For years I've noticed a loud friction-esk noise as the front tires turn in temps below 20. It disappears in about a half mile. I was previously told it was probably the front wheel bearings in cold, nothing to worry about. Annoying though.

Late this summer I installed manual hubs. A couple of days ago it got real cold here in PA, I didn't think too much of it when the sound reappeared. Last night I disengaged the hubs (basically I'd forgotten for about a wee.) This morning, no sound!

So, it seems the noise must be coming from the front driver's side axel, not the wheel bearings. My theory is that the axel grease in the inner or outer CV's must firm up under 20 degrees. Chalk up another advantage to installing Manual Hubs!!

Edit: Has anyone else had this experience? Is there anything I should be worried about? I would imagine synth. axel grease would fix the problem for those w/o manual hubs or those who want to keep their hub locked during the winter.

 

My guess would be the spindle bushing, check out these threads.
https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f2/groan-front-end-48479/
https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f2/2gen-4runner-screeching-grinding-noise-right-turns-only-47573/

 

I had the same problem with my '90 4Runner statrting about 10 years ago. Two stealerships told me it was the spindle bearings and that, although aggravating to the ear, there was no potential for damage. The vehicle has over 275,000 miles with no problems in the drive train.