2000 cherokee cranking but not starting till second crank

[kevincourious]

I've got a 2000 Cherokee 6 cyl, 2wd,75000 mi, that wont start on first crank, but will start on second crank. I thought it might be a fuel filter plugged and not getting enough gas. Anyone got any ideas?

long time jeep lover, kevin

[rob doggy dog]

i have a 2000 that did the same thing , also it would stall or wouldnt start unless i kept the rpm's up , turned out to be the battery! good luck

[avmx]

My 97 xj with 180,000 runs like a champ but has been doing the same thing for a while. I did some troubleshooting and determined it was the fuel return check valve in the fuel pump not holding pressure in the fuel rail. What i've been doing to preserve my starter is that I turn the key to power the fuel pump, turn the key back to off, then start the truck normally. It's a pain sometimes, but i'd rather do that than throw another $400 to replace the pump.

[AlohaBra]

Right on, that is how I do it. I also have a 97xJ Sport. The pump does't cost that much, but yu gota drain the fuel and drop the tank. Make sure you wear a charcoal mask, so you don't get too high, if you gonna do it.

On the battery, I just discovered OPTIMA batteries at COSTCO today. I bought one for the Tribute, cause it needed one and no one will stock the OEM, so you have to buy it at the stealer. It is a premium battery though, but it is supposed to be vibration proof and should be good in an XJ. You can even use it on its side.

Link:
http://www.1st-optima-batteries.com/
FYI only..not selling batteries...