1994 Jeep Cherokee 94 Cherokee engine cuts off while drivin

Tiny
KRISTI-JI
  • MEMBER
  • 1994 JEEP CHEROKEE
  • 6 CYL
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 127,580 MILES
I recently purchased a 94 cherokee that needed a little love but was mechanically sound, or at least appeared to be - according to 2 mechanics I took it to before purchasing. After nearly 2 weeks of performing perfectly, the engine cut off while driving. For no apparent reason, I immediately lost the engine, power steering, and brakes. I threw the car in neutral and was able to start it again. Being 2 hours deep into the mountains without cell phone coverage, I kept driving, trying to get cell coverage and call a tow. It cut out every 30 minutes or so, at different speeds. Each time it took a few minutes longer to start the engine. I should also mention, when it stalled, the radio, lights and battery were still functioning. Each time it felt like something was firing and missing, if that makes any sense. At first, I thought it might be a fuse or sensor misfiring, but it felt like fuel wasn't getting to the engine when I attempted to restart it. Maybe the fuel filter or a collasped fuel line? Please help!
Sunday, November 29th, 2009 AT 11:49 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
JDL
  • MECHANIC
  • 16,098 POSTS
Welcome to the forum, thanks for the donation. How long since a tune-up? Use a gage and check fuel pressure. Also, check for trouble codes.
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Sunday, November 29th, 2009 AT 12:05 PM
Tiny
KRISTI-JI
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Had a tune up about 6 weeks ago. Less of a tune up, more trouble shooting, checking for problems/issues before the sale. The previous owner had stated that she had had trouble starting it once, but the mechanic had been unable to find anything wrong with the vehicle other than a few old battery cables (which have been replaced). The tune up was unfortunately, at the previous owner's mechanic, and the young girl I purchased the car from wouldn't know the engine from the transmission. I have quite a few things to check. In my mind it could be anything, and I honestly just want an opnion of where to begin. Could it be a sensor or fuse? Or is it more likely to have something to do with the fuel mechanics? What is the problem most likely to be and where do I begin? Also, since the car runs well for 30 minutes to an hour even with the current issue, how can I be sure it has been repaired?
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Sunday, November 29th, 2009 AT 1:17 PM
Tiny
JDL
  • MECHANIC
  • 16,098 POSTS
Yeah, intermittent stuff can be hard to track. You have to do the testing when the problem is ongoing. Anything I could suggest would be a guess. Trying to troubleshoot over the internet, I always start with the basics. If you could find a code, that might point us in the right direction?

I just wanted to add, when it stalls, if it takes a bit to restart, have a helper crank it, while you check for spark at the plugs. If you have spark everywhere, use a gage and chec fuel pressure.
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Sunday, November 29th, 2009 AT 2:07 PM

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