J30 failed AZ emissions d/t no check engine light

[drsmoller]

New registered poster.

Just failed emissions with '97 J30. Said no check engine light on or off. This is a new one to me. Thought that they only checked to see if thing was on, but mine is just completely negative when ignition goes over and they set up the OBD. I never noticed the thing either way. Also instrument cluster constantly shows seatbelt light on. I've never worried about it, but figured would mention that.

Going to make this a DIY project. Tell you what, I really do not like the emissions stuff and truly believe this is just another way to tax us all. Getting sick of all these taxes - pretty soon they will put us all out of business.

So, DIY. I figure on checking the bulb first and don't think there is fuse for this anywhere. Okay. I also do not know how to get to the thing to check wiring/bulb, etc. Any help? And/or suggestions on things I might check as well regarding problem?

I called shop about checking it out and they were a bit vague on everything from cost to anything else about this - made me nervous. So, yeah, DIY. Another thing which makes me nervous is, if I fix the lamp somehow, then perchance the thing stays lit and then fail emissions still b/c of functioning light....GEEZ!

Thank you for any advance.

Scott

[SteveTheTech]

First off I would like to welcome you to Nico and the J forum.

The CEL is a very simple circuit either the bulb or combination meter are at fault, the circuit integrity has been compromised or the ECM is no longer sending the signal. Check the EL section of the ESM for the correct diagnostic procedure look under the heading of "Warning Lights" subsection.

This may be only the beginning of a larger headache for you. If indeed the light is on and you have a DTC set you will need to repair this before returning to your local inspection facility.

As I am sure you are aware the J is a very different vehicle with electrical and driveability issues. Do not take it to a service facility that does not work on them on a regular basis. If you do end up over your head you may have to bite the bullet and take it to the dealer to be properly diagnosed by a facility that deals solely with them and you will usually find a tech that enjoys working on the classics.

[driverdriver]

Do you have a hole somewhere in the exhaust/muffler? They can cause emissions failures.

[yodawill2000]

Doesnt the transmission Diag use the CEL to display codes ??Easy test to see if it's just the bulb me thinks.