What does a failing Axle/CV Joint Sound Like

[joefnh]

2003 4x4 4.0L V6

I have been frustrated with a problem that has manifested itself like a failed wheel bearing which sounds like really aggressive tires coming from the drivers side front wheel. What has been different is that the noise only changes minimally when swerving side to side, but there is some increase in noise when turning to the right.

In an attempt to fix this I have now replaced the front left bearing twice within the last 2 months with a new Timken model from Rock Auto; the noise is still there and is particularly bad at around 40MPH.

I have verified that the 4x4 can engage and disengage correctly several times. And have added a switch for the "brown wire mod" recently to see if there might be an issue with the shift motor.

Rotating the tires has made no difference, and the tires are fairly new (1yr) and have been pretty good so far.

The noise definitely sounds like it is from the front and does seem to come from the drivers side. At 40MPH you almost have to turn up the radio a bit to cover it up.

Can a driveshaft /CV joint cause this problem?

Thanks in advance - This site has been a great resource.

--Joe

 

[Damonkr]

Mine always clunk when taking off from stop, or also when I am turning sharply. I feel it also under my feet when it clunks. I currently have one clunking but dont want to throw money at it since Im going to do a SAS.

 

[joefnh]

No Clunk just a grinding failed bearing sound

 

[wood1]

A loud snapping/popping normally worse when turning the wheel sharply.

 

[Damonkr]

Sounds like a failed hub assembly to me. Do a search on here for Failing hub assembly there are tons of post about this issue. They typically last around 60,000mi mine have never lasted that long however. There are also some good step by step how-to's.
Here is the replacement sticky
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=165429&highlight=Replacing+wheel+bearing
Here is a good trouble shooting thread
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=226108&highlight=Replacing+wheel+bearing

 

[joefnh]

I have looked and you are correct, those appear to fail every ~ 60-70k. This would be the second set, and is about due.. I replaced the first set at ~66k and I am now at ~150k.

The noise really does sound like is from the drivers side, but this is the bearing that has been replaced 2x in the last 2 months. No change.

-Joe

 

[scotto]

Bearing noise from front

I have a 2003 XLT 4x4 with the exact same symtoms as you described. I changed the front left hub assembly 5 months ago (at 120K) and nothing changed. I just changed the same bearing at (155K) and I still have the same bearing noise around 40 to 55mph.
Could it be the CV bearing inside the front axle? I'm at a standstill??