97 5.0 AWD front end noise

[the28truck]

I just got a 97 XLT AWD 5.0 with 133,000 miles. And when I turn the wheel to pull in a driveway or a parking spot the front end makes the same noise and wheel hop as if it were a 4x4. I know this happens on 4x4's. Is it the same way on AWD. The bearings appear to be fine. Please let me know what you guys think. Thanks

 

[410Fortune]

First off WELCOME to Explorerforum

Your noise, it could be MANY things
but my first thing that pops into our head is CV axles

bearings lookm fine? in 97 you cant see the bearings, just the hub assembly

97 5.0L AWD = full time AWD, the rear gets 70% of the power and the front gets 30% all times no matter what

This means with 133K miles you can expect to need some front end work
also the 97 style driveshaft is known to have issues

first things first

I would look at/check in this order:

sway bar end links, both sides
leaking/ripped CV axle boots, inner and outer
front driveshaft ball flange at the t case
front driveshaft U joint at the front pinion
tie rods (inner and outer)
ball joints (check for play)
caliper mounting bolts, pads, etc (make sure brakes are firm and secure)
torsion bar adjusters (make sure bolt isnt broken, etc)

then if nothing jumps out at you, try removing the front driveshaft and see if the noise is still there.

97 5.0L problem area's:
CV axles
driveshaft CV
AWD t case itself

good luck and dont forget to search this stuff right here on EF, it has been discussed in detail, with pics!!

 

[the28truck]

Thanks for the info. I will check all of this out. And i few more thinks I forgot to mention. When the front end noise is happening I notice the the power steering pump gets very loud. And when I am driving in snow there is no problems or noise at all. Does this narrow it down?

 

[410Fortune]

could be the tie rods or power steering rack or pump itself

check the tension in your serpentine belt, I doubt it but its worth a look and
check your power steering fluid

 

[Mikeri]

I have a 98 and had the same problem. Turned out to be the lower ball joint. Get underneath and check if the grease boot is broken. I used a needle greese gun adapter to put grease back in. Also, use the touch method to fine the problem. Have someone turn the wheel while you put your finger on the lower ball joint. You will feel a strong vibration is that is the problem. Have fun.