Weird noise when turning

**flybird** · 05-19-2012, 08:57 PM

My dodge ram forum doesnt have an andriod app like my ls1 forum does so im just being lazy and asking you guys.

When turning the wheel(left or right) also in motion (doesnt make sound when at a stop) it makes a weird noise, not the normal low power steering whine noise. Like something is not getting lubricated and metal and gears are rubbing.

Kind of like when your bathtub is wet and you put your finger in the tub and rub your finger against it. That is a very similar noise to what I am having.

I did notice my rack n pinion is leaking a tad bit on the left side.

**Too Fast** · 05-20-2012, 05:41 AM

Wheel bearing bad.

Does the noise get louder the faster you drive, then no noise sitting still? And when you load the vehicle turning L or R the noise changes? Not much change when using the brakes? If so, classic wheel bearing failure. It's a humming sound.

**flybird** · 05-20-2012, 07:36 AM

^^ yes.. Too all questions you asked.

Sound changes, gets louder, only makes noise on underload, and no noise at a stand still.

**flybird** · 05-20-2012, 07:55 AM

Except for there is no noise (that I can hear of) when im driving straight, just when the tires have a load on them when turning either way.

**Too Fast** · 05-20-2012, 10:37 AM

Still sounds like a wheel bearing. Sometimes they won't make too much noise until loaded, like when turning and the vehicle is moving. Sounds like one or both of the front bearings are going out.

Most of these are a sealed unit, meaning it is the hub/bearing assembly ($$). Some of the newer Dodges come with the bearing unit installed in the steering knuckle only ($$$$). Each $ means roughly $150. I'm talking to get it fixed at a repair shop, not DIY.

**cammed goat** · 05-20-2012, 10:37 AM

I agree on the wheel bearing being the culprit. The front wheels/axles are flexing under the load of the vehicle being steered.

**flybird** · 05-20-2012, 11:21 AM

Looked up on ebay, $60 part. Whats the danger if not replaced quickly? Bc this noise just came in 2days ago. And I just had prom so $$ is low.

**cammed goat** · 05-20-2012, 11:26 AM

If it just started, you should be fine for a little while...BUT DON'T LET THIS SIT. The bearing could either seize up or contact the brakes, either way, if you're driving...NOT GOOD.

**flybird** · 05-20-2012, 11:30 AM

Alright, well thanks steve & rich. Appriciate it. Ill get this fixed within the next 30 days.(pay day)

**cammed goat** · 05-20-2012, 11:40 AM

Give a holler if you need anything else.

**flybird** · 05-20-2012, 12:10 PM

Update:
Okay guys, got the truck jacked up.

It wasnt the front.. Its the back tires, both rear bearings are shot. Kinda sucks how both are out. there is play in both rear wheels

**cammed goat** · 05-24-2012, 05:11 PM

It could be axle bearings or pinion bearing. When I was a parts driver, years ago, the B150 van I drove had the pinion bearing go while I was taking a turn. I looked underneath to see if anything was rubbing, but no. Had to drive the van to a shop my job had an account with and they had to replace the pinion bearing, pinion and ring gear. Plus the gear oil looked like mud. My boss yelled at me and when he called the mechanic who worked on the van, the mechanic gave my boss hell for neglecting his vehicles.

**0rion** · 05-24-2012, 05:56 PM

attack of the dodge rear end. Almost everyone I know that has a dodge truck has the rear bearings fail. Sorry to hear about your misfortune. Good luck with it.