is this drivetrain or suspension problem?
 

if i let off the throttle, the car sorta jerks forward. if i accelerate again, the car jerks back pretty hard. it's more noticable in the lower gears (i.e. 1st, 2nd, or 3rd). is this a symptom of a cracked ppf? bad motor mounts? bad diff mounts? something else?

if this helps diagnose my problem: when i accelerate, the shift lever moves left and right and sometimes grinds against the tunnel (especially on left turns). in addition, the rear makes a clunking noise when i brake, or let off the throttle (in addition to the jerk).

i hate how my FD is reacting...any help is appreciated :)

Big jerks can be PPFs but the shifter usually moves up and down rather than R to L. The R to L movement suggests motor mount issues but they have a stainless steel overtravel band on them from the factory.

I'd inspect both the PPF and motor mounts.

The rear brakes clunking when you actuate the brakes is probably suspension bushings in either the upper and/or lower control arms. Replacing those bushings will make you feel like your driving a new car.

thanks for the response. i guess a new set of bushings and mounts for my fd wouldnt hurt it. i suspect the ppf to be cracked. since you mentioned the up and down shifter movement , i do remember seeing it bob up and down. the left to right movement is usually from accel and decel (probably bad motor mounts) i'll get the car on a lift this weekend and check it out. i appreciate your help...thanks!

Yup... probably your motor mounts. I had the same symptoms and nice new pair of mounts cured it. Could be bad rear diff mounts too.