Hey Everyone, been around a while but haven't posted much. I have an 05 Dakota with 4.7 V-8 4X4 with 79 k miles. I have this groaning sound coming from the front end. I thought it was the tires so I replaced my original tires and the sound is still there. The sound is not a high pitch sound but a low groan sound like something is rubbing. The sound is less noticeable when I am turning the wheel to the right. The sound seems to be getting louder. If anyone knows what it might be I would sure appreciate it. Thanks.

 

Maybe wheel bearings?
You have 4x4, so you have CV joints, but usually if those go bad, they make a "popping" sound when turning.

 

My 06 4x4 Raider was doing this @ 40 mph, turned out to be the front drive shafts and bearings both lft and rt. Could also be frt diff. To check your shafts grab them and move back and forth to check for play, there should be none. Some times they make no noise to let you know. Also check your fan clutch and fan for play, this will make noise as well.

 

Is it possible you ran over a cat and he's stuck in your engine?

 

Looks like it is the left front bearing. No more groans coming from the front end. Looking forward to getting the truck back later today.

 

Thanks for letting us know the out come, now enjoy