Mike Verboncoeur

so, I have a 2000 xj with a 4 inch lift and 31's, with a chrysler 8.25 rear end. i have been trying to diag a clunk in the rear end.. a clunk that became far more apparent after installing new wheels (3.75 inch backspacing soft 8's) i had it on the lift replacing the rear links and bushings as they were clearly worn. as i always do i pulled the brake drums to check the shoes/ wheel cylinders and noticed my right side axle seal leaking.. now i know its normal to have in and out play with c-clip axles, but my question is.. should i be able to feel any up and down play in the axle.. because i can. with the jeep on the lift i can lift straight up on the axle and get play.. pretty easily. so is this normal? could this be part of the clunking im hearing? thanks in advance so much guys. hopefully i posted in the right spot! first post!

Corky

Welcome to the site...There shouldn't be any play between the axle and the axle bearing...You'll need to pull the axle and see what it looks like...A leaking axle seal is a good indication there's too much clearance in there..It could definitely be the clunking noise you've been hearing and the higher wheel offset will magnify any problems in that area,,