need help figuring out the problem

[oaks37csc]

Hey everyone,

i'm driving a 2004 X XLT 4x4, and i'm having problems figuring out what is wrong with it. When i go in reverse it does fine, but when i put it into drive and turn left or right and proceed to accelerate it'll make a pop sound on the front passenger wheel and stall like the brakes are on, and then it'll make another pop sound, then i'll be able to take off. If i take off straight it wont stall but it'll pop slightly. There is also some grinding noise coming from the front passenger wheel and is more noticable when turning left. The ABS light is on and the 4x4 high dash light flashes as well. Also, when turning to the left there is vibrations in the front passenger wheel as well. I have search the threads and everything is pointing towards the front wheel bearing, speed sensors, tires. i'm just wanting to try to narrow down what the problem is before putting money into it due to being on a limited budget. i'm leaning towards it still being the front wheel bearing. i was just wondering what everyone thought and appreciate any help i can get with this. Thanks.

 

[blueoval9erlifer]

I had almost the same symptoms and found out that it was not coming from the front like i thought it was coming from the back. My rear toe links were worn out and was causing the back tires to move and bind.

 

[2Trux]

Jack it up, grab the tire and try to move it side to side and top to bottom. If there is movement get behind it and see what is moving. If it is at the hub it is probably wheel bearings. Also rotate the tire and see if there is any dragging or grinding noise.
If the one you think is bad seems good try all the rest. Suspension/wheel problems are often difficult to locate while driving as the sounds travel throughout the system.

 

[oaks37csc]

i jack up the front left wheel and there is alot of play in the wheel. Looks like i'll be purchasing a front wheel assembly. Thanks for you help!

 

[oaks37csc]

just a FYI, i replaced the front passenger Wheel hub assembly and all is well. thanks to everyone for your help.

 

[HiImBrian]

just a FYI, i replaced the front passenger Wheel hub assembly and all is well. thanks to everyone for your help.

Glad you found the problem. Might not be a bad idea to just go ahead and do the other side too. I replaced a bad one and found that the other side wasn't too far behind...

 

[oaks37csc]

Thanks Brian, yeah, i'll probably be able to do that with my next paycheck, looks like i'll also be needing to replace the front lower ball joint and tie rods as they have a little play in them.. may just do the upper ball joints as well. my wife drove it pretty hard the last few years and just now able to start replacing things considering she has a new vehicle now. This is my storm chase vehicle, i storm chase for a TV station in Tulsa. Hopefully i will have everything completed by spring time.

 

[HiImBrian]

Thanks Brian, yeah, i'll probably be able to do that with my next paycheck, looks like i'll also be needing to replace the front lower ball joint and tie rods as they have a little play in them.. may just do the upper ball joints as well. my wife drove it pretty hard the last few years and just now able to start replacing things considering she has a new vehicle now. This is my storm chase vehicle, i storm chase for a TV station in Tulsa. Hopefully i will have everything completed by spring time.

Rockauto.com has pretty decent prices on parts when you go to start buying. When doing your upper ball joints, you can press those in and out unlike what most mechanics will say. I did both of my upper ball joints and it took me an afternoon. You can do your sway bar links and bushings yourself too. I did those in less than an hour in my driveway. I'll be doing most of The work on mine this January. All new suspension parts and a few engine upgrades. I don't really have to wait for the spring here in Florida, the weather is beautiful all year