Ask Joe: December 2007

Your friendly local automotive advice column

No, Project XJ isn’t done...Joe’s just taking a break this issue from his monthly project update in order to answer a few questions while he really gets up to his elbows working on the Jeep. Next issue, though? Look out. Major updates. Pictures a-plenty. Grease monkey talk galore. Just you wait. Until then...

Q: What kind of tire chains would be best for my Chevrolet Impala? I’ve used standard cable chains in the past, and a local tire store is trying to sell me some “quick fit” chains for almost triple the price I paid for the standard cable chains. Are the quick fits really worth the extra cost? Mark

A: Standard cable chains are definitely the barebones minimum. If you’re carrying them just to have on hand because of requirements and don’t plan on actually using them, cables might be the answer. But how many times have we not planned on using them, only to have to? Ultimately, I do recommend the quick fit chains available through many auto parts and tire stores. Yes, they’re more expensive, but they have many more features than your standard cable chain. The fact that they are quick fit makes them most appealing—no one wants to be messing with chains in the snow, ice, or freezing rain. The faster you can get them on your vehicle, the better! They also offer more traction than a standard cable because they are actually chain links. Most offer a good diamond pattern, which offers maximum traction. They can also be used for longer durations, whereas cable chains tend to wear down faster. So for speedy application, good traction, and long-term durability, I recommend the quick fits, or at least a set higher quality traction chains.

Q: My Jeep Cherokee won’t start. What could be the culprit? Andy

A: Well, that’s a pretty generic question; inability to start could be caused by a number of things. I assume that you have checked all of the “normal” things that could cause the problem (i.e. the battery, connections, switches, etc.)? And I’m guessing you have power, but no spark? And without knowing the year, I am also guessing that it is an earlier Jeep (‘87-’95-ish)? If this is the case, then I do have a few things for you to check out. Cherokees from those years are notorious for the crankshaft position sensor (CPS) going bad. What generally happens is that the wires connecting to the sensor break down after time, as their routing puts them past the exhaust manifold. This sensor (contrary to the name) is located on top of the bell housing on the driver’s side, and actually takes its reading from the flexplate, not the crankshaft. Another potential culprit could be the neutral safety switch. This is mounted on the transmission on the driver’s side. This switch doesn’t really need to be replaced, however, just cleaned using some electrical contact cleaner. I hope this helps in determining your starting problem, as I faced this same problem on my first XJ and know how frustrating it is. If you have any more questions after you try these fixes, or want to give me more specifics, feel free to drop me another email!

Q: Now that winter seems to have officially arrived, what should I do to my car to keep it running smooth in the colder temps and inclement weather? Nicole R.

A: One suggestion is to use a fuel additive periodically throughout the season. During the winter months all gas stations in our area use an oxygenated fuel with a higher alcohol content. This can cause a slight decrease in your car’s mileage and “gum up” fuel filters and injectors, affecting overall performance. Using an additive or cleaner will help prevent any damage and keep your car running smoothly. Also, make sure your anti-freeze levels are correct and that the mix ratio is correct as well. Having too little anti-freeze or too much water puts you at risk for a system freeze, and having too much anti-freeze or too little water may actually cause you to overheat. Finally, winter is a good time to check your tire pressure and wiper blades—last thing you need to worry about on your way up the mountain is whether your tires are properly pressurized and your wiper blades clean and functional!