Noise when engaging 4x4

[Ted22]

First post... Searched, and searched can't find answer...

As soon as I engage 4x4 I hear a whine, Sort of like a pilot bearing noise. As soon as you disengage the 4x4, noise goes away. Replaced fluid w synthetic, but still there(hey it was the cheapest, easiest, least likely, fix first).

What is my next step?

Thanks for the help!

 

[swetrid]

Ck yor tire size/circumference! Any mismatch or circumference difference will cause whine/pulsation affect.

 

[Ted22]

Same tires, brand, size, wear...

 

[Ted22]

Well driving tonight heard a grinding noise when making a turn... Also noticed a thumping wheel bearing noise... Not sure if that's the issue with the 4x4, but at least gets me thinking front wheel bearing assemblies...

Anyone have any thoughts?

Thanks!

 

[Ted22]

Got it up in the air, a tad bit more play in the right wheel than the left(side to side, none up and down), but now that I have the caliper off, can't get any wobble withe the rotor on...

Before I take off the dreaded 3 15mm bolts would like to answer a question:

How much play would be present if the bearing was bad? Only had like 1/4" back and forth with the wheel on.. Side to side, none up and down.

 

[Ted22]

Got it up in the air, a tad bit more play in the right wheel than the left(side to side, none up and down), but now that I have the caliper off, can't get any wobble withe the rotor on...

Before I take off the dreaded 3 15mm bolts would like to answer a question:

How much play would be present if the bearing was bad? Only had like 1/4" back and forth with the wheel on.. Side to side, none up and down.

 

[leftlane36]

Just replaced the ones on the '03and there was no top to bottom movement but plenty on front to rear. After the replacement there was none at all. So bearing are a good chance. I was like you and hoped that was not it but it was.