bad wheel bearing?

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i just got my work truck today, a chevy s10 with 115k miles on it, V6 auto 2wd singe cab i suppose its a 98 with that many miles, i'm a bit lazy to check the door jamb.

Anyway, there is quite a noticeable whine/drone/goran type of sound while driving, independant of RPM, but dependant on speed. It seems to come from front left (drivers). I can ever so slightly feel this 'hum' through the steering wheel. APplying the brakes does nothing to change the noise except to slow the truck down and therefore the noise is less.

Also, i'm sure this has to do with it, the truck has a pull to the left when braking. Pads checked in ok thorugh the wheel holes, though below 50% i'm sure.

Seems like sometimes when i brake and as i come to a complete stop, theres a clunking noise coming from the front. It sorta feels like and sounds like cork rubbing on glass? Hard to explain. Sometimes it is exasberated by turing the steering wheel right to make a right turn. I thought it could be suspension; pitman arm, idler, rod ends, upper and lower ball joints and bushings...but i think its attributable to the brakes pulling and the bearing 'hum'

I felt the tires, no feathering (yet).

I will try and get some more details on the truck later, its late and raining outside, i dont feel like looking at the doorjamb.
 
could be the bearings.

Since bearing packs are relatively cheap and easy to come by, when in doubt, I would just replace all the bearings on your front left section and go from there.

other clunking noise could be from rubber suspension parts, worn steering/suspension components or a sometimes even a somewhat "binding" brake caliper.
 
It does sound like it could be a bearing. Jack up the front and push/pull on your wheel. You might be able to feel some play if it is a bearing.

If you turn left then the noise should get louder on the passenger side if that bearing is going bad. If you turn right then the noise should get louder on the drivers side if that bearing is going bad.

Let us know what you find.
 
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