starting problems, possible neutral saftey switch?

[Benskate1]

when i turn the key my xj wont start unless the clutch is in this one exact spot, if its not it will crank once twice if im lucky grind the starter or noting at all will happen. could this be caused by the neutral saftey switch? i had this problem before and it went away. when it went away i didnt even have to push in the clutch to start it, so what is worn here. is there a way to bypass the switch and where is the switch even at! thanks guys

 

[XJNick]

Hi,

Some questions:

What model year?
What engine?
What Transmission (auto or manual)?

I want to make sure I know what we're talking about here :mrgreen:

-Nick :!:

 

[Benskate1]

86 xj, 2.5 fuel inj, manny transmission

 

[XJNick]

Ok,

To my knowledge they never used a clutch safety switch until like the 1995 model year (when ODB-II was introduced).

So, this leaves us with the possibility of a mechanical problem... Maybe the clutch isn't disengauging properly and causing the motor not to start (for obvious reasons)...

Try starting it with the clutch pedal pushed in, transmisison in 1st, and with your Foot off the brake. WARNING: Do this where there is space around the Jeep incase it decides to lurch or move. If it tries to move, you then know that the clutch isn't disengaging properly.

-Nick :!:

 

[Benskate1]

well i know its not the clutch disengauging or engaugin cause it dont go no where in 1st with the clutch in and in 1st with the key turned

 

[XJNick]

Well if it was electrical, the starting circuit would usually be interrupted by the clutch switch and you wouldn't hear anything happening.... and I still doubt clutch switches ever came into play until OBD-II.

You say it cranks but then grinds. So maybe the starter motor teeth are sliping and falling off of the flywheel ring gear. If something were say loose or not aligned properly in the transmission bellhousing, I believe the movement and force involved when depressing/pressing the clutch could cause things to act up.

Something you might consider doing is pulling the starter motor and examining the gear on it and if possible the ring gear teeth on the flywheel. :mrgreen:

-Nick :!: