06 Sport - Engine noise just got louder after tow

[jon55nj]

I have an 06 Sport V6 with 195k miles on it. I just towed a boat last weekend 350 miles. Boat + trailer weigh about 3500 lbs so I should have been ok there.

About half way there I recalled things getting a bit louder but figured it was because I was going about 65 mph in (4). RPM's were usually just over 2500 while towing.

After unhooking and driving around town, the 4R was noticeably louder than before. It shifts fine, I feel no difference in power, and I see no other performance difference, but it is definitely louder. It seems even more exaggerated when I am driving and take my foot of the gas... it sounds like the RPM's are really high - even though they are not - at around 2000 when highway driving. But the extra noise is there at all speeds.

Last night I picked up my buddy and he thought I had the car out of overdrive by mistake so it is definitely not in my head.

Any ideas before I have it looked at? Thanks.

 

[NJshadow93]

This is EXACTLY the noise I had when my front wheel bearings were on their way out. Any vibrations? I had no vibration until a few days later as it got progressively worse. Have they ever been replaced?

 

[BlackWorksInc]

When driving the truck with it making that noise, trying and weave in your lane a bit. If the noise goes away or is reduced significantly when you're turning/weaving it indicated bearing failure. The reason is that the bearings have basically worn excessively in the "straight ahead" position where they see the majority of the stress, when you turn the wheel it off-loads the stress from that center line and relieves the bearing a little.

 

[jon55nj]

I think you guys nailed it. I forgot about it and failed to mention it, but when I am going around a rolling corner the noise goes away. I am somewhat relieved that the issue was not towing related and was merely a coincidence.
I really appreciate the feedback.

Overall the repair isn't too bad either. I will come back and post after the bearings are replaced to verify for everyone. Thank you.

 

[NJshadow93]

I think you guys nailed it. I forgot about it and failed to mention it, but when I am going around a rolling corner the noise goes away. I am somewhat relieved that the issue was not towing related and was merely a coincidence.
I really appreciate the feedback.

Overall the repair isn't too bad either. I will come back and post after the bearings are replaced to verify for everyone. Thank you.

If you DIY, check this out:

Blue Pit Bearings | 2003-2012 Toyota 4Runner Complete Front Hub Wheel Bearing

I've done it, including many other members, and the install is very easy and all the parts are there (hub, bearing, seals, etc) and fully assembled. Just bolt it on.