4.7HO Issue With Exhaust Header Studs
Thread Starter
CF Veteran
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 7,554
Likes: 17
From: Monett, MO.
Year: 1999
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
Had my first issue with my 4.7HO in 212,000 mi. started hearing a ticking sound on start up that went away when the engine warmed up. First thing I thought was a lifter not oiling properly when cold, so made an appointment at the dealership to drop it off and have them check it out plus an inspection, small transmission fluid drop on floor when parked.
They called me in several days it was not the lifter but 2 broken studs on the rear of the exhaust manifold. They said it was a common problem and all should be replaced on that side, had them do it and found the other side had 1 broken as well so replaced both sides.
Leaking problem was a bent lip on trans pan and a speed sensor had both replaced also there. Thought I was very lucky when my thought of lifter was wrong. Final bill for everything with inspection and trans pan, filter. $512.00
I would suggest that you check the studs on yours if you haven't replaced them and if you do, do it in sets.
They called me in several days it was not the lifter but 2 broken studs on the rear of the exhaust manifold. They said it was a common problem and all should be replaced on that side, had them do it and found the other side had 1 broken as well so replaced both sides.
Leaking problem was a bent lip on trans pan and a speed sensor had both replaced also there. Thought I was very lucky when my thought of lifter was wrong. Final bill for everything with inspection and trans pan, filter. $512.00
I would suggest that you check the studs on yours if you haven't replaced them and if you do, do it in sets.
Old fart with a wrench
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 14,398
Likes: 740
From: Manlius, east of Syracuse, NY
Year: 2000 XJ Sport & WJ Laredo
Model: Grand Cherokee (WJ)
Engine: 4.0L
That's not unusual. My brother had the same problem TWICE with his 5.7 Hemi in his Dodge Ram. His exhaust manifolds cracked as well.


