ch45x7

So with it finally snowing here in NY I've had reason to use the 4wd on my 98 xj classic. Well I'm hearing a noise that is making me nervous.
I've used both 4wd part time and full time and in both I'm getting a loud popping noise that comes from both sides when I start moving. It's only a few pops and then goes away. It only happens when starting from a stop. Mostly when traveling in a straight line, but also when making a slow turn (like backing into a driveway, or turning after a stop sign.)
In 2wd there are no strange popping sounds, it drives and handles normally from what I can tell. I've only been driving this for a month and a half.

I park outside and there is quite a lot of snow out now so please understand I will not be crawling under there until I can get access to a friends garage.

Jeep info: 1998 xj classic, 4L I6, automatic, transfer case would be the stock one for that year (shifter has 2wd, 4wd part time, 4wd hi, neutral, 4wd low), rough country 4.5 aal lift, running 31" tires, adjustable track bar installed, stock tie rod and drag link with 1 ton upgrade coming in the mail. Any other info needed please ask.

Thanks guys

skife

easy thing to check is your axle ujoints to see if they are sloppy.
could very well be the chain in your transfer case is stretched

cruiser54

Since this Jeep is new to you, I have to ask.

Have you had a complete chassis lubrication done, including the rear u-joints on the front driveshaft? They're not easy to do and are many times skipped over.

All differential, transfer case lube levels checked for level and fluid condition?

ch45x7

How easy is it to take the cover off to take a look at the transfer case chain?

ch45x7

Some joints have been lubed as I've worked on things, but I haven't done the rear u joints on the driveshaft. Do these get the same lube as I would use for tie rod ends?
I haven't checked the levels for the differential or transfer case yet, I ran out of time before it got too cold.

cruiser54

NOT

cruiser54

Get all the joints lubed first and check the fluid levels and fluid condition ASAP.