My buddy was looking at a 2000 XJ with 141k miles and it was crazy noisy. I don't know anything about the history other than it was used somewhat regularly for towing. My 96 with comparable miles is very quite in comparison. What should he think about this?

s

 

What kind of noise? Valve train? Lower end? Could be flex plate bolts...

 

I'm having a hard time describing the sound (That is why I didn't try on the initial post). It sounded like a rhythmic rattle that seemed to be coming from the bottom end of the engine. At least we couldn't hear it from above. We should have listened for it under acceleration, but didn't so I can't give much more info.

Thoughts or more questions?
s

 

If it is coming from the bottom, then it is a very high possibility that it is the flex plate bolts. Very common on the XJs, especially ones that tow a lot. take the inspection plate off and tighten them to see if the noise goes away.

 

I don't know what bolts you are talking about. Can you get me photos of or direct me to the photos?

Thanks,
s

 

I dont have access to pics of them, and its pouring rain outside...but they are the flex plate bolts, between the engine and transmission there is an "inspection" bracket. just to give you an idea of loacation.

 

Has the engine been ran hot. I just change my engine 2001 Jeep Cherokee lower engine noise rods and valves were excess noisy engine had been ran excessive hot. when I got the jeep.

I start by checking flex plate bolts and cracks like Eckks-Jay suggested. Have seen them crack and the bolts get lose. Its sometimes call a fly wheel.