Hello all, I just purchased a 2000 ford ranger 4x4 which needed some wiring and a new head. I finally took her out for a drive today and noticed a clicking noise from the right front wheel. The noise increases with speed. I jacked the truck up and checked for wheel bearing play. none. I also checked the axles out and The left Is new and the right doesn't have any play or look bad at all. I am stuck with what this could be and have stalled my plans for her until I fix this annoying issue. Any thoughts guys?

 

Brakes, wheel bearing, auto hub, or the axle. Maybe a nail in the tire. Only options I see.

How does the alignment look? Like this / \ or normal?

 

hmmm...cv joint?Is the noise worse with wheels turned and taking off in 4wd?If you hear the clicking under these conditions its probaly your culprit.Any grease leaking around the cv boot?Usually trail of grease will be up and around wheel well and possible along lower body behind wheel..good luck to ya...

 

update: Checked the tire for nails. none. Checked the offending sides axle with the new axle on the left side. Identical feel and play in every direction. I also took the truck for a spin and noticed the noise does not start until I have driven for a 1/4 mile or so, then it is on constant. I also jacked up the truck and checked the bearing for play by wiggling the wheel in every possible way. Totally tight no slack. I'm lost.

Any ideas??

 

Brakes?

 

4x4 hub trying to engage? 2000 the Vacuum style, correct? check the hoses for leaks or cracks.

 

I just went through something similar. It drove me nuts for awhile. It sounded as though I was dragging a chain underneath. What it turned out to be was the front drive line assembly. It's much like a common CV joint and sounds the same when it's going bad.