98 Cherokee Sport bucks and lurches

[cherokeeguy868]

Hi Guys. I've got a question for the mechanical geniuses.

My 98 Cherokee Sport hesitates when I back it up. It also starts lurching and bucking on the highway after it's been running for a while. Lastly, it backfires internally if you try to start it up but don't turn the key to the on position for about 30 seconds ahead of time.

Any ideas what could be going on? I'm planning a trip cross-country in May and obviously can't take it running like this. I live in a small town and the only "mechanic" within a reasonable drive is a backyard guy.

Thanks a lot.

John

 

[54cj3b]

when was the last time it had a tune up ?
dirty injectors
fuel filter may be clogged
fuel pump going out
clogged air cleaner

are a few things to look at that would cause those symptoms

 

[FREDMCGUIRE]

Check the battery ground connection to the engine block - the stud that screws into the block can loosen up and cause an intermittent current flow shutting off the engine.
Best to unscrew the stud, cleant it, loctite it and put back in then clean all ground connections and cables/wires by taking them off, sandpapering any corrosion away and using grease when reassembling - any kind of grease will do but if you have dielectric variety it's best for electrical connections.
Hope this helps.

 

[cherokeeguy868]

Thanks a lot guys. I'll definitely give those suggestions a try.

54cj3b - It's been a couple of years since the last tuneup.