jonny Jeep]

That second video above is only the actuator test to check cluster function. It doesn't show trouble codes.

The method for OBDI and OBDII is the same as shown in the first video. OBDII models will display codes in the odometer.

I'm not sure about XJs, but as far as TJs are concerned, 97 models display 2 digit OBDI codes in the odometer and 01-06 TJs show Pcodes. In TJs the function was not available on 98-00 model years.

[Lenny6]

Alex, the engine light don't stay on long enough for me to preform these tests

[Lenny6]

Originally Posted by alexbrown64

That should be an easy one.

First, use the key trick... Turn your ignition on and off 3 times. On the third time, leave the ignition on and read the codes on the dash. It might give you a hint to what could be the problem.

You have checked fuel pressure, so i believe you are OK there. I am really suspecting the distributor. It could be as simple as the rotor button and/or cap. I have had rotor buttons eaten up on my XJ.

Also, the Cam position sensor in there could of gone out. Cheap to replace. Mine cut out a few months ago and no start at all!! 5 minute fix once i got the part.

Also, had a coil go out once, so check that.. and the lead from the coil to distributor. So you may need a helper to crank the Jeep while checking for a good spark from coil to distributor, then good sparks from each of the leads out of the distributor.

Good luck,

Cheers,

AlexBrown64 How do I upload a video to show people what my jeep is doing in this thread

[alexbrown64]

Hi Lenny,
Good idea with uploading a vid.

Create a video on your phone,
Usually you have to upload a video to YouTube,
Then all you have to do is cut and paste the link onto this thread.

You Tube

Cheers,

Also, your problem seems like a bit of tough one to crack. Bummer that it wasn't the cam sensor. Anyway, its good to have spare sensors. Its strange how you cant get your system to flash any codes.
Hope the vid can point us in the right direction

[oldon]

Originally Posted by Lenny6

Tried that the engine light won't stay on long enough for me to get codes

Len

Maybe you're not doing the key dance correctly Len. The number of times you turn the key on & off seems to vary, mine was built august 96 & you leave the key on after the 5th turn on. The check engine light will go out, wait a couple of seconds then you get the light flashes. Example code 12 is flash short pause flash longer pause then 3 flashes with short pauses between each flash. Code 55 means end of codes which is 5 flashes with short pauses then long pause followed by 5 more flashes with short pauses between.

[Lenny6]

Hi all just posted a quick video to Youtube, to show what my jeep is doing when I turn the key. The lights won't stay on long enough, for me to get codes from the computer..

You Tube

Any suggestions??

Len

[Jimmyb]

You have you video set to private on youtube, so we cannot watch it mate.