I just got a 1998 Grand Cherokee Laredo 4x4 with the 4.0 and automatic transmission. It wasn't expensive, and it's not in great shape, but I already love it. I noticed that the shifting into overdrive is jerky, I don't know how to explain it better than that, it just feels like a hard/late shift like an automatic trans would feel if it were low on fluid.. but there's also kind of a jerk when it happens, enough to cause a hesitation in movement. I verified it only happens when shifting into overdrive by turning off overdrive. The problem goes away entirely with the OD disabled. I'm hoping that someone here can tell me why it's happening, and what can be done about it. If the answer is something frightening like "you need a transmission", will I be ok for awhile if I just disable OD every time I drive it?

Thanks in advance, this forum is a great resource and I'm grateful for it. I've got a couple other problems, but I want to try to address them myself before bothering you folks about them. The shifting quirk is beyond my mechanical knowledge.

 

I am not knowledgeable enough to comment well regarding transmission issues. I am not looking to learn them anytime soon either.. Maybe, if I had an issue that sounded like it could be something simple I would study up on it a bit?

You would not be a bother. I think most members here on this forum enjoy being able to help other people with any of their Jeep problems. You do not need to feel like you have to go at it alone for that reason. Unless, you enjoy the challenge and wanted to try on your own without asking for the help. You are no bother though...

 

Have you checked the fluid level (while its at normal operating temp and trans in neutral)? Could just be low.

There is a sensor (transmission speed sensor) that is located in the overdrive gear case, it works in conjunction with and as a backup to the vehicle speed sensor. Possibly that sensor is bad?

Here's a link that ought to help, not just with this issue but overall. (use the last folder)

 

Thanks for that link, it's a big help. The shifting issue seems to have sorted itself out, it hasn't happened in several days.