chafing sound from front wheel

[toms04explorer]

Hello...on my 04, there is a chafing/vibration or rubbing sound coming from what seems like the front driver side wheel. The vibration can be felt in the steering wheel and is heard as the wheel turns and hits a certain spot. The frequency increases as I accelerate. I replaced both front breaks and rotors but its still there. Any ideas? Thanks in advance!

 

[pet575]

More than likely the wheel bearing. Very common on this vehicle.

 

[toms04explorer]

More than likely the wheel bearing. Very common on this vehicle.[/QUO

ah man...lie to me, tell me its something else...lol..($$$$$)..

 

[pet575]

Not majorly expensive if you can change it yourself. And if you are capable of changing pads and rotors you are capable of changing the bearing. Just a matter of having the right tools, but you should be able to rent/borrow them from your local Autozone/NAPA/O'Reilly, etc.

 

[miker104]

Here is the link to the sticky for the how to:

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=194002

 

[toms04explorer]

Yes..dosent seem too bad..nice youtube video out there on how its done.. but today I spoke to my mechanic, he said look at the (think he said abs sensor) may be sticking out..he said if its the hubs I should hear a howling sound, not so much a chaffing sound as the wheel spins..

 

[pet575]

For your sake I hope that is the case. Wouldn't explain the vibration in the steering wheel, though. That sensor cable is just plastic and wires. You wouldn't feel anything, I wouldn't think.

 

[toms04explorer]

Thanks for link!.. . i hope so to, im finding hubs for 88 bucks delivered on ebay..sounds like the chinese brand to me..is there anyone on ebay you guys can recommend?

 

[tmaher]

if not bearing, check CV joint. If grease leaked out of boot the joint could be binding and you would definitely feel it in the steering, especially the farther you turn the wheel.

 

[toms04explorer]

thanku ..will definitely look into that..

 

[pet575]

If the CV checks out and you decide to go the wheel bearing route, spend the extra money for a Timken bearing. Many stories on here (and other places) of the cheap bearings not lasting 10K miles before needing replacement.

 

[toms04explorer]

yes Ive seen the Timken, may just go all out with FORD ..but not finding the guy mentioned on here thats selling em for 100 bucks...anyway..thanks again!!