there is a noise that is very intermittent it sounds like a chain grinding on a gear I'm guessing its a transfer case issue. but I'm not sure cause it only happens once and a while and only at low speeds. I have a 242 transfer case and a 4.0 if that matters.

 

Check the fluid level in the transfercase, check the ujoints, and check the front hub bearings.

 

I'm wondering if it's a worn chain in the transfer case.

 

Fluid is good, u joints are new, I haven't checked the hub bearings but I would think the bearings would make a growling noise. None the less I will still look at them.

 

I have the same issue on my 93zj. It turned out to be my muffler actually. It's worse now because I didn't replace it yet but I thought the rear or transfer case at first and checked them and replaced all the fluids. It might be a different issue but thus is just my experience.