No power, misfire, stalls in reverse

1992 JEEP CHEROKEE
175,000 MILES • 4.0L • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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ALINDALLASTX
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
Just checked fuel pressure, it's good and so is pressure regulator. I changed plugs then it was able to start, found distributor loose, tightened it.
Now it starts but barely idles, won't rev up, misfire into air breather occasionally, stalls if I put into reverse but not forward but again no power, wont rev up.
Any ideas?
Aug 30, 2021 at 3:06 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

How loose was the distributor? Although the ignition timing is controlled by the PCM, the distributor needs properly indexed for the PCM to be able to work.

Next, based on your description, there could be a few other issues. First, a plugged catalytic converter could be an issue. Also, vacuum leaks could be bad enough to cause issues.

The first thing to do is this. Let's first see if there are diagnostic trouble codes stored in the computer. In 1992, they used an OBD1 system. You don't need a scan tool to retrieve codes. Follow the directions in the following link and let me know what codes are found.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/jeep-diagnostic-trouble-codes-for-car-built-on-or-before-1995-odb1

Try this and let me know the results.

Take care,

Joe

Aug 31, 2021 at 12:11 PM
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ALINDALLASTX
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
The only code is 55, according to what I found online a 55 is no codes.
I don't understand why the idle would improve when put in drive, I actually (accidently) peeled out in drive while holding the brakes. I'm waiting on vacuum gauge so I'll know more Friday.
Sep 1, 2021 at 3:40 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

Sounds good. If possible, record what it does with your phone and upload it for me to see and hear.

Also, let me know if you are able to touch the throttle slightly to keep it running in reverse.

Let me know.

Joe
Sep 1, 2021 at 12:49 PM
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