[mistyjeep]

1990 4WD Jeep Cherokee, 4.0L, 170K miles
There is a pop sound that seems to come from the front end drivers side upon acceleration occasionally.
The pop does not exist when turning, only straight accel..
Vehicle is NOT in 4WD at any time this pop happens. Have not had it in 4WD for a long time.
Strange enough, I can seem to make the pop happen backing in reverse quickly, it pops, and then drive forward, it pops again. Once it pops forward, it doesn't do it for a while. Seems like a reverse accel will reset it. Wierd.

U joint on front drive shaft ?
Can I remove the front shaft and run the jeep to see if it goes away for troubleshooting ?
For that matter out of curiosity, how long could you remove the frontshaft and drive ? I could care less if I don't have 4WD at this point with 170K, but would replace the u joint if thats all it was.

What are the odds it is the U joint on solid axle at wheel? Wouldn't think so as it does not exist when turning.
Bouncing up and down and pushing side to side does not create pop. I silicone sprayed all bushings, springs etc , but no luck.

Any other thoughts ?
Thanks

[MSHarnett]

There are 4 little bolts, 10mm i think that take the front drive shaft off. You can try that but I kinda doubt that's your problem.

To me it kinda sound like your motor or tranny mounts are rotted out. Just my thoughts.

[mistyjeep]

Originally Posted by MSHarnett

There are 4 little bolts, 10mm i think that take the front drive shaft off. You can try that but I kinda doubt that's your problem.

To me it kinda sound like your motor or tranny mounts are rotted out. Just my thoughts.

Thats a real good point. Looked at the engine mounts briefly last week, but could not come to a conclusion. They looked good but you know with torque, anything happens.
Never thought of tranny mounts. Thks. Will check it out.