ok before i get too excited, im gonna ask if this is all. i went to start my first time at replacing my wheel bearing. took of the rim and went to remove axle nut. i couldve turned it with my fingers. could a loose axle nut cause the noise that a wheel bearing would? the sound went away when i turned. and when i accelerated.

 

A loose axle nut? That's not good, tighten it down and see if the problem goes away. Punch the nut in the slot this time
I don't see how it could damage anything as long as it never slipped out of the hub.

 

i tightened it and the ride seems to be perfect....i guess time will tell. as of right now im getting my money back for the damn bearings lol

 

Yes a loose axle nut can cause the noise described.