siezed control arms on '13 TRD taco

went to dealer for alignment 2 months after 3" lift/level & 255/75/r18 with zero offset wheels.
They said lower CA's sized & need to replace along with centrics for about $1800.
Can anybody offer any other directions I might go?
I'm not very mechanically savvy so I need simple language.
Thanks

 

This is pretty common. It's all pretty easy stuff you could replace yourself with basic tools for much less.

 

You need new bushings in the lower control arms, because they are rusted solid to the alignment bolts. Because Toyota assemles that metal on metal interface without and lubricant or corrosion control.

If you ignore the problem you'll damage the tabs which set your alignment too.

It's not a hard job, you just use a sawsall to cut the alignment bolts, put in new bushings and bolts, then get it aligned.

 

Thanks for that! I'll sure look into it.

 

I call bullshit on the dealers part.

This is an easy issue to fix. As mentioned above.

We live in a replace rather than repair world due to convenience. However, that is not the proper way to go most of the time unless there is legitimately some damage. Regardless, if you choose to do this repair yourself, it won't be a difficult endeavor to undertake.

 

Some links that might help:


http://www.toyota120.com/forum/showthread.php?t=26853

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/redneck-lower-control-arm-lca-bushing-press.134846/

http://www.fjcruiserforums.com/foru...425-anti-seizing-lower-control-arm-bolts.html

 

Actually the first thing I'd suggest is to find a quality non-dealer alignment shop. I like using ones that I find sports car guys frequent (particularly autocross participants), because that means there are techs there that will work on custom alignments, not just red light green light settings. And their equipment is regularly calibrated.

That said, at a minimum you'll get a second opinion on the condition of your situation. And another price for comparison for the work.

At least find a quality independent mechanic and get a quote on replacing the offending parts, then take it straight to an alignment shop.

With the cash you save you can buy pizza for all of TW. Well, at least those of us in this thread.

 

Definitely go with a shop that actually specializes in aligning for real vehicles and not stock dealer lot vehicles. What kind of lift do you have? How have you wrecked the lower arms so bad?

 

I don't do any commando off-roading but do travel some bumpy terrain. No idea why the control arms seized but sounds like I'm not the 1st to have this issue. Thanks all for the input & I'll act on your suggestions. Will let you know what 2nd opinions I get.
Thanks again all

 

Live in snow country? Salted roads? Drive on ocean beaches? Rust never rests.

 

That's what I was thinking.

 

^^^this. A real Offroad shop can align the truck with out the alignment tabs, once you get the bolts un-siezed.

 

I live in the arid plains of Colorado but the truck went into service in Maryland

 

The dealer has chosen to honor the warranty & I thank everybody for your input.
I took some advice & found shops experienced in handling this matter too.

 

Nice work.