Possible inner cv axle issue? need help.

[wessker96]

All right need some help. My passenger side has been making an noise like its riding on gravel when I make a left hand turn at speed higher that 10 mphs. Nothing at lower speeds. With this also a vibration that would make you believe its on gravel. At first I figured Wheel Bearings. Common issue (btw 194000 miles 98 with 2 inch shackles and tt 31 inch mud tires 4.0 SOHC) But getting under the truck when I spin the wheel the noise seems to be coming from cv half axle where it goes into tube to front differential. Feels like a popping noise.... faster it spins more it pops then starts to sound like a grind... Of course this is with truck lifted. I could see how when car is on ground and weight is applied that is could be the noise Im feeling. It also appears there is more of gap between differential tube and cv axle on passenger side than from diff to cv on driver side. I also see its mildly wet with fluid (gear oil it appears) not gushing but stays wet. I know I will need to replace the cv axle if Im right... that I can handle....but is there another bearing in that tube I should be worried about that could be another issue if not primary issue. if so what is it called and how do I replace it .If I see fluid that means some sort of seal leak right? Will new cv axle come with a seal that leads to tube going to differental or do I need to get that separate. I saw other post on here and most reuse old one. But I may not be able to do so if it is leaking...any help on any of this would be appreciated. I plan on taking this on in about feb 6. ITs my dd... If I am completely wrong and inner cv axle is not issue then let me know. Can post pics if helps. IF it is cv axle making this noise can it hurt to drive it until then? if it breaks that is ok. I just dont want to kill anyone...

Thanks guys...

 

[J_Train]

if you jack the Explorer up on one side only the oil will stay in. you can get the axle out your self you wont hurt anything it just may be tough with out a tool, a pry bar will help if you can rent a tool from an auto parts store.

 

[Dono]

Here's a post by Turtle on part numbers:
TIMKEN Part # 710429 front left axle seal

TIMKEN Part # 710428 front right axle seal

They are about 8.75 each at rockauto.com

My drivers side seal gave out. I have the part, but havn't done the job yet. It sounds a bit frustrating getting the new seal in.

 

[wessker96]

appreciate the info. Anyone know if there is a bearing in that tube at all? I would suspect its in the differential...but we will see.

Thanks guys.