grinding/clicking from front end

[hockey4704]

I have a 91 explorer 4 wheel drive and when i turn it makes a grinding and/or clicking noise comming from the front end, i think it has something to do with the auto locking hubs? and you can also hear a slight rubbing noise comming from the same area when i just go straight, does any one know any thing about this?

I also have another problem, this is with the four wheel drive, when i turn really sharpe with the four wheel drive on it feels like it binds up and then it feels like the brakes are on and i cant really move to easily. If any one has the answers to theese questions it will be greatly appretiated. Thank You.

 

[hockey4704]

oops

sorry i diddent read the post at the top, it wont happen again.

 

[Bashman]

It sounds like one of your hubs is stuck partially engaged. You can try pulling them apart and seeing what the problem is and possibly rebuilding/repairing them. Your only other options are pretty much replace them with manuals or new autos.

 

[DeRocha]

Originally posted by hockey4704
I also have another problem, this is with the four wheel drive, when i turn really sharpe with the four wheel drive on it feels like it binds up and then it feels like the brakes are on and i cant really move to easily. If any one has the answers to theese questions it will be greatly appretiated. Thank You.

This is correct, and indicates your 4x4 is working! Since it's dry all 4 wheels are gripping the pavement with tremendous force. Off road or on wet pavement the tires will slip more and not exhibit the binding sensation. It is also the reason why you shouldn't use 4x4 on dry pavement.

The clicking and grinding sound is an indication that one of your Auto hubs is trying to lock. To test if this is the case just push the 4x4 button next time you hear the clicking noise. With 4x4 on the hubs will be locked and you should hear no clicking noise. The clicking will return once you disengage 4x4 and unlock the hubs by reversing direction for several feet.

 

[chris c]

i would not isolate your problem to the autolock hubs, though i strongly recommend swapping them out for a set of manuals...

other problems causing the clicking can be a bad wheel bearing or front axle universal....

 

[DeRocha]

Yes the wheel bearings or U-joints could cause front end noise, but I do not believe they are the source of the clicking. Wheel bearings tend to whine not click and the front axle and U-joints will only move if you are in 4x4.

 

[chris c]

Originally posted by DEROCHA
Yes the wheel bearings or U-joints could cause front end noise, but I do not believe they are the source of the clicking. Wheel bearings tend to whine not click and the front axle and U-joints will only move if you are in 4x4.

his sound intensifies with turning. He states a rubbing noise when driving straight and more of a grinding/clicking when turning. Turning should not effect the hub. I guess it could but a wheel bearing could def. grind and click when it's real hosed.

siezed front axle universals also cause more resistance when turning. mine where so bound up i am suprised the truck was able to steer.

anyway, wheel bearings are quick and easy to do. the front axle can be pulled in less than an hour a side. the parts are all really cheap. i went through all that on mine about a month ago... the only think i wish i did but didn't was the ball joints as you are right there when you pull the axle... i was to lazy and just wanted to get the truck back together... then again my has 204k miles on it. i only need one more year out of it!!

 

[DeRocha]

We are on the same page. Once hockey4704 confirms the sound remains (or is gone) after engaging 4x4 we can rule on the AutoHubs.

If a wheel U-joint is frozen at an extreme angle then it will put a lot of stress on the Spindle bearing which should also be replaced. Wheel bearings are cheap, but you must also have a shop press in new races into the Rotors; Otherwise you will dramatically shorten the bearing life by running then around a worn surface...

When you X has a lot of miles and hasn't had a lot of work done components are going to start failing (big Surprise). I have found it easier and cheaper (in the long run) to replace all DRIVE line components at once rather than waiting for the next component to fail.

In Sept I replace all drive line components. All U-joints (8), All Ball-joints (4), Wheel (4) & Spindle (2) bearings, The joints at both wheels were frozen due to the bearing grease drying up. I cleaned out my Autohubs and let them soak in ATF for a few days. I still hear a loose rattle & whine when turing at sharp angles. This noise does not occur if I engage 4x4 which will lock the HUBS.

 

[chris c]

Originally posted by DEROCHA
We are on the same page. Once hockey4704 confirms the sound remains (or is gone) after engaging 4x4 we can rule on the AutoHubs.

If a wheel U-joint is frozen at an extreme angle then it will put a lot of stress on the Spindle bearing which should also be replaced. Wheel bearings are cheap, but you must also have a shop press in new races into the Rotors; Otherwise you will dramatically shorten the bearing life by running then around a worn surface...

mines got 204k plus miles....

unless you are running some ART slotted rotors you are better off replacing the rotors when doing wheel bearings as they come with new races in them...

 

[yosh18981898]

I just got over the same problem with my 92 sport. All the same symptoms. My problem was the front u-joints. the parts cost $30 per side ($60 total) and since I didn't have the time or motivation to install them myself, I ended up paying my mechanic $240 for labor to install them. I hear it's a kinda tough job that requires a special tool to pull the u-joints apart. Hope this helps ya.

-Eddie