NP 242, getting noisy

[87-XJ-WOODY]

My 1987 Jeep Wagoneer (compact) has a New Process Gear, Model 242. When I move the gear selector (automatic transmission) from "Park" to "Reverse" there is a "CLANK". This "CLANK" is varying in degree from an all out "SLAM", to a mild "WHUMP". Inspecting the transfer case reveals that the drive shaft, while firmly in position, is definately causing the sound by slamming into position. Moving the selector from "Reverese" to "Drive", and then back again allows me to see the driveshaft slamming in one direction, and then the other. Any ideas as to what this might be caused by..? Do I order a new Transfer Case..?

[TexasJ10]

While the small wag is not not a FSJ, my first guess is that you have worn ujoints. Jack it up and put the rear wheels on jack stands try to turn the driveshaft by hand with the "wag" in park. You will see the ujoints flex if they are bad.

[Cecil14]

It could be u-joints or something in the t-case or rear end. As mentioned first thing to check would be the u-joints though as those are relatively cheap and easy to replace.

Anthony

[LRRH]

I would suggest checking out www.naxja.org (http://www.naxja.org)

good folks there too.

[87-XJ-WOODY]

Thank you for the 'u' joint suggestion. We changed them last night and the "clanky-whumpy" is all gone. Thanks, also for the xj website. I'll be checking in on that today.

See... You full sizers are cool.. That's what I always said.

[pdspeh]

here's another XJ site:
that I prefer:
http://www.jeepsunlimited.com/forums/

[Cecil14]

Jeepsunlimited is ok but a lot of the people there are Great Googley MoogleyGreat Googley MoogleyGreat Googley MoogleyGreat Googley MoogleyGreat Googley Moogleyes. You ask a simple question or put something in the wrong forum and they tear you a new one.

Anthony