how to identify bad axle or hub bearing

[biglion]

I have 2006 explorer 4wd v6 and I'm getting a rubbing grabbing or roaring sound while driving it happens off n on sound like its coming from the front not sure if its left or right also when I press 4wd high it sound like clunking n grinding so I put back in 4wd auto it goes away then it's back to what it was doing at first any help info would be great thanks

 

[thebrakeman]

Sounds like an issue with the front diff and/or center transfer case. If the noise changes when engaging 4x4 high, but seems to be coming from the same forward location, the front diff should likely be opened for inspection and potential rebuild.
I would get it to a trusted mechanic to diagnose the problem. If you don't have someone you trust, keep asking questions here, and good luck. But i would not do a lot of driving on it. If it is the front diff, a normal rebuilt isn't the end of the world. But continued driving could damage other components.

 

[biglion]

Sounds like an issue with the front diff and/or center transfer case. If the noise changes when engaging 4x4 high, but seems to be coming from the same forward location, the front diff should likely be opened for inspection and potential rebuild.
I would get it to a trusted mechanic to diagnose the problem. If you don't have someone you trust, keep asking questions here, and good luck. But i would not do a lot of driving on it. If it is the front diff, a normal rebuilt isn't the end of the world. But continued driving could damage other components.

yes the sound still comes when its not in 4high but when i engage 4high its get rougher sound clunking sound like metal or some sort so i put back in auto4wd

 

[07EddyB]

With those systems I would also check out the front driveshaft carefully. You may have bad u-joints. FYI - you can remove the driveshaft and drive the truck. Makes diagnosing drive shaft issues much easier.

 

[biglion]

With those systems I would also check out the front driveshaft carefully. You may have bad u-joints. FYI - you can remove the driveshaft and drive the truck. Makes diagnosing drive shaft issues much easier.

ok thanks i have to see if i can get my mechanic to do that