2016 F-150 4x4 Grinding when letting off the gas

[Jim Oaks]

I bought a used 2016 F-150 4x4 SCREW (with the T-case that has 4A) on 07/14/2020 that had 65,000 miles on it. Tonight I was on the interstate and when I left off the gas there was a grinding sound that seemed like it came from the front end after I let off the gas. Only lasted a second or two.

On my way home, I left the stereo off so I could listen for noises. I heard what I thought was increasing wind noise (Don't know any other way to explain it...) and when I let off the gas to move to the left lane, I got the brief grinding sound in the front again after I let off the gas. At least I think it's in the front end. It's forward of the driver seat.

Wondering if it could be an IWE, but it doesn't make any noise on acceleration. I'm also curious as to know what was creating the noise that I confused with increase wind noise that stopped when I let off the gas peddle.

I tried to recreate it as I was going down the interstate, but couldn't.

No warranty, and I haven't even made this first payment on this damn truck yet.

Anyone heard of anything like this before on the F-150? I've been searching online, but it seems like everything I find is about grinding on acceleration.

 

[Dirtman]

No idea if this is relevant but the only truck I ever had that made a grinding noise when letting OFF the gas was a dodge that had a bad TCC solenoid. The clutch would get stuck and then shudder/grind for a few seconds before releasing whenever you took your foot off the gas. And obviously it only happened after the TCC had engaged so had to be cruising a bit first.

Probably not your problem but your description just reminded me exactly of that dodge.

 

[Snoranger]

Check the IWE solid vacuum lines... they like to crack right by the spring towers.

The other known issue with the IWEs are the check valves. I’ve never dealt with it, but you should look into it as I’ve heard it can cause grinding when they partially engage while driving.

 

[adsm08]

There is a TSB out on the 15-18 F-150s/Expeditions for a similar noise. You replace the vacuum check valve on the IWE line, check the rest of the system for leaks, then inspect the IWE engaging rings and bearings for any wear on the teeth.

Unplug the IWE control solenoid and see if your noise goes away.

 

[Curious Hound]

What is IWE?

 

[Snoranger]

What is IWE?

Integrated wheel end... Fords term for the vacuum hub/bearing on the f150s.

 

[Jim Oaks]

What is IWE?

Integrated Wheel End. Fancy term for automatic locking hub.

 

[adsm08]

Integrated Wheel End. Fancy term for automatic locking hub.

Well to be fair they are a fair bit more reliable than the other auto hub systems Ford tried.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

Integrated Wheel End. Fancy term for Fords latest attempt at an automatic locking hub.

FIFY

I was wondering how you made out with your Expedition. Any pics of the truck?

 

[Dirtman]

I never had an issues with the (auto/manual lock) hubs they used in the earlyish 2000s.

To be honest though I always just manually locked them so no idea if the "auto" part ever actually worked.

 

[Jim Oaks]

I added the Cattleman grill guard. Found it on Craigslist and repainted it. Also added a black toolbox behind the cab.

I chose it because it had leather seats making it easier to vacuum up my dogs hair, and an integrated brake controller and towing capacity to pull my camper.

 

[Snoranger]

View attachment 46252

I added the Cattleman grill guard. Found it on Craigslist and repainted it. Also added a black toolbox behind the cab.

I chose it because it had leather seats making it easier to vacuum up my dogs hair, and an integrated brake controller and towing capacity to pull my camper.

5.5’ bed? (It looks like it.)

Interested in a tonneau cover? I’ve got a Ford tri-fold vinyl tonneau cover from my ‘17... cheap.

 

[Ramcharger90]

@Jim Oaks check for loose plastic under the truck. Ive seen alot of newer F150's with plastic flapping around lately. Im sure its not the noise but it still bugs me.

 

[adsm08]

I never had an issues with the (auto/manual lock) hubs they used in the earlyish 2000s.

To be honest though I always just manually locked them so no idea if the "auto" part ever actually worked.

The Super Duty hubs, which you seem to be referencing, were pretty reliable as well.

In the era you called out the 1/2 ton chassis would have been using a vacuum actuated CAD unit. Those things broke all the time. My dad owned a 97 F150 for 6 years and had to have the CAD unit serviced almost every year for inoperative 4wd.

 

[Curious Hound]

The Super Duty hubs, which you seem to be referencing, were pretty reliable as well.

In the era you called out the 1/2 ton chassis would have been using a vacuum actuated CAD unit. Those things broke all the time. My dad owned a 97 F150 for 6 years and had to have the CAD unit serviced almost every year for inoperative 4wd.

I think I got this one.

CAD = Crappy Activation Device