Two months ago I purchased a 1997 4runner limited with 197K. I know have 198K on it, and am happy with the 4runner but I'm wondering if I might have an issue with the wheel bearings.
I hear a thumping noise when driving. I can also feel it through the steering wheel. It starts around 50mph and increases in frequency with speed. I seem to hear it less on better roads / interstate highways. I do notice an increase in sound when I hit a bump. Turning left seems to marginally decrease the noise.
Recently I have replaced the steering rack bushings (I had steering play), and the lower ball joints (was told they were bad when I went for a front end alignment).
The front tires are not the greatest and will need to be replaced this year.
I also tested for play by jacking up the front end, and trying to move the front wheels East - West and North - South It does not seem like there is any play when I manually move the wheels.
Here is a youtube video of the sound, it starts around 19 seconds into the video. Any thoughts / comments would be appreciated.
Video of the noise while driving:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P5JL...ature=youtu.be
Thank you.
andy