Ive developed a bad clunking noise after wheeling, sounds like its coming from right under my feet. First guess was a U-joint, but when I checked them they all seem nice and tight, but the slip joint seems to have a little bit of play, I'm talking 1/16th" at most, is this normal? Also I noticed the front output shaft seal on the T-case is leaking a slight bit. Already plan on replacing that, But anymore ideas? I wouldnt think the slip joint having a lil play wouldnt make that big of a noise, It literally sounds like someone banging a hammer by my feet.

More info- 87 cherokee, 4cyl, AW4, NP231, d30 front, d35 rear.

 

loose chain in the t case would be my only guess since you say it only happens in 4wd..

 

mileage? but i agree with the chain

 

102k for mileage. 98k granny driven until I bought it, and 4k getting the snot wheeled out of it since I bought it.

No idea what happened in the meantime, but now the clunk is gone. How much of a PITA is changing out the chain/rebuilding the T-case? If its a headache i just might wait for it to blow completely... Ive been looking for a reason to ditch the 2.5L drivetrain and swap a 4.0 in. even with 4.10s the 2.5 is struggling with 31's, and im going to lift and go bigger this summer.

 

Did you check your motor mounts?

 

I have similar sound as well, and I plan on replacing chain. is their a good write up on this?

also anyone know of a good place to purchase TC 231 chain?