Diesel Jeep Cherokee Driveline Vibrations | SYE and Tom Woods Driveshaft Installation

Published on February 27, 2021
Duration: 23:30

This guide details the installation of a Slip Yoke Eliminator (SYE) kit and a new yoke for a Dana 44 differential on a diesel-swapped Jeep Cherokee XJ to address driveline vibrations. It covers the disassembly of the NP231 transfer case, installation of the SYE kit, replacement of the Dana 44 yoke, and the importance of a properly sized aftermarket driveshaft. The process involves careful attention to detail, proper RTV application, and correct torque specifications for a reliable repair.

Quick Summary

Driveline vibrations in a Jeep Cherokee XJ around 40-45 mph often result from worn components like the transfer case slip yoke or differential yoke. Addressing these issues typically involves installing a Slip Yoke Eliminator (SYE) kit and potentially upgrading the differential yoke. Due to the SYE kit shortening the effective output shaft length, a custom-sized aftermarket driveshaft is frequently necessary for proper fitment and to eliminate vibrations.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Driveline Vibrations
  2. 01:00Experiencing Vibrations & Diagnosis
  3. 01:31Purchasing SYE Kit & Dana 44 Yoke
  4. 03:04Preparing for Transfer Case Tear Down
  5. 04:05Transfer Case Disassembly - Front Output Shaft
  6. 05:07Transfer Case Disassembly - Tail Housing & Rear Shaft
  7. 06:21Removing Oil Pump Housing
  8. 06:53Center Case Separation
  9. 08:14Removing Shaft and Chain Assembly
  10. 08:43Replacing Shaft Lock Ring
  11. 10:42Assembling Gears on Main Shaft
  12. 11:04Inspecting Internal Components
  13. 11:38Installing Shafts and Chain into Center Housing
  14. 11:53Preparing Case Halves for Reassembly
  15. 12:24Applying RTV and Rejoining Case Halves
  16. 13:06Reinstalling Oil Pump Assembly
  17. 15:10Installing Speedo Gear Lock Rings
  18. 15:51Checking Shift Guide Post Length
  19. 16:37Reattaching Tail Housing
  20. 17:05Installing Yokes and Applying Sealants
  21. 18:07Torquing Yoke Nuts
  22. 18:35SYE Installation Recap & Driveshaft Necessity
  23. 19:12Addressing Compounding Issues & Driveshaft Choice
  24. 20:16Tom Woods Rear Driveshaft Installation & Review
  25. 20:43Tom Woods Front Driveshaft Collaboration
  26. 21:03Final Driveline Performance & Beefier Driveline
  27. 22:14Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes driveline vibrations in a Jeep Cherokee XJ around 40-45 mph?

Driveline vibrations in a Jeep Cherokee XJ around 40-45 mph can stem from several issues, including a worn slip yoke on the transfer case, a damaged or loose yoke on the differential (like a Dana 44), or worn U-joints. Often, it's a combination of these factors that leads to noticeable shaking.

How do you install a Slip Yoke Eliminator (SYE) kit on an NP231 transfer case?

Installing an SYE kit involves disassembling the NP231 transfer case, removing the stock slip yoke, and installing a new fixed yoke assembly. This process includes removing snap rings, seals, and the tail housing, then carefully reassembling with the new SYE components and proper sealant.

Why is a custom driveshaft often needed after installing an SYE kit?

After installing an SYE kit, the transfer case output shaft is effectively shortened, meaning the original rear driveshaft may become too short to properly engage. A custom-measured, aftermarket driveshaft is often required to ensure correct length and prevent driveline vibrations or damage.

What is the purpose of upgrading the yoke on a Dana 44 differential?

Upgrading the yoke on a Dana 44 differential is crucial if the existing yoke has excessive play or wear where the U-joint attaches. This slop can directly cause driveline vibrations, and replacing it with a new, tight-fitting yoke is essential for a smooth ride.

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