Drive Line Noise
Asked by Spyder_7382 Jan 19, 2017 at 09:42 AM about the 2006 Dodge RAM 2500 Laramie Quad Cab 4WD
Question type: Maintenance & Repair
The truck makes a dry bearing noise (High Pitched Grinding Howl) that accelerates and decelerates with the truck speed. In 4x4 or 2wd the noise is constant and only varies with truck road speed.
4 Answers
Could be a wheel bearing, a problem with the differential, a rock stuck in between a disc brake shield and rotor, bad u-joints, something rubbing against something or the transfer case. If it were mine I would first check the transfer case for fluid level and condition. Then I would get it up on a lift and run it in gear listening for where the noise is coming from.
Spyder_7382 answered 7 years ago
I hit the send key prematurely. I had it up on stands last night and removed the inspection plate. perfect wear pattern on the gear set. Nothing loose. rotated wheels and pried for bearing movement. found upper and lower ball joints on right side need replaced but not bad. T-Case fluid is full and new. I see from other posts that it could be associated with a the front drive shaft. I will pull that tonight and drive it. if that fails, I will lift the truck on jack stands and get out the stethoscope... :)
Keep in mind that a wheel bearing may not show up when the vehicle is up on jack stands. Keep us posted on what you find.
Spyder_7382 answered 7 years ago
Okay here we go, shot gunning parts at my truck..loll... I pulled the front drive shaft, definitely needs a rebuild or replacement. I still hear noise but, not as pronounced as before. Its is a lower toned noise and just sounds like a dry bearing. I am going to do the wheel bearing and see what comes of that. if its still there, I'll open up the T-case and see. this was a company truck i bought. I know the drivers were a abusive on things so I don't mind spending a few dollars to have peace of mind. I bought the truck for next to nothing so I am not into it for much at all. I'll let you know what I find. I am leaning towards a T-case rebuild... Will see.