Squeeling like noises while in motion

[Bobc]

I have a 99 tahoe 4x4 with 135K. When moving I have a squeeling noise that is directly related to the rotation of an axle, shaft or bearing. It has been getting louder and seems to be causing some very minor resistance/fricton to forward motion. Is also causing an occasional subtle grinding like noise at 60-70 MPH that sounds a bit like driving on a rumble strip, but much less pronounced. Fluids have been changed regulary in diffs, Trans (this occurs when rolling in nuetral as well, so unlikley trans related) and transfer cases. All U joints have been replaced too. Does not seem to be related to breaks either all of which are also new. Jacking front end and spining wheels causes no sounds and wheels seem firm on bearings.

Anyone have any of these symptoms before? Ideas ?

 

[Rick90467]

I have a 99 tahoe 4x4 with 135K. When moving I have a squeeling noise that is directly related to the rotation of an axle, shaft or bearing. It has been getting louder and seems to be causing some very minor resistance/fricton to forward motion. Is also causing an occasional subtle grinding like noise at 60-70 MPH that sounds a bit like driving on a rumble strip, but much less pronounced. Fluids have been changed regulary in diffs, Trans (this occurs when rolling in nuetral as well, so unlikley trans related) and transfer cases. All U joints have been replaced too. Does not seem to be related to breaks either all of which are also new. Jacking front end and spining wheels causes no sounds and wheels seem firm on bearings.

Anyone have any of these symptoms before? Ideas ?

You've covered most of my guesses, but I was wondering if you did the maintenance your self or not. If not, I would double check the fluid level in the rear end and repack the U-joints, but I believe they are sold prepacked these day's. Man that sure sounds like a U/CV joint.

 

[Bobc]

Drive Train noise and vibration

Thanks..., I have done most of the work myself except that the U-joint work which was done by others. The U-joints seem to be turning freely and are snug. The squeek/sqeeling noise comes and goes at will and tends to pulsate as if on one point of the 360 diameter of the rotation. There is definte friction though which is more troubling. My guess is front end, but hard to ID the noise source (even outside the truck). I had a locked caliper on left front about 20K ago and I am guessing that the excessive heat has caused the left CV joint to grease out somewhat and probably also heated up the wheel bearings on that side too.. just seems odd that I don't get any friction or bearing movement out of left front... its a mystery.. I hate to bring it somewhere, because I am sure they will find a bunch of things that it is not. Might just have to let it get worse to ID..