There are two type of universal joints used in the Jeep Cherokee driveshafts; the standard "u- joint" and the more complex Constant- Velocity, or CV-joint. This CV-joint is NOT the same as an axle CV joint, which is an entirely different assembly and requires a flexible boot surrounding it to retain the grease.
When a CV- joint starts to go bad, it makes noises described by some as an angry sparrow, or constant chirping.
Disassembly:
Remove the driveshaft from the Jeep. This can be done without jacking the Jeep in most cases. Block the tires and leave the transmission in 'N' to allow you to rotate the driveshaft if needed. After it has been removed, collapse the driveshaft but watch for excess grease to run (or squirt) out the relief hole at the end of the shaft. Be ready...! Use a pair of needle-nose pliers to remove the snap-rings surrounding the u-joints.
Press the u-joint over to one side, and use the Vise-Grips to remove the cap from the cross. Press the u-joint back to the other side and then it can be pulled out of the cap and centering assembly. Lift the centering assembly away from the pin it rests on. Clean the cup surrounding the centering pin, and ensure the pin is not worn. It might just need an emory cloth rubdown after removing the dirt and grease from the cup. Remove the inner u-joint and then the cage.
I think I got this worded in the right order...
Reassemble in reverse order
