Front Diff Vibes ECGS bushing fix.

Markc1024 · Feb 11, 2017

I'm debating this myself. I did an AAL in the rear to gain 1.5" and if I go over 1" in the front (Icon) the vibes seem to start. Prior to my lift, the passenger side was about 1/4" higher than the driver side. I've made several adjustments to both sides and so far it seem like if I keep the + 1/4" on the passenger side, that also seems to help keeps the vibes down. Beyond just the lift height, the angle of the front diff to the shaft seems to also be a factor. I really don't want to tear into it, and am not looking for a large increase in lift (prefer a 1" rake), but may have to eventually. For those on the fence, don't feel like you have to keep the left/right exactly level - it seems to help to allow for some variance.

TRD69 · Feb 18, 2017

BCJake[OP] initial post: ↑

Ok, I wanted to post this here for anyone experiencing an intermittent vibration/humm originating from the driver's side front diff and my experience with the ECGS clamshell bushing. This is not a new problem but one that is carried on from the previous generation. Lots of literature on this from the second gen trucks, use the search function.

The Skinny: Essentially, the needle bearing used by Toyota on the driver's side front diff is a weak link in these trucks. Any amount of lift on these trucks (3" on mine) can result in the vibration. You have it or you don't. You may have it pop up down the road, listen for it.

Symptoms: Intermittent vibration/humming while driving. Comes and goes, often more present with cooler temp outside, especially when truck is cold. Goes away when 4wd is engaged, comes back when disengaged.

Other Considerations: There are plenty of other reasons for vibration especially on a lifted truck. Do your homework/research first, make sure your symptoms are consistent with this, then read on.

First Option: You can certainly try and play the dealership game and hope for a solution under warranty. Some have had more success here than others. This can range from having the whole diff replaced, the needle bearing being replaced with another, or dealership denying work under warranty due to lift causing the issue. In my case, dealership was a waste of time as they "could not replicate symptoms" We all know those dreaded words. Also, they gave me the "likely caused by lift, might not be covered under warranty". That was enough for me to pack it in.

Also, keep in mind that while it's possible that the dealership will work on this under warranty, unless they are willing to replace the faulty needle bearing with an ECGS Clamshell bushing (more on that later), you are looking at a temporary solution at best as the problem will either continue or come back shortly. If they agree to install the ECGS bushing under warranty, you have just won the lottery. If not read on.

The real solution: ECGS has kindly produced an aftermarket bushing for the Tacoma which addresses this issue and offers a permanent fix. Many 2nd gen owners have put serious miles on their trucks with this bushing and the vibes have not returned. Follow the link below for the part needed.

http://eastcoastgearsupply.com/i-8536125-toyota-8-clamshell-bushing-eliminates-needle-bearing.html

There are a couple of good videos there for those doing the install on their own.

The 8" bushing is the same one used in 2nd gen trucks. Decided if you can manage the swap on your own or get a reputable shop to install it for you.

My experience: I had the shop install the ECGS bushing, problem solved, vibes completely gone!

Final thoughts: I am not trying to start a thread on diff drop kits here. I am not running one and do not plan on it. Keep in mind that if your needle bearing is the culprit behind the vibes, a diff drop kit will not address the issue.
Click to expand...

TRD69 · Feb 18, 2017

BCJake[OP] initial post: ↑

Ok, I wanted to post this here for anyone experiencing an intermittent vibration/humm originating from the driver's side front diff and my experience with the ECGS clamshell bushing. This is not a new problem but one that is carried on from the previous generation. Lots of literature on this from the second gen trucks, use the search function.

The Skinny: Essentially, the needle bearing used by Toyota on the driver's side front diff is a weak link in these trucks. Any amount of lift on these trucks (3" on mine) can result in the vibration. You have it or you don't. You may have it pop up down the road, listen for it.

Symptoms: Intermittent vibration/humming while driving. Comes and goes, often more present with cooler temp outside, especially when truck is cold. Goes away when 4wd is engaged, comes back when disengaged.

Other Considerations: There are plenty of other reasons for vibration especially on a lifted truck. Do your homework/research first, make sure your symptoms are consistent with this, then read on.

First Option: You can certainly try and play the dealership game and hope for a solution under warranty. Some have had more success here than others. This can range from having the whole diff replaced, the needle bearing being replaced with another, or dealership denying work under warranty due to lift causing the issue. In my case, dealership was a waste of time as they "could not replicate symptoms" We all know those dreaded words. Also, they gave me the "likely caused by lift, might not be covered under warranty". That was enough for me to pack it in.

