2002 Eddie Bauer Front End Noise

[biggwalt]

I am new to the forum and need some help figuring out what’s going on with my 2002 Eddie Bauer Explorer. What I would like to know is, can installing the wrong size tires cause an alignment or transmission issue? I want to get it checked out, but I would like to know what I can expect. Thanks for any help you can give.

Here’s the background of what led to this:

I purchased some larger (taller) front tires than standard issue. While the tires were being installed I was told that I needed some front brakes. I didn’t get the brake job done, but less than ¼ mile after I drove off, I heard a slight knocking noise and then it sounded like a scrubbing noise.

I went back to the tire dealer and got standard size tires. After I drove another two or three miles, the scrubbing sound got louder and I noticed a slight pulling to one side.
I replaced the front brakes but the noise and pulling still continue. I took it to an alignment shop, and I was told that it could be a transmission or transfer case issue.

 

[rdop02xlt]

the difference in tire size will make the four-wheel drive think the tires are spinning at different speeds and try to engage the four-wheel drive. even a difference in new tires versus worn tires can cause this. Get two new tires for the rears and rotate frequently. Try the brown wire modification (located in the modified 02-05 explorers) to eliminate transfer case problems. The pulling is probably an alignment issue (go to a good shop, sometimes the big chain places have morons doing the alignments). Ask for pre and post alignnment readings. Check your ball joints as well. Mine were shot at 90K miles.

 

[swetrid]

Im surprised they even sold different size tires to you when you were only putting 2 on. Only causes major issues, hopefully you didnt do too much damage yet. You also might have whhel bearing going out which could cause some of your symptoms.

 

[neberly]

had the same problem. I thought only the rears needed new tires since the fronts still had good half tread on them. Boy was I mistaken. Explorer acted like I was having misfire under load. Ended up putting new tires on the front as well and the problem went away. 2002 Explorer has what is called on demand 4 wheel drive (same as all wheel except only comes on when needed). As rdop explained the computer thinks the tires are on ice and calls for that tire or tires to kick in the 4 wheel drive and you get the jerking and scrubbing of your tires. I learned the hard way.