Sol-Vac.. TES.. WOT.. 4-inch Hg Sw..

What is all this stuff?

Go Right to the Table of Contents

These pages are intended for those like myself who live in states where an annual E-Check is required to get license tags, and for those who are just plain mystified when they look under the hood and wonder what all that stuff does.

There is some technical information here, but the mechanically challenged like myself will find easy explanations for most of the emissions freedenoids under the hood, and for the operation of the evil computer.

I hope someone else can benefit from what I've learned trying to keep my 258 Jeep running. This information was gathered from the Web, the original Service Manual, anyone who would talk to me, and from my own experience trying to figure out why mine was running so badly after only 13 years of neglect.

Dale Beckett

This information applies to my 1985 AMC 258 six-cylinder Jeep CJ-7 with 5-speed manual transmission, and with all stock factory emission-control gear in place and operating. I believe it applies to 258 CID Jeeps from 1983 to 1986 and, with minor differences, to 258 Wranglers from 1987 to 1990.

In yellow boxes like this, look for "Quick and Dirty" checks that can be done with little or no test equipment.

I couldn't resist including this picture of my 1985 CJ-7, taken when it was less than a week old. The paint was "Bronze Mica-tallic", looked fabulous when it was new, but hasn't weathered too well. It came with a nutmeg hardtop, which I removed. You understand...

I probably don't have to tell you that it doesn't look this good right now. What a blessing, having a rust-colored Jeep.

A good place to start: The Three Major Players

Jeep® is a registered trademark of FCA US LLC®, with which I am not affiliated in any way.

If you decide to act on any information provided here, you do so at your own risk. It is your responsibility to use safe procedures if working on your vehicle, such as the wearing of appropriate clothing and safety glasses, and being mindful of mechanical, electrical and fire hazards while working with a gasoline engine. I am in no way responsible for any torment you may suffer as a result of your acting on any information found here.

Updated Feb 22, 2024

This site is browser-neutral and cookie-free.
Best viewed with the browser of your choice.

    © 1998-2024 by Dale Beckett