OFFICIAL 2nd gen 4x4 front differential bearing vibration thread

Just figured out today my vibration (50+mph) disappears when I put it in 4H.

Had tires balanced 3 times (road-force twice), ET lug nuts, 108-106 hub centric rings, a replacement set of Wildpeak AT3W’s, 3/16” carrier bearing drop... all began when I went from stock 245 Dunlop’s/OEM 16x7.5 rims, to 265/75R16 ProComp 16x8’s.

This issue is a damn rabbit hole, and still there is no definitive answer.

 

Shoot me if this is someplace in the 216 page thread, but here goes, it really should be at the beginning, 1) How long does it take, a) for a trained mechanic, (book hours?), b) for a regular dude. 2) Does it have to be done sooner rather than later, I have 40K on a 2011 (so no warranty). Finally, might be nice to have a list of places that have done it in each state, has anyone had it done in Norcal area, but a mechanic, and how much was the labor for the complete job?

Thanks.

 

Well, I had to replace the needle bearing with the ECGS bushing. Last time I did this was in Aug 2011 with 114K miles. That was a replacement with the OEM needle bearing because ECGS hadn’t yet developed a solution. The needle bearing was the original part number because again, Toyota hadn’t yet recognized the problem. Not bad for that third bearing (yeah, that was the 3rd one) to make it 104K miles. The second bearing only lasted about 25K miles. I expect this will be the last time I have to change it.

Oddly enough this time around, my cyclical noise did not start in the 40 mph range like all the previous times but instead was there at all speeds. And it did not go away in 4wd. Only time it disappeared was when turning right. Had me fooled thinking it was a wheel bearing this time. Replaced both wheel bearings (before doing the bushing) anyway since I had a lot of miles on them.

 

Anybody have the puller tool that I can use? I can pay shipping

 

Anyone have a used set of removal and install tools from ECGS they would sell?

 

I have the removal tool. Just finished using it. Didn't quite fit for me so I did file the end piece down that pulls on the needle bearing. But it worked great for me after that. I'll pass it on to you for the same amount I paid. $25

I dont have the install tool. I used different bearing drivers and sockets to tap it in.

 

Thanks. I may hold out for one that is not filed but if someone doesn't have one I may be in touch.

 

No worries I understand.

 

Where did you find the 35mm collet for $15.99? I keep finding full sets for $35-ish but they don't have the 35mm

 

Ordered my bushing today. I'm feeling confident thst will fix my new Toy. Thanks for all the info and thanks to chase for the fix. I'm a new member just bought my truck it had to vibration and I found this site by searching the internet for tacomT front end vibration. I am lifted 2.5 inches.

 

Anybody selling their removing and installing tools for the ECGS bushing?

I am currently 2" lifted going for 3" while I am already there I wanna complete this already. Peace of mind.

 

I have both. My install is Monday so tools will be available afterwards.

Message me to discuss.

 

It looks like the link he had before is dead, I found it here via google:

https://www.rockymountainatvmc.com/p/989/27118/Tusk-Bearing-Remover-Collet

 

I'm a noob, but does the needle bearing issue that is being discussed only apply to 4x4's ? Or Pre-runners too after a lift ?

 

This doesn't apply to you. You don't have a front differential. If you lift and have a vibe look a rear drivline as possible cause.

Edit: assuming you are 2wd that is this is only a 4×4 issue.

 

I just had my ECGS bushing installed yesterday, I got the vibration after I levelled my truck a while ago at about 80km/h, it would stop when I put it in 4WD. It feels better than new now, vibration is completely gone, highly recommend the ECGS bushing!

 

Just had my needle bearing replaced today with the ECGS bushing, and wow what a difference!! It’s like driving a brand new truck, it has never been that smooth.

With that, I have a removal tool available if anyone needs one. $40

 

After 2in lift seems as the needle bearing may be my issue. Vibrations aren’t too bad. 30-40mph. Goes away after 4hi engaged.

My question is, is the new bushing something I need to get done right away or can I just deal with it?

 

I bought my truck used and it was already lifted. I'm not sure how many miles that prievios owner put on with the vibe. When I test drove it I was like what is that he had no clue what I was talking about. Since I got a good price I figured that even if I needed a new different it was still worth it.

I found this tread and installed the bushing a week later. I had a new CV on hand expecting to need it and I didn't the surface looked smooth.

I guess what I'm saying is it's not an emergency some have thousands of miles on without any catastrophic failure. I'm no expert but it seems like you didon have to park it and wait for parts. At some point there will be damage to the surface of your CV shaft where the needle bearing rides and that will cost you a new CV shaft.

For me it was annoying and I had to know it was right.

 

Thanks for the info. Did you do the installation yourself?