The rear transfer case bearing has developed slop and subsequent viberation. NP231.
Is it possible to replace this bearing without pulling the transfer case? I see a housing bolted there that looks like it could be removed after pulling the drive shaft.
Thanks

 

I have thought of doing something similar to mine, but my Jeep has so many
vibes that I probably wouldn't notice much improvement.

I am looking right now at the 2001 XJ parts manual section for the 231 transfer case
(case page and gear train page) and the 2001 Factory Service Manual section on
replacing the 231 oil pump (which sits behind the rear output bearing). According to
this, you don't need to pull the transfer case.

You are right, there is a cone-shaped extension that is taken off. In that extension is
a bushing that the mainshaft rides in. I have read that sometimes the play one feels
in the shaft can be corrected by replacing the extension cone which comes with a new
bushing pressed in already (Mopar P/N 8350-3156) for about $40.

If you want to replace the output bearing, you have to take off the next piece, the housing
that holds the speedo sensor. That is held onto the mainshaft by a snap ring, which you remove.
The bearing (P/N 4338-892) sits in that housing, so you just press it out and put a new one in and
reassemble. A Timken bearing replacement is available at Rockauto.com for a few dollars. By
the way, the same P/N is used for the front output bearing for the front drive shaft.

I suggest you look at https://cruiser54.com/?page_id=365 (and look over the rest of his site)
to get the complete picture.