1995 JEEP CHEROKEE ignition

SERVICE PROCEDURES
COMPASS VARIATION ADJUSTMENT
Variance is the difference between magnetic north
and geographic north. In some areas, the difference
between magnetic and geographic north is great
enough to cause the compass to give false readings. If
this occurs, the variance must be set.
To set the variance:
(1) Using the map in Fig. 3, find your geographic
location and note the zone number.
(2) Turn ignition switch to the ON position.
(3) Depress both the US/METRIC and COMP/
TEMP buttons. Hold down until VAR is displayed.
This takes about 5 seconds.
(4) Release both buttons.
(5) Press the US/METRIC button to step through
the numbers until the zone number for your area ap-
pears in the display.
(6) Press the COMP/TEMP button to enter this
zone number into compass unit memory.
(7) Confirm correct directions are indicated.
COMPASS CALIBRATION
CAUTION: DO NOT place any external magnets
such as magnetic roof mount antennas, in the vicin-ity of the compass. DO NOT use magnetic tools
when servicing the overhead console.
The compass features a self-calibrating design,
which simplifies the calibration procedure. This fea-
ture automatically updates the compass calibration
while the vehicle is being driven. This takes into ac-
count small changes in residual magnetism the vehi-
cle may acquire during normal use. Do not attempt
to calibrate the compass near large metal objects
such as other vehicles, large buildings or bridges.
Whenever the compass is calibrated manually,
the variation number must also be reset. See
Variation Adjustment Procedure, in this group.
Calibrate the compass manually as follows:
(1) Start the engine.
(2) Depress both the US/METRIC and COMP/
TEMP buttons. Hold down until CAL is displayed.
This takes about 10 seconds and appears about 5 sec-
onds after VAR is displayed.
(3) Release both buttons.
(4) Drive vehicle on a level surface that is away
from large metal objects through 3 or more complete
circles in not less than 48 seconds. The CAL message
will disappear to indicate that the compass is now
calibrated.
If CAL message remains in display, either
there is excessive magnetism near the compass
or the unit is faulty. Repeat the demagnetizing
and calibration procedures at least one more
time.
If the wrong direction is still indicated, the
area selected may be too close to a strong mag-
netic field. Repeat the calibration procedure in
another location.
COMPASS DEMAGNETIZING
The tool used to degauss or demagnetize the for-
ward console attaching screw and roof panel is the
Miller Tool 6029. Equivalent units must be rated as
continuous duty for 110/115 volts and 60Hz. They
must also have a field strength of over 350 gauss at
1/4-inch beyond the tip of the probe.
The degaussing tool is used to demagnetize both
the roof panel and the console forward mounting
screw, as follows:
(1) Be sure the ignition switch is in the OFF posi-
tion before you begin the demagnetizing procedure.
(2) Plug in the degaussing tool, while keeping the
tool at least 2 feet away from the compass unit.
(3) Slowly approach the head of the forward
mounting screw with the plastic coated tip of the de-
gaussing tool. Contact the head of the screw for
about 2 seconds.Fig. 3 Variance Settings
JOVERHEAD CONSOLE 8C - 5

IGNITION SYSTEMS
CONTENTS
page page
COMPONENT IDENTIFICATION/SYSTEM
OPERATION........................... 1
COMPONENT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION...... 17
DIAGNOSTICS/SERVICE PROCEDURES....... 6IGNITION SWITCHÐXJ MODELS........... 26
IGNITION SWITCHÐYJ MODELS........... 29
SPECIFICATIONS........................ 32
COMPONENT IDENTIFICATION/SYSTEM OPERATION
INDEX
page page
Automatic Shutdown (ASD) Relay.............. 1
Camshaft Position Sensor.................... 2
Crankshaft Position Sensor................... 3
Distributors............................... 4
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor............ 5
General Information........................ 1Ignition Coil.............................. 4
Intake Manifold Air Temperature Sensor.......... 5
Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor........ 5
Oxygen (O2S) Sensor....................... 5
Powertrain Control Module (PCM).............. 5
Throttle Position Sensor..................... 5
GENERAL INFORMATION
Throughout this group, references are made to par-
ticular vehicle models by alphabetical designation
(XJ or YJ) or by the particular vehicle nameplate. A
chart showing a breakdown of alphabetical designa-
tions is included in the Introduction group at the be-
ginning of this manual.
