she doesn't like the rain

[brad757]

my jeep is an 89 118k original miles straight six 4.0 and refuses to start in the rain or rainy weather. everything is working normal cranks normal, the works its has got to be something electrical i would assume.... the alternator, battery, battery cables, distributer cap, rotor, plugs and plug wires are all new. its timing is on point and it runs amazing when its nice outside. it has come down to either the ignition coil or relay needs replaced, at least thats our next guess. would love some help or advice just rained for 3 days so no comanche just stopped today and she runs fine got two more days till it rains again would like to have it fixed asap haha. thanks in advance for any replys.

[jimoshel]

Generally a problem like you describe is in the secondary, Hi Voltage circuit. On a real dark night, or if you have a light proof garage where you can be in the dark do this. Raise the hood. Start the engine. Now look under the hood. Often times a person is amazed at the 'light show' being displayed. Clean the engine good remove all oil film. Make sure engine is dry. Get a spray can of clear plastic. Spray every every electrical item under the hood concentrating on plugs, coil and distributer. Don't get inside the alternator. Had a 1962 Austin Healy 3000 was like that. Didn't have to rain. Just a heavy dew and it wouldn't start. After treating it as described above and repeating every 4-5 months never had any more trouble .

[1974CJ5]

That's good advice, it would also seem reasonable on a dry day that you could use a hand held steam cleaner with the spray adjusted to fine, and not spray directly on components, but spray under and around them and let the steam rise up and around. You may be able to isolate the component that is giving you fits. Just be careful not to spray the really hot water on anything that is sensitive. Just a thought. Also depending on outdoor conditions like temperature and humidity you may not be able to see a thing as soon as you pull the trigger on the steam cleaner.

[brad757]

turns out my distributer cap is missing an o ring not sure if it was supposed to come with one or not or even if i lost it and didnt notice when i put it in but regardless i made my own with some RTV be so ill see if that does the trick if not ill have to try your clear plastic trick.