I have a 2000 JGC, with V-8. During the last month or so, I sometimes
get a very brief "hesitation" when I turn the key to start the engine.
During this millisecond-type interval, there is no sound. No click, no
grinding, no sound. Starter not turning over/ no sound. Then, the
starter kicks in and the engine turns over rapidly, and always starts very
well.

Do I have a starter going bad ? Any thing else to watch out for ?

Thanks !!

James

On Sat, 4 Jul 2009 14:16:48 -0400, "James" <jnipperxxx (AT) nospamfdn (DOT) com>
wrote:

A *good* description of the vehicle (transmission, options, etc.) will
always help get a better answer.

For example, is it an automatic? If so, maybe the neutral safety
switch.

Hi James,
Clean your batter terminals, if the starter solenoid still hesitates,
replace it. Then go after the natural switch, like PeterD eluded:
http://www.dirtdevils.org/XJNutralSwitch.htm
http://www.cherokee-jeep.com/1-2swremov.htm
God Bless America, Bill O|||||||O
mailto:BillHughes (AT) billhughes (DOT) com
http://www.billhughes.com/jeep_bookmark.htm

"James" <jnipperxxx (AT) nospamfdn (DOT) com> wrote

James wrote:
Is the engine hot, cold. Is it dry or rainy.

The computer is waiting for sensors to stablize before starting.
Pull the codes (preferably with a scantool) and see if there are
any fault codes.

It's a good time to slowly go though the connectors. Just disconnect
and reconnect them. Spray contact-cleaner works but just make sure
you don't get any on the paint. It's real good paint remover too.

To reset the Jeep computer, disconnect the positive terminal from
the battery and wait about 10-20 min. Of course you will have to
reprogram the radio, seats, etc. But that will clear the computer
and allow it to relearn. For the next few trip drive in a "relaxed"
mode. i.e. no jack-rabbit starts. Just a few trips on the interstate
and some residential will allow the computer to re-learn the sensors.

--
DougW