when I have been on the gas and push in the clutch to shift. Mostly as I leave 1st gear but maybe when leaving 2nd.

It sounds like it is coming from behind me on the passenger side but I could be mistaken.

I assume it is related to either the motor mounts or the rear leaf springs unloading. That it occurs only in the low gears suggests it is in the rear end.

It only occurs occasionally.

There is no matching clunk when I get on the gas.

I just spent 20 minutes on a creeper with a shop light and saw no scuff marks, scratches, or shiny metal to point at something moving. But something must be.

I plan on re-torquing everything in the suspension this week but haven't done it yet.

Any suggestions on thing to look at would be appreciated.

 

Transfer case linkage. Mine does exactly what you explained

 

You mean the transfer case shift linkage?

Do you have a fix for it?

 

Yes, this
http://www.jeep4x4center.com/shift-c...5014148aa.html

 

Exhaust hitting crossmember ?

 

Some real "noggin pokin'" is in order here, don't ya think?