I searched and couldn't find anyone with a problem like this so here I go:

I have a 98 Xj 4 door sport with the aw4. Has 210k on it. When I'm driving there is no noise, when I come to a stop my transfer case shifter/gear shifter makes a small clunk, if needed I can upload a video. If I slip it into neutral it goes away, put it in gear again and take off it does it until about 15. It doesn't idle lower or try to move anymore than any other jeep I've had does.

What do you guys think the deal is here? Trans seems tight and shifts good, transfer case shifts good, u joints seem to be tight (even though the u joint couldn't make noise if I was stopped). Not really sure what to think.

 

You are going to have to get under her and check out everything Like the motor mounts, trans mounts and just start moving things to see what's loose. Also check the nuts and bolts to see if anything is loose. Sorry I couldn't be of more help. But, this is one that you are going to have to do some searching.

 

I tried looking for things that aren't tight or are out, didn't see anything much worse than usual. It clunks in neutral and park now too. So I'd assume it's getting worse. Anybody else have an idea? Should I upload a video? I read maybe it's the flex plate but does that clunk when it's cracked?

 

Is it a constant "clunk" or just when you take off and or come to a stop?

 

See how much clearance you have between the trans/t-case crossmember and the exhaust pipe that goes above it. Should be able to easily fit a fat thumb in between the two. If not, your trans mount may be bad or loose causing the pipe to rumble against the crossmember.

Could also be caused by shot front engine mounts.

 

It will do it when just sitting and while taking off. Also when going over bumps. I looked at my trans mount and it looks brand new. So I'm assuming last owner changed it thinking the same as I was.

 

The funny part about that is, I can't hear it outside at all. You would think that if it was the exhaust that you would hear it outside too wouldn't you? It is only by the center council that it makes noise. Ill look at it more today and see what I find.

 

I believe im having the same problem. When mine starts I slightly pull mine back not switching it. Goes away I believe its a bushing on the linkage or somethings loose within the center console.

 

You. The guy typing at the monitor. Go look at your engine mounts!!

 

I looked at them today, they aren't all messed up like ones in pics I've seen. They are very nice shape yet. Only thing that doesn't seem right is there's a gap between the rubber and metal from the mount. It's only about 1/16 of an inch. Does that mean its out?

 

Post up some photos. Trans mount loose or missing bolts?

 

X2. This is what my "clunk" was