03 Tacoma Vibration Issue

Sorry to be the new guy asking questions but I'm here to learn!!

I am having issues with my 03 Tacoma Trd. It is right around 169,000 w/ a new frame out on at 167,000.

The first issue started a few months ago. Mainly when it is colder and the engine isn't up to operating temp it feels there is a vibration in the front end that has to deal with the 4WD. I say this because the vibration goes away when 4WD is engaged.

The second problem started up recently. The truck starts to vibrate pretty badly around 50+ (1800rpm) when you press the gas. Then, when you release the gas the vibration decreases noticeably.

I appreciate any information you may be able to shed light upon. I have searched the web a few times and can't seem to find the exact same issue.

Thank you!!

 

Make sure all of the drive shafts joints and u-bolts are tight. Also check the carrier bearing for being to loose.

 

The front end vibration sounds like a worn needle bearing in the front differential, that's not a very common problem with 1st gen's but it can happen. ECGS makes a bushing replacement for 2nd gens, not sure about ours.
The high speed vibes are probably from a failing drive shaft u joint, most likely at the rear differential. Unbolt the driveshaft from the pinion flange and rotate it through the entire range of motion. If it's sloppy, grinding, sticky, or anything other than smooth and easy to turn, it's toast. Pic related

 

Awesome! That was very helpful thank you!

 

Yep needle bearing in front diff, it's actually quite common. Easy coast gear supply for the bushing and tool. I made a tool for mine, glad to hook you up with it if you want to save a few bucks. If your vibe goes away in 4wd, that's def your issue.

 

Awesome thank you I will look into it. Is it an easy fix?

Edit: (Needle bearing)^

 

You have to get in behind the hub and pull the CV axle to get to the needle bearing. Use the tool to extract it and use race driver or a large socket to insert the bushing in its place. I believe you need unbolt the lower ball joint mounting bolts and tire rod castle nut to swing the hub out of the way. It's been awhile since I did it though so YouTube/Google it for proper procedure.
If you're comfortable working on your truck and you've done more than just oil changes its doable. It is a pretty decent project but don't let me discourage you from doing it. I've done it twice

 

Turned out to be a bad u-joint

 

what would you take for the tool and are you near Clayton GA

 

I have a my ecgs tool still available for $45 shipped if you plan on going that route on fixing it.

 

I'm about 2 hrs west of you, I'd take $30 shipped.

 

i live about 20 min from Clemson,thought if you were near Clayton i would drive over to save on shipping and be nice day trip for me.I'll try to get in touch you when I get closer to doing the job tp see if tool is still avalable

 

not trying to thread jack but what would cause a grinding noise when sharp right turns in 4wd? I can turn left the same amount and no grinding noise. It is coming from the front right...it has new bearing and CV joint.

 

Sub'd

 

Checking in to see if anyone has new suggestions to help solve this issue. There is a rumble noise in the front end of the truck that appears to be similar to the needle bearing issues. This problem always plagues me when the truck is cold and typically goes away once it gets up to regular operating temp or if I engage 4wd. I changed all the fluids in the drivetrain so they are all fresh. Now that it’s winter the problem doesn’t seem to go away even when the truck gets to temp. Anyone else plagued by this issue? If this is damaging the 4wd system id sure hate to continue. Thanks for your input.

 

have you checked the wheel bearings? mine sounded really bad and thats what it ended up being.

 

I will check that tomorrow and see if that is it. Thank you!

 

I think some have said jack one side up and see if you hear any grinding. Or if it has any play in the wheel off the ground. 4x4 disengaged of course.

 

The rythmic growl and rumble continues and sounds like it’s getting worse. We tested the wheel bearings and they seemed fine. The rythmic rumble happens mainly when it’s warming up 20-40mph but the growl happens after I’ve been driving for some time around 30-40 miles per hour when coasting.

 

Have the tires been balanced lately? Are they wearing unevenly?