rear end noise that can't be solved - WJ mech needed.

[Clockwork]

Hi all. I have a 2000 WJ, stock!
I bought it used 2 winters ago, and a noise in the rear end has progressively gotten worse to the point that I will not drive the jeep.
its a rattle in the rear end. this no way impairs the operation of the vehicle (that I know of).
I have had 2 mechanics (non jeep specialists) look at it.
I've replaced sway links, suspension, wheels, upper control arm (with new bushings) and associated ball joint. NOTHING.
I need a reputable jeep specialist to look at it now.
if not, I'm just selling the jeep cause the rattle is so loud/annoying.
I'm a very patient man, but this noise will drive me to insanity.

[Clockwork]

PS: its not just when I hit bumps, its when the vehicle changes direction, ruts in the road, pretty much anytime during driving.

[Pookapotamus]

describe the rattle for us, what side is it on? have you ridden in the back and tried to pinpoint the rattle?

[JackstandJohnny]

check your hatch.  does it open and close correctly?  the latches can be finicky and not fully close when the trucks closed; it sits open. and it RATTLES like a beotch. had it on my old 2000.  to check, open the rear window, and pull on the hatch;  check both sides.  if its shutting correctly, nothing should move. if its not, you'll be able to see the hatch move a good half inch to an inch or so.
inspect the latch/locking mechanisms to ensure they are working correctly; mine stuck open..
simple fix;  i just sprayed some WD40 in the latches to loosen them up, then some graphite lube or something to keep them moving.

[Clockwork]

describe the rattle for us, what side is it on? have you ridden in the back and tried to pinpoint the rattle?

its on both sides, so i can not pinpoint it exactly as driving.
DEFINITELY louder on the right (passenger) side!!

it sounds like thin metal, OR hollow metal striking something solid. its a dead thumping sound.


I have not ridden in the rear, BUT I will drive here today with the hatch open, to see if I do remove the noise. good idea.
I thought it MAY have been the hatch previously, but then disregarded it, in all honesty
thanx for the fast replies.

[Pookapotamus]

just don't give up on your heep! you can always come around my place and we can take a look at it.

[JackstandJohnny]

its on both sides, so i can not pinpoint it exactly as driving.
DEFINITELY louder on the right (passenger) side!!

it sounds like thin metal, OR hollow metal striking something solid. its a dead thumping sound.


I have not ridden in the rear, BUT I will drive here today with the hatch open, to see if I do remove the noise. good idea.
I thought it MAY have been the hatch previously, but then disregarded it, in all honesty
thanx for the fast replies.

while i do not advocate driving with the hatch open, might be ok.i'd just pull the spare, and adjust it so the tailgate sits against it and leaves a couple inches of play.  maybe strap the handle to the hitch so you can hit some bumps too
i've done it before........... 36" iroks DO FIT in the back of a WJ hahahahaha

[Clockwork]

thanx Pookapatamus
but I'm ashamed to say I think I fixed it.
the problem was loose upper and lower bolts in the rear suspension.
one bolt was torquing up too early. must have just been a bad thread on the factory welded nut, so i cracked it off, and replaced with a 12mm nut and a new M12*70mm bolt. and made sure the other 3 bolts were snug.
she is the quitest I've ever had her.
ODD, cause I looked at this 2 times before... but I guess I just never torquesd them THIS high.

thanx again all.

[JackstandJohnny]

i was gonna ask you bout that too, but you said the suspension had been replaced so i didnt'!
glad you got'r figured out

[Justink]

It's a Jeep isn't it supposed to have random noises?