2004 Jeep Liberty Sport Wiring issues...

[Tungsten]

Have a 2004 Jeep Liberty with 131K on the original engine. A few weeks ago I smelt something burning and the check engine light came on. Without a Code meter could not check the code, but it smelled terrible around the alternator and a black resin appeared around the area of the bottom of the alternator.

I had a strong suspicion that it was the alternator and wouldn't you know it about a week later the car came to a dead stop, completely. Ok so time to get the alternator replaced today. (Leaving out the Long Story)... Another 136 Amp alternator placed in and the old one taken out. I did find what I believe to be part of the wiring harness that was brittle and quite possibly burnt. I did not detect any burnt wiring at the time.

Along with the alternator I replaced the spark plugs because it was way past due, and wanted to make sure the battery was working so I had I took it to Advanced auto parts and had it placed on the battery tester. The Optima Type 34 800 cranking amp battery came back with a good charge so I couldn't figure it out. The vehicle would not turn over. I'm almost certain that it isn't a starter problem.

Decided what the hell, the battery was 4 years old and exchanged it for another battery which I knew was good (Only paid $20.00 for it!!). Placed it in the jeep and went to start it. Nothing but the smell of something electrical burning.

I can't figure out why this would do that...

I saw that there was a recall for this year and am wondering if people think this might be the cause...

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BTW first post... Nice site for information..

 

[Billwill]

Have a 2004 Jeep Liberty with 131K on the original engine. A few weeks ago I smelt something burning and the check engine light came on. Without a Code meter could not check the code, but it smelled terrible around the alternator and a black resin appeared around the area of the bottom of the alternator.

I had a strong suspicion that it was the alternator and wouldn't you know it about a week later the car came to a dead stop, completely. Ok so time to get the alternator replaced today. (Leaving out the Long Story)... Another 136 Amp alternator placed in and the old one taken out. I did find what I believe to be part of the wiring harness that was brittle and quite possibly burnt. I did not detect any burnt wiring at the time.

Along with the alternator I replaced the spark plugs because it was way past due, and wanted to make sure the battery was working so I had I took it to Advanced auto parts and had it placed on the battery tester. The Optima Type 34 800 cranking amp battery came back with a good charge so I couldn't figure it out. The vehicle would not turn over. I'm almost certain that it isn't a starter problem.

Decided what the hell, the battery was 4 years old and exchanged it for another battery which I knew was good (Only paid $20.00 for it!!). Placed it in the jeep and went to start it. Nothing but the smell of something electrical burning.

I can't figure out why this would do that...

I saw that there was a recall for this year and am wondering if people think this might be the cause...

You must be registered for see images attach

BTW first post... Nice site for information..

Have a look yourself at the leads mentioned in the stud area.....if they look like they have shorted then make a temporary repair and take the Jeep to the dealers to be repaired properly.


According to the circuit diagrams I have....the thick green lead that goes from the alternator towards the battery then connects to a Red lead for the 3.7 L.

This green lead section is actually a "fusable link" which is designed to burn out if you get a major short such as you have.

So have a look at this fusable link and measure it for continuity before you go any further.