If your 1987 Jeep Wrangler is cranking but *not* starting, the problem could be one of several things:
* Dead Battery: A weak or dead battery won't provide enough power to the starter motor to turn the engine over effectively, or at all. Test the battery voltage.
* Bad Battery Cables: Corroded or loose battery cables prevent good electrical connection, leading to weak cranking or no cranking. Inspect and clean the terminals.
* Faulty Starter Motor: The starter itself could be failing. This is less likely if you're getting a good crank, but a weak starter might struggle.
* No Fuel: The engine needs fuel to run. Check the fuel level and the fuel pump.
* No Spark: The engine needs spark to ignite the fuel-air mixture. Check the ignition system, including spark plugs, wires, distributor cap, and rotor.
* Clogged Fuel Filter: A clogged filter restricts fuel flow.
* Distributor Issues: Problems with the distributor can prevent proper spark delivery.
* Faulty Ignition Coil: The coil provides the high voltage needed for ignition.
* Engine Mechanical Issues: Something could be wrong with the engine itself, such as low compression or a broken timing belt (although a broken timing belt usually prevents any cranking).
In short, cranking is good – it means the electrical system is mostly working. The issue is why the engine isn't *igniting* and starting after the cranking. You'll need to troubleshoot the fuel and ignition systems to find the root cause.