This section of the group, Component Identifica-
tion/System Operation, will discuss ignition system
operation and will identify ignition system compo-
nents.
For diagnostic procedures and adjustments, refer to
the Diagnostics/Service Procedures section of this
group.
For removal and installation of ignition system
components, refer to the Component Removal/Instal-
lation section of this group.
For other useful information, refer to On-Board Di-
agnostics in the General Diagnosis sections of Group
14, Fuel System in this manual.
For operation of the DRB Scan Tool, refer to the
appropriate Powertrain Diagnostic Procedures ser-
vice manual.
An Ignition specifications section is included at the
end of this group. A general Maintenance Schedule
(mileage intervals) for ignition related items can be
found in Group 0, Lubrication and Maintenance. This
schedule can also be found in the Owners Manual.
IGNITION SYSTEMS
A multi-port, fuel injected engine is used on all
models. The ignition system is controlled by the pow-
ertrain control module (PCM) on all engines. The
PCM was formerly referred to as the SBEC or engine
controller.
The ignition system consists of:
²Spark plugs
²Ignition coil
²Secondary ignition cables
²Distributor (contains rotor and camshaft position
sensor)
²Powertrain control module (PCM)
²Crankshaft position sensor
AUTOMATIC SHUTDOWN (ASD) RELAY
The automatic shutdown (ASD) relay is located in
the power distribution center (PDC) near the battery
(Fig. 1 or 2). As one of its functions, it will supply
battery voltage to the ignition coil.
The ground circuit for the ASD relay is controlled
by the powertrain control module (PCM). This is
done through pin/cavity number 51 of the PCM 60-
way connector. The PCM then regulates ASD relay
operation by switching this ground circuit on-and-off.
Also refer to Ignition Coil for additional informa-
tion.
JIGNITION SYSTEMS 8D - 1

CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR
The camshaft position sensor is located in the dis-
tributor (Figs. 3 or 4) on all engines.The camshaft position sensor contains a hall effect
device called a sync signal generator to generate a
fuel sync signal. This sync signal generator detects a
rotating pulse ring (shutter) on the distributor shaft
(Fig. 4). The pulse ring rotates 180 degrees through
the sync signal generator. Its signal is used in con-
junction with the crankshaft position sensor to differ-
entiate between fuel injection and spark events. It is
also used to synchronize the fuel injectors with their
respective cylinders.
When the leading edge of the pulse ring (shutter)
enters the sync signal generator, the following occurs:
The interruption of magnetic field causes the voltage
to switch high resulting in a sync signal of approxi-
mately 5 volts.
When the trailing edge of the pulse ring (shutter)
leaves the sync signal generator, the following occurs:
The change of the magnetic field causes the sync sig-
nal voltage to switch low to 0 volts.
For component testing, refer to the Diagnostics/Ser-
vice Procedures section of this group.
For removal and installation of this component, re-
fer to the Component Removal/Installation section of
this group.
Fig. 1 PDCÐXJ Models
Fig. 2 PDCÐYJ Models
Fig. 3 Camshaft Position SensorÐTypical
Fig. 4 Distributor AssemblyÐTypical
8D - 2 IGNITION SYSTEMSJ

CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR
The crankshaft position sensor is mounted to the
transmission bellhousing at the left/rear side of the
engine block (Figs. 5, 6 or 7).
Engine speed and crankshaft position are provided
through the crankshaft position sensor. The sensor
generates pulses that are the input sent to the pow-
ertrain control module (PCM). The PCM interprets
the sensor input to determine the crankshaft posi-
tion. The PCM then uses this position, along with
other inputs, to determine injector sequence and ig-
nition timing.
The sensor is a hall effect device combined with an
internal magnet. It is also sensitive to steel within a
certain distance from it.
SENSOR OPERATION
The flywheel/drive plate has groups of four notches
at its outer edge. On 4.0L 6-cylinder engines there
are three sets of notches (Figs. 9 or 10). On 2.5L
4-cylinder engines there are two sets of notches (Fig.
