96 ram 1500 4x4 5.2L

I replaced the front axle u-joint on the passenger side a little while ago, but I decided not to replace the drivers side one because I didn't have the money. Now the driver's side u-joint is bad. It makes clicking noises while turning, as the other side did. Now, when I accelerate slowly from a complete stop, there is a grinding noise.

I'm assuming that the noise is related, possibly the wheel bearing going bad? I'm just hoping it's not something in the engine.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

Jack up each side one at a time and grab the tire at about a two and eight oclock position and try pushing with one hand and pulling with the other and see if the tire rocks back and forth. That is a good way to check for bearing failure. If it does move back and forth make sure it isn't a ball joint that is bad. You can also try spinning the tire and listen for grinding noises etc.. You should also be noticing some steering issues if you have bad components in the front end.

 

you want to hear what a bad u joint and a hub bearing on its way out sound like?
http://www.flickr.com/photos/29654534@N05/3556777493/

 

Thanks for the help. I lifted the tire and did what speeddemon said. The tire did not move in and out. I know the u-joint is bad. Hopefully I will be replacing it in a day or two. I'm hoping that this will fix my problem.