Also, keep in mind that while it's possible that the dealership will work on this under warranty, unless they are willing to replace the faulty needle bearing with an ECGS Clamshell bushing (more on that later), you are looking at a temporary solution at best as the problem will either continue or come back shortly. If they agree to install the ECGS bushing under warranty, you have just won the lottery. If not read on.

The real solution: ECGS has kindly produced an aftermarket bushing for the Tacoma which addresses this issue and offers a permanent fix. Many 2nd gen owners have put serious miles on their trucks with this bushing and the vibes have not returned. Follow the link below for the part needed.

http://eastcoastgearsupply.com/i-8536125-toyota-8-clamshell-bushing-eliminates-needle-bearing.html

There are a couple of good videos there for those doing the install on their own.

The 8" bushing is the same one used in 2nd gen trucks. Decided if you can manage the swap on your own or get a reputable shop to install it for you.

My experience: I had the shop install the ECGS bushing, problem solved, vibes completely gone!

Final thoughts: I am not trying to start a thread on diff drop kits here. I am not running one and do not plan on it. Keep in mind that if your needle bearing is the culprit behind the vibes, a diff drop kit will not address the issue.
Click to expand...

TRD69 · Feb 18, 2017

BCJake[OP] initial post: ↑

Ok, I wanted to post this here for anyone experiencing an intermittent vibration/humm originating from the driver's side front diff and my experience with the ECGS clamshell bushing. This is not a new problem but one that is carried on from the previous generation. Lots of literature on this from the second gen trucks, use the search function.

The Skinny: Essentially, the needle bearing used by Toyota on the driver's side front diff is a weak link in these trucks. Any amount of lift on these trucks (3" on mine) can result in the vibration. You have it or you don't. You may have it pop up down the road, listen for it.

Symptoms: Intermittent vibration/humming while driving. Comes and goes, often more present with cooler temp outside, especially when truck is cold. Goes away when 4wd is engaged, comes back when disengaged.

Other Considerations: There are plenty of other reasons for vibration especially on a lifted truck. Do your homework/research first, make sure your symptoms are consistent with this, then read on.

First Option: You can certainly try and play the dealership game and hope for a solution under warranty. Some have had more success here than others. This can range from having the whole diff replaced, the needle bearing being replaced with another, or dealership denying work under warranty due to lift causing the issue. In my case, dealership was a waste of time as they "could not replicate symptoms" We all know those dreaded words. Also, they gave me the "likely caused by lift, might not be covered under warranty". That was enough for me to pack it in.

Also, keep in mind that while it's possible that the dealership will work on this under warranty, unless they are willing to replace the faulty needle bearing with an ECGS Clamshell bushing (more on that later), you are looking at a temporary solution at best as the problem will either continue or come back shortly. If they agree to install the ECGS bushing under warranty, you have just won the lottery. If not read on.

The real solution: ECGS has kindly produced an aftermarket bushing for the Tacoma which addresses this issue and offers a permanent fix. Many 2nd gen owners have put serious miles on their trucks with this bushing and the vibes have not returned. Follow the link below for the part needed.

http://eastcoastgearsupply.com/i-8536125-toyota-8-clamshell-bushing-eliminates-needle-bearing.html

There are a couple of good videos there for those doing the install on their own.

The 8" bushing is the same one used in 2nd gen trucks. Decided if you can manage the swap on your own or get a reputable shop to install it for you.

My experience: I had the shop install the ECGS bushing, problem solved, vibes completely gone!

Final thoughts: I am not trying to start a thread on diff drop kits here. I am not running one and do not plan on it. Keep in mind that if your needle bearing is the culprit behind the vibes, a diff drop kit will not address the issue.
Click to expand...

BCJake[OP] initial post: ↑

Ok, I wanted to post this here for anyone experiencing an intermittent vibration/humm originating from the driver's side front diff and my experience with the ECGS clamshell bushing. This is not a new problem but one that is carried on from the previous generation. Lots of literature on this from the second gen trucks, use the search function.

The Skinny: Essentially, the needle bearing used by Toyota on the driver's side front diff is a weak link in these trucks. Any amount of lift on these trucks (3" on mine) can result in the vibration. You have it or you don't. You may have it pop up down the road, listen for it.

Symptoms: Intermittent vibration/humming while driving. Comes and goes, often more present with cooler temp outside, especially when truck is cold. Goes away when 4wd is engaged, comes back when disengaged.

Other Considerations: There are plenty of other reasons for vibration especially on a lifted truck. Do your homework/research first, make sure your symptoms are consistent with this, then read on.

