Noise noise noise

[skorpion]

Ok. I have a 2000 4runner SR5 4x4 with diff lock, AUTO. The truck has 176,000 on it and I am starting to hear noise coming from the wheels. Now from what I understand is that a good way to diagnose wheel bearings is to drive 55-60 and steer left to right and listen for tone changes, as the load shifts as turning the noise will die down. I seem to be experiencing the reverse, I still hear the noise in a straight line but when I turn at higher speeds the noise gets louder. The noise seems to be coming from the front, I have started noticing slightly hihger than normal paly in the steering wheel.

Any suggestions?

Also can does anyone know of a good write up with pictures on replacing front and rear wheels bearings.

 

[JeremyH]

The best way to diagnose a bad wheel bearing/unit bearing is to lift the vehicle up off the ground and put your hands at 12 and 6 o'clock on the tire and push/pull. If the tire moves, then your bearing is bad.

 

[skorpion]

I will give that a try.

What about the front. Any suggestions?

 

[JeremyH]

This might help you out with the front end:
Toyota 4WD Front-end Maintenance - ORN

 

[skorpion]

Thank you but it looks like this is from a mucj older toyota and the front end design is different. I am kind of an amateur therefore in order for me to do this I would have to have something specific for the 3rd gen vehicle.

I appreciate you posting this since you are the only one with suggestions.

 

[JeremyH]

Yeah, sorry that I cant provide specific info on the 3rd gen 4Runner....this is the first IFS vehicle I have owned and it has not required a wheel bearing swap. I have done plenty of them on solid axles....

 

[AF808fighter]

Now, if you put your hands 11-5 and and feel movement back and forth then your tie-rods should be looked at as well.