Just purchased a 2WD, 2004, 4.0 WJ with 154,000 miles on it and upon startup there is this loud pounding noise when cranking but goes away once started.

Previous owner had it for 3 years, I asked him about it and he said its always done that and thought it was normal.

I crawled under and dont see anything obvious at the starter, The motor and trans mounts are good. I want to change the starter anyway so I will take a look at the flywheel when that happens

Other than that noise when cranking, it runs and drives fine and all the electrical works good.
Maybe its normal or not? I had a 95 XJ a while ago and it did not sound like this when starting.

Does this sound normal for a WJ when starting?

Thanks.