Wheel bearings can make funny noises, and cause strange things to happen on braking when loose.

Oil from the front only when standing -- check for oil spray off a leaking front seal -- it will be thrown off the back of the crank pulley. Take a look at the various things that bolt to the block, too -- most of these have to have a seal underneath or permatex on the threads to keep them from leaking.

Check the filter canister for a bent lip, too.

Have you replaced engine, transmission, and front engine stop mounts? If not, the engine may be low enough to allow something to grind when you apply the brakes, causing it to move forward a bit.

Have you replaced the front subframe mounts? When I did, the AC compressor knocked on the fender and frame, the engine mounts were so bad.

Also check the fan shroud, it may be contacting the fan under braking.

Peter

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1972 220D ?? miles
1988 300E 200,012
1987 300D Turbo killed 9/25/07, 275,000 miles
1985 Volvo 740 GLE Turobodiesel 218,000
1972 280 SE 4.5 165, 000 - It runs!