I have a 2000 XJ that normally runs like a Swiss watch. This past weekend I was off roading and at one point after stopping and turning off the Cherokee, when I went to start it, it ran rough and wanted to turn off. It smelled like fuel as well.

I was towed back down the trail and when I made it to the bottom, it started right back up and ran perfect. So, I'm I right to assume that maybe the off roading shook dirt inside the tank around causing debris to block the filter? And when I was towed it moved the debris around again causing it to drop back down and starting like normal? Also no check engine light and the pump was priming and sounding normal.

I have not checked to see if the filter is outside the tank or inside, but will do that tonight.

Thoughts?

Thanks
Edwin

 

To me, it sounds like heat soak on the injectors and fuel rail. Do you have the heat shield and rail/injectors wrapped?

This is what I have. A bit pricey, but cured my heat soak issue.

https://www.designengineering.com/97...tor-cover-kit/

 

1) if your xj is indeed a 2000 the filter is in the tank.
2) my guess is that the likelihood that the problem is dirt moving around as you described is zero.
3) I think it's more likely vapor lock/heat soak. They're selling winter grade (higher volatility)gas now and that can be a problem.... seems to be a lot of it on here right now.

 

I see a bottom shield but nothing on top.

 

How High were you? If there was several thousand feet of difference, you could take a VOM and check the MAP sensor: Altitude Compensation: " Changes in altitude can affect engine performance due to changes in air pressure. MAP sensors can be used to compensate for these changes and maintain consistent engine output." However, if defective, it could cause starting difficulties at elevation

 

I have been reading on the heat soak topic and it sure sounds like it.

I will probably add hood spacers soon along with an electric fan I can turn on as soon as I turn off the XJ, running that for a few minutes should help. Might also add the shield kit suggested here.

Thank you all for your help, it's appreciated
Edwin