Got a 98 cherokee classic, 4.0, 4x4, auto trans.... She IS slightly overdue for an oil change/ tune up. That being said, yesterday evening a chirpy/squeak started after a long hard rain (Florida!). I cranked her this morning- still a chirpin, sounds like a belt? Shes parked for most of the day, in the sun (if it matters?). I start her up to go home, still chirping and squeaking, but- not as loud or prominent. A few moments later (after reaching a speed of 65mph for a cpl minutes then exiting off the highway) a rather loud knock, almost clank, i canhear while driving that does accelerate when i give it gas. Chirping returned as well. I went home, never going over 40mph. This was 5hrs ago. I just went out n checked my oil, yeh it needs changin, but it was in safe and no metal chards. I cranked her to hear it again, so im not driving n try to pinpoint where its coming from..... Front of the engine for sure. When the hood was popped this, knock/clank sounds hollowy, not from within the blick at all. Could a loose belt (chirp?) be causing my fan to hit something?? I swear it sounds like its coming from that area. I DID jyst have the water pump replaced in early may. A new starter put on last winter. A new (well 60k on it) engine dropped in her 2 years ago. Tranny also rebuilt ladt august. New radiator w the engine. I dont know if any of that matters- but just sayin- shes got character but been running GREAT since the water pump.
HELP!!!! Thanks a bunch!!

 

Stethoscope help a lot, diagnosing sounds.
Remove belts and start engine.

 

Take the belt off and fire it up. If noise is gone, its from a belt driven component. Spin and wiggle each pulley by hand till you can feel where the noise is coming from.

 

Ok- i dont have the tools to remive the belt. But im wondering, scared actually, i know its comin from that area- is it wise w/in reason to get her to a shop? I dont have a garage or tools anymore unfortunately. But that sound is awful- im scared to drive it. Could a loose belt or fan lock something up or totally blow this engine?
Or should i call a mobile mechanic?

 

my harmonic balancer was going bad, startung to come off and causing the fan to hit it when running. All better now

 

Yes.

Print off this thread and show him the recommendations about removing the drive belt and checking for the noise. Also, have him eyeball the harmonic balancer and see if it's coming apart.