95 Cherokee random knock

[boomboom]

I have a 95 Cherokee with a 4L engine and an automatic transmission that has a loud random knock in the lower part of the engine. I replaced the rod bearings and it still sounds the same. It does not knock at idle. It seems to knock the loudest when you step on the gas quickly or let off quickly. Does this sound like a bad torque converter?

Thanks.

[AlohaBra]

Check the machine screws that hold the torque converter to the flex plate first.

Can you tell if it is from the front or back? Mileage of your Jeep XJ would be helpful.

Try removing the serpentine belt and running it for minute or so (after the afore mentioned check above).

[boomboom]

Thanks for the help. I pulled off the torque converter inspection plate and found that all the torque converter bolts were loose. I tighted them and everything is fixed.

Thanks.

[AlohaBra]

Thanks for the update...this is usually very helpful to other XJ owners.

[wagonbldr]

I also have a "95 Cherokee with the same issue. I bought it cheap from a coworker because he thought it had engine problems. He had driven it for about a year with it knocking. The torque convertor bolts had worn slots in the flexplate. One bolt was even hitting the back of the block. Tightened the bolts and stopped the noise (that one anyway). Will have to replace the flexplate, hope it lasts till warmer weather.