1988 Jeep YJ engine dies out

SLAPNASTY

MEMBER
1988 JEEP WANGLER YJ
4 CYL
4WD
MANUAL
165,000 MILES

I have a 1988 Wrangler 2.5 4 cylinder, When its first cranked up it will run perfectly for aprox 2 miles then the engine dies almost to a stop but always picks back up. This goes on while at mid throttle but not when the pedal is on the mat. I replaced the fuel filter, cleaned out the fuel return line and install a fuel pressure gauge. The gauge stays at 14psi even while the engine is shutting down. What can I look for? Thanks

6 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,640 POSTS

The fuel pressure is perfect. I checked it. Have you checked for vacuum leaks and the catylatic converter. Also, has the check engine light come on?

Let me know.

Joe

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Sunday, February 14th, 2010 AT 11:57 PM

SLAPNASTY

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4 POSTS

This year jeep has no check engine light or converter.

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Monday, February 15th, 2010 AT 7:57 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,640 POSTS

I assure you it came with both. Is there a chance that someone has altered the vehicle? Also, did you find any vacuum leaks?

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Monday, February 15th, 2010 AT 1:24 PM

SLAPNASTY

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4 POSTS

No vacuum leak, no converter must have been taken off.

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Monday, February 15th, 2010 AT 7:37 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,640 POSTS

WIthout the check engine, it becomes a guessing game. If vacuum is good and fuel pressure is good, I feel it deals with either a idle air control valve, throttle position sensor, or even the EGR. My other concern is the converter missing. The O2 sensor can't work properly without it. However, I assusme it ran good before the problem started. Have you checked the egr to see if it is carboned?