Need help, I own a 98 xj8 base model. The issue I have is there is play in and out while applying alternating pressure at 12 and 6 position with slight clunking sound. No other movement when applying pressure in other positions. Told it was from play in universals on halfshafts, however since 2013 this will be the third time they have been replaced. 1st time just universals replaced, 2nd time entire halfshafts. Tires are wearing heavy on insides. Wheel bearings roll smooth and are quite.

 

Another common issue is wear in the bearings at the differential. I thought this was more common than wear in the driveshafts themselves.

The driveshafts need regular greasing. Is this being done? I suspect yours were replaced with used ones that had old grease in and have consequently worn quickly.

 

Yes to being greased the first universal were brand new part# jlm1388, the complete halfshafts were put in by dealer and bought through coventry west. Also greased, no movement of axle a differential.