Cory Reynolds

Help. Front driveline/axle noise.

I have a 2016 Rubicon with 45k miles. At 36k miles, put a 4.5” Rock Krawler lift, long arm suspension, and 37’s on it. Last time out wheeling it started making some noise in front end. Hard to tell if it was driveline noise, or perhaps axle noise. It primarily occurred while on steep downhills, in 4-low, and 1st or 2nd gear. So, heavy loaded on front end to resist gravity. Sound was almost like a someone was under the Jeep with a ball peen hammer and tapping the driveline or axle. Kind of a hollow, high pitched peening sound every few seconds. Thoughts? Almost sounded like a bearing with zero grease and about to give up the ghost. Drained, flushed, and refilled the transfer case, but still have it. Looking for insights. Thanks!

resharp001

Do you still have factory front driveshaft? That would be the first thing to come to mind with that kind of lift height. The CV joint at the TC side craps out pretty fast, boot rips, spews grease, joint dies.

Cory Reynolds

Yes, still factory front driveshaft. I’ll snoop around here for a recommended aftermarket one. Thanks!

resharp001

Due to how the angle is, you can't really see the boot for the CV joint, but you will typically see grease slung up under the tub right above that. It's a common issue, and at your lift height just a ticking time bomb. Can't 100% say that is your issue, but it's very likely.