Strange noise?

2015 tacoma access cab 4x4 off road.
Strange groaning vibration noise off and then on every few seconds when coasting and gassing. Got worse when I put a level kit and blocks on. Everything up front seems tight, bearings and such. Could it be drive shaft bearing?

 

Sounds like you might need the ECGS bushing.. what speed does this happen at?

See if you can upload a video of the sound.

 

All speeds but especially noticeable when coasting at high speeds

 

Does it go away in 4wd?

 

Haven’t tried it. What would that do?

 

IF it's the needle bearing the vibrations/noise will stop with 4wd engaged. But based off you saying it's occurring at all speeds it's likely not the culprit. However, the 4wd test is quick & easy way to verify/eliminate it as a cause.

 

The needle bearing is a known/very well documented problem once the front is lifted ~1.5"+

 

I vote needle bearing.

 

Wow you guys were absolutely right. I put it in 4wd high range and vibration stopped.
Is the ecgs bushing same as needle bearing?

 

Yes it got worse after I lifted 2 inches. Will it always be a problem?

 

yup. I've had mine installed for about 30k now. Still smooth.

 

It's a replacement for the needle bearing and works better.

 

Does the passenger side need to be replaced as well? I just read that it is different is that true?

 

OP, the ECGS fix is a bushing. Toymoco later came out with a TSB that was intended to be an improved needle bearing to the one that came with the truck from the factory.

The passenger side has an entirely different set up but uses the same OEM needle bearing. The difference is the right does not see the same side loads as the drivers. As far as I know, I may be the only one on this forum that also replaced the passenger side with the ECGS bushing. But I have not typically advocated also using the ECGS bushing on the right.

 

I have a similar issue on a similarly configured truck - 2013 AC with a 1-½ in lift up front - but the vibrational noise is only really audible when I first start it up/OTW out my hood. I heard it last winter on the few cold days we had, then it went away when it got warm - now it is back and the 4H switch does seem to make it go away - gonna test again tomorrow.

My question is - if this is the culprit, shouldn't the noise be more consistent?
Not just after start up?

 

Check the air intake at the passenger fender. The foam they use to stop vibrations wears off there. Good luck