2013 JK Wrangler Unlimited running 35" tires and at least a 3" lift. It has stock drive shaft and I havent done any maintenance on the drive shafts or joints since I got it.
I am now hearing a clicking noise from underneath but only when I accelerate. It doesnt make the sound when I'm idle or when I'm moving without accelerating.
The sound occurs in 2WD but is much worse in 4WD. the CV joint on the front drive shaft where it is connected to the transfer case has a blown boot so could that be the root cause or could it be something worse?

 

Likely that CV joint is dried out and that is all it is. Time to replace. Keep in mind that DS is spinning even when in 2WD, but obviously under load when in 4WD which would explain why it's worse then. At that height, front factory DS is just a matter of time before needing to be addressed, even on a rig that doesn't leave the pavement. You can pull that front DS and see if the noise goes away. Sounds like it needs to be replaced regardless due to that CV joint boot.

 

That makes sense. Ive been researching on how to pull the DS and I think I'll eventually upgrade since I do get offroad occasionally. For now I'll probably just let the shop replace the joint and cross my fingers thats will get me by for now.

Thanks!

 

At the diff it's just 4 bolts, 15mm if I recall. The TC side is 8 small bolts and then you gotta work it out of the flange a bit. If you remove the axle side first you can then rotate the TC side freely to help get access to all the bolts. Teraflex makes a high angle CV joint if you want to keep the factory shaft. Going aftermarket is bit nicer as the diameter is more narrow and gives you more clearance at the exhaust crossover. Honestly, for what a shop might charge to rebuild that CV, the money is better put into an aftermarket. I'd imagine there should be some holiday sale. You can also just drive around with no front DS for the time being till you can get around to it.