Hum from front right at all speeds, loud rumble on highway

[gfisch]

So, I have been getting a hum from the front right of my '98 4x4. The sound is a low hum at low speeds and becomes a loud rumble at about 55mph. The noise seems to subside when the wheel is turned slightly to left. The noise is independent of the engine RPM or gearing (even there if in neutral).

I have replaced the tires (all well balanced) and brake rotors and the noise is still there.

my guess is that it is either the hub assembly or the drive shaft. Most likely the CV joint on the drive shaft. Is there any way to confirm this before replacing anything else?

Also, are there any tips/tricks for replacing the drive shaft? And, where would be the best place to get one?

Thanks a lot,
Greg

 

[MountaineerGreen]

I'd say its not the driveshaft if it varies when you turn. Turning shouldn't affect the driveshaft speed, and thus the noise. I suspect its a wheel bearing, they are a fairly common replacement part.

 

[cybergasm]

I agree with MountaineerGreen that ya got a wheel bearing going bad probally would be best if ya replace one to do both at the same time since if one is going bad then the other will probaly follow shortly.

 

[MountaineerGreen]

I agree with MountaineerGreen that ya got a wheel bearing going bad probally would be best if ya replace one to do both at the same time since if one is going bad then the other will probaly follow shortly.

Well, I don't know- if shop space or time is an issue, do them both, otherwise I'd wait. I put one on my truck two years ago, the other one is still going strong. A shock or hard hit can cause premature bearing failure. And, the other can go shortly behind the other, its hard to tell.

 

[gfisch]

Well, it turned out to be the hub/bearing assembly. I just replaced it today and it seems all better now.