My 2000 Silverado Z71 with a 4" Fabtech lift chirps the tires when turning, both on the gas and coasting, and it also chirps the tires when I hit pot holes. I replaced the front axles today with the longer NNBS ones thinking that was the issue, but the problem is still there. It will also make a loud metallic bang occasionally when I hit a speed bump, sounds like it is coming from the front end. Inner and outer tie rods are brand new Moog.

What could cause this? The differential? Any suggestions of how to rule things out?

Video of chirping 2000 silverado z71 front wheels chirping in 2wd - YouTube

Photo of truck:



Thanks for the help!

 

Probably something in the front diff binding.

Hows your alignment??? Have you had it checked recently?

 

What typically binds? Eaiser to replace the whole diff with a pick-a-part one? I can turn each front axle by hand with the other tire on the ground, if that indicates anything.

Alignment is not great. I need to replace the idler and pitman arm before I get it aligned though. Have the parts, but ran out of time today.

 

I would fix the steering stuff and get an alignment first! An out of alignment condition can cause the tires to squeal when you turn.

As far as the front end metallic banging noise check the fluid level and condition if you haven't already done so. There are several things inside that can go wrong in the front differential. Usually parts like bearings and gears have heavy wear.

 

Turns out it was a combination of a really worn pitman arm (the stud literally flopped around loose when I got the old one out) and being out of alignment. Changed the pitman and idler arms and idler pivot this weekend and it barely chirped at all, and just got it aligned today and now no hint of any binding or chirping tires.