If you have a problem with the tranny, then you may also have killed the neutral switch mounted on the tranny which allows the starter to run and keeps it from running when it's not in Park or Neutral. If you find the wire that goes to that and ground it out, maybe it will crank. But realize it's dangerous because you might crank while in gear. This is related to automatics.
I have a 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee. It is a 4.0 L Straight 6 Engine with 4x4.
I have multiple issues with it.
1. When I try to start it it won't start, I have to turn the key over for seriously 10-15 minutes and then it will start. (I have checked the starter and that is good, I have replaced the starter relay, I have swapped out the ignition feed fuse, I have also swapped out the entire ignition.
2. When it is in two wheel I hear a grinding and it acts like it automatically locked in 4x4 and not engaging the 2 wheel.

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