1986 Jeep CJ7 Will not turn over on engine start

FLYINVERTED

MEMBER
1986 JEEP CJ7
6 CYL
4WD
MANUAL
172,000 MILES

Battery appears to be charging and is running a high voltage during operation - about 15 volts. With key in on position voltage reads above 12 but engine will not start. Buzz noise only thing heard with turn of the key to begin start. Jump starting of vehicle works fine and engine will run without fail once started. Again. Voltage shows about 15 during operation of vehicle. Placed pretty new battery on trickle charger and amperage never goes above a 2. Is the starter, the alternator or the battery my most likely problem?

1 Reply

AIRSOFTSOLDRECN9

MEMBER
348 POSTS

The buzzing noise should actually be the starter solenoid engaged and attempting to turn over the motor. Most likely it is going bad and should simply be replaced. Most parts stores will sell you the whole part and reimburse you a core charge so it ends up being cheaper, easier and less time consuming than tearing it down.

15 volts is too high for a battery. When the jeep is running the voltage be between 13.5 and 14.5 volts. Do not measure current while the engine is running because the current will be too high for most instruments to read. If the charging voltage seems to keep increasing then the regulator needs to be replaced. As I recall these should be externally regulated.