1986 Jeep CJ7 idle problem

JOEWILLIS

MEMBER
1986 JEEP CJ7
6 CYL
4WD
MANUAL
38,000 MILES

When I turn the key to the jeep sometimes it starts and sometimes it doesnt, its very inconsistent and it apparently has trouble idling. When it does start I have to keep my foot slightly on the throttle to keep it from shutting off. I was thinking it was maybe a fuel filter or a fuel pump?

1 Reply

CJ MEDEVAC

MECHANIC
11,004 POSTS

I will help all I can

The "sometimes" start issue needs to be a little more detailed such as:

Any sounds? .....When not starting......Is it turning over, but not catching? Please explain that part better!

As for the idling issue :

Are you in a pollution checked region where tested yearly etc?

Has you Jeep been modified?

Has Vacuum and electrical stuff been butchered under the hood?

I'm not putting your FRIEND DOWN, I just need to know what we are starting out with so I can help better

The very 1st thing to do is look at your Intake to block bolts/ Carb screws that hold it together/ studs that attach the carb to the intake----All need to be tight and not allowing unwanted air into your engine.

Next Look at all vacuum lines, insure they are not OFF/ cracked and sucking air/ any fittings on them are not cracked or broken.

You Jeep REALLY only need a few of the line to run really well, BUT emission testing may rule out YOU eliminating the original ones.

I can help you modify this too, just let me know the deal with testing in your region.....they do not do that in mine, if they did, I would just have to put things back as they were.

Fewer lines means fewer vacuum leaks.....and devices that do not work after 24 years are not aiding you either.

As for the idle to save me some time, I am presently helping a few other fellers, you will see the extent I will go to help,

I have covered some carb stuff with him, so why don't you check it out! He has a 304 8 cylinder.....But the procedures are nearly identical......I hunt and peck really slow!...........But I do send really good Homemade pics of things!

I can put you onto another "Older" post regarding the NECESSARY vacuum lines to run your Jeep.......But come back here and let me know the deal.

You may have to "Copy and Paste" this onto a new tab to see it, if it does not highlight.

https://www.2carpros.com/questions/1980-jeep-cj7-timingtuning-problem-with-a

This same feller had another long post prior to this, I can give you that info tooORYou can look at the CJ 5 and 7 forums and look at your leisure, I have answered many of them, and a Scrambler too.

Awaiting your return,

The Medic