so here's the update. after more checks, I've found that the compression is outstanding for the mileage. It also has, in addition to the earlier posted parts, it now sports another, yes another new camshaft positioning sensor, six new plugs (twice again), new plug wires, new TPS, new fuel pump installed, new coil, and when it does start, it won't stay running, but when it decides to run for awhile, it idles semi-okey dokie. When revved up, it bucks, snorts, and backfires like its got a lean condition. I checked the rotor position in relation to the crankshaft mark. Little hint on distributor work, install a 5/16" thread stud in place of a bolt, and use a nut, makes it a lot easier to work on the distributor. just trying to help. Anyone have any new ideas? I'm tapped out, and my mind doesn't want to think about Cherokee maintenance for awhile, I'd rather take mine out, and use it, but I would feel guilty leaving my buddy home with his '91 in my yard (mine is a '95). I guess I could take him with me, but he wouldn't appreciate his still at home not running correctly. Please, any good ideas? I think I've made Car Quest's quota for XJ parts this month. Thanks ahead of time.

 

hey tj? my haynes book says camshaft sensor for 97 and up? or maybe its just 2000 model,cant remember. it doesnt say anything about one being in mine,a 91, in dist. or otherwise. is my book screwed up? lol just trying to shed some light on it.

 

Haynes refers to it as a Stator. It's also known as a sync-pulse generator.
This site shows the difference between the Renix and HO camshaft position sensors:

http://www.lunghd.com/Tech_Articles/...lse_Stator.htm

 

ok guys. I appreciate all that have responded, however the last few have zeroed in on whether or not it has a camshaft positioning sensor. It does, and its been replaced twice. There hasn't been a lot of helpful ideas lately (just verbage on camshaft positioning sensors that were indeed inside the distributor). I personally have changed them. Any other ideas I can use? Thanks again for the earlier ideas. My buddy that owns this rig is pretty disillusioned at this point, thinking he may sell it. I just figured someone out there would have an idea that hasn't been presented yet. Thanks, again folks.

 

thanx whiplash! i got that saved.

 

It's official, my post/thread has been hijacked. I officially give up. Apparently some can't find the proper thread to discuss whether or not parts are indeed inside their vehicle. Helpful posts early on were indeed appreciated, latest ones, not so much, as they weren't even directed at the problem. Once again, I give up, you've won. I just hope you don't do this to all of the posts you see. As far as the information you keep going back and forth on, its in the manuals. Spend twenty bucks and get one. Sorry it didn't work out.

 

well, here's an update. prior to my attempt at giving my buddy's xj new life, the mechanical emporium that worked on it replaced the camshaft positioning sensor incorrectly. so..............when I changed it out again, I placed it in the distributor just as it was. INCORRECT! for those that are having similar issues, take a look at the sensor, and make sure it is in correctly. obviously, the first repair shop screwed it up, I didn't help it much, but the last shop that worked on it definitely had their ducks in a row. first diagnosis was for a new computer, but the Mechanic (!) that was assigned to it, figured it out. Nice to know there are still mechanics in the world, not just parts replacers (of which I could be). hope this helps somewhere along the way. surprising how knowing more information can help someone. (what not to do) "Still Jeepin' after all these years"