2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission front end noise when turning left at slow speeds

[WyattEarp]

Hey guys im not sure what to make of this but here's what im getting, when turning *left* at slow speeds roughly 15-25mph im getting what sounds like a grinding or growling noise from the front end or engine compartment.

Im not that hard on this truck at all but was wondering if someone could help shed some light on this noise or whatever it is.

The truck has right at 82000miles, Could this be the power steering pump? But it doesn't do it while turning to the *right*, anyways any and all advice or opinions are encouraged. BTW the truck was inspected in Dec, and i looked the brakes over myself while it was in the shop and no sign of any brake problems, seems to be braking properly.

 

[Joe G.]

You might want to put the front up on stands and rotate the tires by hand. It is possible that the problem is an axle U-joint. If the steering is straight ahead then the wheels should turn smoothly. If the steering is hard over then when you rotate the wheels you would feed something wrong. That's easy to check and doesn't take long.

 

[STripp]

yep, I agree. I just replaced mine. Napa has them for around 25 bucks a pop. You will need a 1 11/16 socket t get the front discs of the axels. if you place your hand on the joint and move the tire slightly forward and back you can feel a slight lost motion in the worn ones. any slop at all is too much.