I have a '95 XJ and have noticed a 'thunk' that seems to be coming from the rear end. It is only when I am braking and changes with the speed of wheel rotation. This makes me think it is something in the brakes.

I took the brakes apart and everything looks ok except for some oil in the right hand drum (looks to be an axle seal, that is an upcoming project). Nothing seems loose on the rear suspension and the u-joints seem ok as well.

Has anyone had this issue before? Any ideas what the problem could be?

 

Ujoints in the drive shaft?

 

Replace the axle seal now.

Replace both sides rear brake shoes and all associated hardware. Get a can of BrakeKleen and spray the rear backing plates and drum surfaces.

All traces of oil contamination must be gone.

All this is for your safety and avoiding collateral life and property damage.

If you still have the clunk, look elsewhere.

 

They seem ok to me but I have no idea how old they are.

 

Agreed, Firestorm. I have ordered seals, bearings, and brake shoes/hardware. This will be done once they are received and the Jeep is benched until then.

Would the oil on the brakes cause that sort of noise? I wouldn't think so but I've been wrong about (and surprised by) the source of noises many-a-time.