Indyclassic

Hey y'all. is there any specific symptom or sound that indicates an axle bearing going bad? Bought 01 classic a month ago and there is a sound like grinding or "wearing" in the front end. I've driven a lot of cherokees and they all make some sort of noise or another and every one is different. This sound is noticable starting at aout 15-20 mpg and never goes away at any speed. Anything else I should consider?

salad

Could just be low fluid in the differential, could be pinion bearing, drive shaft, U joints, quite a few things. When the front bearings go out usually the sound is noticeable when you turn in one direction, and less in the opposite direction. I recommend getting the front axle up on jack stands so the tires are off the ground. Grab the wheels and give them a good shake in all directions - they shouldn't move up or down. Also inspect the U-joints on the axle shafts, and check the drive shaft for binding and play. Pop the cover off the differential and take a look! Check for internal damage, mixing of oil/water, bits of metal flying around, etc. Probably needs new oil anyway! For a gasket you can use RTV silicone, a "lube locker" reusable silicone gasket, or RTV + paper as some people prefer.