Im new to the forum and I have a 1992 jeep cherokee laredo. Im driving down the road the other day and it suddenly starts misfiring in the intake. then it got so bad that it wouldnt even idle correctly. it idles at extremely low rpms. and revs up to bout 2000 grand then idles back down. takes long time to start. when I turn it over I have to continuosly hold the starter even when it fires to get it to take off. then the idle acts up like I explained. It will not move when in drive it dies out. Ive changed the fuel filter, spark plugs, cleaned AND changed the throttle body. still does the same thing. Im sorry bout the essay but I just had to explain the problem in full. Any help would be appreciated. Oh and the dist. cap and plugs are fine. HELP! oh and the fuel supply seems to be ok. not sure what to do next... I only have so much money!!!!

 

sounds like a cps going here's a write up on testing it before you go buy one.
https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f51/testing-cps-5563/

 

yeah, something is throwing the timing WAY off. Cps or dis.

 

Check inside the distributor cap for carbon tracking and moisture.

 

thanx for the great replies to my problem. Unfortunately I just spent 70.00 yesterday and put a new crankshaft position sensor in it, and it hasn't changed. But I had no choice because I didn't have a voltmeter to check it nor did any of my friends. I HAVE EVERY STINKIN TOOL BUT THAT!!!!
However, I checked the distributor cap and wires. They seem to be fine, but the number 1 and 3 cap plugs did have some carbon on them under the plug. Other than that I dont see any carbon tracking or moisture in the cap. I dont know what else to do. Im bout to have to have it towed to a garage. just dont have the $$$$$$$. and unfortunately its my only vehicle... Any other ideas? Oh, when I start it cold it will idle extremely rough for bout 20 min. but after that, I start it, and it will idle low for a min and die out????????? Any help greatly appreciated! thanx