2008 EB Front End Noise

[gilky1]

Hello. I have an 08' EB 4.6L running the 6 speed and is 4x4. 66K miles. I have a whirring noise coming from the front end, while driving 55mph+, on a smooth road. I have a gift of being able to hear these noises, but not pinpoint them. I recently had both front bearings replaced. Tires are just fine, pleanty of tread, even wear. I have a feeling it may be related to the front diff. Are they known for failing pinion bearings? Is there any other "service" that should be done to the diffs? I am confused as the mileage is so low for these issues, but I am also new to explorer. Any help would be appreciated. I have a pretty good mechanic that can also "hear" things as well but I wanted to go in there armed with at least some information.

 

[Flag Gibby]

It is highly unusual for the front differential to be an issue. If the sound is not from the tires then it most likely is from the rotors/calipers, but at that speed it really makes me think of tires before anything else. There have been individuals that have had bad bearings installed on the front end and have had to go back in and redo them because of the brand that was used, but you could usually tell it is the bearings because you can get the sound to change by gently steering to the left or right on a smooth road.

 

[gilky1]

Shop has truck, waiting for findings

 

[gilky1]

Wheel bearings re-replaced under warranty. They also replaced both front half shafts, and rotated and rebalanced tires. THEY DID NOT CHARGE ME A DIME FOR ANY OF THIS. Needless to say it feels different, I still detect a slight humming and now i cant tell where its coming from. They told me all the u-joints are tight as well. I live in Illinois, it could just be our wonderful roads....