Hello, new forum member, need some advice on a manual 98 Cherokee sport. First I would like to thank all of you for all the help and knowledge you have given to me and jeep owners. You have solved many of my problems since I pulled my xj out of the woods after sitting for over 6 years amazing so little was wrong with it. I was driving my xj up a slight grade that was icy, went to put it in 4WH, heard some slight chatter coming from the lower center of the engine area. Then couldn't move clutch pedal or shift ****... I looked for about four hours and haven't found an example of this happening. First is this a simple clutch replacement or something more menacing? Also if you were replacing the clutch what other parts in the area should be replaced. Thanks for any info in advance, my little boy loves this jeep and I would like it to be around for awhile. Thanks again!!!

 

So its stuck in gear and you can't hit the clutch?

 

I was able to pop it back in neutral to move it, but cannot move the clutch pedal even a quarter of an inch now. just checked with the car off was able to move the stick into 2,3 and fourth, but not 1st and 5th.

 

I'd check the pedal itself first. Then the MC and lines/slave.
Then pull the trans and inspect.

With a new clutch, I'd do throwout bearing and possibly a new MC.

 

Yep

 

Thanks for the replies, what would account for the chattering sound that occurred just before the system malfunctioned?

 

It's hard to diagnose via internet, but you'll probably spot the issue when you inspect it.

 

Likely something broke and/or got stuck inside the bell housing.

 

too all, what would be involved with replacement of possible bell housing issues? what is and should be replaced at this point in these areas. This tiny go anywhere beast is pretty old.

 

Had a similar problem with a 91 chevy I had, problem was a stuck throwout bearing.

 

Well a normal clutch service involves replacing the clutch lol... fork, and throwout bearing are pretty standard (though much longer lasting).

 

I know it may sound stupid but it happened to my '91 as well as my friends '94. Check to be sure the clutch pedal did not break free from the pivot point up under the dash. When it broke the pedal sunk to the floor,nor could i get it out of gear. As you can see in the picture of mine, they were only welded on one side from the factory. I was just about ready to drop the trans when i thought maby i should check that. I welded it back together and now all is good.