Low speen turning noise?

[teamspdm]

Hi all,

New bronco owner (79 XLT), and not so experienced with repairing trucks (though I'm pretty mechanical). Here's my problem: When maneuvering at low speed, such as turning from a stop sign or parking, the Bronco makes a non-metallic rubbing/creaking/groaning kind of sound. Sounds more like rubber on metal or something. I'm also getting some steering slop, so I'm wondering if maybe it's something to do with all those problematic bushings in the front end, or if it's something more. I realize it's hard to diagnose problems via the internet, but it's a pretty distinct sound so I thought maybe it was something common.

Thanks for any help!

 

[Justshootme84]

Does it sound like a power steering pump squeal, or more like a brake caliper dragging over the rotor? You might also have a wheel bearing going out. You ca ncheck that by jacking up each wheel, and checking for any slack up/don. in/out, etc.

 

[teamspdm]

Does it sound like a power steering pump squeal, or more like a brake caliper dragging over the rotor? You might also have a wheel bearing going out. You ca ncheck that by jacking up each wheel, and checking for any slack up/don. in/out, etc.

Right, doesn't sound like power steering squeal (at least not like my 76 dodge's miserable PS pump did). Sounds a bit like the sound the brakes (sometimes) make when you release them just enough to roll a tiny bit now that you mention it.

 

[teamspdm]

Right, doesn't sound like power steering squeal (at least not like my 76 dodge's miserable PS pump did). Sounds a bit like the sound the brakes (sometimes) make when you release them just enough to roll a tiny bit now that you mention it.

Come to think of it, it seems to be worse after driving for a while, I wonder if the brakes are just rubbing the tiniest bit, then as I drive they heat up, expand a bit, and the rubbing gets louder? I never really smell the burning brake smell though.....hmmm.