my stock 96, x forest service rig, has a prominent grinding sound in the front end. when I turn to the right it sounds like something is rubbing, I checked and nothing is rubbing. sometimes it makes the noise when I am going real slow forwards, but usually it is when I turn to the right. i put additive in and checked the fluid. it was a little low but the noise is still there allthough not AS bad.

any ideas?

 

Is it a 4X4?

If so it might be the front wheel hub(s). Jack up a wheel so it is off the ground and then grab the tire - try to "rock" the tire/wheel back and forth and up and down. If you have any movement in the wheel your hubs are gone.

 

If it is a 4x4 check the u joints on each end of the axle.

 

wheel bearings... i had mine go out on me last spring...what an awful sound...get it checked and replaced before it destroys other components like tie rod ends and axle u-joints

 

I found this thread and it describes my problem to a T. I had my truck up on the rack today and I could wiggle the front left tire. Side to side, I know is because the tie rod ends are bad and need replaced. However, I can wiggle it up and down as well. I suspect it is the front bearings and/or hub.

BTW, this is a 99 2500 diesel 4x4. How big of a job is it to change the bearings and/or hub?

 

Try doing a search for information on the hub replacement. It has been discussed on this site many times in great detail with alot of good tips.