Mine whined away for 4 years but never actually failed, but I was always nervous off road - I have since replaced it
It is located inside your fuel tank - level of difficulty is probably more related to the condition of your skid plate, the crossmember it bolts into, and the tank straps, ripping everything out is easy, it's re-installing that can be challenging - I had perfect condition used parts that I had previously restored and painted so for me it was an easy job. I had to bend the rear exhaust bracket out of the way but otherwise no big deal. Prolly be a great time to update to a stronger skid plate, also have some wire wheels on hand and POR 15 to clean up and protect the frame, x-members and anything else you can see under there - the whole job including restoration and painting is easily done in an afternoon
When i dropped out my old skid plate it laid flat on the ground lol was lucky it wasn't dragging behind the jeep
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