Thrust Bearing
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1995 Jeep Wrangler and 1994 Jeep Wrangler. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Check crankshaft end play. If end play is not within specification, replace bearing No. 2. If end play is still not within specification, replace crankshaft. See CRANKSHAFT, MAIN & CONNECTING ROD BEARINGS table under ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS .