Hi, new here just bought 99 xj. I have three questions. Is it normal for the exaust head pipe to be so badly kinked just below the flange at the manifold. It appears to be a major restriction. Second the jeep has 120,000 k on it. When I come to a stop and then accelerate there is a feeling that I get that there is something loose in the front end . No noise but it feels like the front diff is rotating. and third There is a drone and slight vibration when I am driving at 70 mph. Im thinking a worn u joint somewhere. I dont feel anything in the steering. Any ideas would be helpfull. Thanks

 

Any pics?

 

there is a flat spot in the exhaust pipe,yes the diff rotates,and it is probably u-joints

 

The drone is probably a U-joint or wheel bearing. The dent in the down pipe is for driveshaft clearance. The front driveshaft and axle internals turn whenever the front wheels turn. If you are hearing things, its normal, but you might want to check the hub bearings and U-joints. Loose feeling could be shocks, alignment, ball joints, Tie rod ends, bushings, all of the above, any one , or a combination.

 

Update when I first drive the jeep when cold or it has sat for a few hours there are no noise or loose feeling when stopping or accelerating from a stop. once warmed and I accelerate from stop it feels like the front end is rotating or shifting. Can really feel it in the floor.