Rumbling Noise

[grant]

I have a 97 520i with 105k miles. I'm experiencing a rumbling, poss bearing noise at 35-50 mph.
It appears to be coming from the rear. A friend warned me it could be the diff, but I think its possibly bearings, as the noise goes away if I turn to the left. I have recently replaced a front bearing after finding I was able to get play on the front wheel with the car jacked up. But all other 3 wheels feel solid as a rock!
Another possibility is handbrake shoe fault. Also very occasionally I get a screetch like a stone was trapped in the disc but then it goes away for a few weeks only to briefly return again

Has anyone experienced anything similar. Also if the noise dissapears turning left, does this mean the problem is on the left?

Suggestions greatly appreciated

[billB]

Grant
If your back seats fold down open to the trunk; fold down and drive the car while listening to the sound/sounds you describing. I am sure it will give you a better shot at pinpointing the whereabout/nature of the sound.

Also if the sound becomes more apparent when turning; a good possibility is one of the rear bearing screaming at you (when you turn the vehicle you're subjecting one of the bearing to a greater degree of stress); bearings are not shy and when they go bad they will scream at you with that distictive rumbling sound. Once sure you may want to consider changing both sides. Rear bearings are a bit harder than the front ones in that the outer ring tends to separate from the old assembly getting stuck to the little shaft where you may need a bearing puller (to pull out old/press in the new. $15-$25/sears or cheap brand tool plus $65 for each bearing/onlinestore.

wish you lots of luck
regards
billb