Another one of my 'name that sound' questions

[snelson]

Hi guys,
Seems like every couple months I post a what's this sound question, and this month is no different.
On cool mornings/evenings after the van has been sitting for some time, when I'm in reverse and begin to move with the wheel cranked (reversing out of a parking spot eg.) I get a strange droaning sound coming from what I believe is the front wheels/axle.
Have never had it do it reversing straight back, seems to just be when I have the wheel turned and moving slowly in reverse. And always on cooler days, never on hot summer days.
Doesn't sound metally or scraping, more of a lonely wolf in the distance (how's that for a description! )

Any suggestions on what might cause that? I've greased the outer front bearings myself about a year ago, but didn't get to the inners - could it be that? Or anything more serious?
Thanks
Steve

[madmazda]

check fluid level in your power steering

[jessef]

how are you CV boots ? any crack or really hard rubber ?

[mararmeisto]

X 2 on the power steering fluid

It's generally more noticeable (only noticeable) when driving in reverse because one is going slower (and so it can be heard over the road noise) and one is generally cranking the wheel harder (i.e. having to use more fluid).

Otherwise, as jfarsang suggested, look at the rubber components on your front axle.

[snelson]

Thanks guys I'll check both tonight - I didn't bother checking the power steering as the sound wasn't really a squeely-high pitched sound that I usually associate with power steering, more of a lower toned droneing....but will post if I find anything.

EDIT-Just realized too it's really only when I'm moving, if I stop with the wheel still turned no sound, but as I let the brake off and start to roll, the drone comes back which makes me lean towards axles/wheel/brakes perhaps??....anyhow, just thought I'd post that.

It did it again this morning since it was around 4 degrees out....poor old summer is fading fast.