My 98 won't downshift from a stop, even when i first start the car and i put it into drive it's in 4th gear. If i throttle the gas it will start to downshift, but if i drive threw all the gears manually it's just fine. I've already replaced the TPS with an auto zone replacement and it's changed nothing. Any ideas? i should also add it's gotten 'worse' over time, it used to start in first when i put it in drive, but if i took it over 3k RPM it would automatically shift into 4th, then over time it would only take 2.5k and so on until now it just starts in 4th.

 

Welcome Lucas. I'm not your guy here but I have a couple things. You adjust the TV, "kickdown" cable to your throttle body? There is a "process", but I just set mine so the cable has almost no play. (Not pulling and not loose). There is a button on the top of the cable housing that frees it to adjust.

If you get your codes read free at the parts store maybe someone here can help sort it out. (write down/post the codes).

 

The process is to push the button on the cable housing, let the cable retract (shorten), helping it along if necessary, then releasing the button and pressing your accelerator pedal hard to the floor. The cable will ratchet back out into the proper position.
Some prefer to rotate the throttle body fully open by hand instead of stepping on the accelerator.
What is the fluid condition and level? Any discoloration or burned smell?

 

ill try that once i get out of school, the fluid levels are normal, i was running low (practically empty) for a little when my rear tranny seal went, i replaced it and filled the fluid and it ran like a charm for a while, but now i have this issue. could it be related to running very low on tranny fluid for a little?

 

ATF 4 or any fluid other than Dexron/Mercon III can cause issues in the AW4 transmission.
What type did you use?
I read the post again and the symptoms fit for improper fluid type.

 

I'm pretty sure I'm using Dexron III, but to be sure I'll ask after school, i reset my Kick down cable and that didn't fix anything.

 

I had a similar problem and replaced the solenoids and the screen and gasket. I was apprehensive at first but it wasn't that bad a job. You can buy a kit on e-bay that has all three solenoids, the new screen and gasket for under $100. good luck........

 

Yes, I'm using Dexron III :/

 

I've read that it could be the transmission solenoids, what exactly do they control?

 

AW4 operation.. co Radi
1st gear - solenoid 1 ON, solenoid 2 OFF
2nd gear - solenoid 1 ON, solenoid 2 ON
3rd gear - solenoid 1 OFF, solenoid 2 ON
4th gear - solenoid 1 OFF, solenoid 2 OFF
Lockup - Solenoid 3

 

See ken's posts on checking the solenoids here:
https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f2/code-p0741-194083/

That's what I'd do next.