[montana_jeepn]

Happy Thanksgiving all!

Details on my Jeep: 03', TJ, 4.0, 5spd, 3.73 (44/35), 4whl discs, 3 inch lift, with 33" tires. OD reads approx. 64,000 miles

First Question:
I've noticed that when I take off in 1st gear, I hear a noise coming from my transmission (sounds like the passenger side of the tranny). The closest thing I can compare it to would be taking several marbles and swirling them around in a jar. It seems to only do it in first gear when I am taking off. Could my clutch be going out?

I plan on dropping off my jeep at my local 4x4 shop next time I am out of town for a week or so. I already have a laundry list of stuff I am getting done, but if my clutch is going out, it would be better to do it all at once since it is my daily driver.

Second Question:
My rear axle seals are leaking and I was quoted approx. $400 to repair/replace the seals. For about twice that, I can regear to 4.10 or 4.56. I know most folks say going from 3.73 to 4.10 isn't worth it, but since I am doing it anyways, I'm not worried about the cost of it, I just want the best gearing for my application and I plan on sticking with 33 inch tires. My driving is probably 85% highway/city driving. While I get around fine with the 3.73's, I can tell that it is hard on my clutch and I would like to get it back to how it feels stock. So does anyone here have the same setup? If so, what is your gas mileage? I've seen the charts and I am really torn, so I would appreciate any personal experience. Thank you in advance.