Hello everyone I have a problem and any information that anyone can provide would be much appreciated.

I have a 97 Cherokee XJ Sport 4.0 4x4. Just recently here in Arizona its been a scorcher and my engine started producing a knocking sound shortly followed by overheating (lots of steam coming from under the hood). The cherokee will start fine, but after driving for 5-10min+ the engine will start to make a knocking sound. Then the temp gauge will go up and the jeep will overheat.

The idle seems to be a bit more rough after this problem started. Coolent levels are appear fine, and the only thing I notice looking under the hood (im no mechanic, just a jeep fanboy) is one fan does not work. But logically this all cant be just caused just by a fan being out (its been out for a while i think).

Anyone I hope I provided enough information and if I did not or if there is anything you need to know that I did not include please let me know. Thanks Everyone!!

 

It's a lot easier to diagnose overheating issues if u tell us what u have replaced/changed maintenance wise in/on the cooling system. If u haven't changed/maintained anything, the main cooling system components are:

Radiator
Water pump
Thermostat
Fan clutch
Coolant
Hoses
Belt

They all must be functioning perfectly (especially this time of year in Arizona) in order for any engine to not overheat. Yes, the electric fan should cycle on/off.

 

I would start with having it diagnosed by a pro then fix it yourself since you don't know much about mechanics. It's cheaper than just throwing parts at it most likely if you haven't overheated it too many times or too badly it's just the waterpump knocking and your fan clutch probrably needs replaced along with most of the cooling system if it's all factory. Is this a new to you jeep or do you know it's history? Good luck.

 

Thanks for the reply. This jeep is a new to me Jeep so I do not really know its history. I will definitely do as you suggested and begin with getting it professionally diagnosed. Anyone happen to know any good jeep mechanics in the phoenix area?

 

You local Jeep dealer would be a good place to start.

I think local private shop labor rates are almost to dealership levels nowadays.

The dealer will stand behind his work. Hopefully.

The knocking is serious. You are about to burn it up, if you haven't already.