Possible Front End Problems
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Joined: Mar 2006
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Possible Front End Problems
Hey Guys,
I've got a few problems with my 2002 D, its a 5.9L AWD/4x4.....the problems Im having sound like there coming from the front end, one of the problems I diagnosed and fixed...and I thought that was the only problem....guess what...NOT. I replaced the driver's side front cv axle, it was wore out and makin some noise. Now, on acceleration only I am hearing some noise and a little vibration from what I think is bad u-joints in the front driveshaft do to it being AWD. Can anyone give me a little heads up on any other possibilities? I did have to adjust the tightness of the axle nut, do to noise coming from the hub assembly...could this be a problem as well?
Thanks guys for any insight, and sorry it's been so long since ive been on.
Justin
I've got a few problems with my 2002 D, its a 5.9L AWD/4x4.....the problems Im having sound like there coming from the front end, one of the problems I diagnosed and fixed...and I thought that was the only problem....guess what...NOT. I replaced the driver's side front cv axle, it was wore out and makin some noise. Now, on acceleration only I am hearing some noise and a little vibration from what I think is bad u-joints in the front driveshaft do to it being AWD. Can anyone give me a little heads up on any other possibilities? I did have to adjust the tightness of the axle nut, do to noise coming from the hub assembly...could this be a problem as well?
Thanks guys for any insight, and sorry it's been so long since ive been on.
Justin
Champion
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 4,186
Likes: 2
From: Reno, NV
RE: Possible Front End Problems
Do you have a LSD? If so you may want to add a tube of friction modifier to it and see if that helps. I'm not 100% on if both front and rear would have LSD or just the rear but I'm sure one of these guys can chime in and clarify that. 
Record Breaker
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 1,222
Likes: 1
From: Ohio
RE: Possible Front End Problems
Hi Frankie:
Two things that come to mind are either a front wheel bearing, or possibly a front pinion or carrier bearing.
Also, your thoughts on the front shaft and u joints is a good one. A quick way to check them would be to get the front wheels off the ground with some good jack stands, then crawl under and rotate that front shaft by hand to see if you find any play on the joint at either end.
If not, then I would focus on the wheel bearings and the front diff. While under there, check the front diff fluid to make sure there is plenty, and when you rotate the drive shaft be very aware of any roughness you might feel indicating a failing bearing.
The wheel bearing can be done pretty easily by most DIYers, but if the diff is the issue that takes special tools and know how that most folks would want to farm out including yours truly.
Famous quote by Clint Eastwood I have always liked, "A man has got to know his limitations"
Don
Two things that come to mind are either a front wheel bearing, or possibly a front pinion or carrier bearing.
Also, your thoughts on the front shaft and u joints is a good one. A quick way to check them would be to get the front wheels off the ground with some good jack stands, then crawl under and rotate that front shaft by hand to see if you find any play on the joint at either end.
If not, then I would focus on the wheel bearings and the front diff. While under there, check the front diff fluid to make sure there is plenty, and when you rotate the drive shaft be very aware of any roughness you might feel indicating a failing bearing.
The wheel bearing can be done pretty easily by most DIYers, but if the diff is the issue that takes special tools and know how that most folks would want to farm out including yours truly.
Famous quote by Clint Eastwood I have always liked, "A man has got to know his limitations"
Don