First Option: You can certainly try and play the dealership game and hope for a solution under warranty. Some have had more success here than others. This can range from having the whole diff replaced, the needle bearing being replaced with another, or dealership denying work under warranty due to lift causing the issue. In my case, dealership was a waste of time as they "could not replicate symptoms" We all know those dreaded words. Also, they gave me the "likely caused by lift, might not be covered under warranty". That was enough for me to pack it in.

Also, keep in mind that while it's possible that the dealership will work on this under warranty, unless they are willing to replace the faulty needle bearing with an ECGS Clamshell bushing (more on that later), you are looking at a temporary solution at best as the problem will either continue or come back shortly. If they agree to install the ECGS bushing under warranty, you have just won the lottery. If not read on.

The real solution: ECGS has kindly produced an aftermarket bushing for the Tacoma which addresses this issue and offers a permanent fix. Many 2nd gen owners have put serious miles on their trucks with this bushing and the vibes have not returned. Follow the link below for the part needed.

http://eastcoastgearsupply.com/i-8536125-toyota-8-clamshell-bushing-eliminates-needle-bearing.html

There are a couple of good videos there for those doing the install on their own.

The 8" bushing is the same one used in 2nd gen trucks. Decided if you can manage the swap on your own or get a reputable shop to install it for you.

My experience: I had the shop install the ECGS bushing, problem solved, vibes completely gone!

Final thoughts: I am not trying to start a thread on diff drop kits here. I am not running one and do not plan on it. Keep in mind that if your needle bearing is the culprit behind the vibes, a diff drop kit will not address the issue.
Click to expand...

TRD69 · Feb 18, 2017

2016 Tacoma with a 2" leveling kit(just space over strut and skid plate spacers). I could hear a noise in the front at around 25mph. As described by another posting "a rythmic humm". Installed Drop Diff kit(again, just spacers). Noise still there. Dealer said to take the life out before they checked it out for warranty purposes. Removed the lift, noise is gone. Possibly I should have purchased a better kit. Does anyone know of a 2" leveling kit that wont cause that sound or another solution?

BCJake[OP] initial post: ↑

Ok, I wanted to post this here for anyone experiencing an intermittent vibration/humm originating from the driver's side front diff and my experience with the ECGS clamshell bushing. This is not a new problem but one that is carried on from the previous generation. Lots of literature on this from the second gen trucks, use the search function.

The Skinny: Essentially, the needle bearing used by Toyota on the driver's side front diff is a weak link in these trucks. Any amount of lift on these trucks (3" on mine) can result in the vibration. You have it or you don't. You may have it pop up down the road, listen for it.

Symptoms: Intermittent vibration/humming while driving. Comes and goes, often more present with cooler temp outside, especially when truck is cold. Goes away when 4wd is engaged, comes back when disengaged.

Other Considerations: There are plenty of other reasons for vibration especially on a lifted truck. Do your homework/research first, make sure your symptoms are consistent with this, then read on.

First Option: You can certainly try and play the dealership game and hope for a solution under warranty. Some have had more success here than others. This can range from having the whole diff replaced, the needle bearing being replaced with another, or dealership denying work under warranty due to lift causing the issue. In my case, dealership was a waste of time as they "could not replicate symptoms" We all know those dreaded words. Also, they gave me the "likely caused by lift, might not be covered under warranty". That was enough for me to pack it in.

Also, keep in mind that while it's possible that the dealership will work on this under warranty, unless they are willing to replace the faulty needle bearing with an ECGS Clamshell bushing (more on that later), you are looking at a temporary solution at best as the problem will either continue or come back shortly. If they agree to install the ECGS bushing under warranty, you have just won the lottery. If not read on.

The real solution: ECGS has kindly produced an aftermarket bushing for the Tacoma which addresses this issue and offers a permanent fix. Many 2nd gen owners have put serious miles on their trucks with this bushing and the vibes have not returned. Follow the link below for the part needed.

http://eastcoastgearsupply.com/i-8536125-toyota-8-clamshell-bushing-eliminates-needle-bearing.html

There are a couple of good videos there for those doing the install on their own.

The 8" bushing is the same one used in 2nd gen trucks. Decided if you can manage the swap on your own or get a reputable shop to install it for you.

My experience: I had the shop install the ECGS bushing, problem solved, vibes completely gone!

Final thoughts: I am not trying to start a thread on diff drop kits here. I am not running one and do not plan on it. Keep in mind that if your needle bearing is the culprit behind the vibes, a diff drop kit will not address the issue.
Click to expand...

