Engine problems

JESHEARER

MEMBER
2000 JEEP CHEROKEE
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
234,000 MILES

Ok jeep people figure this one out. 2000 jeep cherokee sport, 4.0 litre- straight 6, 4X4, automatic, 234,567 miles( ya I know thats alot). Hard to start spits sputters, stalls back fires, won't start, almost starts, starts idles poorly then stalls- or sputters and runs fine for a day or two. Then back to the trouble again. Engine light is on = vacume leak at engine is all it gives me. No oil loss, not coolant in oil, occasional white smoke when starting. Last time I went to start it and radiatior is empty ( but only had water in it and its been hot) and I think its a pin hole leak ( thats new also). When it starts it has been running smooth, only sounds are lifter click( needs a valve cover gasket). Did I blow the engine? No rod knock nothing that screams I just blew up. Any guesses im outta ideas untill I get it in the garage and start taking things off ( usualy when I make my problems get worse) and I would like to avoid missing a simple problem.

2 Replies

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,743 POSTS

If there's a vacuum leak, that will affect the MAP sensor's readings. Low vacuum occurs under heavy acceleration, and more fuel is needed. It sounds like there's way too much fuel. Without being there to perform tests, I'd look for the vacuum leak or suspect the MAP sensor.

When the engine is still cold, use a spray bottle to spray water on the vacuum hoses and intake gasket. Watch for water getting sucked in or the engine speed slows down. You can also pinch off various vacuum hoses and watch for one the affects engine operation.