Np231 Problems

98xjjeep

98xjjeep

Member
Joined
Dec 11, 2008
Location
Greensboro, NC
I have a 98 xj and I took my xj out to URE to do some camping (didn't even go on the trails) and when I was on my way home after I got off the highway I started hearing a weird grinding noise and binding feeling. It was loud and felt like a broken tooth on the front ring gear. So I parked it at home and haven't touched it in a few months haha. I finally got around to looking at it. I took the diff cover off and it was fine. I refilled it and drove it around the block. The noise was still there and when got back in the driveway the tcase was leaking from the rear tailshaft. So today I took the front driveshaft off and turned the front flange on the tcase and I heard a clicking sound from the tcase. After turning it a little it stopped. So I took the jeep for a spin again and there is no noise or binding feeling but the tcase is still leaking. Has anyone had this problem before?
 
Check the linkage to make sure it is engaged properly. Then I would drain the fluid and check for metal. After that pull it apart and see what's in there.
 
The last two times I ran into those symptoms, it was the rear C clip on the main shaft had broken and allowed the shaft to slide backwards a bit and the chain would rub on the gear assembly and sound like it was about to come apart. See if there is any abnormal in/out play on the rear output. Could be related as to why the seal is leaking.
 
Ok so the rear tailshaft has over a 1/4" of play in and out. When I push it in and turn it I can hear a grinding noise. So I tore it apart and there are some light metal flakes in the fluid. I think the bearing has gone on the tailshaft? I don't know how to remove the tailshaft. I split the case and have the small tailshaft housing removed from the half of the case. Does the metal cover on tailshaft against the housing get pryed off?
 

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For what it will cost to fix that with OEM parts, I'd go ahead and install an SYE kit. That will take care of all the parts you'll need. Grab an XJ or TJ front shaft, cut it down, drive away happy.
ECGS has those SYE kits really affordable.
 
I already have a RE Hack and tap. That's why the tailshaft spline area is so short. It has actually held up great the past 4 years. hopefully a bearing and some seals is all i need.
 
isn't that an eyelet snapring on the shaft right in front of your pump in the pic? if so, remove that to pull off the pump and then shaft
 
Normally you can use a small punch or a good scew driver and work your way around it a little at a time. I might add that I have disfigured a few too in the process. Once you get the cap off I am sure you will find the issue.
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