1st Gen 4x4 Front Diff Bearing Vibration

thanks for the reply Tom.

I think I am dealing with multiple problems. I'm pretty sure I have a wheel bearing problem, as the symptom is classic. So I'm going to proceed with my plan to replace that and the leaking oil seal. Then I'll deal with the vibration problem.

Thanks

 

Sounds like a plan.... let us know how it goes.

 

Anyone wanting to sell their tool in a week or two? The vibration is killing me and I am ordering the bearing today.

 

Sure, mine is for sale, just send me a PM and we'll set it up.

Tom

 

Found this on the 2nd Gen thread from Hans Moleman, anyone tried this tool from AutoZone before?

<iframe width="640" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/VIG9Sc4dhYI?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

 

Never tried it, but it looks much bigger than the tool for the diff bearing, plus you're in a pretty tight area, not sure you could get a good pull on the 'hammer'.

 

PM'ed, thanks Tom!

 

Has anyone replaced the roller needle bearing with the OEM part or has everyone replaced it with the ECGS bushing? I am just curious how can a bushing replace a bearing? Then what was the purpose of Toyota using a bearing? Any input would be helpful before I prefer either.

 

I've heard of people doing so with mixed results, but mostly on 2nd gen. From what I understand, this is far less common in 1st gen.

As far as a bushing vs bearing... It's not really a great comparison IMHO. I couldn't tell much difference between the two when they were out, other than the ECGs felt more substantial.

 

Maybe someone much wiser than myself will clarify the bearing/bushing concern better

 

I am confused as how the rotation of the splined half shaft inside of the static ECGS metal bushing is better than a needle bearing? It seem to me that the shaft would just be generating heat from the metal to metal contact of the bushing or is there another bearing that allows for the rotation of the shaft when the front differential is not engaged?

 

My understanding.... It has to do with tolerances. There is play in the needle bearing, often pronounced when lifted, which cause the vibration. The bushing which comes from ECGs is a tighter tolerance.

If this is wrong, I truly hope someone will chime in...

 

Nope, that's the case, and there is a lubrication groove in the bushing which keeps it from heating too much from friction. There is a good video on the ECGS site for the Gen II tacomas which shows this. It really just supports the CV shaft much better going into the spline gear than the needle bearing.
Tom

 

So long as it's bathed in lube, it should live just fine.

Would definitely keep a closer eye on the gear oil on that end after doing the work.

 

Alright, after watching the video again, it makes more sense. Guess it can't be bad if ARB went with the bushing route too. Thanks Tom.

 

Just got done with installing a the ECGS bushing and new axle seal and I am vibration free!!! Removing the CV axle was the most time consuming part of the whole process, and removing the 35mm by yourself is tricky until I decide to use a long 2x4 to apply pressure to the break pedal.

Here is what I used to help remove lower shock bolt:


The best tool ever to remove the old needle bearing out (Now for sale for $30 Shipped...):


Here is the best way I found to help get the new axle seal back on with a ball joint tool from AutoZone:




Overall, it wasn't bad, just time consuming if you are doing this yourself.

 

asiansurveyor - I'll take the tool. PM sent

 

Subbed for later..

 

Glad to see it all worked out!

and glad to see the tool keep it's US tour going

TL

 

Shipping your way on monday!