Alright well this might be a little hard to explain, so bear with me. I have some noise coming from the front/passenger wheel area on my 01 4runner. It is a metal on metal rubbing sound. It is not a constant sound. It only occurs when initially starting the truck and driving shortly after. Like maybe the first mile or so. It is most noticeable when turning, and can sometimes be very slightly heard when going straight. Initially I thought it would be something rubbing against the dust shield, because that is what it sounds like, but there is no sign of rubbing on the shield. It has been happening for a while and i just cant seem to figure out what is causing it. The noise sounds cyclic if that makes sense to anyone, like it rubs then pauses then rubs again etc.

I've checked the rotor and the dust shield a few times. They are untouched, so i dont think it could be coming from them rubbing anything. Could it possibly be a wheel bearing? maybe something to do with the automatic hubs? I'm honestly lost and don't know what else to do. I might try to record it and post it here, but i dont think it is loud enough.
Any help is appreciated.
Thanks,
Russell

Is there anything in the auto locking hub that could be making the noise? i put it in 4wd today and heard the noise more than just in 2wd. Does anyone have a diagram of the front hub assembly?

maybe you need to repack the Bearings in the front.

I've been chasing this ghost for quite some time, a year to be exact. It stopped for about 6 months then came back. Could be a number of things, mine was "rotational" as well. I'm doing the Tundra brake upgrade next so I'll check everything out when I'm in there. Good luck!

I thought i could have been the wheel bearing, but it isnt a constant sound. If it was a bearing going bad wouldnt it happen all of the time? it is very inconsistant. I recently replaced the front rotors and pads, but im not sure if it made the nosie before they were replaced or not because i had not previously driven it. If the bearings were going bad wouldn't the noise be constant?

Anyone know where i can find a FSM for a 01 4runner? preferably cheap/free...

Vthokie. Been experiencing the same exact problem you are. I just bought the truck a couple weeks ago and only hear it when leaving work in the afternoon. Does not seem to be affected by temp. but goes away after a mile or two. I have not heard it do this in four wheel drive, but will pay close attention the next time I do. BTW, mine seems to be Front Pass. side as well.

I was thinking wheel bearing also...but the intermitten part is throwing me off!

If a bearing re-pack will fix it, sounds easy enough. Ill keep my eye on this tread and let you know if I track the little a-hole sound down. HAHA.