XjToday365

Hey all,
I've got a 1998 Automatic Jeep Cherokee Sport with 250k miles. Not surprisingly, the transmission has a few troubles. First off it leaks, and I've been having to add fluid frequently to keep it happy. For the past few months it has started rattling as well, like nails in a blender. So things are looking grim, and from what I've researched it doesn't look like fixing all the issues is very cost effective. So that brings me to my main point/question. From what I've researched I should just replace it when it finally goes, and thats my plan as of now. How much do you guys think this will cost. I've heard anywhere from like $4000-6000 with new transmission and labor costs. If you all have any closer estimates that would be appreciated. I'm in Idaho if that changes anything. Thanks!

awg

Its generally accepted that obtaining a used AW4 is more economical, especially if you can do the replacement yourself

lawsoncl

The AW4 is fairly robust from a mechanical standpoint. Where is it leaking from? The transmission cooler lines are a common source as they can wear through and leak. The rattling could be a cracked flexplate or just loose bolts on the flex plate. I would pull the front cover off the bottom of the bell housing and verify the bolts are tight, and look up towards the crank area for any cracking. Have a read over here for a good method of checking for cracks - https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f2/kno...piston-192407/

As for Idaho, that depends on north or south. :}

XjToday365

Great, thanks for the insight, that thread you shared is the exact problem i have, the knock sounds the same. Ill check the flexplate.
North Idaho also.

lawsoncl

I'm in Spirit Lake myself. If you ever see a lifted, primer grey Comanche, that's me.