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Starting troubles...

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Old 10-27-2010 | 01:24 PM
  #1  
macgyver's Avatar
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From: North Carolina
Year: 1996
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0 L V6
Post Starting troubles...

So can't seem to figure out what is wrong with the starting system, but I'm beginning to think its wiring. Suggestions, ideas, or comments? This is getting VERY annoying!

Problem - Simple and easy, turn the key in the ignition = Nothing at all. No attempt to turn over, no clicking, no nothing.

Repairs made recently - New ignition, new starter (includes solenoid), new fuel pump and filter, new heat exchange valve. I have looked over and verified everything is still installed and connected properly, and that contacts are on everything and squeaky clean.

Notes - I have checked the battery using a multimeter on a few occasions, and it seems to sit right around the 12.9 mark, so I don't believe its the battery.
I've somewhat ruled out the alternator as well because the battery is holding its charge, and even on long rides (including a recent 13 hr drive), I've no problems.
I've also attempted to check the wiring using my Haynes manual wiring diagram, but I can't seem to follow all the wires it mentions, not to mention most of them start getting wrapped at various points and branch off all over the place. However from what I could do, everything seemed grounded and attached fully.

Odd notes: I've been having to start it the old school way of sticking a screwdriver down onto the starter and basically jumping it that way, and it fires right up with no hesitation every time.
Also, if I take the vehicle out for at least a 15 min drive or so, it seems to have no problem starting up. Take a short drive however (under 15 mins, which my drive to work is about 5 every day) and this problem persists.


I'd appreciate any help, advice, or anything at this point. I'm running out of ideas fast!
Old 10-27-2010 | 01:42 PM
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Year: 1989 xj sport 2dr
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starter going bad tap with hammer try agin
Old 10-27-2010 | 02:08 PM
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It's a brand new starter and solenoid, so shouldnt be that. Connections are solid on it and clean as well. Plus if I do the good ol screwdriver start on it, it fires right up without hesitation.
Old 10-27-2010 | 02:18 PM
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Year: 1989 xj sport 2dr
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i had changed that post sounds like the ignition switch on the bottom of the colum the key turns it from a long rod down the coloumill post a pic its easy to change my 94 did the same thing about 3 years ago
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Old 10-27-2010 | 02:59 PM
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try your nss (neutral safety switch). usually the case when no crank at key turn but cranks over with the screw driver start.
Old 10-27-2010 | 03:18 PM
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ok is it automatic or stick shift
Old 10-27-2010 | 03:28 PM
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Originally Posted by freegdr
ok is it automatic or stick shift
good catch, if its stick it wont be nss.
Old 10-27-2010 | 03:43 PM
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It's an auto
Old 10-27-2010 | 03:49 PM
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my vote is a bad nss
Old 10-27-2010 | 04:10 PM
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Trying to read my Haynes manual and make sense of where exactly that is... alittle help though? It's not too specific, and I've never dealt with a NSS before.

Edit: Is the NSS something I'll be able to troubleshoot and possibly fix or clean and replace it on there? Or is it more of a remove and replace part?

Last edited by macgyver; 10-27-2010 at 04:11 PM. Reason: Second question
Old 10-27-2010 | 04:39 PM
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I know this may seem simple but have you checked your relays and fuses?
Old 10-27-2010 | 04:43 PM
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Relays and fuses all checked out good. Not even a spot of rust on em.
Old 10-27-2010 | 05:24 PM
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http://autorepair.about.com/library/a/1i/bl713i.htm

hopefully this can help. i think the nss is on the trans. im not sure never had to mess with one cuz mine is manual.
Old 10-27-2010 | 05:32 PM
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try starting it in N, i use to do that to mine all the time
Old 10-27-2010 | 05:34 PM
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Engine: 12 hole bosch Injectors
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Originally Posted by krawlthis
my vote is a bad nss
start here



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