Issue starting the Cherokee

[miamitj]

Hey guys,

Tried to start my 76 Cherokee this am and no go. Battery is fine, started from the solenoid without and issue. I figured I lost the solenoid so just replaced it as I had a new one laying around.

Unfortunately same issue. Looks like it's time to start testing around. Ignition switch lights up the dash but won't turn the engine.

Thoughts on where to start (pun intended)?

[tgreese]

Hey guys,

Tried to start my 76 Cherokee this am and no go. Battery is fine, started from the solenoid without and issue. I figured I lost the solenoid so just replaced it as I had a new one laying around.

Unfortunately same issue. Looks like it's time to start testing around. Ignition switch lights up the dash but won't turn the engine.

Thoughts on where to start (pun intended)?

There is a no-start flow chart in the TSM that you can follow.

If you can jumper and hot-wire it, the other usual suspects are the ignition switch and the neutral safety switch. Follow the wiring diagram, and use your multimeter to trace it through.

[miamitj]

There is a no-start flow chart in the TSM that you can follow.

If you can jumper and hot-wire it, the other usual suspects are the ignition switch and the neutral safety switch. Follow the wiring diagram, and use your multimeter to trace it through.

Ty.

[miamitj]

Anyone have any idea where the neutral safety switch is on a 76? It was an auto with a steering column shifter.

[Cliff]

Probably not common but it happened to me once. Had the same problem - no crank but good voltage everywhere. My starter had siezed up.

[miamitj]

Probably not common but it happened to me once. Had the same problem - no crank but good voltage everywhere. My starter had siezed up.

I can start it at the solenoid so it's not that.

[78 WIDETRAC]

I'm sure you tried this..... Have the key in start position and move the column shifter from park to neutral. NSS might be off center a bit. linkage bushings wear.


I've been wrong about the mid 70's rigs. The NSS might be at the top of the steering column inside near the firewall.

[tgreese]

Anyone have any idea where the neutral safety switch is on a 76? It was an auto with a steering column shifter.

I think it's part of the ignition switch in the column. Look at the wiring diagram on the Tom Collins site, or in the '76 TSM there. Shows a connector in quadrant B-6.