1999 Jeep GC V8 starts then dies
Asked by JoshVizcarra Jun 12, 2018 at 12:24 PM about the 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Question type: Maintenance & Repair
My 1999 Jeep GC is having a problem where the Jeep
starts then immediately dies. Sometimes it won’t start but
cranks, any suggestions on what it can be?
1 Answer
There is a fuel filter/pressure regulator at the top of the fuel tank. What it does is allow fuel to flow one direction to the injectors. When the fuel pump in the tank spins up to pressurize the system this valve stops the fuel from bleeding back into the tank. Here's what's wrong with it. There is an O ring internally in the valve and it has become so old that it allows fuel to bleed back to the tank and at the same time fuel pressure drops below the minimum pressure required to deliver fuel to the injectors. You can replace this item, but it requires that the fuel tank be dropped to replace. One you remove the fuel tank it's really easy to remove the spring steel retainer ring and pop the bad unit out. The new one just presses into place of the old one. You can acquire this piece relatively cheaply on eBay. It will continue to get worse. Should be hardest to start after is has been sitting overnight or for hours. Don't delay this repair. If you do it will finally give out and your vehicle will shut down on you when you least expect it leaving you stranded and facing a tow bill then. Take care of it now. Try to run the fuel out of the tank as low as possible first. Then you can use a floor jack to support and lower the tank when removing. Good luck.