New Guy Here!!! '08 Explorer V6 Limited 4WD

[Itchy33]

Like the title says. Bought her a year ago with 130k and a few issues. Have most of them sorted out except a driveline whirring that starts at 30mph. looking forward to sharing what knowledge I've acquired and look forward to learning some things from you all.

 

[BrooklynBay]

Welcome to this forum! Did you ever replace the timing chain or the tensioner?

 

[Itchy33]

I've replaced the serp belt tensioner but nothing with the timing chain. The noise seems driveline related because it's speed dependent and not engine RPM dependent.

 

[BrooklynBay]

Is it a 4WD? Did you check the transfer case or the differential bearings?

 

[Itchy33]

Yes it is 4WD.

So far I've replaced both front hubs with OEM.

Right now, I've got the front driveshaft out to replace the u-joint but I can't get it back in properly. The roller ball-bearing that is at the connection of the driveshaft and the transfer case is giving me a hard time. It must have to go in a certain way because when I put it back together I was getting a popping sound(Only drove it a few blocks and removed again). I'm thinking I have to flip it around the other way, but now I don't know what way I had it in because the whole damn thing is covered in grease and fell apart when I pulled it back out.

Even so, that u-joint wasn't the culprit because the whirring is there even without the driveshaft in.

 

[Itchy33]

I will be doing more research on this site to see what other tests I can do as it relates to the front axle/diff because that seems to be where the noise is emanating from.

 

[BrooklynBay]

The transfer case still has moving parts even if the driveshaft isn't connected to it.

 

[Itchy33]

Thanks BrooklynBay, I will look into that as I search this site that I'm sure is a wealth of knowledge.

 

[Mike65]

Welcome. There is also a possibly that it be a rear axle bearing.

 

[Itchy33]

Welcome. There is also a possibly that it be a rear axle bearing.

It turned out to be the rear passenger wheel bearing. I had been making attempts to get rid of that rumble for 8 months and finally the fourth and final wheel bearing was the one- go figure. Two mechanics and myself were 100% convinced that the noise was coming from the front. I plan to do a separate post outlining the battle for others who are struggling in a similar situation.