Some problems I have noticed lately...

[lil_dq]

Ok guys, I wanted this in the tech forum cause I think it could be important and I wanted it to stay on topic.

specs:
2002 F150 FX4
5.4
4R70W
4.5" lift
35" tires

Over the last few months I have been noticing some vibrations in the truck. I thought it was maybe the tires, checked them, bad tire(broke belt). Just bought new tires, still had a vibration that felt like it was coming outta the rear. Took them back and had them re-check the rears. Driver side was out of balance. They fixed the tire and I drove off. It felt better for about 2 days then driving it down the highway I noticed a 'grinding' (loosely using that word) growl/vibration.

Well tonight I was pulling a little trailer (4X8) and had to lock it in 4X4 to get through some rocks. After that about 4 miles later I came to a stop and noticed a clicking/grinding noise coming outta the front. Well I think that may be a CV joint but don't know how to check it. Also would low diff fluids be the cause of the noise/vibration in the rear or should I have axlebearings/axles checked out?

I thought maybe it was jsut the tires due to the oversize but I have determined(i think) that it is probably not them.

Any suggestions would be great. I am going to check fluid levels in the morning, just to be sure.

 

[blacksnapon]

Ok guys, I wanted this in the tech forum cause I think it could be important and I wanted it to stay on topic.

Well I think that may be a CV joint but don't know how to check it.

Turn the wheel hard one way or another, then pour the coals to it (preferrably on pavement) if you have a bad cv joint it'll show then, I've found a bunch of them like that.

 

[lil_dq]

ok thanks vince I'll try that. should i be in 4X4?

 

[blacksnapon]

ok thanks vince I'll try that. should i be in 4X4?

Yep! You need the front axles turning.

 

[lil_dq]

Ok I think I narrowed it down to the front drivers side hub assembly. This is the third one I will have to put in it. Does it sound like there may be an underlying issue here or not? The first two were with stock tires.

 

[blacksnapon]

Ok I think I narrowed it down to the front drivers side hub assembly. This is the third one I will have to put in it. Does it sound like there may be an underlying issue here or not? The first two were with stock tires.

Look at the axle and bushings on that side. If the axle moves around excessively, premature wear can result.