Front wheel clicking - Wheel Bearing noise?

[mjvela]

I have a 91 318i with over 200k.
Recently the right front passenger side wheel started clicking. Its definitely a clicking that increases and decreases with speed.
It does not sound like the traditional wheel bearing grinding/roaring noise.
It does not really diminish much when I turn the steering wheels and load and unload the side.

I do have aftermarket wheels and new tires on the vehicle. No spacers. But the clicking happens with my winter steelies on the car as well.

Any help on what this clicking is?

Thanks

[wswilburn]

Can you hear it if you jack it up and spin the wheel by hand? If so, you might be able to narrow it down.

[mjvela]

I've tried that and I haven't been able to recreate it when its up. It looks like there has to be somewhat of a load on it to start clicking.

[wswilburn]

I can only suggest checking for any excessive play in the tie rod end, ball joint, etc. You should be able to check the bearing play by trying to wobble the wheel with your hands placed at top and bottom. Otherwise, something with the caliper?

[morphine]

mate, this is only a rough guess but it sounds like the same problem my mate had with his 325is. he couldnt trace where the noise was coming from but he changed the anti roll bar bushes and the rear wishbone bushes and it cured the problem? i know it doesnt sound likely but it worked for him? worth a try if youve tried everything else.

[mjvela]

Thanks,
I figured it out. I took apart my brakes, front and rear. The rear emergency brakes - were full of crud. After a good cleaning out, no more clicking. I know I had said that the sound was from the front, but I must have just heard an echo or something.