Front end noise

[LONGHAIR]

in 2wd and the hubs unlocked the front axle shafts shouldn't be turning at all.

Just because they are not "supposed" to turn doesn't really mean that they don't.........It is not under power but I have seen many trucks with the driveline revolving because the gear lube drag makes things stick.
I would look at the axle shaft's u-joints. They are generally not grease-able, so they eventually sieze up. This can lead to wierd noises, clunks, and in severe cases the steering wheel can snap back straight.