TRD69 · Feb 18, 2017

BCJake[OP] initial post: ↑

Ok, I wanted to post this here for anyone experiencing an intermittent vibration/humm originating from the driver's side front diff and my experience with the ECGS clamshell bushing. This is not a new problem but one that is carried on from the previous generation. Lots of literature on this from the second gen trucks, use the search function.

The Skinny: Essentially, the needle bearing used by Toyota on the driver's side front diff is a weak link in these trucks. Any amount of lift on these trucks (3" on mine) can result in the vibration. You have it or you don't. You may have it pop up down the road, listen for it.

Symptoms: Intermittent vibration/humming while driving. Comes and goes, often more present with cooler temp outside, especially when truck is cold. Goes away when 4wd is engaged, comes back when disengaged.

Other Considerations: There are plenty of other reasons for vibration especially on a lifted truck. Do your homework/research first, make sure your symptoms are consistent with this, then read on.

First Option: You can certainly try and play the dealership game and hope for a solution under warranty. Some have had more success here than others. This can range from having the whole diff replaced, the needle bearing being replaced with another, or dealership denying work under warranty due to lift causing the issue. In my case, dealership was a waste of time as they "could not replicate symptoms" We all know those dreaded words. Also, they gave me the "likely caused by lift, might not be covered under warranty". That was enough for me to pack it in.

Also, keep in mind that while it's possible that the dealership will work on this under warranty, unless they are willing to replace the faulty needle bearing with an ECGS Clamshell bushing (more on that later), you are looking at a temporary solution at best as the problem will either continue or come back shortly. If they agree to install the ECGS bushing under warranty, you have just won the lottery. If not read on.

The real solution: ECGS has kindly produced an aftermarket bushing for the Tacoma which addresses this issue and offers a permanent fix. Many 2nd gen owners have put serious miles on their trucks with this bushing and the vibes have not returned. Follow the link below for the part needed.

http://eastcoastgearsupply.com/i-8536125-toyota-8-clamshell-bushing-eliminates-needle-bearing.html

There are a couple of good videos there for those doing the install on their own.

The 8" bushing is the same one used in 2nd gen trucks. Decided if you can manage the swap on your own or get a reputable shop to install it for you.

My experience: I had the shop install the ECGS bushing, problem solved, vibes completely gone!

Final thoughts: I am not trying to start a thread on diff drop kits here. I am not running one and do not plan on it. Keep in mind that if your needle bearing is the culprit behind the vibes, a diff drop kit will not address the issue.
Click to expand...

TRD69 · Feb 18, 2017

BCJake[OP] initial post: ↑

Ok, I wanted to post this here for anyone experiencing an intermittent vibration/humm originating from the driver's side front diff and my experience with the ECGS clamshell bushing. This is not a new problem but one that is carried on from the previous generation. Lots of literature on this from the second gen trucks, use the search function.

The Skinny: Essentially, the needle bearing used by Toyota on the driver's side front diff is a weak link in these trucks. Any amount of lift on these trucks (3" on mine) can result in the vibration. You have it or you don't. You may have it pop up down the road, listen for it.

Symptoms: Intermittent vibration/humming while driving. Comes and goes, often more present with cooler temp outside, especially when truck is cold. Goes away when 4wd is engaged, comes back when disengaged.

Other Considerations: There are plenty of other reasons for vibration especially on a lifted truck. Do your homework/research first, make sure your symptoms are consistent with this, then read on.

First Option: You can certainly try and play the dealership game and hope for a solution under warranty. Some have had more success here than others. This can range from having the whole diff replaced, the needle bearing being replaced with another, or dealership denying work under warranty due to lift causing the issue. In my case, dealership was a waste of time as they "could not replicate symptoms" We all know those dreaded words. Also, they gave me the "likely caused by lift, might not be covered under warranty". That was enough for me to pack it in.

Also, keep in mind that while it's possible that the dealership will work on this under warranty, unless they are willing to replace the faulty needle bearing with an ECGS Clamshell bushing (more on that later), you are looking at a temporary solution at best as the problem will either continue or come back shortly. If they agree to install the ECGS bushing under warranty, you have just won the lottery. If not read on.

The real solution: ECGS has kindly produced an aftermarket bushing for the Tacoma which addresses this issue and offers a permanent fix. Many 2nd gen owners have put serious miles on their trucks with this bushing and the vibes have not returned. Follow the link below for the part needed.

http://eastcoastgearsupply.com/i-8536125-toyota-8-clamshell-bushing-eliminates-needle-bearing.html

There are a couple of good videos there for those doing the install on their own.

