Starter problems

Hi Jeaner,

Unfortunately, this sounds like it is the starter. Any time tapping on it with a hammer and it starts usually points to the solenoid as the issue. These unfortunately get gummed up and fail when they are not used frequently. If the vehicle sits, then I would recommend starting it more often. If you drive it frequently then you may have just gotten a sub standard starter. If it is within a year old and it was brand new, they usually carry a warranty that may still be valid. It is worth trying if you call the place you bought it from.

Here is a guide that is a pretty good read on these if you are interested.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-starter-and-solenoid-works

Any time. If you need anything else or have any other questions, please come back. Some of us have had or have different jeeps so we are VERY familiar. Thanks.

Thank you for the kind words. No I would not put a different starter on it. Especially one with a different tooth count because that will most likely not engage properly and your vehicle will not start. Plus you don't need a powerful starter. All you need it to do is turn the engine over because once it starts to turn over the engine will do the rest. A more powerful starter will not improve starting or any other performance of the vehicle so just the one that it calls for is all that is needed.

Thanks

I just like the look of Autometer so I normally go with them. If you are trying to find one that looks like OEM, Omix or Crown I have heard make a pretty good gauge.

Most likely you will have to drill out the lock cylinder so that you can just turn it by hand without the key and then you will be able to open it and replace it. Basically, you are going to hollow it out and then start fresh with a new lock and key. Here is a video on how to remove it once you get it open:

https://youtu.be/kNmYNCNaSCE