I would start by checking your battery voltage. If you have the tools, check your pressure to the fuel rail. I would check it a few times after starting and stopping the engnie just to get a few different readings. If I remember correctly I think it should be around 50 to 60 psi (someone correct me if I am wrong). Next make sure your getting a spark, also pop off your distributor cap and see how it looks in there. Check your throttle body and air filter also. If it looks real dirty pop it off with a 10mm and give it a good cleaning. Those are the easiest places to start IMO. But a few other things you mentioned could be issues also. If all that checks out move onto the starter and start deducting things. NSS is a very common issue. Search on how to properly clean it. Good luck!

 

........engine will stay on as long as my foot is on the gas, but once i let off the gas it shuts off. ...

For 1996+ Jeeps, the OBD-II engine computer (ECU/PCM) re-boots, and the idle settings are deleted, when you: (1) let the battery run down by leaving the lights or radio on, (2) disconnect the battery for an extended period of time, (3) when the battery goes bad and needs replacing, (4) when the alternator is not properly charging the battery, (5) or when poor battery connections result in a voltage drop at the PCM or poor battery charging.

Your symptoms are: (1) having difficulties starting the engine without depressing the gas pedal, and (2) the engine will have a low idle and probably stall unless you keep your foot on the gas pedal. (3) The ECU will relearn the idle settings after a short period of driving and the engine will start and idle normally.

Loose, corroded, or damaged battery cables or ground wires may also cause or contribute to the problem. Begin with basic trouble shooting of the start and charge systems. Remove, clean, and firmly reconnect all the wires and cables to the battery, starter, and alternator. Look for corroded or damaged cables and replace them as needed. Do the same for the grounding wires from the battery and engine to the Cherokee's frame/body.

If the symptoms reoccur, you need to have your battery and/or the alternator load tested at a repair shop or auto parts store. This is usually a free service they offer to bring in potential customers. Even with low battery voltage, the engine will start, but the ECU can re-boot multiple times and a new battery may be required.

Cleaning the Idle Air Controller (IAC), regular tune-ups, and using fuel injector cleaner should be part of your routine preventative maintenance.

 

Thanks guys for the input. The positive terminal post is black (along with the terminal connector). I changed out the terminal connects last month, and the negative side looks brand new as it should, but the positive side is black!!! Could this be a bad battery? Or just bad connection? I'm going to try cleaning it tomorrow and see if that resolves the issue. I'm not sure why the audio shop didn't clean the post and connector today when they replaced the wires going to the battery with 0 gauge wire.

Whats the best way to clean the battery post and connector?

 

Wire brush and you can grab some battery cleaner at your local parts store. Or try some coca cola lol. Use di-electric grease on all your electrical connections!

 

So i replaced my battery today. I had it checked out at Advance Auto Parts and the computer came back and said it needed to be replaced. Haven't had any start up issues as of yet. Will keep you posted on what happens, so others in my position can know what the solutions is to their particular problem.