One problem related to axle shaft has been reported for the 1997 Jeep Wrangler. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Noticed oil leaking. Had the vehicle serviced at the dealer who put a new seal on. After a second seal was put on, took it to the dealer to have the torque turning checked on the rear pinion gear. Was told that the bearings were all bad and needed to be replaced. Also, they had to rebuilt the rear end.