One problem related to rear suspension axle has been reported for the 1997 Jeep Cherokee. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
While applying the brakes there was a loud thumping noise due to a loose axle shaft that was attached to the braking system. The axles were mis-built with drum guide boss that were too shallow. Jeep had a TSB that described the problem. This allowed the entire brake assembly to move about freely and caused a thump noise. A mechanic advised the consumer that if not corrected, the brakes may lock up without warning. Jeep refused to cover the replacement costs.