1998 Ford Explorer whine noise

Tiny
JOHN HO10
  • MEMBER
  • 1998 FORD EXPLORER
  • 6 CYL
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 137,000 MILES
Have a whine noise like a tuning fork, that seems to be coming from the right (passenger) side. Whine increases with speed, but NOT RPM related. When in neutral, coasting the whine is evident.

The differential, transfer case and trans fluids have been replaced per Ford's recommendations.

Could it be tire related? They're over 10 yrs old, Goodyear wranglers.

Drive line problems, pinion gear? Or hub bearing? There is no grinding or rumbling.

Just a noticeable whine. Driving me nuts and not changing in frequency. HELP!
Wednesday, September 3rd, 2014 AT 5:04 AM

5 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,755 POSTS
Does the noise change when you make turns? As far as the tires, wow, 10 years. Are they worn evenly?
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Wednesday, September 3rd, 2014 AT 5:11 AM
Tiny
JOHN HO10
  • MEMBER
  • 46 POSTS
All tires are evenly worn. I rotate every oil change and maintain proper inflation. I replace and maintain suspension parts as needed. Shocks have been replaced every 55M miles.
The whirring/whine is noticeable only while driving straight at 20-25mph plus. Not noticeable on turns as speed is diminished.
Hope that helps/ Thanks.
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Wednesday, September 3rd, 2014 AT 10:35 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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This is a tough one without being there. Tell me, have you checked the brakes to make sure a sensor isn't touching? Have you checked the backing plate behind the rotors to make sure they are not rusted or damaged and touching the rotors?
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Wednesday, September 3rd, 2014 AT 7:51 PM
Tiny
JOHN HO10
  • MEMBER
  • 46 POSTS
Yes. I've checked that already. Other suppositions?
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Thursday, September 4th, 2014 AT 9:42 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,755 POSTS
Based on what you have told me, I feel it has something to do with a hub bearing.
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Thursday, September 4th, 2014 AT 6:07 PM

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