Ok, so i've got a 2001 Cherokee Sport and I'm getting ready to replace the axles U-Joints. The jeep has 200K on it now, so i know things have seen better days.

I've searched and can't seem to find a clear cut answer, but do you guys suggest replacing anything else while it apart?

 

I don't like to replace items unless it is needed. Just check any of the ball joints and tie rod ends for any play and replace as needed. If your wheel bearings make any noise or don't spin smoothly, now would be an ideal time to replace them.

 

X2 and axle u joints are a pretty easy task

 

Have a look at this Bleepin Jeep vid if you have not done a double card joint before:




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While replacing axle u joints you could lso replace your hub/weheel bearing. About $75 per side with Timken hub assembly off amazon. I just replaced my ball joints which were $60 per side. This job ws pretty easy. hardest part was getting the hubs off. Also replaces all my tie rods in my steering. Drag-link/tie rod. tie rod ends on both of those.

My 99 XJ had original ball joints and steering when i just did the work a week ago. After 180,000 miles two of my ball joints were shot and the other two were not 100%. steering tie rods were very loose.

Now my front end feels much more planted and stable going over pot holes and higher speed turns.

 

Not doubting they're bad but did you diagnose the u joints as bad or just assuming? Doing u joints you'll also have access to to hubs and ball joints as already said. To check get each wheel off the ground a couple inched and pry straight up with a bar or pipe. Look for movement in the ball joints (esp lower). Grab the wheels and feel for any looseness in the hub etc. Maybe there's better ways but this worked for me.

 

how are your inner axle seals? they're a bit of a job, but since you gotta pull the shafts anyways...

 

Thanks for the reply guys, I ended up just inspecting everything and replacing the u joints. I don't particularly care to replace things that don't need to be replaced either, but the passenger side was wore completely out and the drivers side was on it's way out.

Wasn't too bad of a job after all, glad I went with greasable ones after seeing how the old ones looked.

 

Look for movement in the ball joints .Grab the wheels and feel for any looseness in the hub etc. Maybe there's better ways but this worked for me.