I just got a 97 accord. It needs a little bit of work, so I was able to get it for a good price.
It makes this loud groaning sound that I can't seem to figure out what is causing it.

When driving from a stop 0-35 mph is fine, but go above 35 and it starts with this groaning noise. The RPM's didn't affect the sound. Even coasting in neutral it would make that noise. Slow down below 35 and the noise is still there until you pretty much stop.

I thought it was a wheel bearing. I removed both front wheels, things ooked ok there except probably needing upper ball joints.
So I started it and then put it in drive without wheels on but on the jacks.
I couldn't hear any odd noises from the wheels hubs.
But when I reved it up to above 35 mph the noise was there again.
I couldn't tell where it was coming from though.

Any ideas on where to look?

 

I just went through this. Could have swore the sound was coming from front driverside wheel bearing. Replaced it and it was still there. It was the passengerside wheel bearing.
That sound you are hearing is almost definitely a wheel bearing. Just need to determine which corner it's coming from.

 

im experiencing the same thing. expensive fix?

 

I will probably try and pull the hub assembly from mine, the upper ball joints and tie rod ends are pretty well done, along with the struts.
So I guess I might as well replace all the parts in there at once.

 

If you can get yourself a air hammer, the job is doable. Otherwise you will need a special Honda hub puller, or make one up yourself.

 

find a wide road that is not too busy. get to speed when you start hearing your sound. slightly rock the car side to side. the sound should go in and out as your are shifting weight from one side to the other. now if the noise only happens when you are turning right(b/c you are putting more load on the left wheel) its the left wheel bearing and vice versa.