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General discussion

1997 JEEP TJ 4.0L starts slowly (usually takes two tries)

Mar 5, 2009 5:34AM PST

I've got a 97 wrangler w/ 112000 miles. Runs great, idles smooth.
The stupid thing will not start, even pumping the gas pedal.
However, if I stop and reverse the ignition and start cranking again, it fires right up. What is the deal? A local Chrysler mechanic said it could be several different things. Was wondering if anybody had this (or similar) problem and could point me in the right direction.
Money is tight and I don't wanna pay big bucks for diagnostics at the dealership. Would like to attempt the repair myself. Any ideas would be appreciated!

Discussion is locked

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I have similar issues with my 2000 JEEP CHEROKEE
Mar 7, 2009 7:13PM PST

I have the same problem with my 2000 Jeep Cherokee. Unfortunately, I cannot provide you with any direction as to what the problem stems from. I initially thought it was my battery or alternator because I have two 8" subwoofer speakers connected to my audio system. The battery did eventually die, but I still encounter the same problem even with a new battery installed. It seems to me that the amount of mileage on your vehicle is not too far from where mine was when this problem arose nearly a year and a half ago. I am unsure if this is just a coincidence or not. I get my car serviced through a national auto chain every time that I need an oil change. I had them run a full diagnostic check for a different problem which was resolved. Nothing was mentioned about the ignition or anything pertaining to the starting issues. I hope that this is not a serious (a.k.a. expensive) problem!

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starting issues
May 8, 2009 12:26PM PDT

your slow starts are due to a faulty fuel pressure regulator. when you turn the key on your fuel pump runs thenm shuts off. by starting and stopping cranking the pressure builds up slightly helping atomization. this can be a fuel pump issue but normally is the regulator. they are both at the fuel tank and unfortunately you cannot detect exactly which is bad. mine was the regulator.

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I have a problem 1997 JEEP TJ 4.0L
May 22, 2011 7:29AM PDT

1997 JEEP TJ 4.0L V6, I just bought it and the tranny was rebuilt with new gears, most of the time when you shift into 1st gear it kicks the shifter out of gear, if you hold it in (or try to) it makes a grinding noise? I have parked it until I can figure it out! any suggestions?