Chasing the clanking noise.

[TH533]

1989 ford ranger 4x4 with manual front hub. I have a clanking noise coming from what seems to be the front passenger side axle area. It's in directed correlation to the wheel turning but seems to go away when I step on the brake. It seems to happen usually when I am turning the wheel. I thought it was brake caliper related so I raised the passenger side tire off the ground and when I rotate the tire back and forth it seems to make the noise. I removed the wheel and the caliper seems to be secure but the manual hub rotates quite a but and makes what seems to be the clank when the hub hits the wheel studs. Not sure how much play there is supposed to be and the driver side doesn't make the noise. Any suggestions on what it could be? Torqued the wheel back on and still makes the sound when rotating the tire.

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

Did you check wheel bearings?
Maybe the slide pins are loose? I don't know how but...
Are the brake pads seated properly?
Did you check the axle u-joint for play?
Look on the axle for signs of rubbing?

 

[TH533]

The pads seem to be seated well and since this is happening with the front hubs unlocked I don't think it's the axle u joints. It could b the wheel bearings tho I never thought that would make a clanking noise. And there is no side to side movement in the wheel. Like I said rotating the wheel back and forth makes the noise and it seems to come from the rotor area possibly a wheel bearing I suppose?

 

[TH533]

Found the culprit. Brake pad retention sprihg is weak and allowing the inner pad to rattle around.

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

Glad you found it and reported back.

Richard