Wheel bearings or something else? Options

[sean530sly]

1998 ST204 Liftback. Having a distinct, pretty loud rumbling that sounds like it's coming from the front left, though it could be the right. Happens anytime the car isn't turning to the right in the slightest. Straight or left turns, loud rumble, front left. I'm thinking this is a wheel bearing problem. I replaced both CV joints within two years. A little confused as to where the sound seems to be coming from, because I'd assume the rumble would be from the right end if I was turning left, putting added force in the right side.

So anyway, I went ahead and picked up two new bearings and seals, removed the left steering knuckle and I'm not able to simulate any roughness in the bearing whatsoever. Half day at work tomorrow so I'm going to go ahead and remove the right side and see if there's any difference. Hoping to find a smoking gun, if not then I'll have two new bearings installed anyway. The current bearings are original.

I have a press and whatever else I'll need at work, but does anyone have any tips when it comes to pressing these hubs out of the knuckle, pulling the old bearing off and pressing new ones in that might not be common sense? I read the guide someone posted on here a while back that helped with general removal of the knuckle. Also any tips on what to look for as far as this rumbling sound other than the bearings would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

[IfWeChoose]

Is there any type of rhythm to the noise? If so, could be the wheel bearing. Usually it's a deep, consistent, rhythmic hum.

[sean530sly]

Is there any type of rhythm to the noise? If so, could be the wheel bearing. Usually it's a deep, consistent, rhythmic hum.

Yup that fits the description.

Completely disassembled the driver side knuckle/hub/bearing. The seal(just a sweep maybe?) on the inner side where the cv axle meets the knuckle housing is toast, though. Didn't buy a replacement with the bearing and seal. Guess the car will be down until Monday.