Center drive shaft support aka Carrier Bering question

Hey all! I found that the center driveshaft support on my 2013 taco has about an inch of up and down play in it. No vibrations at this time but I plan to do a 4,000-mile road trip very soon! Also, the driveshaft nuts are pretty rusty so I am wondering if I should chance the replacement with the possibility of a bolt breaking or just drive it as is????? It has 103k miles on it now. Any suggestions? Thanks in advance!

 

It should have some movement...you having problems?

 

Not really, but there is a very slight whine when I press the gas while going down the highway? It seems to come and go.
Thanks for answering!

 

https://youtu.be/SILhDmdTlRY

 

It can probably wait until you get back if you don’t have serious vibrations. I just changed mine at 160k after driving for years with slight vibrations.

 

Thanks for the video!

 

Thanks that is what I am thinking!

 

The bearing might be fine, but the rubber bushing is probably worn. Hit the drive shaft bolts with penetrant now, and when you’re ready to disassemble, they should be fine

 

Thanks man! Good suggestions!

 

I have a 13 as well, and havent changed mine yet at 120K, but same boat as you. Drove to Florida and back to Northen Michigan in November, without issues. I have changed the U Joints though...they were squeaking badly.

 

Thanks for sharing your experience! The U-joints seem tight, and no aren't making noise. I will grease them and see if the whine stops.

 

there are 5 zerks, just FYI

 

An inch of play up and down is a lot. You may find the vibrations suddenly get a lot worse during your trip. I'd replace the carrier bearing now.

If the driveshaft bolts break, just replace them. Dealers have them or you can order nut&bolt sets online from sites like YotaMasters.

 

Thanks, actually it seems to be developing a vibration during take off.

 

Just replaced mine last week. Ordered a spicer carrier bearing from rock auto. I think the part number was 5002007. You want the one with the dust shield. Price including shipping was just under $100. I'm pretty sure it's the same brand Toyota uses, but at half the price.