Strange noise after front axle rebuild

[JackTHEtripper]

I searched several threads for someone who had a similar noise but couldn't find any description that matched. I checked the threads lightly since I have about 45 min of free time/day so if I missed it, forgive me.

I had the front rebuilt with Longfield Birfs and axel(I bought the kit from cruiser outfitters). I also ordered the complete overhaul kit with all seals, gaskets, bearings(timken), trunnion bearing, etc. The sound only lasts for about 1 second and it happens after I've driven between 1/2 mile and a mile. The closest thing I can compare it to is the sound of a nascar impact wrench but not as loud or high pitched. Another way I would describe it is if you mixed the sound of driving over steel grating and the sound of hitting the rumble strip on the side of the highway/interstate.

Any suggestions or help would be greatly appreciated. My "guy" is stumped.

Also its a FZJ80 with a 2" OME lift, 33" Pirelli MTs, 170k miles

 

[Cruiser804]

Fart?

 

[JackTHEtripper]

Fart?

A high pitched one maybe

 

[Tools R Us]

Dry spindle bushing, is the grease level correct, ~1/2 full?

 

[JackTHEtripper]

Dry spindle bushing, is the grease level correct, ~1/2 full?

He said the grease levels were correct but i’ll mention that suggestion anyway. Can’t hurt.

 

[Rusty Marlin]

The spindle bushing where the outer birfield shaft passes though the wheel bearing spindle needs to be greased during assembly or it will growl like what you describe.

 

[Tools R Us]

The spindle bushing where the outer birfield shaft passes though the wheel bearing spindle needs to be greased during assembly or it will growl like what you describe.
View attachment 2127880

If the grease level is correct, the bushing will self grease. If the hub seal, that bolts on with the spindle, is dry it can make noise.

 

[JackTHEtripper]

The spindle bushing where the outer birfield shaft passes though the wheel bearing spindle needs to be greased during assembly or it will growl like what you describe.
View attachment 2127880

Good information. This will help so he/I will know where to concentrate our attention on.

 

[JackTHEtripper]

If the grease level is correct, the bushing will self grease. If the hub seal, that bolts on with the spindle, is dry it can make noise.

I’ve only put about 50 miles on it since the rebuild. Assuming the grease level is correct, how long or how many miles should it take to self grease? Seems like it wouldn’t hurt to just go in and manually do it to rid that god awful noise and let the self greasing action do the rest?

 

[greentruck]

I’ve only put about 50 miles on it since the rebuild. Assuming the grease level is correct, how long or how many miles should it take to self grease?
SNIP

It's mainly about getting the hub good and warm so the grease flows easily. 50 miles all at once would probably do it, but 50 miles stop and go in the city might never get warm enough.

 

[JackTHEtripper]

It's mainly about getting the hub good and warm so the grease flows easily. 50 miles all at once would probably do it, but 50 miles stop and go in the city might never get warm enough.

That’s probably part of the problem. All 50 miles were city, stop and go driving. Maybe I just need to hit the road tomorrow and hope it sorts out.

 

[Tools R Us]

Remove the plug, look in the hole, is there grease on the bushing?

 

[JackTHEtripper]

Remove the plug, look in the hole, is there grease on the bushing?

I'll do this after work or this weekend. Thanks.