Hello Folks,

I've got a strange front end whine. It's vehicle-speed-linked, not engine-speed-linked.

It started when my alternator died (see here: http://www.brickboard.com/AWD/index.htm?id=1344154&show_all=1).

Originally (before I realized it was related to vehicle speed, not engine speed related)I thought it was the replacement alternator I put on, being a lesser quality (than Bosch) aftermarket unit.

I now see it has nothing to do with the new alternator and believe it may have been caused by the way the tow truck operator pulled the car up onto the tow truck deck.

He wrapped a chain around the front driver's side control arm (and possibly the driveshaft) behind the wheel and used a winch to pull the car up onto the deck.

I knew before all this alternator stuff that I needed to replace at least one of my tie rod ends, and even purchased them from FCP - I just haven't had time to get them on yet.

I also at one point had myself convinced that the noise was one or more of my wheel bearings going... now I'm not sure.

The local roads have been terrible and so I'm pretty sure, combined with the tie rods problem, that my alignment is off - though it still drives pretty well.

Is it possible something was really broken/bent during the tow truck incident? What should I be looking for?

Is it possible that the CV/driveshaft is making this whining noise?

Is it possible that the noise is actually coming from the tires, due to mis-alignment?

Any other suggestions?