Jump to content

Complete Shutdown at 65mph


Recommended Posts

Hello, unfortunately i am posting on here sooner than i intended.

 

Tonight i picked up a 1988 MJ Pioneer, 4.0, 4X4, Manual, 114K Miles. About 50 miles into my 100 mile trip home, cruising along at 65mph, the engine completely died. There was no sputter or signs of charging system issues prior to the issue. I put the clutch in while still rolling and the engine did not crank, or have any sign of life. My headlights and dash lights did stay on the entire time. On the side of the highway i attempted to start the engine multiple times, but nothing moved, no sounds from the starter, solenoid, or fuel pump.

 

Now for the history. The previous owner replaced the lock cylinder after someone busted the old one trying to steal the vehicle. He replaced it with a cylinder fromm a S-10 which i believe is a proper fitment.

 

My theory is that there is a loose connection at the ignition switch. This would cause the system to act as though the key is not being turned at all. Unfortunately i am not too familiar with Comanches yet. I plan on checking fuses tomorrow night, then working my way through the wiring.

 

I hoping the knowledge base here will help put me on the right path to sorting out this issue. Nothing like a $250 tow bill introduction into Jeep ownership, Haha. :)

 

 

Link to comment
Share on other sites

The MJ column is a Saginaw steering column, just like the pre-airbag S10 column. Your suspicion that it's an ignition switch problem since you know the history is very plausible. Check the ignition switch connector and harness connector for fried contacts, and align the ignition switch rod are the first things to do.
 

Could be the ignition switch on the steering column or it's connector is fried, or is mis-aligned.
 
Ignition switch, p/n J3250576, available at Rockauto and others. Connector also.
1S6145__ra_p.jpg

Ignition switch alignment:

52960_0900c152800a9f73_1.jpgengine-cooling-fan_html_m9da74d3.jpg

Fig. 2: Ignition switch rod positioning
On non-tilt columns:
Move the ignition switch slider to the OFF unlocked position (move the slider all the way down, then back two clicks). The remote rod hole in the ignition switch slider should now be centered.
Insert the remote rod in the ignition switch slider hole and install the ignition switch on the steering column. Tighten the attaching screws to 35 inch lbs. (4 Nm).
On tilt columns:
Insert the ignition key in the lock cylinder and turn the cylinder to the OFF unlocked position.
Move the ignition switch downward to eliminate any slack and tighten the attaching screws to 35 inch lbs. (4 Nm).
Install any components removed for switch access.

 

Link to comment
Share on other sites

I found the problem.

 

One of the fusible link wires has disconnected from the distribution block. It is a green to red link. What is the best way to replace the fusible link? I might have enough wire to solder it to another piece of wire and put a new eyelet on the terminal. Suggestions?

 

 

hFeaaaO.jpg?3

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
 Share

×
×
  • Create New...