1989 Jeep Grand Wagoneer

[jet64155]

I bought an 89 Grand Wagoneer a few weeks ago. It has 115000 miles on it and it all seemed to be fine. We have been having warm weather in Missouri until yesterday when it cooled down considerably. This morning I started it up fine and let it warm up for a while, it ran fine but when I pulled to a stop sign it died and didn't start for a few minutes. A cop even came by and turned his lights on. Am I just not being patient and it is a cold natured machine or is there something I could check? This is my first Jeep so I am not really sure.

Thanks,

[fredjacksonsan]

What engine/transmission? I forget which year they switched from the older V8 model to the I6.

[jet64155]

It has the V8, with an automatic transmission.

[fredjacksonsan]

In that case, it's probably the carburetor. On a vehicle that old I'd just replace it. (I'm assuming you've put new plugs, plug wires, cap and rotor on?)

[jet64155]

Yep, all that has been done. For a quick fix would some carb cleaner help a little? I understand that isn't a real fix, but just so I can keep it running?

Thanks for the reply.

[fredjacksonsan]

Carb cleaner might help, it would depend on the condition of the floats, float chamber and jets and other small parts. It's been a long time since I even saw a carburetor.... You could start with a thorough cleaning of everything you can see --

[jet64155]

Thanks, I will replace the carburetor soon, but for today i will pick up some carb cleaner.

[fredjacksonsan]

Post back if the carb isn't the issue, good luck!

[rhandwor]

Originally Posted by jet64155

Yep, all that has been done. For a quick fix would some carb cleaner help a little? I understand that isn't a real fix, but just so I can keep it running?

Thanks for the reply.

Pull the top off and watch push the gas pedal to the floor. Does the choke close completely. Then start the engine the vacuum advance should open the choke enough to insert a 1/4 inch drill bit. If it doesn't move at all buy a new one at a parts store.
You can buy new vacuum advance units and choke springs. If it starts good and runs somewhat then starts stalling adjust the choke spring richer. A bad running cold carburetor is almost always in this area.

[SACars]

Its probably the tuning part of the vehicle or it hasn't been used in a while. When I experienced this similar problem, I started to panic at first because I didn't know what to do, thankfully a very good friend happened to pass by and saw me. He fixed the car and the rest is history...