Ugh...Metallic Grinding Noise...Help Please.

A forum for the legendary Nissan Pathfinder and Infiniti QX4.
Ron Burgundy
Posts: 318
Joined: Fri Jun 12, 2009 1:54 am
Car: 1999.5 Nissan Pathfinder 3.3 LE
Location: La Habra, CA

Post

I recently replaced both front rotors, pads on both sides, and replaced and repacked both inner and outer bearings.

Heres where we're at now:

1. Getting a very slight grinding (metal on metal) noise when driving, (I can't seem to hear it at higher speeds so it's either drowned out or just not there). Supposedly, there should be some noise when breaking in these pads, but honestly is just seems like the material that these pads are made of. Brand new it seemed like bare metal on metal.

2. Getting a very loud grinding (metal on metal) noise when turning in either direction but not when going straight; and we're not talking lane changes - full turns. I changed the rotors a few days apart and only really started hearing it after I did the second one. HOWEVER, that doesn't mean it wasnt there before. I can't quite pin-point where its coming from but its not pretty. With very little research, here are some possibilities i've found:

- Bad CV Axle
- Rotor Rubbing on Dust Shield
- Bad Hub Assembly
- Bad Bearings
- Rotor/Pad Replacement Needed.

Now before we all jump to accusing myself of performing faulty work, look into it and give me your honest (educated) opinion! I'm happy to answer any questions that may help diagnose the issue. That's not to say it might not be my fault, i'm just saying let's not jump to conclusions!

Thank you in advance!


tbsbiker2
Posts: 67
Joined: Mon Mar 09, 2009 5:36 am
Car: 2001 SE Pathfinder

Post

Hi, im assuming You have 4x4 not 2wd. There is a definite process for setting initial bearing loads to required torque and then backing it off and then locking it with the outer ring . If You don't recall setting the wheel bearing torque upon assembly (something like 70 lbs) and then backing it off again it's possible your bearings (bearing) never seated properly. There is a special tool for doing this although some work around it...I had a service station Screw this up on an old 94 hardbody and I experienced the same thing you described and toased a set of bearings within a week thus leading to doing my own work on my 01. Go grab your wheels and pull hard on them and see If You get some movement. If you did all that properly then could be anything.good luck!


Return to “Nissan Pathfinder Forum / Infiniti QX4 Forum”