Friction while turning

[Jim Galloway]

Lately I have noticed a vibration that makes a low pitched hum in the front of my explorer only when I turn to the left. When I am going straight or turning to the right their is no noise what-so-ever. When turning left, even slightly to change lanes, I hear it. It sounds like something needs lubrication. I would appreciate any ideas on what should I check first? Would worn wheel bearing cause such a noise only on left turns? Thanks for your suggestions.

 

[dyoung3]

Originally posted by Jim Galloway
Lately I have noticed a vibration that makes a low pitched hum in the front of my explorer only when I turn to the left. When I am going straight or turning to the right their is no noise what-so-ever. When turning left, even slightly to change lanes, I hear it. It sounds like something needs lubrication. I would appreciate any ideas on what should I check first? Would worn wheel bearing cause such a noise only on left turns? Thanks for your suggestions.

Jim - the only front end noises I've had in my X's (all 2-wheel drive) have been from either wheel bearings or tie rod ends, and those tended to make clunks or groans. Replacing them solved the problem. Apparently, there's not much to lube up front, Ford makes more money if you can't.

4-wheel drive X's may have CV joints, which usually make knocking noises during a turn when they go bad. The only fix there is replacement also. Good luck.

 

[GotWork2do]

Hey, a friend of mine had a problem similar to yours. the faster he went the louder the humm got. If he turned to the right there would be no sound, if he turned to the left it would start up again... it turned out to be his bearings.

he got them replaced and no problems with the noise again.. Hope this helps a little.

 

[config]

Hey, mine does the same thing! I guess I should get it checked soon.

GotWork2do,
Are you in the AF? I see you're at Andrews. I'm in the AF but I'm here closeby at Fort Meade.

 

[GotWork2do]

Yup

Yup I'm in the AF at Andrews. My buddy ended up gettin rid of his X (unfortunately) but hey you dont know of some good off road trails to ride in in the Ft Meade Andrews/Bolling area do you?

If ya do please do let me know, cuz i can't seem to find any LEGAL places to have some good 4x4 fun!!