Hey I have this 6-cyl Jeep Cherokee, late 80's model, that I am experiencing two problems with:

1. Electrical problem
-When you drive the vehicle around, it seems like the electrical components are competing for power from the battery. For instance, if the headlights are on or the heater is at full blast, the CD player will momentarily shut off, as if it becomes unhooked temporarily. Rolling down the electric windows will cut power to it also. I tried swapping the battery out with another vehicle to see if the battery was getting old, but experienced the same problems.

Upon swapping batteries, I noticed a small cable that was bundled up with the posative battery cables (which ironically led to the firewall where the dash and interior lights get their power) had a few spots where the black sleave was melted open, exposing the wires inside. There are a few open spots along this wire, but I noticed it was laying cross ways "+" with another set of wires. At this intersection, the wire I am desribing has almost merged with the other set of wires, I am unsure if the internal wires are touching or not. Could any of this explain my electrical problems? And what would you suggest I do to further narrow down the problem?

2. Overheating problem
-My second problem consists with the Jeep's temperature gauge slowly rising while being driven around town. Some of my friends have suggested the thermostat, does that sound valid? Again, I am unsure if the electrical problem could some how contribute to this, or if they are two completely seperate issues.

Any feedback is appreiciated. Thank you.

Problem 1: The crossed and melted wires suggest there is a short to ground, which is drawing a large percentage of battery voltage. Separate the wires and insulate them. If that doesn't do it, get the battery load tested. If that doesn't do it, get someone to check the alternator output. Personally, I think a heavy short to ground is the most likely cause, given the fried wiring.

Problem 2: Yeah, could be the thermostat is stuck and not delivering enough coolant. Pop the cap off the radiator and check the coolant level, make sure it's not leaking out someplace.

Sort out the melted mess first, then do some troubleshooting.

As for the overheating, it might very well be the thermostat...amongst a lot of other things. If you have a viscous fan, make sure that it's engaging properly as that would give the exact symptoms - when there's little airflow, it gets hot. To test it, turn the fan with your hand when the engine is cold and it should spin freely. Now heat it up and turn it off - the fan should be much harder to turn.

If it's an electric fan, make sure that it's coming on, and at the right temperature. The fan's thermostat might be faulty, or the motor itself could be seized.

And if it's a good ol' fashioned direct-drive fan, check that the fan blade hasn't fallen off, leaving just the hub behind. Sounds stupid but I've seen it happen on spot-welded fans...most of the time it goes through the rad, but you might have been lucky.

Also check for mud in your radiator if you go off-road. That really fucks with your cooling.