2000 XJ - Rear Axle Noise

Hello All!

So I've been fighting this dilemma for sometime now.

To start, I have a 2000 XJ Cherokee Automatic 4.7L stroker with a 3" lift and 31" tires. I have stock axles and drivetrain components.

I've been experiencing what sounds like a dragging brake from the rear end. As you drive it has a low grind that spins up as you accelerate.

Things I've checked and replaced so far:

-Rear Axle Wheel bearings and seals
-Rear Drums, Shoes, and hardware
-Rear driveshaft u Joints
-Rear Differential Fluid
-Transfer Case Fluid

And the noise is still there!

I checked for play in the pinion but there isn't any. I don't see anything rubbing up to anything. I've put the Cherokee in the air, disconnected the front driveshaft and let the rear wheels spin with the engine in gear. I put my hand to the transfer case and it's not making that much noise. Then I felt what the pumpkin was doing and I could feel something from that side.

Any ideas? I would hate to tear down the diff for bearings.....

-Sean

A rumbling or whirring noise at speeds over 20MPH is usually carrier bearings.

Have you taken the cover off and looked at the fluid?

Diff fluid was a bit murky (some water got in) but there didn't appear to be any filings.