8).
The notches cause a pulse to be generated when
they pass under the sensor. The pulses are the input
to the PCM. For each engine revolution there are two
Fig. 5 Crankshaft Position SensorÐ2.5L 4-Cyl.
EngineÐTypical
Fig. 6 Crankshaft Position SensorÐ4.0L 6-Cyl.
EngineÐAll Except YJ models With Automatic
Transmission
Fig. 7 Crankshaft Position SensorÐ4.0L 6-Cyl.
EngineÐYJ models With Automatic Transmission
Fig. 8 Sensor OperationÐ2.5L 4-Cyl. Engine
JIGNITION SYSTEMS 8D - 3

groups of four pulses generated on 2.5L 4-cylinder
engines. There are 3 groups of four pulses generated
on 4.0L 6-cylinder engines.
The trailing edge of the fourth notch, which causes
the pulse, is four degrees before top dead center
(TDC) of the corresponding piston.
The engine will not operate if the PCM does not re-
ceive a crankshaft position sensor input.
For component testing, refer to the Diagnostics/Ser-
vice Procedures section of this group.
For removal and installation of this sensor, refer to
the Component Removal/Installation section of this
group.
DISTRIBUTORS
All engines are equipped with a camshaft driven
mechanical distributor containing a shaft driven dis-
tributor rotor. All distributors are equipped with an
internal camshaft position (fuel sync) sensor. This
sensor provides fuel injection synchronization and
cylinder identification.
The distributors on both the 2.5L 4-cylinder and
the 4.0L-6 cylinder engines do not have built in cen-
trifugal or vacuum assisted advance. Base ignition
timing and all timing advance is controlled by the
powertrain control module (PCM). Because ignition
timing is controlled by the PCM,base ignition tim-
ing is not adjustable on any of these engines.
The distributor is locked in place by a fork with a
slot located on the distributor housing base. The dis-
tributor holddown clamp bolt passes through this slot
when installed. Because the distributor position is
locked when installed, its rotational position can not
be changed.Do not attempt to modify the dis-tributor housing to get distributor rotation.
Distributor position will have no effect on igni-
tion timing. The position of the distributor will
determine fuel synchronization only.
All distributors contain an internal oil seal that
prevents oil from entering the distributor housing.
The seal is not serviceable.
Distributor removal and installation procedures
have changed for the 1995 model year. Refer to Dis-
tributor in the Component Removal/Installation sec-
tion of this group.
IGNITION COIL
Battery voltage is supplied to the ignition coil pos-
itive terminal from the ASD relay.
The powertrain control module (PCM) opens and
closes the ignition coil ground circuit for ignition coil
operation. This is done through pin/cavity number 19
of the PCM 60-way connector.
Base ignition timing is not adjustable.By con-
trolling the coil ground circuit, the PCM is able to set
the base timing and adjust the ignition timing ad-
vance. This is done to meet changing engine operat-
ing conditions.
The ignition coil is not oil filled. The windings are
embedded in an epoxy compound. This provides heat
and vibration resistance that allows the ignition coil
to be mounted on the engine.
On the 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, the ignition coil is
mounted to a bracket on the side of the engine (to
the rear of the distributor).
Fig. 9 Sensor OperationÐ4.0L 6-Cyl. EngineÐAll
Except YJ Models With Automatic Transmission
Fig. 10 Sensor OperationÐ4.0L 6-Cyl. EngineÐYJ
Models With Automatic Transmission
8D - 4 IGNITION SYSTEMSJ

On the 4.0L 6-cylinder engine, the ignition coil is
mounted to a bracket on the side of the engine (to
the front of the distributor) (Fig. 11).
For component testing, refer to the Diagnostics/Ser-
vice Procedures section of this group.
For removal and installation of this component, re-
fer to the Component Removal/Installation section of
this group.
ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR
For an operational description, diagnosis and re-
moval/installation procedures, refer to Group 14,
Fuel System.
INTAKE MANIFOLD AIR TEMPERATURE SENSOR
For an operational description, diagnosis or remov-
al/ installation procedures, refer to Group 14, Fuel
Systems.
