XJ only moves in reverse
CF Veteran




Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 2,863
Likes: 201
From: syracuse ny
Year: 1997 230,000 miles
Model: Grand Cherokee (ZJ)
Engine: 4.0, new lifters valve job with new springs and exhaust valves, preload set with shims
Check fluid level? Check the linkage at the transmission make sure it's actually going into drive.
OR if you're handy with a welder, turn the driver seat around and drive it like that.
OR if you're handy with a welder, turn the driver seat around and drive it like that.
Seasoned Member
Joined: Sep 2019
Posts: 328
Likes: 94
From: Around the world
Year: 2001 / 1999
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Engine: Fire breathing 4 point Oh!!!
Yup, check the transmission fluid level. The vehicle needs to be on flat, level ground. Make sure the vehicle is warmed up, running & in park. Can you test the transmission solenoids? There are YouTube videos out there, describing how to do so. Otherwise, you might be better off, taking it to a transmission shop.
I am not familiar with the early models, and whether disconnecting the TCM fuse or harness, and moving the stick to low gear may be worth trying
CF Veteran
Joined: Oct 2018
Posts: 1,577
Likes: 279
From: United Kingdom
Year: 1995 RHD
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Engine: 4.0l
Try setting off in 1-2 then moving up to 3 then finally D. If it works normally then it could either be a solenoid issue or the TCM fuse.
test solenoid resistance, and replace if needed, check all wiring and harness connectors, replace TCM, if needed
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CF Veteran


Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 1,456
Likes: 74
From: North Riding of Yorkshire, UK
Year: 1997
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
Yep, sounds exactly like mine before I changed the solenoids. It would change up but not down. Luckily, the ebay solenoids are cheap and have been perfect for at least 18 months so far.
Are you sure the Throttle Valve cable is adjusted properly. This can burn up an automatic transmission quickly. I assume you have the 700R4 in your jeep? I'm used to dealing with the Ford AOD's and that mother better be right, or it will burn up the 1-2 clutch parts.
The Cherokees had an AW4 auto trans.
CF Veteran
Joined: Oct 2018
Posts: 1,577
Likes: 279
From: United Kingdom
Year: 1995 RHD
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Engine: 4.0l
It's not a kickdown cable that causes downshifts as in other non-electronically controlled transmissions. It regulates the hydraulic pressure, and hence shift firmness. More throttle needs a quicker, harder shift, etc. If the cable is misadjusted too loose you get sloppy slow shifting, too tight and it slams into gear. Fortunately it's dirt simple to adjust. Just squeeze the clip and adjust tight, then press the pedal all the way down and it'll self-adjust.
It's not a kickdown cable that causes downshifts as in other non-electronically controlled transmissions. It regulates the hydraulic pressure, and hence shift firmness. More throttle needs a quicker, harder shift, etc. If the cable is misadjusted too loose you get sloppy slow shifting, too tight and it slams into gear. Fortunately it's dirt simple to adjust. Just squeeze the clip and adjust tight, then press the pedal all the way down and it'll self-adjust.
I have put that cable on an older 350 turbo and the adjustment was easy. Just for kickdown on that.
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