AW4/freewheel problems--plz help!

[WVXJ]

I've searched and read the few threads pertaining to the problem but none were final on the subject. The beast in question is a 96', aw4, 242, 4.0L. In fourth gear, or overdrive, no matter what the speed, when i let off the gas the engine catches and clunks and begins slowing me down. I'm sure this isn't normal, because it would seem to make it the least efficient/worst designed vehicle i've ever seen however, in many other posts about this problem some people say it's normal. Others said just change the tps, which i did, to no avail.
So i guess the question is, wtf is the problem here? I'm sure the monkeys at chrysler didn't design it this way, and i've driven other auto jeeps that didn't do it, so what could it be? The torque converter unlocks when going downhill after stepping on the brake, why wouldn't it unlock when releasing the gas pedal? I do have a new nss switch i haven't installed yet, but no one seems to think that will/would cause such a condition. Please help before i push this thing over a cliff!

[WVXJ]

..............is it to remain a mystery???

p.s.

Go Mountaineers!!!

[WVXJ]

i believe mine has 3 5 5 gears, would different gears help the condition, ie., allow it to freewheel???

[dallas xjs]

my i ask around what speeds,and what gear ratio are you running???||charles||

[WVXJ]

45-50 mph but even at 70mph on the highway it won't freewheel unless i'm going downhill and tap the break (which i'm told unlocks the torque converter). It doesn't seem normal, it puts alot on the engine, and guzzles gas..........

[90xj06]

check the tranny throttle cable. i dont know if your year has one but its worth a try.

[90xj06]

check the throttle cable that goes to the tranny. if they still use them. also check shift linkage.

[WVXJ]

i adjusted the throttle cable in the engine bay, is that the one you mean? It has the half moon button and cable that goes to the throttle body. It seems to downshift easier but still doesn't freewheel..........

[90xj06]

check the tranny throttle cable. i dont know if your year has one but its worth a try.

sorry about the double post dident think it worked the first time.

[scca28]

I've searched and read the few threads pertaining to the problem but none were final on the subject. The beast in question is a 96', aw4, 242, 4.0L. In fourth gear, or overdrive, no matter what the speed, when i let off the gas the engine catches and clunks and begins slowing me down. I'm sure this isn't normal, because it would seem to make it the least efficient/worst designed vehicle i've ever seen however, in many other posts about this problem some people say it's normal. Others said just change the tps, which i did, to no avail.

My '88 Laredo has always done the same thing for the 3 years I have owned it. It can be very annoying, especially if you are in traffic behind someone who is putzing along, varying their speed, etc. As soon as they slow a little and you back off, the XJ just wants to come to a stop. Mine really hates the 30-35 mph range. I've done all the things you have already done. The only change I saw in adjusting the throttle cable was the speed that O-D kicks in. I remember that same adjustment on my '87 Camaro has the same effect. My O-D comes in around 40 mph, which is normal on the Camaro, so that's where I am leaving it on the Jeep. I don't know what else to try other than maybe a new T-C? BTW,I already did swap another trans controller with no effect.

[90xj06]

sounds like the t/c sticking.

[DenLip]

45-50 mph but even at 70mph on the highway it won't freewheel unless i'm going downhill and tap the break (which i'm told unlocks the torque converter). It doesn't seem normal, it puts alot on the engine, and guzzles gas..........

No doubt that the XJ doesn't like to "roll".... I kinda like that, as I'm used to driving a stick shift in my other car. But it sure makes some other automatic cars I've driven feel like a wild freewheeling ride!

It's probably normal.

Den

[kennzz05]

sometimes ya gotta bite the bullit and go to a pro... sounds like you might be at that point probably something they can diagnose in 10 min. wish i could offer a better suggestion....

[CantonXJ]

I'd check your TPS voltages. I'd be willing to bet it's either that or the TCU/TCM, although the TPS is far more likely. This is assuming you've already checked your tranny fluid.

Dave

[xjtrailrider]

What is the tach doing when you let off, does it raise or drop? It should drop off some.

[WVXJ]

just to update, it was the damned tps. After disconnecting neg.bat. cable to reset the computer it seems to be doing much better after a brief 'relearning' period. Thanks for the replies fellas, and to any chrysler engineers, sorry for bad mouthin' ya!