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Jeff, first of all, I'm glad you got your Jeep running again. If you don't mind a piece of advice, you don't have to make a new posting every time. You can just add it on to the one you started previously. the reason is it is easier for people who are trying to help. They can just read the entire history of the problem without hopping around between threads.

Like Tim, I'm not really sure what it is that you're describing by "Squeak". Does this noise happen after the engine has started and is it coming from the starter area? I'm guessing that the starter might not be aligned exactly. What happens is when the starter is engaged, a gear moves out from the front of the starter motor and meshes with teeth on the flex plate, which spins the engine and that gets the engine to start. When the engine is started and you release the key, the starter gear (called a bendix drive) retracts and allows the engine to turn on its own. If the starter is not aligned properly, the gear doen't disengage at the right time and you can get a pinging noise. That might be the noise you are describing as a squeak. When you installed the new starter, did you also replace the shim (the flat piece of metal; it has slots that the mounting bolts go thru) that fits between the starter and its mounting place? /wwwthreads_images/icons/smile.gif

 

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You might be able to pick a shim up at an auto parts store. It's been a while since I replaced my starter on my 86 2.8 Cherokee; so I just don't recall if you can install the shim without removing the bolts. I suppose that it may be possible that your particular Cherokee doesn't need the shim, but I doubt it. Washers might work but I wouldn't know how many you would need to get the proper spacing. You could also try to re align the starter without the shim. It would be a trial and error thing.

You could use the Jeep the way it is but it might lead to worn teeth on the flex plate and bendix drive. Don't put the alignment off too long. Good Luck!!/wwwthreads_images/icons/smile.gif

 

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Yeah, Andy, I think you're right on the money about the shim Z shape....You've jogged my memory....Thanks!/wwwthreads_images/icons/smile.gif

 

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The shim goes in between the starter and where the starter bolts to. In fact the shim has holes or slots that the bolts go thru.

 

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First of all, GREAT LOOKING CHEROKEE, Kevin!/wwwthreads_images/icons/smile.gif

Your XJ has a 4.0L engine, where Jeff and I have the 2.8L V-6. Those were the 6 cylinder engines offered in the "first generation" XJs (1984-86).

 

[109]

Jeff, if the noise stops after you release the key and the engine is running, then you can drive it without damaging it further. I think that it would be a good idea to take the Jeep to a mechanic and let him look the starter, bendix drive and flex plate over.