Hub noise only in 4x4

[CrashBandit]

Sounds like bearings to me..kinda like putting a card on your trike's wheels to give it that distinct sound. I got the driver's side replaced last year or two and was told it'll make the passenger side bearings go quicker(?). Now that its snowing like balls here I had to use 4x4 to get home and heard that noise only when 4x4 is engaged. And it sounds like its only coming from passenger side. I have manual hubs BTW.

Tried to search but my Mac is being ****ty and won't load the search results page.......sorry if this is a well-covered topic..

 

[DeRocha]

When you engage 4x4 or lock the front hubs the stub axle shafts begin to rotate. This rotation affects the spindle bearing (inside the spindle, not to be confused with wheel bearings) and more likely the U-joints.. U-joints typically last 100K miles or so). Over time their seals break down and begin letting lube out and moisture in which destroys the inner needle bearings.