Grinding noise coming from front driver side., Getting on my nerves. Options

[Delta_Phoenix]

I have been having problems out of my Celica lately. I have the USDM ST model with the 7A-FE engine and 5-speed transmission. The first problem has been going on for around a year now. I'm hearing a grinding noise coming from the front driver side wheel. It only happens when I turn right. If I'm going straight, I hear a faint whistling that is only noticeable at low speeds. Along with the noise, the grinding can be FELT right under my feet. This grinding sound started as a loud and extremely violent popping noise that would only occur whenever I gave it more than around half throttle when taking off. At WOT, the popping would persist throughout 3rd gear, and would disappear completely in 4th and 5th. My first thought was the CV axle. I checked the boot for cracks and any signs of leaking. The axle looks to be in perfect working order. I have also checked the engine mounts, wheel bearings, and struts and found nothing out of the ordinary. Over time the popping ceased completely, and I was left with a grinding noise. At low speeds, the grinding is slow and sends a chill up my spine. At higher speeds, the grinding sounds more like the tire rubbing the inside of the fender (which I have also checked, and found that I have plenty of clearance). The fact that the grinding speeds up and slows down leans me back toward the CV axle. I replaced both axles around 2½ years ago. My mechanic said it was a bearing in my transmission, but I find this hard to believe since it only happens when the weight of the car is transferred to the driver side. The transmission still shifts smooth, and I'm having no clutch problems. I'm stumped.