Oldsmobile/Buick Repair: 98 Dodge 1500 ext cab 4x4 5-speed..., vacuum leaks, throwout bearing

Question
Hi,(150K)
I have a clicking type noise in the left front spindle area that goes with the rotation of the tires and is most noticeable when I slow to stop. I'm thinking it's something other than the axle shaft, any ideas? And I hear noise from the throwout bearing I think, cause it goes away when I depress the clutch pedal. Also the engine is very noisy upon pick up, meaning there is a lot of lifter/valve noise. Are these adjustable or can something else be the problem? Thanks alot

Answer
Wheel bearing is a possibility, but there may be a weight in the fins of the rotor that moves around. Take the wheel off and look down in the cooling fins as you rotate it.
Very possibly the throwout bearing, but changing it is the only way to stop it.
The lifters are not adjustable, but look for vacuum leaks, and check the egr valve. That might be the clattering from lean mix.

Van