Rotational grumbling noise

[Mark98]

Ok, ever since I put new tires on(General Grabbers AT2), I'm getting a groaning type grumbling noise at slow speeds and turns(Think between shopping centers where they have stop signs every 20 feet.) All I have read on here points to wheel bearings and balljoints, fine and dandy. Although my problem is, I have new upper and lower ball joints along with 2 new front wheel bearings. I am giving myself headache after headache of trying to figure out what is making the noise. The only other thing I can think of (short of rotating the tires and getting the balance rechecked) is that my brake rotors have "grooves" worn in them (kinda like a target with all those circles. The rotors are not smooth whatsoever, but they brake smoothly.) I'm going to try to replace brakes and pads this weekend. But I was wondering if worn cv shafts could be making this noise? (Think turning a heavier tire since the Generals are heavier than my mastercraft coursers.)

Every listing that I found using the search engine came up with nothing in the end.

 

[Mark98]

Bump

 

[duke16]

If your rotors aren't smooth, then I would get that checked out.. whether it's related to this issue or not.

Are you sure the noise your hearing isn't just tire noise? Do the new tires have a more aggressive tread?

 

[Mark98]

If your rotors aren't smooth, then I would get that checked out.. whether it's related to this issue or not.

Are you sure the noise your hearing isn't just tire noise? Do the new tires have a more aggressive tread?

Yes they do have a more aggressive tread. BUT they are quiter than my old tires and anything over 30 and I can't hear it anymore. It is also more pronounced when turning left. Leading me to think bad/out of balance right tire?

 

[Mark98]

I should also mention that my dad and I got the same tires within 2 weeks of each other. His are dead silent when moving slowly.

The only difference is his are 245/70/r16 while mine are 255/70/r16.

Any more suggestions?

 

[Mark98]

Bump

 

[scucci]

groaning noise can be power steering related. Many times this starts when work is done to the front end and the mechanic turns the wheels side to side with his hands to gain access. Ford recommends using a mighty vac and sucking air out of the ps pump reservoir
with the engine idling. Not saying this is your problem, just a possibility. Also there is a tsb for a power steering line change to eliminate noise at low speed turns.
Here is the procedure from the service manual for purging, minus the illustrations.
Purging

Special Tool(s) Vacuum Pump Kit
416-D002 (D95L-7559-A) or equivalent

CAUTION: If the air is not purged from the power steering system correctly, premature power steering pump failure can result. The condition can occur on pre-delivery vehicles with evidence of aerated fluid or on vehicles that have had steering component repairs.

NOTE: A whine heard from the power steering pump can be caused by air in the system. The power steering purge procedure must be performed prior to any component repair for which power steering noise complaints are accompanied by evidence of aerated fluid.

Remove the reservoir cap. Check the fluid.
Use MERCON® Multi-Purpose (ATF) Transmission Fluid XT-2-QDX or MERCON® equivalent.
Tightly insert the stopper of the vacuum pump into the reservoir.

Start the vehicle.
Apply maximum vacuum and maintain it for a minimum of three minutes with the engine speed set at idle.

Release the vacuum and remove the vacuum pump.
CAUTION: Do not overfill the power steering pump reservoir (3E764).

Fill the reservoir.
Use MERCON® Multi-Purpose (ATF) Transmission Fluid XT-2-QDX or MERCON® equivalent.

Reinstall the vacuum pump. Apply and maintain maximum vacuum.

CAUTION: Do not hold the steering wheel against the stops for more than three to five seconds at a time. Damage to the power steering pump can occur.

Cycle the steering wheel fully to the left and right every 30 seconds for approximately five minutes.

Stop the engine, release the vacuum, and remove the vacuum pump.
Install the reservoir cap.
Check for fluid leaks at all of the connections. If the power steering fluid shows signs of air, repeat this procedure.

 

[Mark98]

It happens going straight too. Just not as pronounced. Almost seems like my tires are going in 2 different directions(slight left/slight right) even though they aren't. I'm starting to think it may be a brake problem (sticking caliper.)

 

[Mark98]

Any more ideas on this matter?