JeremyXJ

What is this noise? U-joint? Wheel bearing? Brake pad?

Click the video below:

http://vid368.photobucket.com/albums...81CBF4E2B5.mp4

I have a new set of pads and rotors on the way because they need to be replaced pretty badly. I suspect it's something else, though. No vibrations, but just a weird squeak at low speeds. I jacked the front end up and couldn't find any play in the wheels, so nothing's obviously loose or worn out. That doesn't necessarily mean that everything's alright, though.

DeltaOP4

Video isn't working for me??? It sounds like your brakes to me though. If it were a u-joint it'd be a clicking noise, and you would be able to wiggle the axle shaft a little. If it were a wheel bearing that's usually accompanied with a humming noise at speed, that'll go away when you turn then come back when you're going straight.

XJRed96

Video not working.

did you just pad slap the brakes? no rotors?

JeremyXJ

The video worked on my phone, but not on my computer. Something's up with Photobucket. I changed the link, so it might work now.

Anyway, at a certain point in the rotation of my driver's side front wheel, there's a creaking noise. Sounds a little like metal on metal. This morning, while pulling into my parking spot at work, it made couple of loud clicks with the wheels turned. I'm pretty sure that indicates it's a u-joint. I ordered new pads and rotors, but they won't be here for about a week. My pads are shot, so I thought the creak might be the pads dragging or something similar, but I think it's the u-joint at this point.

BruceB

I think it is the pads. I would do that before swapping out other parts unless you just want to do maintenance on your Jeep.

JeremyXJ

The creaking does sound like a dragging pad, but the clicks sounded like a u-joint. Honestly, with 235K on it, I don't see any harm in replacing the joints, hubs, and bearings while I have it apart.

DFlintstone

Move a wheel back and forth, (with the other on the ground), (in 4 WD/park, and check for ANY play in the Ugo-int. Ain't spellcheck grand? Also a bad one might heat up.

Job isn't any fun, so be sure.

JeremyXJ

The steering wheel is now wiggling side to side when I turn while driving. I'm positive it's the u-joint now. I ordered some Spicer joints, Timken bearings/hubs, and EBC rotors and pads. Might as well replace it all while it's disassembled (except ball joints). I hate doing things twice.