front end noise CAN NOT FIND!!

99 toyota tacoma has a rattling noise that starts around 25 mph. It's been doing it for a couple years, and after several attempts, no luck. It's progressively getten worse and now to the point I can't stand it. It's got a tru track locker, I've replaced both cv axles, front left wheel bearing, pulled out the drivers side needle bearing and replaced with a bushing from east coast gear supply, both front u - joints in front drive shaft and still nothing!! It sounds like it's coming from the drivers side, but a little tough to be 100%. Noise goes away when put into 4x4 also. It's got automatic lock in as well..I've checked the pinion bearing in front end, the bearing in the transfer case, and shook everything I can get my hands on. The best I can describe the noise is it sounds like a REALLY worn out bearing with lots of slop. Also drained the fluid to check for metal, no metal, and added locker additive when I refilled it. Checked Trans fluid and transfer case fluid. Both good. Any ideas???

 

Well, best I can suggest is get some audio & post it up, you can "describe" the noise all day long but actual audio works best...

 

Kinda sounds like possibly the water pump. Mine sounded like that and got progressively worse over time. But you say it goes away in 4wd so that couldn't be it.

 

maybe it's like the cat heat shield the other guy posted about yesterday.

 

I'll try to get some audio so yall can hear it. No mechanic has been able to nail it yet. Should be a bounty on this one! Ha

 

You need to put it on a car lift and have someone stay in the cab and get it up to speed to where it makes the noise and locate it.