So I picked up a low cost 1999 Classic XJ last February. Purchased it for limited use as a snow day vehicle. I had a 1991 Laredo for many years, but got rid of it a few years back when I no longer needed it (and it had 260,000 miles). This newer model has the transfer case that gives the option for full-time 4WD. I understand that the internals are always moving on the later model front differentials (unlike my old one that had the pneumatic system to lock the hubs). Over the course of the last year, I did various projects to get the car ready for use, including brake system work, filters, transfer case fluid change, oil change, and even new oil in the rear differential. The rear differential makes some noise that I hoped the new oil would solve, but it didn't make a difference. From what I have read it sounds like the pre-load on the pinion needs to be adjusted.

I recently drove it for a couple of snow events, and afterward figured I might as well change the oil in the front differential. I did the work a few days ago, and was surprised when the preliminary level check found the oil level was quite low (looked to be below the axle tubes). I was a bit surprised as there are no signs that any oil has ever leaked out of the differential. Opened up the differential and cleaned things up. The gears in the differential had a black color to them, but this cleaned up when cleaning with brake cleaner. I put it all together and topped up the oil, and all seems fine. Since doing the refill, I have checked for any signs of oil leaking from oil seals/bearings, and not a drop has been found. I have no idea how long the fluid level was low, but was curious if others here think I should be fine, or if there is any likely damage that I just can not find.

Again, this Jeep is not used much, and typically at lower speeds when there is snow on the ground (or the occasional use when there is no snow).

Jim

 

Drive it!

 

Agreed, its fine. The noisy rear on the other hand...