1990 Jeep Cherokee won't start/ballast wire keeps burning o

STANSREDXJ

MEMBER
1990 JEEP CHEROKEE
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
143,000 MILES

The problem initially started with: Would start but would die within 30 secs. After replacing fuel pump, filter and regulator, air filter, TPS, IAC, Map sensor and fuel relay it wouldn't start. It would crank, just not ignite. The plugs, distributor, cap/rotor, wires and coil are all new. Now, as I have said, it will turn over, won't start and now it has burned the ballast wire that connects to the starter relay. Which is also new. What else haven't I replaced and could it be a ground issue? If so, where would the issue more than likely be? I hope I've explained this well enough. This is my DD and I really need it up and running. Thanks for your suggestions.

1 Reply

RASMATAZ

MECHANIC
75,992 POSTS

Now, as I have said, it will turn over, won't start and now it has burned the ballast wire that connects to the starter relay.

Could be coming from the ignition switch.

Do below to determine if its fuel/spark/compression problem

Get a helper disconnect a sparkplug wire or 2 and ground it to the engine atleast 3/16 away from ground-have helper crank engine over-do you have a snapping blue spark? If so-you have a fuel related problem, check the fuel pressure to rule out the fuel filter/fuel pump/pressure regulator and listen to the injector/s are they pulsing or hook up a noid light. No snapping blue spark continue to troubleshoot the ignition system-power input to the coil/coil packs, coil's resistances, distributor pick-up coil, ignition control module, cam and crank sensors and computer Note: If it doesn't apply disregard it

If both fuel and spark is present-check the valve and ignition timing, this will lead you to problems
with compression and valves opening and closing at the wrong time/broken or jumped timing
belt/chain