So i just got a 100 dollar xj and i'm starting to build it up. when i was testing out the 4wd, something up in the front end. differential area... it makes this really bad popping and cracking sound. and i'm at my whits end trying to figure what it is. everything inside the differential looks fine. any ideas?

 

check ur u-joints to see if they r broken

 

yes i've checked all the U-joints and they are all fine too...

 

is it stock like is it lifted?

 

not lifted

 

check the stearing linkage and yer ball joints.

 

all steering linkage is good too.. and ball joints. its gotta be something with the driveshaft or differential. somewhere involving that.

 

I would take the front cover off the differential, and inspect the ring and gear, you might as well do this, ifs its good, replace the oil.

 

the 200 dollar one came with out noises lol no chain in case maybe?