Noise front left in 4wd - CV?

[glmoore0001]

I have a growling droning type noise in the left front only in 4WD. No noise in 2WD.
Noise does not increase during turns.
I am guessing CV joint?
Thanks... Gary

 

[MassHoe04]

I would say pretty good bet the noise has nothing to do with axles/CV joints...

Front drive axle shafts on our trucks are not free-wheeling at the hub in 2WD mode. The shafts would always be rotating, regardless of being in 2WD or 4WD modes.
The fact that you have a groaning noise when in 4WD and not in 2WD, would point to transfer case.

 

[MassHoe04]

Is it a severe growl or is this just a new vehicle that you are still getting used to what "normal" sounds like?

 

[Fless]

Could also be the front diff when it's engaged.

 

[glmoore0001]

No, it is for sure a growl. It could be the transfer case, but it sure sounds like it is in the left front. I'd think it was wheel bearing if it happened in 2wd also.

 

[B-train]

Can you jack it up or put it on a lift and listen to it in 2wd and then 4wd to eliminate road noise?

 

[rockola1971]

No, it is for sure a growl. It could be the transfer case, but it sure sounds like it is in the left front. I'd think it was wheel bearing if it happened in 2wd also.

I would inspect that hub bearing. In 4wd you are adding torque to the hub via the front diff in 4wd which changes the load on the front bearings substantially vs being in 2wd when they are just freewheeling with respect to the front diff.
To inspect hub, lift tire just high enough off the ground where you can rotate tire by hand. (Do this test in 2wd). Grab tire at 12oclock and 6 oclock position and rock tire inward and outward. If hub has susbtantial play you will feel it while rocking the tire. Also turn tire by hand and feel for any roughness as it is turning. Listen for any squeaks or growling too.
While you are down there I would inspect CV halfshafts for a torn boot and grease leaking out. I dont suspect a cv halfshaft considering your symptoms.

 

[OR VietVet]

What has been said AND can you record noise and post here?

 

[glmoore0001]

Ok. I like the wheel bearing theory, because it sounds like every wheel bearing failure I have ever had.
My Big Ole truck is in the shop and is supposed to be home soon. As soon as it gets here, I will idle the Tahoe and do some testing.
I will make sure to post again when I get to that point.
Thanks to all... Gary

 

[the highlander]

Did you ever figure this out?

Thanks