Drive train noise while in motion

[k3eaxk3eax]

The vehicle in question is 2004 Sporttrac with automatic and 4-wheel drive --- yes I know it's not a Ranger, but is either ranger-based or uses similar component.

The noise, I would describe, is a very soft clicking sound, varying with road speed and seemingly emanating from vicinity of the drive-axles or hubs -- possibly from both sides. The noise is not present with vehicle in reverse and moving backward.

Any suggestions about the possible cause or procedures fro further testing would be appreciated

Al

 

[adsm08]

Does it change when turning?

 

[k3eaxk3eax]

The noise is present in both straight ahead and in turning. The noise is NOT that of a bad CV joint.

Thanks for your interest.

Al

 

[adsm08]

Well wheel bearings were also on my mind.


Did you check to see if you got zip-tied?

 

[84bluebronco2]

Good ol' zip tie on the driveshaft. I gotta do that to someone soon....

 

[adsm08]

Also, which wheels do you have? Some rims will make a clicking noise as they age. Not sure they were ever put on Sport Tracs but some Rangers got them.

 

[k3eaxk3eax]

I've got to rule out the zip tie and wheel bearings as the cause because the noise is NOT present with the truck in reverse gear and going backward.

 

[k3eaxk3eax]

I also have to rule out rims as a cause for the same reason --- that being that the noise in not heard when moving backward.

 

[adsm08]

I've heard brake noises that only happen going forward. It was still the breaks.

It's very hard to track down noises over the web. Have someone drive it slowly while you listen around for the noise while walking beside the car.

 

[k3eaxk3eax]

Thanks Jim for reaching out to be helpful.

The noise is very definitely not brake related. Your suggestion about walking beside the truck and listening is a good one even the noise is at a rather low level at that that speed. Which reminds me to add that the sound level, and of course frequency, of the clicking increases with speed.

Also, there is very slight vibration in sync with clicking that is transmitted into the cab. I certainly hope that the transfer case is not the source. I've never encountered a bad wheel bearing that made noise only in the forward direction.

I'm tempted to place the truck on jack-stands and run it in gear.

Al

 

[k3eaxk3eax]

Has anyone encountered a drive-shaft with a bad universal joint that made noise only in the forward direction?

Al

 

[DRanger024]

Not personally but I dont see why that wouldnt be an option. Its possible that one of the needles could be broken or "flat spotted" and click... but then you would think it would do it in reverse too. My immediate thought was maybe something in the rear diff.. Broken gear maybe?

 

[gribly]

Does your abs kick in at low speed unnecessarily easily?

 

[k3eaxk3eax]

No the ABS does not kick-in unnecessarily. But if it did, what is your thinking?

Al

 

[exbass94]

Check the tires for nails.