Squeak/Squeal in 4x4
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Squeak/Squeal in 4x4
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?
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?
Lead Driver
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 8,180
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From: Scio, OR
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?
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?
Elder User
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 668
Likes: 6
From: Northfield, MI
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.
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.
Lead Driver
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 8,180
Likes: 669
From: Scio, OR
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.
The u-joints on the drive line do not.
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Senior User
Joined: Dec 2010
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no they dont, i just changed mine and they didnt
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Elder User
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 668
Likes: 6
From: Northfield, MI
Interesting. I even checked the shop manual, and it makes no mention of factory fittings until '05.
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