Steering Shaft Replacement 05

I was told I need my steering shaft replaced. I read some info here on a TSB that I can't find any more details on.

Mechanic said u-joint was bad and $350 to replace.

Does TSB cover this work at a dealer?

Any links, advice or info would be appreciated

2005 TRD 4 wheel drive.

 

TSB only covers vehicles still under warranty. Your probably out of luck. I think I paid $250 to get mine done.
Ned

 

Did it solve your lose steering? Mine feels like a shot tie rod end

 

Oh yes fixed it right up. Went from wondering down the highway to nice and tight again. I also had it lock up on me so I couldnt turn the wheel. Only problem I had was the mechanic didnt lock the steering wheel on center before changing so my wheel is a little off center when driving straight

 

Okay another question if you don't mind. Mechanic said it was dangerous (I think they all say that routinely). Is there realistically a chance for steering wheel detachment? Or is this just an annoyance and rough on tire wear. I am talking a few more days of driving on it. Not months or even weeks.

 

Yes it can be dangerous. If the joint lets go completely you will have no steering. I will admit though that I drove mine for quit a while after it first started acting up (4 months). I have heard that some people have had some luck with lubing it up to get a little more time out of it. This is your choice, but I highly advise you to fix it as soon as possible. Brakes and steering are two things you dont want to mess around with.

 

Only if you consider not being able to steer the truck as dangerous. :\

Hell yes it is dangerous to you and everybody else on the road around you. Do not drive it until it is fixed, you could kill someone. It could last a year or it could go out the next time you drive it. That is the point, you don't know.