Good morning all!

Over the last month I have developed a grinding noise on the front end of my 2005 5.4. I noticed it about a month ago and it did it for a few days and then went away. It came back this last week. I notice it more on lower RPMs when the engine and road noise are quieter. When I switch to 4WD the noise immediately stops. I haven't had any trouble with using the 4WD this winter. It seems to lock in and out fine whenever needed.

I am assuming there is something up with the IWE system. I know there is the common problem with moisture in the IWE solenoid that causes the truck to try to kick into 4WD when it shouldn't. However, I don't know that its a solenoid problem since it seems to shift in and out of 4WD fine. Seemed like most with an IWE problem would notice a higher pitched grinding noise at highway speeds. At highway speeds, the engine and road noise cover up the grinding noise I am hearing. But at lower RPMs it is very noticeable. It will begin once I get to about 10 mph or so and will continue until I almost come to a complete stop. The grinding coincides with the turning of the wheels, if that makes sense. When I begin to slow down to a stop, the grinding slows down as well.

Could this be a vacuum leak somewhere in the system? This is my first Ford truck and I am not too familiar with all this yet. I appreciate any guidance that you all can provide.

Thanks,
Travis

 

the noise immediately goes away when in 4 x 4........ You have a dragging IWE on one side.. When you start the motor the IEW pulls the vacuum engagement OFF of 4 x 4.. When you put it in 4 x 4, the vacuum STOPS are the IEW engages the wheel ends..So either the IEW is DRAGGING internal or you have a vacuum leak. Best to take a wheel/ tire off and check vacuum at the IWE end... Could be vacuum supply is bad, or could be rusty / bad o-ring seal inside the IWE.

 

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/8...then-some.html