Drive train howl = wheel bearings?

[craigfr]

I'm getting considerable "howl" at speed in my truck. It still runs/drives like a champ, so I'm figuring it must be the wheel bearings. Any experience with this? The noise has gotten worse after driving 600mi to Atlanta for the VT/Bama game last weekend.

It's a 2000 SR5 with 160k on the clock.

 

[Pikeman]

Could also be the Ring and Pinion. Check to see if you have diff fluid and condition it is in. You can do this by removing the fill plug and using your finger wipe the inside to check color and smell. If you are not able to get any fluid then you might have to drain and refill. If you drain make sure to check for signs of metal.

 

[glenyoshida]

I'm getting considerable "howl" at speed in my truck. It still runs/drives like a champ, so I'm figuring it must be the wheel bearings. Any experience with this? The noise has gotten worse after driving 600mi to Atlanta for the VT/Bama game last weekend.

It's a 2000 SR5 with 160k on the clock.

If you're getting a howl it's doubtful it's your wheel bearings. Much more likely that it's your differential. Did you have any kind of lateral impact on your front/rear axles prior to your 600 mi trip?

 

[Pikeman]

OK and when I said ring and pinion meant the gears or the carrier bearings, that is why I suggested the fluid check for signs of metal. Keep us posted once you find out what the problem is in your truck.