i have a 2000 xj 4wd with a 2" lift. its been driving great but all the sudden the steering when you let the wheel go after making a turn, when it rotates back to center position, it goes back in incraments, it kind of ratchets back to center line instead going smootly like it use to. at a stop it rotates just fine and there is no squeel in the belt, and there is no ressitance in turning it full rotation when at a stop. its more just anoying than anything.

 

Check u joints on the front axle, sounds like they are binding

 

i thought i would hear popping sound if it was that. and if it is a front u joint dont you have to pull the diff cover off, pull the tires off, pull the calipers off, and pull off the c-clips off and pull the axle out to get to it - maybe ill just use thia as an excuse to buy a dana 44. - lol!

 

Not on the front axle. No c clips up front.

 

Mine were bad but didnt pop at all, they only bound up while turning. Replaced them and all was good with the works again!

 

so whats involved?

 

Pulling tires, brakes, axle nut, and hub/unit bearing, then the shafts pull right out.

 

Can you feel/see play in them? If you grab one side and wiggle/turn it?