So as the title says, whenever I accelerate from a stop there is a knocking/ banging noise from the front end. At the same time, my shifter (it's a manual) will shake quite bad. I can also feel it in my pedals and floor. This only happens in first gear and only up until 15/20kph. My ball joints and wheel bearings are good and the front lower control arms are brand new. Could this be the upper control arms? Engine mount/s? Tranny mount? Right now I am completely at a lose lol

This is a 94 XJ manual 4x4

 

I could not tell you for sure... But I will tell you this:
Motor and Tranny mounts will make or break you Jeep... Take that to the bank!

 

Check the transmission mount.

 

Sounds like the noises I had with a rotted engine mount

 

Start with motor mounts, then u joints, front drive shaft. Transmission mount is possible but less likely given your symptoms.

 

Never even thought of the front drive shaft lol I'll have a look at that :P Thanks!

 

Yes mounts, unless it goes away in 2wd...... With the air cleaner off you can see the left mount allot better. With a pry bar you can check the tranny mount. One of mine rides forward enough I need to pry the engine back anytime I need to remove the E-Fan. PS pulley clearance....