P0353, P0352, and P0351 after timing chain replacement

limeliam

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I just finished installing my new timing chain and when I reconnected my battery and alternator my jeep threw these codes. I checked and my alternator red and black wire seem fine no issues with them being secured. Then I checked the plug on the firewall that has my coils and it seems okay?
Any help would be appreciated thanks !

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Also, I will note that it did sputter when trying to start it, midway through starting it would just randomly go for about 20 seconds then die.
 
Also, I will note that it did sputter when trying to start it, midway through starting it would just randomly go for about 20 seconds then die.

The codes P0351, P0352, and P0353 indicate problems with the ignition coil circuits for cylinders 1, 2, and 3. Here's a few things to check:
  • Double-check all the wiring related to the ignition coils. Look for any loose connections or damaged wires, especially those that may have been disturbed during the timing chain work. Ensure that the connectors to the coils are seated properly.
  • If possible, test the ignition coils themselves. You can swap the coils between cylinders to see if the codes follow the coils. If they do, you may need to replace one or more of them.
  • A faulty crankshaft position sensor can also cause these codes and could explain the sputtering. Make sure it’s connected properly and functioning as it should.
  • Since you just replaced the timing chain, double-check your timing alignment. If the timing is off, it can cause misfires and other starting issues. Ensure that the timing marks are aligned correctly according to manufacturer specifications.
  • Inspect the ground connections for the engine and the ignition system. A poor ground can lead to electrical issues and codes like the ones you're experiencing.
 
When you mean
The codes P0351, P0352, and P0353 indicate problems with the ignition coil circuits for cylinders 1, 2, and 3. Here's a few things to check:
  • Double-check all the wiring related to the ignition coils. Look for any loose connections or damaged wires, especially those that may have been disturbed during the timing chain work. Ensure that the connectors to the coils are seated properly.
  • If possible, test the ignition coils themselves. You can swap the coils between cylinders to see if the codes follow the coils. If they do, you may need to replace one or more of them.
  • A faulty crankshaft position sensor can also cause these codes and could explain the sputtering. Make sure it’s connected properly and functioning as it should.
  • Since you just replaced the timing chain, double-check your timing alignment. If the timing is off, it can cause misfires and other starting issues. Ensure that the timing marks are aligned correctly according to manufacturer specifications.
  • Inspect the ground connections for the engine and the ignition system. A poor ground can lead to electrical issues and codes like the ones you're experiencing
When you mean check the timing are you referring to when I installed them and lined up the two marks on the sprocket?
 
If you were not having issues before swapping the chain, the only logical assumption is that you may have gotten the timing off unless you somehow compromised some wire or connection along the way. I have not had to do my timing chain yet, but how meticulous were you while replacing the chain?

I would probably ignore Chris's AI response, since it doesn't piece together the likely cause and affect - it's assuming these are new codes out of nowhere.
 
Man, looks like I may just have to tear it all apart and redo it unfortunately. After installing new fuel pump, timing chain, and harmonic balancer it seems to have all sorts of issues. I first stated the jeep and it would sputter then start for about 3 seconds then die giving those codes. I then tried to time the compressor by taking out spark plug 1 and feeling for the air then realigning my camshaft position sensor and now it’s starts for about 5 seconds then dies making a bad knocking sound, no codes though. Is this timing chain related or something else? Any insights would be appreciated before I have to redo it all
 
Did you take any pics of the timing marks installed?

After aligning the marks, did you rotate the engine to verify they aligned again?

It sounds like you may be a tooth off on the alignment.

Did you remove the cam sensor from the engine when doing the timing set?
 
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Did you take any pics of the timing marks installed?

After aligning the marks, did you rotate the engine to verify they aligned again?

It sounds like you may be a tooth off on the alignment.

Did you remove the cam sensor from the engine when doing the timing set?

I lined it up but did not do any 360 rotations only a 1/4 turn and I did not take out the cam sensor. Since I’m going back in there after rotating it to verify the teeth work, when putting on the cover does it need to be lined up again on those dots? And should I take out the sensor? Thanks
 
No, don't take out the sensor. I was just making sure it wasn't put back in 180 deg out.

Go back in and turn the motor a couple of turns and see if the dots line up. If there was slack in the chain on the tension side when you put it on on, they may not line up once that is pulled out.

From the FSM:
(3) To verify correct installation of the timing
chain, rotate the crankshaft 2 revolutions. The camshaft
and crankshaft sprocket timing mark should
align (Fig. 91).
 
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Doesn't matter as long as you've verified they align.

Hey most likely I’m going to take out the camshaft sensor to verify I did it right. All I need to do is align the timing chain sprockets and the cam sensor drops right in right?
 
If all you are doing is verifying the camshaft sensor is in the right place, the best place to find the proper procedure is in the factory service manuals located in the resources section.

-Mac