Rubbing noise coming from wheels/axle

[metolious69]

I have a 2000 Tahoe 4x4. I recently started hearing a rubbing sound coming from what I believe is in one of the rear wheels. The tires do not rub the wheel well, this sound is internal. Once every tire rotation there is a metalic grinding sound. I didn't think that it had anything to do with the brakes because the sound didn't change when the brakes where applied. Took it to local auto service and they replaced the rear brake pads and replaced/made adjustments to the emergency brake. I was told that "heat can break down the emergency brake and that is probably what is causing the noise". Took it home and was still making the noise. Took it back to have the noise fixed, they said "a bearing was out of place", drove it home and again was still making the noise. I'm in the process of taking it back a third time......does anyone know what the metalic grinding/rubbing sound may be.

Thanks for your help,

Josh

[aero246]

Could be the pinion bearing, the rear differential, or your U-Joints.

[RSGSRSRS]

It may be rusted rear brake drums. This is a problem that my dealer says the Tahoes have, and it destroyed my emergency brakes, rotors and disc brakes. I think the rust causes drag or causes the emergency brakes not to spring back into place. Try stopping the car, and resetting the e brake once or twice.

There is a secret warranty on the rear drums, so push the dealer to call GM to cover the cost.

[Scott Dog]

I know this is an older tread, but this is what I found. My wife's 03 Tahoe was making the same noise. She took it to the local tire shop, who told her the same thing, need new brake pads, and rotors in the back. To double check before paying the $250.00 to replace (which I would not have paid because I can do it a lot cheaper) , I pulled the rear wheels off. It looked like the pads were fine, so I pulled one of the rotors off to inspect the e brake shoes. I found that the backing plate (dust shield) was rusted badly, and was rubbing against the brake rotors. That is why when she applied the brakes, and ebrake, the sound was still there. I think that I need to pull the axles out to replace these shields. It is probably due for a rear axle grease change anyway. So I will pull the axles, change the fluid, seals, dust shields, rotors, and pads, front pads and rotors as well, and be done with the whole thing. I told her it would be a good time to trade the old tahoe in, but she loves it, and wants to keep it, put a lift kit, and bigger wheels and tires. What a redneck woman. I hope this helps someone out there.