I know this is a common topic but i can't find a similar discussion thread describing what's happening on mine. 96 xj all original, 243k, have owned since 05.

the sound is kind of like a whirling sound that gets louder during acceleration above 25-30 mph. it's not grinding, whining, clunking or anything like that..mainly like a whirling sound. it occurs when driving straight and turning right but if you just make a sharp turn of the wheel (no matter the speed) or while going around a curve, it goes away. its been there as long as i can remember, maybe it's just gradually gotten louder.

the only work done on the rear was replacing the right side axle seal. any thoughts why the noise would disappear while turning left? really appreciate any input. thanks.

 

Sounds like a wheel bearing.

 

thanks for the reply..was wondering about the wheel bearings. would it be the drivers side rear, you think, since it disappears during a left turn and the load is mainly on the right side?

 

Or the opposite because you load the bearing and all the slack is taken up?

 

making me think.. so the slack in the bearing is what could be causing the noise (allowing the bearings to around or out of place..and since the slack is taken up with the load, the bearings are stationary and the sound disappears?

 

Quick learner....

Put the rear end on jack stands and rotate wheels?

 

good description..thanks for taking the time. i have a couple days off over the next couple days and am planning on doing some investigation..will update as i go. thanks again.

 

Same noise?

 

He just needs to get it up in the air and find out what the noise is.

He described it very well.