Hi there I have an 88 jeep Comanche that won't start in the morning. Sometimes I have to turn it over for 15 minutes before it actually starts. Other times I have to put it in first gear and try to push start it and then turn it over before it starts. I've already put a new starter in there and it doesn't sound any different. I'm thinking it might be the battery but I didn't want to spend another $100 $150 on a battery like I did the starter and have that not fix the problem. The battery is over a year old so I think that might be the problem. I guess my question is why do I actually have to turn the engine over by pushing it before it'll actually crank over by turning the key. It like the engine has to fire a little before it will start.
If you spray a little starting fluid into the intake and crank the engine will briefly fire up if you have spark and no fuel. If that happens you have a fuel delivery problem, and vice versa, assuming the engine is otherwise in good condition.
Check electrical grounds since that's a common source of trouble on Renix-era Jeep Cherokee and Comanche. Tech tips here:
That site also has the 1988 Jeep Cherokee "XJ" factory service manual and Renix fuel injection manual. The engine section will be the same as the Comanche (main difference of course will be the body):
http://cruiser54.com/?page_id=365
Good Truck!
I had one.
O K , in order to make the engine run you need 3 things, Fuel, Air, and spark.
Since the engine cranks, you have a good battery and starter. Do the easy stuff first. Since it will run as you eventually get it going, you can figure you have spark. That leaves two things. Air and fuel. Check your air filter and fuel filter. They may be clogged. The next time you get it running, take it to a mechanic and have the fuel lines and pump checked. Sounds to me like the pump isn't getting enough fuel to start. Have a pro check it out and stop guessing.
Put a meter on your battery to see what the voltage is with engine off and engine idling. Should be about 12.5v with engine off and about 14v or so with engine idling. If not, your alternator is shot. A one year old battery should be good to take and hold a charge.
My first car was an 86 Comanche long bed. I miss it.
