Front end noise problem! need help onthe road!

[millerservices]

i have a 2000 ford f250 powerstroke, i have a weird noise coming from the front end but it only does it under one circumstance. The hubs are non electric hubs, brand new warn hubs. the problem is when im driving down the road and the hubs Are DISENGAGED(on auto) and its not all the time it makes the noise over a bump. turning, or going strait even. but it sounds like its trying to engage the 4x4, it makes a noise like a ratchet does. it seems like the axle is spinning in the bub and sounds like that. NOTE when i lock the hubs in the noise never occurs and never makes a noise. does anyone know what thats indicating is bad or wrong.

[drewbarnhart]

I need the answer on this one also.

[NoRalPh]

Classic Bad Needle Bearings.....

Cheap & easy fix, nothing all that bad is going on (like it sounds ) for now, just engage the hub that's making the noise and you bypass the need for those needle brgs to turn.

When you have time, pull that hub apart and replace them (do both sides 'cause, if one's bad the others not far behind).

Here's a link on keeping them lubed but you'll get the idea of what you need to do to replace them. You just "tap" them out of the hub once apart. -> Welcome to guzzle's 4x4 Needle Bearing Maintenance Web Page

The definitive test of those bearings is when you Lock the hub IN, the noise goes away. (Oh Yea, if you have Manual Hubs you don't need to buy those O-Rings & seals)

[Mochaman]

First before doing what NoRalPh suggested. Did you just use the vacuum 4x4 instead of manually locking them in? Make sure that everything reseated. It will continue to make a growling noise and you can even feel it back through the steering wheel until it does. Never hurts to maintain the front hubs though.