Rear Axle Help

[Steven Seimer]

So I have a 97 TJ and I can grab the rear tire at the top and pull and push it back and forth about a half a inch and it is also making noise. A rattle type noise. I have no experience with axles at all except changing front wheel bearings and pinon seals. So I am not quite sure what the issue is.

ANY HELP would be greatly appreciated.:???:

 

[greg92jeepxj]

It will be necessary to check the wheel bearing unit on both sides since the job is done together but it really sounds like you've got worn upper ball joints . Honestly , to do the job right , you will have to rebuild all. I'm talking upper and lower ball joints and if necessary , wheel bearings. Fortunately , the wheel bearings are integral and an easy bolt on. Steering linkage can be done at a later date if need be but now is the time to change those drive axle u-joints. If they are original , I'm sure they must be due for replacement. The forum has nice write ups on front end work and our administrator has done one with pictures . I'm certain you will find it very complete and should be very helpful. Hope this helps. Greg

 

[prariepunk]

Rear end, Greg.
First thing Steven, welcome!!! Next, where is the rattle coming from? Near the tire or towards the pumpkin?

 

[greg92jeepxj]

Fubar :drunk:Well it is Saturday nite . Sounds like rear wheel bearings then. By any chance are the brake shoes biting into the drums ? That's a sign the bearings are worn and the axle shaft is off center. But yeah , as prairiepunk posted , where does the rattle sound like it is coming from ?