The process for finding top dead center and zeroing the timing came from my dad although I performed the work myself. The NAXJA guys finally found my problem and provided me this link to learn what the fix was. Tighten down the retaining fork, reinstall the camshaft position sensor, spark plug and coil rail.Įnjoy quicker starts and having avoided the problems that this stupid sensor causes when it gets even further out of spec. Loosen the retaining fork that holds in the camshaft synchronizer.įind the small hole in the outside of the housing for the oil pump drive shaft.įind the small hole on the magnet inside that indicates camshaft position.Ĭarefully turn the housing on the camshaft synchronizer until you can align those two holes and insert a toothpick or drill bit straight through them. Remove the camshaft position sensor from the camshaft synchronizer. Use a ratchet or wrench, 19mm I think, to turn the crank forwards to the zero mark. Have your helper bump the starter a little at a time until you feel pressure.īreak out your mirror and check your timing marks. Remove the coil rail, the first spark plug and the camshaft position sensor.Ĭarefully place a finger of the spark plug hole. You need a helper, a toothpick or small drill bit, some basic hand tools and a 'mirror on a stick' so you can see the timing marks on the bottom of the cover. Mine got there right after I installed a new crank position sensor and hit 130,000 miles. From what I've read, the timing chain stretches out as you rack up the miles on your Cherokee with a coil rail and at some point it gets outside of the range the computer can correct for it.

How to install camshaft synchronizer