Clicking / knocking from rear end

[Brandon.k]

Looking for a little direction here. I have a 2004 TJ 4.0 with 42rle and Dana 44 rear. 2 inch spring spacer lift. RHD.

I have been trying to track down this noise coming from the rear end. These things are all new, upper and lower control arms, shocks, sway bars. Drums and brakes. Drive shaft. I’ve drained and cleaned the differential. Refilled with 75w140 with the diff additive.

The knocking/ cricking is somewhat what rhythmic. I only seem to hear it at low speeds, like a parking lot. Generally only with the wheels slightly turned. Only hear it when going straight every now and then at slow speeds. If it’s happening at higher speeds it’s not noticeable. Today I removed the rear drive shaft and drove around. The noise wasn’t the same, but it was very slightly noticeable. It seems like the drive shaft or the load make it louder.

Any direction or advice would be greatly appreciated. I attached a video of the sound.

 

[mjonesjr84]

Have you verified that the flange for the axle shaft isn't bent? It can mimic a brake issue.

 

[Brandon.k]

Have you verified that the flange for the axle shaft isn't bent? It can mimic a brake issue.

I was thinking of doing the wheel bearings, so maybe I’ll do that sooner than later to check this.

 

[macleanflood]

Do you have a lunchbox locker?

-Mac

 

[Brandon.k]

Do you have a lunchbox locker?

-Mac

No, it’s a stock 44

 

[machoheadgames]

When you changed the diff oil did you inspect the spider gears or the trac lok clutches if you have them? Sounds like a diff issue if it’s mostly having trouble when vehicle is turning (even if gradual turns).

 

[Brandon.k]

When you changed the diff oil did you inspect the spider gears or the trac lok clutches if you have them? Sounds like a diff issue if it’s mostly having trouble when vehicle is turning (even if gradual turns).

Sorry for got to mention that. Everything seemed good in there. I didn’t notice any metal in fluid and everything seemed to be ok in there. I’m also no professional so maybe I missed something

 

[macleanflood]

Sorry for got to mention that. Everything seemed good in there. I didn’t notice any metal in fluid and everything seemed to be ok in there. I’m also no professional so maybe I missed something

Taking pictures or posting videos to YouTube and copying the link into a post might help us see something you missed.

I've also put GoPros under my Jeep looking for leaks and noises.

Did you scoop your finger into the bottom of the diff under the gears and look for chunks?

-Mac

 

[Brandon.k]

Have you verified that the flange for the axle shaft isn't bent? It can mimic a brake issue.

I just replaced the axle shafts this weekend. Everything is good to go there. I opened up my diff again. Did some better investigating. I’m missing a good chunk off the spider gears.

 

[Brandon.k]

Taking pictures or posting videos to YouTube and copying the link into a post might help us see something you missed.

I've also put GoPros under my Jeep looking for leaks and noises.

Did you scoop your finger into the bottom of the diff under the gears and look for chunks?

-Mac

Finally got to reopen the diff. Did some thorough investigating. I noticed the is a piece of the spider gears Brocken. Going to replace it next weekend.