1999 F350.

I just starting getting a slight squeak/squeal on the front end of my truck in 4x4.

I can replicate the noise by locking either the hubs or transfer case alone as well. Noise goes away if both hubs and transfer case are disengaged.

Rhythmic squeal, with wheel/axle rotation.

Does this sound like needle bearings? Or possibly something else?

 

The needle bearings are the bearings that carry the axle through the main hub. When the hub is locked, they turn with the hub, so there is no movement. There is only movement in the needle bearings when the hub is unlocked. So I'd guess that it's not the needle bearings.

A rhythmic squeaking would suggest to me a front axle u-joint. Have you greased them lately? Is the squeak consistent or more when you're turning?

 

Have same symptom ,how do you grease them? I see no zerks in them,u-joints.
Thanks

 

For me, Its usually the front cv, or double cardan at the t-case. The pilot bearing/bushing in the middle goes dry. Pull the boot back, lube librally while turning it by hand, works for me.

 

The front axle u-joints (the ones right behind the wheels) should have zerk fittings in them. They can be hard to get to but they are there.

 

If they are original joints they have no grease fittings, and if they are squeaking they probably need to be replaced.

Turn the steering wheel all the way left or right, then jack up one wheel at a time, lock the hub, and give the wheel a spin. It should rotate easily, no binding or noise. If it binds, you found the bad joint.

 

The original factory front axle u-joints, the ones behind the front wheels, have zerk fittings.

The u-joints on the drive line do not.

 

no they dont, i just changed mine and they didnt

 

My 2005 has original u joints and they have grease fittings

 

As far as I know, only the '05 and up came with factory grease fittings.

The OP has a '99.

 

My 2004 has factory u-joints and they have grease fittings.

 

Well then, you're all lucky guys with zerk fitting.
I see no zerks.

 

Interesting. I even checked the shop manual, and it makes no mention of factory fittings until '05.