CV Joint or Ball Bearing or both?

[Ranger_Mike1]

I'v got an '04 Ranger 4X4 that has a metal grinding noise coming from my passenger front wheel, it occurs in forward and reverse regardless of speed. There is also an occasional popping from same wheel well during turns. I've checked the cv boots and there are no tears and no grease leaking, and I haven't been able to locate (based on a basic visual inspection) any metal shavings to locate the grinding. How would I be able to tell if the cv joint and/or the ball bearings need replacement, or could this be something else.

 

[srteach]

Put that side on a jack stand. Grab the 6 and 12 position with your hand and wiggle it. If it moves, wheel bearings. Then check at the 3 and 9 positions. If it moves, wheel bearings or tie rod ends. Any play (loose movement) needs fixed.

 

[Ranger_Mike1]

Unfortunaly its loose both ways. Would it be worth it to replace the hub assembly, I got 150k miles on the truck plus the noise was very severe, or are the bearings easy enough to check and replace?

 

[hopster]

sounds like you need a wheel bearing. better check the other side while your at it. check your ball joints a tie rods. since your already gonna be in there replacing that stuff would be easier while your there.