MANIFOLD ABSOLUTE PRESSURE (MAP) SENSOR
For an operational description, diagnosis and re-
moval/installation procedures, refer to Group 14,
Fuel System.
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM)
The PCM was formerly referred to as the SBEC or
engine controller. On XJ models, the PCM is located
in the engine compartment next to the air cleaner
(Fig. 12). On YJ models, the PCM is located in the
engine compartment behind the windshield washer
fluid reservoir (Fig. 13).
The ignition system is controlled by the PCM.
Base ignition timing by rotation of distributor
is not adjustable.The PCM opens and closes the ig-
nition coil ground circuit to operate the ignition coil.
This is done to adjust ignition timing, both initial
(base) and advance, for changing engine operating
conditions.The amount of electronic spark advance provided
by the PCM is determined by five input factors: En-
gine coolant temperature, engine rpm, intake mani-
fold air temperature, intake manifold absolute
pressure and throttle position.
For removal and installation of this component, re-
fer to the Component Removal/Installation section of
this group.
For PCM diagnostics, refer to the appropriate Pow-
ertrain Diagnostic Procedures service manual for op-
eration of the DRB scan tool.
THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR
For an operational description, diagnosis and re-
moval/installation procedures, refer to Group 14,
Fuel System.
OXYGEN (O2S) SENSOR
For an operational description, diagnosis and re-
moval/installation procedures, refer to Group 14,
Fuel System.
Fig. 11 Ignition CoilÐTypical
Fig. 12 PCM LocationÐXJ Models
Fig. 13 PCM LocationÐYJ Models
JIGNITION SYSTEMS 8D - 5

DIAGNOSTICS/SERVICE PROCEDURES
INDEX
page page
Automatic Shutdown (ASD) Relay Test.......... 6
Camshaft Position Sensor Test................ 6
Crankshaft Position Sensor Test............... 7
Distributor Cap............................ 7
Distributor Rotor........................... 8
DRB Scan Tool............................ 8
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Test........ 9
General Information........................ 6
Ignition Coil.............................. 9
Ignition Secondary Circuit Diagnosis........... 10Ignition Timing............................ 11
Intake Manifold Air Temperature Sensor Test..... 11
Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor Test . . . 11
On-Board Diagnostics...................... 15
Oxygen (O2S) Sensor Tests................. 15
Powertrain Control Module (PCM)............. 11
Spark Plug Secondary Cables................ 14
Spark Plugs............................. 12
Throttle Position Sensor Test................. 15
GENERAL INFORMATION
This section of the group, Diagnostics/Service Pro-
cedures, will discuss basic ignition system diagnostics
and service adjustments.
For system operation and component identification,
refer to the Component Identification/System Opera-
tion section of this group.
For removal or installation of ignition system com-
ponents, refer to the Component Removal/Installa-
tion section of this group.
For other useful information, refer to the On-Board
Diagnostics section.
For operation of the DRB Scan Tool, refer to the
appropriate Powertrain Diagnostic Procedures ser-
vice manual.
AUTOMATIC SHUTDOWN (ASD) RELAY TEST
To perform a complete test of this relay and its cir-
cuitry, refer to the DRB scan tool. Also refer to the
appropriate Powertrain Diagnostics Procedures man-
ual. To test the relay only, refer to RelaysÐOpera-
tion/Testing in the Group 14, Fuel Systems section.
CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR TEST
To perform a complete test of this sensor and its
circuitry, refer to the DRB scan tool. Also refer to the
appropriate Powertrain Diagnostics Procedures man-
ual. To test the sensor only, refer to the following:
The camshaft position sensor is located in the dis-
tributor (Fig. 1).
To perform a complete test of this sensor and its
circuitry, refer to the DRB scan tool. Also refer to the
appropriate Powertrain Diagnostics Procedures man-
ual. To test the sensor only, refer to the following:
For this test, an analog (non-digital) voltme-
ter is needed.Do not remove the distributor connec-
tor from the distributor. Using small paper clips,
insert them into the backside of the distributor wire
harness connector to make contact with the termi-nals. Be sure that the connector is not damaged
when inserting the paper clips. Attach voltmeter
leads to these paper clips.
