This just started about 2 weeks ago for some reason. When the engine is cold, mainly in the morning and then after work, I'll get a backfire or something when I'm changing gears. The only way I don't get that is if when I get going, I change gears around 2 grand until the motor warms up after about 5 minutes of driving. After that, I can shift at my normal 3 grand. What should I be looking at to try and solve this? I don't know where to start other than here.

 

Not sure if all the 22Rs have a "dashpot", but if so, it is a small spring loaded plunger that the throttle linkage hits as it closes. The DP will have an air bellows and check valve that act like a shock absorber, slowing the throttle closing and preventing back firing:
- http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTri....shtml#Dashpot

If you have one, it may not be adjusted properly, or the check valve has fallen off or stuck open or something along those lines. Check out the testing and adjustment procedures in the FSM, Emissions Control section.