Well after selling my YJ back in 2001 I've been trying to figure a way> to get back into a Jeep ever since. I finally did it a few weeks ago> without selling my wife, her car or the two kids and landed a 97 TJ> sport from a dealer. Upon taking the Jeep to my local mechanic for PA> inspections (purchase was in NJ) he noticed a noise coming from the> rear diff and after taking it apart realized the bearings and one axle> shaft were pitted and worn and would need to be replaced. Obviously> not something I heard during the test drive or ride home. I was not> that concerned as the dealer included a Powertrain warranty in the deal> which included coverage on "all lubricated parts in the differential".>

So I call the warranty company with a description on the problem and> they send an adjuster to look at the rear. After taking pictures and> writing the report they confirm what the mechanic found that the pinion> bearings and axle shaft would need to be replaced and this type of> repair is typically covered. (estimated between $800-$1000 by my> mechanic) However the claims adjuster states that this was a> pre-existing condition at the time of sale and there is nothing they> can do for me. So now I figure I'm screwed. After settling down I can> see the warranty company's point. They probably see cases like this a> lot.>

Next step, the dealer. Much to my surprise I call the dealer and> explain the situation and they say bring it in we'll take care of it!> Not only that, they offered to come tow it from my mechanic to their> shop (50 miles). Too good to be true? We'll see, but I am going to> give them a shot at repairing it as there will be no money out pocket,> yet and they seem to be willing to make good on this deal. There's no> doubt there's some risk involved buying used and I've learned some> lessons for the next time. I have to believe the dealer was aware of> the rear diff issue and was pushing the burden to the warranty company> to save a buck.>

Hopefully in a week or so I'll be happily driving the TJ around waving> to the rest of you again...(hopefully no poorer than I already am) !!!>

Hope to be Jeepin soon!!!

How did the adjuster know it was a pre-existing condition? Just on the> basis that those parts wear out over time and could not have happened> in the 50 miles that I drove it home. Just an excuse that gets them> out of paying for it!