I have a 98 with auto 4.0L and have a rough ride. Ive noticed a rod knock when I let it idle for awhile. When driving down the road, when I coast or have a heavy foot, nothing seems to be wrong but when I lightly push the gas, it begins to shake badly and feels like its losing a little power too. Just wondering if that could be caused by the rod that knocks or if its something else.

 

I would suggest doing a compression check on all cylinders. Pressure range is 120 to 150 psi, with max variation between cylinders of 30 psi.

 

Converter bolts loose? Can sound like a rod knock

 

Converter?

 

Torque converter.

 

What and where is that? Somewhat of a noob here

 

Somewhat? lol....just kidding.

A torque converter is essentially the clutch for an automatic transmission.

Have a read:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torque_converter

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/auto-p...-converter.htm

 

Yea haha. Well my excuse is never owning an automatic before. One of my best buddies has a 95 XJ auto so Ill be gettin him to advise me as well. Just wanted some other opinions.
Im hoping its just that plate and not an actual rod knock. But would some loose bolts make for a rough ride? or is that just the solution to a knocking sound? Driving down the road at ~45mph is very shaky