Electrical Problems

NewJeeperMina

New Member
Original poster
Joined
Mar 2, 2024
Messages
2
Location
Norfolk, VA
Hi all, I've got a 1998 TJ 2.5L with some interesting electrical issues. I've been tearing it apart a lot in the past couple weeks to try and find what's up but can't seem to find my issue. Main issue: If I disconnect then reconnect the battery, I will get all my gauges and power to my stereo when I turn the key. Then when I go to crank it, all my gauges and stereo and all power goes out and the jeep doesn't start. I'll turn the ignition to off then back on, but I won't have any power to anything. Any advice on where to go or maybe pins to start testing for voltage?

The possible initial issue:
When I initially bought the jeep we had to push start it cause the starter was having issues and as I was driving home the alternator overcharged the battery and showed 19V. As soon as I took it out of gear coming off the highway it died. I was still rolling so I popped the clutch, and it started back up without the overvoltage. Additionally, right before it stopped starting completely it was running a little rough and popped a check engine light, I didn't get to put the tester on it and going back in today it looks like the light has cleared.

Things I've replaced/done:
starter
battery (it was bought with an old battery that tested bad probably the cause of the alternator overcharging it)
(previous owner said alternator was replaced within the past year)
ignition cylinder
ignition switch
ignition pin actuator
starter relay
ASD relay
Ground strap from the engine to the firewall (old one was almost all the way worn through)
Cleaned all grounds in the engine
tested all fuses for continuity
tested my battery connections for voltage and reading 12.6V

Any advice on where to go next would be much appreciated!
 
Give the battery cables a good inspection. You can have proper voltage, but corrosion can prevent amperage.

If you jump the starter solenoid, does it crank? Make sure it is neutral when you do this, I am sure you know, but just saying.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Jerry Bransford
Give the battery cables a good inspection. You can have proper voltage, but corrosion can prevent amperage.

If you jump the starter solenoid, does it crank? Make sure it is neutral when you do this, I am sure you know, but just saying.
Was headed out there to jump the starter solenoid when I picked up the power distribution center and low and behold found out that one of the power supply wires had rubbed against the metal bracket and was bare metal on metal. Slapped some electrical tape on the cable and she started right up. Still going to do new battery cables since these ones are pretty worn, but appreciate the help!