Picked up a 2000 Cherokee a few months ago. It has a very noisy rear end. I would like to start by replacing the axle bearing. What holds the axles in, c-clips(my Chevy backround), or bearing retainers?

Any ideas what is making so much noise?

PS, I changed the rear end grease with a slightly heavier synthetic lube, but the noise did not change.

Thanks

David

Has the jeep been lifted? What axle do you have? Have you checked for possible worn or damaged ujoint on the driveshaft? As far as the axles go most likely it does use c clips to hold the axles in place (one of the weak points on stock axles). When alohabra chimes in he should be able to help you better he has a 2k as well.

Yes on the "c" clips. Try to determine if it's left or right side so you arent wasting time fixing what's not broke. If you can get it on a lift, run it in gear and use a stethiscope to locate the noise. It could also be carrier or pinion bearings. To check, also listen near the yoke and both sides of the gear center section. Changing these is a bit complicated so be sure you know how and have the tools before you start!

Has the jeep been lifted? What axle do you have? Have you checked for possible worn or damaged ujoint on the driveshaft? As far as the axles go most likely it does use c clips to hold the axles in place (one of the weak points on stock axles). When alohabra chimes in he should be able to help you better he has a 2k as well.

Better yet, I have a 2000MY service manual.

Description:
"The axles are equipped with semi–floating axle
shafts, meaning that loads are supported by the axle
shaft and bearings. The axle shafts are retained by
C–clips in the differential side gears.
The cover provides a means for servicing the differential
without removing the axle.
For vehicles equipped with ABS brakes, the axles
have a tone ring pressed onto the axle shaft. Use care
when removing axle shafts to ensure that the tone
wheel or the wheel speed sensor are not damaged."