At random times my XJ will have what can be best described as a loud "growling" coming form under the hood. When this happens the temp spikes from 190 to 220ish. It happens on a cold and warm motor just the same.

The rumbling/growling is pretty loud and causes a vibration that can definitely be felt in the cab.

This seems to be random and lasts about 20 seconds each time. Then it just goes away and the temp drops back to normal...

I'm thinking the bearing in water pump is the culprit... Prob need to get a mechanics stethoscope on it but just havent picked one up yet.

Thoughts?

Thanks Fellas!

 

could be pump or belt or any of the other components running off the belt. The vibration parts points me to look at the mechanical fan.

 

How's the fan clutch?

I had a relatively new one go bad last year with similar symptoms...

 

How would I test the fan clutch?

 

A better question might be "how old is the fan clutch?".

 

For all I know its original it's a 99 and I'm only on it for about two years

 

Harmonic balancer coming apart?

 

Not saying that's your noise, but fan clutch performance degrades over time/miles beginning with day one. A new fan clutch is about $35.....10-15 min install.

 

Picked up the new fan clutch today. I'll let you all know if it was indeed the issue. Thanks to all for the input.

 

Finally got time to get the new fan clutch in today. Seems like it solved the problem! Thanks to all who commented

 

The problem has returned. Any other thoughts fellas?

 

Try setting if there is any play in any of the pulleys.

 

...Could it be your electric fan kicking on?

 

Bearing issue won't come and go. It would always be there. Sound like your fan is kicking on. Cherokee electric fans are loud.

 

Could be e fan bearings....