I have a 2000 F150 4x4 5.4l Lariat. I thought the chirping sound was my rear brake pads. I changed the rear pads this mornings still using the old rotors, still in ok condition. The chirping sound is still there when the truck is in motion. The front brakes are new (about 3 monthes) rotors and pads. The chirping sound is in tune with the truck speed...chirps fster as truck moves faster etc. If it was not the rear pads...hmm, then what could that chirping sound be??

 

Sounds like a dry u=joint. You can really tell easier (by sound) when you drive along a building. The noise seems to amplify a bit.

Dave

 

Where is the u u joint exactly located, it is an easy driveway fix for and avid mechanic? Thanks Dave!

 

MartinF150

The most likely (2) ones are on each end of the main drive shaft. With the truck rear end on stands, try rotating the drive shaft both directions, while watching the u-joint yoke on the end you are working on. ANY movement of the driveshaft, without the same movement on the yoke, shows wear on the u-joint. If it's bad enough you may also actually hear the u-joint flopping around in the bearing cups. You may also see a rusty residue around the bearing cups. Often times this residue is what's left of the needle bearings inside the cup. Repeat for the front joint.

You might get lucky and have u-joints that can be greased. But by the time they squeak, there probably is too much wear to solve with just grease.

The solid (no grease fitting) joints are stronger, but under normal use, the joints with a grease fitting can last longer.

Dave

 

Thanks Dave...Great information. I really appreciate it!