2007 Jeep GC Overland Diesel, AWD

Had a dull roaring noise develop in the front end a couple of weeks back on the drivers side. It has progressively gotten worse since. Mostly noticeable above 60km/hr.

Thought it was a wheel bearing. Replaced the bearing/hub assembly and noise is still there. Rotors and brake pads were replaced 5 months ago. There noise does not get better or worst when brakes are depressed, so I eliminated the brakes or warped rotor as the culprit.

Brought it to a shop. Without testing driving it at high speed, they diagnosed "choppy tires" and said I needed new tires. To be sure this was the case, I removed my summer tires and put on my winter ones (separate rims and tires) and took it for a test drive. Noise is still the same. So I have eliminated tires and wheels as the issue.

All of the suspension components appear tight.

Could it be the half shaft axle?

Any experience or suggestions would be helpful.

Thanks in advance.

Trevor

 

My vote will be internal bearings on the front diff, the diff is offset to the driver side which is why the noise comes from that side.

Max

 

Does it change volume or pitch when you use power or coast? If it does, it's probably the pinion bearings. If not, it might be the carrier bearings.

The CV axle joints will click on turns if they are worn.

The only way I know to check the differential is to put it up in a lift, running, and in 4WD. Then you can listen to it up close and personal. The only other thing it could be is if the ring and pinion backlash was set up too tight, it could be the gears are gauled. That can only be checked by opening it up.

 

It does not change pitch or volume under power or coasting. But is does not become apparent until around 50-60 km/hr. I'm gonna put it in the shop tomorrow. If it's related to differential bearings, it's out of my league for repairs. I'll let you know what I find out. Thanks