So i have an 88' 4.0L. I parked it in the driveway because i decided to drive an isuzu pickup (gas economy). now the beast won't start. it has enough power to crank but won't turn over.

I have:
Replaced spark plugs
cleaned the distributer and cap.


and i am running outta ideas

 

How long did it sit? Does it have spark? What about fuel pressure.. as in adequate fuel pressure? I know you changed your plugs, but do you know if its actually getting spark there? If you pull your wire from the plug, then connect it to another plug and hold it close (about an eighth of an inch or so away) to your block, it should arc to the block when you turn it over. You should know that a 4.0 can run on as little as 4 cylinders, so just be careful Or, if you have a timing light you can just hook it up to each wire and when you turn it over, if there is light you have spark. Since you just replaced your plugs, no need in checking them again (assuming the gaps were set properly). If you aren't getting spark, check your cap and rotor (and wires), your coil, your CPS and it's connector more or less in that order.

If all your cylinders are getting spark, then make sure your fuel pressure is accurate. Get a fuel pressure gauge. I think more of the chain auto stores will let you "rent" one. It should be 31psi and 39 with your vacuum hose to the regulator disconnected. If its not up to those numbers, check and/or replace your fuel filter first and if that doesn't help your numbers... replace the pump (although there can be other factors such as a bad sock, clogged lines, etc...)

If all that checks out then its time to look at your CPS (and connector) as well as other sensors, such as your MAP.

 

You have angered the beast by choosing the Suzu.

 

^^^ X2. Same thing happened when started to DD the Dodge instead of the XJ. She threw a hissy fit and refused to behave. Just like any other female, now you have to buy her new stuff.

 

Check for fuel, and spark. If you have those two things, it should start.

 

For a 4.0 to run you need spark and adequate fuel pressure. Try the reseat on the CPS connector. Also disconnect count to 10 and reconnect the battery. This will reboot your CPS and ECU. A dead CPS will kill proper spark timing and fuel injector timing.

 

thanks guys.

i actually got it started before reading these, but once again, thanks