I have a really annoying whine, sounds a lot like loud tire noise while driving. I thought it was the front-passenger wheel bearing, but that wasn't the case. I was hoping it would be rear wheel bearings, but as far as I can tell, that's not it either. The sound occurs when the wheels are turning, at any speed, and the sound changes with change in speed. It's hard to tell, but my best guess is that it's coming from around the area where the transmission meets the driveshaft.

I've uploaded a video of the issue to YouTube:


2001 Ranger XLT Extended Cab w/ Automatic Transmission

 

I should note that by wheels are turning I mean the vehicle is moving. I've also try putting the truck into neutral and disabling overdrive, in both scenarios there is no change in the sound.

 

mhamel, i just joined the forum because I am having the same issue. 2001, 4x4 4.0 V6 engine. The whine gets loader and more high pitched the faster I go. While driving I slide into neutral and the sound is still there. I was thinking a wheel bearing or maybe the carrier bearing. I am hoping there is a fitting on the carrier bearing where I can add some grease to see if that will quiet things down. Runs good just worried something bad is about to happen so I would like to get what ever it is fixed before it breaks down on me.

 

I've never dealt with this type of issue, but I'm assuming by carrier bearing you mean there is a 2 piece driveshaft. I was actually hopeful that this was my issue as well. Turns out that I have a one piece driveshaft with no carrier bearing, and while that seems to be the preferred setup, I assume it means I have a bigger issue.

 

Have you checked the rearend oil level?

 

I have heard the same thing regarding a one piece driveshaft. If it is my carrier bearing I might check the difference between converting to a once piece vs repair costs. Well good luck. Let me know what you come up with and I will do the same.

 

the wife and kids were not in the truck at the time?don't know if there weight would have anything to do with it

 

Turned out to be the rear end. Nothing major though. Just needed the bearings replaced, cost me $450. Runs great and no more whining noise.