The 8" bushing is the same one used in 2nd gen trucks. Decided if you can manage the swap on your own or get a reputable shop to install it for you.

My experience: I had the shop install the ECGS bushing, problem solved, vibes completely gone!

Final thoughts: I am not trying to start a thread on diff drop kits here. I am not running one and do not plan on it. Keep in mind that if your needle bearing is the culprit behind the vibes, a diff drop kit will not address the issue.
Click to expand...

Hautian · Feb 18, 2017

@TRD69 you just posted the same thing multiple times.

Hautian · Feb 18, 2017

To your question, if it is the needle bearing then it doesn't matter the brand of lift.

TRD69 · Feb 18, 2017

2016 Tacoma with a 2" leveling kit(just space over strut and skid plate spacers). I could hear a noise in the front at around 25mph. As described by another posting "a rythmic humm". When in 4WD the noise is gone. Dealer said it's caused by the angle of the axle after the lift installation. Installed Drop Diff kit(again, just spacers). Noise still there. Dealer said to take the lift and diff drop out before they checked it out for warranty purposes. Removed the lift, noise is gone.

After reading posts on this issue for hours I'm convinced the bushing is the answer. I know the dealer won't even consider this fix and will say it will void my warranty so I won't go back to them any more on this issue. I want the bushing installed so I can re-install the lift kit. I have a couple of questions though.

1. Since I already have the diff drop kit, is there any benefit to installing it after I install the bushing and put the 2" lift/leveling kit back in the truck?

2. Should I purchase and install the sway bar spacers as well just to complete the job?

3. I'm not a mechanic but am mechanically inclined and did install the lift and diff drop myself . Installing the bushing...is this a typical DIY job or would you recommend taking it to a garage(not Toyota) to install it?

fdbyrne · Feb 18, 2017

I'm not one to lift my truck. I've always liked them stock which makes me fortunate because I'm not tempted to spend a lot of money on my truck.

With that said, I've installed 2 ECGS bushings on stock Toyotas. Don't let the fear of installing the bushing keep you from doing what you want. It's a pretty easy install and it's cheap. It's nothing to be afraid of.

Hautian · Feb 18, 2017

It takes some time but it's not difficult if you're mechanically inclined. I would recommend a second set of hands though.

I'd skip the diff drop.

If you didn't notice your swar bar rubbing I would skip the brackets for now and see what you got after your lift goes back in.

JoeCOVA · Feb 18, 2017

Just got the new bushing in. Will need to learn how to do it out plan to install soon.

KilllerskunK · Feb 18, 2017

I had the ECGS put in after my lift and it solved all my issues as well.

Jepn2233 · Feb 18, 2017

Are the seal, removal tool,and brg/race driver all required for this install?

ievko82 · Feb 19, 2017

Has anyone ever installed one of these and discovered a problem caused by it. I am planning on installing my lift in a few weeks and though about doing this bushing. I hate to do them at the same time though because 1 I don't know if I'll actually need it. And 2 if any issues come up (like a vibration or whatever) It will be harder to pinpoint which mod made the problem.

JoeCOVA · Feb 19, 2017

ievko82 said: ↑

Has anyone ever installed one of these and discovered a problem caused by it. I am planning on installing my lift in a few weeks and though about doing this bushing. I hate to do them at the same time though because 1 I don't know if I'll actually need it. And 2 if any issues come up (like a vibration or whatever) It will be harder to pinpoint which mod made the problem.
Click to expand...

I'm doing mine before the lift. As far as I know there have been no problems with it.

ievko82 · Feb 19, 2017

JoeCOVA said: ↑

I'm doing mine before the lift. As far as I know there have been no problems with it.
Click to expand...

I might just suck it up and do it at the same time also. I'd like to get the dimensions of the end piece of the bearing removal tool I plan to just make my own.

Hautian · Feb 19, 2017

Jepn2233 said: ↑

Are the seal, removal tool,and brg/race driver all required for this install?
Click to expand...

Seal isn't necessary unless yours is bad but there is chance you will damage it so I would have a new one to put in.

Someone on the forum used something like a blind hole pilot bearing remover with success. I just used the ECGS tool.

Instead of the race driver I've read that you can use a socket turned backwards. You just need something flat the diameter of the bushing.

JoeCOVA · Feb 19, 2017

ievko82 said: ↑

I might just suck it up and do it at the same time also. I'd like to get the dimensions of the end piece of the bearing removal tool I plan to just make my own.
Click to expand...

There is a tool being passed around the site. Just pay for shipping I think. Not sure who has it though.

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