1995 K1500 Grinding Noise

jscoburn · June 28, 2003

Hello. I have a '95 Chevy K1500 Z-71. For the past several thousand miles, I have noticed a whirring grinding noise that "seems" to be coming from under the floorboard near the four wheel drive shifter. When I start out in the morning, I don't hear the noise. But, it usually starts after getting a few miles down the road. It is especially noticeable at low speeds. The noise is now getting louder. This is the absolute first problem I have ever had with this truck. Any ideas on what the problem might be are greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Lance Link · June 28, 2003

My guess would be the front hubs- check 'em out.

02 Silverado Z71 · June 28, 2003

Yes, he is correct. If your front wheel hub/bearing assemblies check out OK, then I would go and dig into the front differential. I have seen a few of them with noisy chain/sprockets; even saw a few with noisy bearings. Let us know what you find.

jscoburn · June 29, 2003

Thanks to both of you for your quick replies. I will do as suggested. I'll let you know what happens.

topo4u2 · June 29, 2003

Hi jscoburn,

Firstly let me congradulate you on owning a very nice truck! I have one myself.

Now your problem. These trucks are known for leaking front differentials. First check the fluid level in diff and transfer case. If the front hubs are bad you should hear a noticable sound diff when you turn the wheels from side to side. Does it make the noise in 4WD? Is it worse? The vehicle may even be in 4WD. I had a solenoid go bad at the shop and left the truck in full time drive.

Anyway check these things out and let us know.

MD

jscoburn · June 30, 2003

Hey Topo4u2:

I just went for a drive and tried the things you mentioned. As soon as the noise started, I turned left onto another street. The noise is the same. No difference. The same can be said for turning left. I also put it in four wheel and the noise is still there. I don't think it is stuck in four wheel since it drove a little different. Could it be the front u-joint? Don't you dare mention differential....

Thanks, John

topo4u2 · July 2, 2003

Hi John,

Sorry took so long to reply. I would not put my money on front bearings by the sound of it. You might want to check that front diff oil level? Usually if a front joint goes you will get a clicking noise on turns. You just might want to have a look and see if that driveshaft from the transfer case to front diff is turning. Just to verify its in 2wd.

It could be a driveshaft ujoint but doubt that cause if it was making that kinda of noise you should be getting a vibration too.

Check that out and let us know.