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TJ
Dodge Dakota
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7/30/2007
19:59:49

Subject: Front end noise...
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I have a 2001 Dakota CC 4x4 with the 4.7L. I'm getting a whirring noise from the front end and seems to be coming from the drivers side. The noise goes fades or goes away on a right turn and remains or possibly gets slightly louder on a left turn. I'm guessing this indicates bad bearings in my drivers side wheel hub? Sound likely to you all? I don't think its the tires, but I could be wrong, wouldn't be the first time.



Lee
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7/31/2007
11:29:26

RE: Front end noise...
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I have had to replace the hub on the passenger side of my 2000 2WD Dakota twice now due to bad bearings. To test, jack the front end up and give the wheel a good push-pull. If there is movement, it could be bad bearings, bad ball joints, or bad tie rod ends. I would guess bearings because the sound corresponds to it. Also try spinning the wheel and see if you can duplicate the sound. At least that's something you can try...

Lee



TJ
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8/01/2007
23:45:40

RE: Front end noise...
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Thanks, I'll try that tomorrow. Looks like ebay has the hubs for about $100, anybody know a better/more inexpensive place to get them? Seems like thats almost 50% off what the auto parts dealers are getting. I also noticed that when I hit the brakes enough to put some friction on the discs but not really slow the truck down the howl will quiet some too....that seems to indicate wheel bearings to me also.



TJ
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8/02/2007
16:31:28

RE: Front end noise...
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Well I jacked up the front of my truck and gave the wheels a good shake and spin. They didn't give at all, but didn't freewheel very much when I gave them a good spin. It did sound like the brakes were dragging a bit though. Not sure what to think now....just the tires howling?



Lee
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8/02/2007
17:55:52

RE: Front end noise...
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When my wheel bearings were going out, there was quite a bit of freeplay when the wheel was moved. It doesn't sound like that's your problem.

You probably don't have manual locking hubs, do you? Are those even available anymore? My guess is the front drive assembly is giving some resistance (normal), which is why the wheels don't spin with a lot of ease. It's just a guess, as it's been a long time since I've owned a 4x4.

The brakes are supposed to drag just a little, just enough so that the pads are barely touching the rotors. If the rotors don't look scored or discolored, everything is probably fine there.

I would rotate the tires. Put the fronts at the back and bring the back tires up front. See if things change. Inspect all four tires for wear. Other than that, I will let the experts take over, as I don't have any other ideas.

Lee



TJ
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8/02/2007
20:59:58

RE: Front end noise...
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I was thinking the same thing, gonna try and rotate my tires as soon as I get a chance. I think its about due anyhow. Once again, I appreciate the help and advice. Thanks.



Kowalski
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8/04/2007
09:00:30

RE: Front end noise...
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Your front wheels won't freewheel after being spun by hand - yup, due to 4x4 drivetrain always engaged back to the transfer case.

Lead, follow, or get out of the way

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