2001 Cherokee starting issues

2001 Cherokee
106k
Automatic

Every so often (6 months) when I turn over my 2001 Cherokee the engine sounds like it misses or slips timing when cranking. The engine spits, sputters and backfires when cranking. After this happens it starts real hard and runs terrible. It feels like the timing gets waaay off somehow. The check engine light comes on and stays on, sometimes flashing. I'll shut off the engine and start it again and it runs fine although the check engine light stays on (now not flashing). When I put it on the computer to turn off the check engine light it tells me that #5 had a miss-fire.

Any ideas? Crank sensor?

Thanks,
Tim

Alright, I've read some of the other post similar to my issue. Probably the sensor, but if you've anything to add please do.

Tim

How about a ^BUMP^?