QuestionQUESTION: 2000 Cherokee, 4.0L, automatic. I've read some of the other responses to this question, and tried some things - eg, priming fuel pump. No help.
In my case, it's been getting worse for several months. I had it in 2 months ago, but could not repeat the problem. They checked the fuel pump pressure, changed the plugs, and cleaned the injectors.
Problem mainly when cold. Cranks and cranks, and sounds like old style carburetor not choking. I discovered if I pump the gas while cranking, it starts up good.
ANSWER: Ok well you said that you have had the pump checked for pressure and I am guessing everything came back fine? But you also said that you could not recreate the problem while you were there... (isn't it funny how everytime your car messes up no one else is around to see it and when they are right there and ready for it it runs like the day it left the showroom floor.. LOL) This is really all that comes to my mind, I cant help but think that there my be a problem in the auto-primer or just in the pump its self, When it is running does it run good or sound kind of off? Have you tried a new fuel pump? I really wish i could be more help to you but the only thing that i can say really is a motor needs 3 things to run, Ignition compression and fuel. and if a motor is not running it will always fall back down to one of those 3 things.. Consider doing a really good cleaning of the choke area in the intake and see if this helps. Keep me informed so i can better help others, thanks
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QUESTION: Follow up.
Yeah, they said the fuel pressure was fine. They did not replace the fuel pump, but we decided to change the plugs and clean the injectors as they needed it anyways.
Back to the present, once it's stopped coughing and weazing after startup, it runs fine with plenty of power and acceleration, and usually starts right up when warm. As mentioned, I did try turning on the key for 10-sec or so prior to cranking but that did not help. Also, tried the gas cap removal bit. Now that the problem occurs more regularly, maybe it will occur in the shop. :)
It really sounds to me like an old style carburetor that's not choking properly. Isn't there some sort of valve movement on the intake ports to control air volume during cranking, or do the fuel injector systems not need to do that?
AnswerYes there is and i think i said something about it at the end of my last answer.. Umm go to like pepboys or advanced auto and pic up a can or carb cleaner and take your intake off the motor and clean all in and around that choke area. if there is any black anywhere in there try to clean all that out.
