1998 Jeep Engine Codes

[99monte]

I have a 1998 Cherokee (regular) 4.0, 2WD, auto, getting a P0700 and a P0705 code. I really don't have any trans problems though. The engine light comes on and off from time to time. I was driving to work when the recent one happened-- I felt a hesitation and then the light came on. It doesn't slip or anything. But from time to time it will not start up. I have to jiggle the keys, play with the gear selector, hold my tongue to the left side of my mouth and then it will eventually start up.

Any takers?

Thanks.

[jgate]

The MLP is sending faulty signals to the TACS.
P0705 Transmission Range Sensor Circuit malfunction(PRNDL Input)
P0700 Transmission Control System Malfunction. This code means that there is a
trans code in the TACM.
By what I read , I think you meant that the starter won't engage to crank over the engine,
is this a correct assumption?
If this is the case, I would be looking at the MLP. Located on the side of the trans,
Most part stores call it a neutral safety switch, It also tells theTACM and PCM what
gear the shift selector is in. A bad or miss adjusted MLP can cause a" no crank" ,
and also poor shifts, And faulty signals to the PCM .

[99monte]

Yes, you are right about the key issue. It just doesn't engage when I turn the key--rarely. It is not a regular occurrence. And that is what I thought is was, the neutral safety switch. But I know modern transmissions changed alot from the oldies--as far as electronics are concerned. The MLP. Is that part replaceable while the transmission is still installed. And without taking the valve body apart. And if so, how involved and costly do you thing it will be?

Thanks.

[jgate]

Depending on what trans you have the 904 three speed OR the AW-4 trans four speed.
The time , difficulty and the price are totally different.
904 trans:
Part: ECH NS5875
Product Line: Echlin Ignition Price $18.38

The AW-4 trans:
Part: ECH NS5502
Product Line: Echlin Ignition Price $340.59
Also remember that you do have a
Ignition Starter Switch
Part: ECH KS6556
Product Line: Echlin Ignition Price $30.00
Of course you can get these a little cheaper from a "discount" parts store.
If you do have the four speed trans, I would make sure it is not the Ignition Starter Switch,
causing this problem. Back probe this switch first. Before replacing the MLP.
The MLP for the AW-4 trans is a really expensive part to just throw at this problem.
As far as labor, of course the 3 speed is only a 10 minute job.
as for the AW-4 trans it will be an hour or two depending on how much the switch is corroded
to the shift lever, that comes from inside the trans, this switch is on the right side of the
trans,and guaranteed it will be destroyed doing removal.

[99monte]

Yikes!

Well, it definitely is not a 904 or I wouldn't even have to worry about it. It is definitely a 4 speed. I'm gonna have to look into that. Thanks for the info.

[jgate]

I know.... pretty expensive for that AW-4 trans, but remember these are" list "price.
You can get them cheaper. and Don't forget you do have an ignition/starter switch that is a lot cheaper.
I think I would back probe this switch first.
The AW-4 trans will have the MLP on the passenger side of the trans, if by some miracle it is not the AW-4 trans,
then you might have the 42/44RE trans, the MLP is only around $100.