(1) Connect the positive (+) voltmeter lead into the
sensor output wire. This is at done the distributor
wire harness connector. For wire identification, refer
to Group 8W, Wiring Diagrams.
(2) Connect the negative (-) voltmeter lead into the
ground wire. For wire identification, refer to Group
8W, Wiring Diagrams.
(3) Set the voltmeter to the 15 Volt DC scale.
(4) Remove distributor cap from distributor (two
screws). Rotate (crank) the engine until the distribu-
tor rotor is pointed to approximately the 11 o'clock
position. The movable pulse ring should now be
within the sensor pickup.
(5) Turn ignition key to ON position. The voltmeter
should read approximately 5.0 volts.
(6) If voltage is not present, check the voltmeter
leads for a good connection.
(7) If voltage is still not present, check for voltage
at the supply wire. For wire identification, refer to
Group 8W, Wiring Diagrams.
Fig. 1 Camshaft Position SensorÐTypical
8D - 6 IGNITION SYSTEMSJ

(8) If voltage is not present at supply wire, check
for voltage at pin-7 of powertrain control module
(PCM) 60-way connector. Leave the PCM connector
connected for this test.
(9) If voltage is still not present, perform vehicle
test using the DRB scan tool.
(10) If voltage is present at pin-7, but not at the
supply wire:
(a) Check continuity between the supply wire.
This is checked between the distributor connector
and pin-7 at the PCM. If continuity is not present,
repair the harness as necessary.
(b) Check for continuity between the camshaft
position sensor output wire and pin-44 at the PCM.
If continuity is not present, repair the harness as
necessary.
(c) Check for continuity between the ground cir-
cuit wire at the distributor connector and ground.
If continuity is not present, repair the harness as
necessary.
(11) While observing the voltmeter, crank the en-
gine with ignition switch. The voltmeter needle
should fluctuate between 0 and 5 volts while the en-
gine is cranking. This verifies that the camshaft po-
sition sensor in the distributor is operating properly
and a sync pulse signal is being generated.
If sync pulse signal is not present, replacement of
the camshaft position sensor is necessary.
For removal or installation of ignition system com-
ponents, refer to the Component Removal/Installa-
tion section of this group.
For system operation and component identification,
refer to the Component Identification/System Opera-
tion section of this group.
CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR TEST
To perform a complete test of this sensor and its
circuitry, refer to the DRB scan tool. Also refer to the
appropriate Powertrain Diagnostics Procedures man-
ual. To test the sensor only, refer to the following:
The sensor is located on the transmission bellhous-
ing at the left/rear side of the engine block (Figs. 2, 3
or 4).
(1) Near the rear of the intake manifold, discon-
nect sensor pigtail harness connector from main wir-
ing harness.
(2) Place an ohmmeter across terminals B and C
(Fig. 5). Ohmmeter should be set to 1K-to-10K scale
for this test. The meter reading should be open (no
resistance). Replace sensor if a low resistance is indi-
cated.
For removal or installation of ignition system com-
ponents, refer to the Component Removal/Installa-
tion section of this group.DISTRIBUTOR CAP
INSPECTION
Remove the distributor cap and wipe it clean with
a dry lint free cloth. Visually inspect the cap for
cracks, carbon paths, broken towers, or damaged ro-
tor button (Figs. 6 and 7). Also check for white depos-
its on the inside (caused by condensation entering
the cap through cracks). Replace any cap that dis-
plays charred or eroded terminals. The inside flat
surface of a terminal end (faces toward rotor) will in-
dicate some evidence of erosion from normal opera-
tion. Examine the terminal ends for evidence of
mechanical interference with the rotor tip.
If replacement of the distributor cap is necessary,
transfer spark plug cables from the original cap to
the new cap. This should be done one cable at a time.
Each cable is installed onto the tower of the new cap
that corresponds to its tower position on the original
Fig. 2 Crankshaft Position SensorÐ2.5L 4-Cyl.
EngineÐTypical
Fig. 3 Crankshaft Position SensorÐ4.0L 6-Cyl.
EngineÐAll Except YJ models With Auto. Trans.
JIGNITION SYSTEMS 8D - 7