Two problems related to camshaft position sensor have been reported for the 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
My 97 Jeep Grand Cherokee stalls intermittantly. Usually somewhere between 15 and 60 miles per hour. No warning, no lights and no shudders;it just quits. Most times it will restart on its own but lately it has taken longer to restart. The crankshaft position sensor, throttle position sensor, idle air control valve, coil, sparlk plugs, spark plug wires, distributor cap, rotor and cam shaft position sensor have all been changed or checked. I am currently running the car with a large hose clamp around the computer and it's plugs. So far my "fix" is working. My stalls have occured on straight roads, in a curve I believe this problem could lead to a loss of control due to no power steering/brakes when the car is dead.
Vehicle will shut off intermittently, regardless of speed, outside temperature, length of time engine runs, or any other conceivable factor. A few weeks ago, I drove it to a town 30 miles away and back with no issue. The next time I drove it, the engine shut off two blocks away from my residence. There is no pattern to the malfunctions nor computer codes to download. Have replaced computer, connectors to computer, crankshaft sensor, camshaft sensor, and many other numerous parts. Various mechanics have been unable to diagnose, some have given up due to frustration. Chrysler dealerships deny ever hearing of the problem, however, I have met three other Grand Cherokee owners in person who have had identical issues. Internet searches will reveal numerous complaints for this vehicle.