hmmwv15

I just took them off yesterday to make sure my wheel bearings were tight (which they were loose, so I tightened them, and the noise still continues) and the hubs are functioning properly so they should definitely be unlocked.

hmmwv15

This is driving me crazy....

4Crawler

iTrader: (3)

With the front tires in the air, grab the tire at 6 and 12 o'clock and see if you can feel any play as you push/pull on the tire. Then repeat at 3 and 9 o'clock and see if there is any play. If felt vertically, then it is likely the knuckle bearings. If horizontally, then there may be something loose in the steering; tie rod ends, or the ball/socket joints on the drag link.

hmmwv15

Thank you. 4Crawler to the rescue once again.

hmmwv15

Definitely some vertical play, so would it be a good idea to dismantle and check them out, or could I just snug them up and get away with it that way?

4Crawler

iTrader: (3)

Unless the steering arm and the bottom caps are loose, tightening the nuts on them will do nothing to make the bearings tighter. Bearing pre-load is set by the shims under the arms/caps:
- http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTri...arWindow.shtml

hmmwv15

Okay, I'll take this as a calling to rebuild the axle. I guess I need to load up all my scrap metal for some cash! Thanks, Sean