Big time cab noise. Sounds like I'm runnin' 40s...but I'm not..

[Roll_HEMI_Tide]

I'm getting a loud, "humming" noise from my truck. It started a couple of months ago, but I didn't really give it much thought. As I keep driving, the louder it gets. Sounds like I'm running 40" Swampers. It doesn't really change with RPM, but it does change with the speed of the truck. The faster I go, the louder it gets. When I brake, it changes to real deep humming sound.

I'm fairly sure it's not tire noise, I'm running stock-size Goodyears with less than 12,000 miles on them.

Tires, brakes, front-end, rear-end...any ideas?

 

[Hemi450hp]

How long has it been since you rotated the tires? This sounds just like tire noise. Even if they have been rotated on schedule, check to make sure they are wearing evenly. If you rub your palm across the tire, is it completely smooth, or can you feel bumps along the way?

 

[Roll_HEMI_Tide]

I'm due for a rotation pretty soon. They look to be wearing evenly and feel smooth. They are bottom-tier Goodyears (LS2). I really hate them...driving in the rain is a terrible experience.

I Google'd my symptoms, came across a post from a guy with similar symptoms. Turned out to be something in the rear-end. Which reminds me, I do get a shimmy/vibration from the rear after accelerating from a complete stop.

 

[LB3711]

wheel bearings I bet

 

[ATRepair]

I had a wheel bearing go out on my 2000 Jimmy a few years ago and it made a mud tire growling sound.

 

[bloombloom88]

When my pinion bearing gave out in my old explorer, the sound your describing is exactly what I heard.

 

[Blackram]

Is it coming from one area in particular, front, rear, drivers side, passenger side? Does it change when you turn the vehicle one direction or the other?

 

[MegaMouseGW]

Either wheel bearings or the pinion bearing I would guess.

 

[chedched]

Either wheel bearings or the pinion bearing I would guess.

YEP. These trucks are known for both.