So lost with this issue

[Dora_TheExplorer]

2002 4x4
So I am getting incredible road noise from the front driver side wheel around occupancied by vibrations. With the steering wheel straight there isn't much of either, and it's absoiutely beautiful turning the vehicle to the right, but as soon as I turn a little bit to the left I get the road noise (sounds like I'm rolling with super swampers) and the vibrations, both of which get more intense the fast I am going and/or the harder I'm turning. It's only on the drivers side and only when I turn left.

I thought it was the rack pinion since the driver side boot was leaking power steering fluid and the noise was on the driver side, made sense, so I replaced it. No change. F@*#. Recently, I have changed all 4 front ball joints, both sway bar stabilizers, and (obviously) rack and pinion to include all tie rods.

I jacked the vehicle up to check the power steering pump, and even gave it a little gas while turning the wheel, but was unable to mimic the symptoms while driving. I also shook the wheels and the wheel bearing/hub seems fine. So I am thoroughly lost on what the issue is. Any help fellas?

-Mike

 

[Number4]

Sounds like the passenger side bearing is bad. As it occurs when turning left. Search the forum for bearings, you'll see a lot of discussion on it.

 

[Dora_TheExplorer]

Really? Passenger side? Even though all the noise and vibes are coming from the driver side? Not doubting you, just clarifying.

 

[Bobmbx]

Bearing noise is very difficult to locate from the drivers seat.

Get the front end off the ground and spin each wheel by hand. Listen for any noise. There shouldn't be any, other than the sound of the rotor on the brake pads. It should spin very smoothly and not jerk to a stop. If you put your head on the inside of the tire it will help. Also, you can feel the grinding just by putting your hand on the hub while the tire is spinning.

If you compare the two front wheels after doing this, you'll most likely find the passenger side is the "one".

 

[1996EB]

Yep, it's a wheel bearing.