Upper Control Arm Bushings for 2002 TRD Tacoma

I am trying to get a set of OEM upper control arm bushings for my upper control arms. I believe this is part number 48632-35070. I put in an order with McGeorge and they said these are not available and won't fit my upper control arms. That Toyota doesn't sell them. However, this seems to be the correct bushing so I don't understand what is going on. Could someone advise me on how to go about getting OEM replacements for the control arms?

 

Anyone else able to confirm an OEM replacement for 1st gen TRD taco UCAs? It looks like the 48632-35080 (4runner) works but is more expensive than
48632-35070. Wondering if there is even any difference. Haven't seen anyone confirm 48632-35070 works. Also would be interested to hear if anyone additionally can vouch for Napa. @Taco critter

 

You could use this opportunity to upgrade to polyurethane bushings

 

^ this. ES bushings are super easy to install. You just "burn" out the rubber (really you heat it with a torch, and push it out once it's hot enough), clean up the metal sleeve, and pop the ES poly in.

 

What's better about polyurethane? And I've heard complaints about squeaky poly bushings so that's the main reason I haven't considered them.

 

I personally like the tightness of the poly bushings over the relatively more loose feel of OEM/rubber bushings. People often complain about changing out all their front end parts and expect it to handle like a new vehicle, and I think part of the disappointment is related to not switching to poly. The squeaking can be remedied with the right silicone lube. Most folks just send it on the super lube, but there are a few threads around with better products.

Before I put in SPC upper arms (also an option for you to consider), I had ES upper bushings, whiteline lowers, and poly everywhere except body mounts (only because I haven't done them yet) and my rig doesn't squeak.

 

Can you elaborate on the loose vs. tight feel? I would generally prefer a softer ride, its my DD. Have a set of used OEM (no rust) UCAs. Goal was mostly to replace the upper ball joint and rusted UCA. But figured it made sense to replace the original bushings as well as part of the project.

 

I have read where rubber UCA/LCA bushings last longer than the polys. I too am trying to decide on which way to go.

 

If you have a second UCA on hand already, just order both sets of the bushings you think are correct and return the ones that don't work. Or just get ES. You're way overthinking this- Doing anything to get new bushings in there is better than rolling around on 20 year old components.

 

Even if it's true that poly doesn't last as long as OEM rubber, the ES (and I think the strong flex?) are easily replaceable without a press.

 

You sound like my wife!

 

That part# is for the 5 lug. If you want OEM then you'll need to replace the entire UCA. RH side 4861035050, LH side 4863035030.

As others mentioned, NUKE EM out and go aftermarket.

 

The 4Runner might work... 20 bucks a pop @ partsouq. Might order a pair up and give em a try (?). I would just nuke em' though.

 

The McGeorge Toyota Website shows it as compatible for Base and 3.4L. Yet when I tried to buy from them they told me it was only for 2WD. Hence why I made this thread to try to figure out what is going on and if anyone else has used 48632-35070 as a UCA bushing replacement for a TRD. Similarly, the TRDshop also confirms it is comaptibile with my VIN. I'm so confused.

 

If it's anything like getting the lower control arms bushings out then you know what I would do? Throw those old bastards away and just upgrade to something else! Seriously - I think those lower control arm bushings were terrible to get out.

 

Ended up buying Napa bushings. They said these fit a 4WD 3.4L. The bushings have the 48632-35070 part number stamped on them and are not the right bushings. Too wide on the inside of the bushing and different appearance on the outside.

 

Are the upper and lower control arm bushings the same?

 

No.

 

I can confirm 4Runner part #48632-35080 fits a ‘99 Tacoma Prerunner.

 

I just ordered a set of those from Napa. Thanks for the additional confirmation!