Diff Issues

First post here. So…I have (what I am finding out now is a common issue) needle bearing pieces in my diff oil. Was getting my CV axle replaced and the service dept. told me they had discovered this. Have read a lot on this issue on the thread, but as I assess the path forward, wondering if anyone has an answer to a couple questions.

1) is there any issue w driving the vehicle in 2wd in this state? Indefinitely?
2) my path forward planned now is to replace the bushings w bearings (which I have found is a common fix). Should I be concerned with the contaminants in the diff? Or just try to remove as much oil as possible, and hope to get most of the metal pieces?

 

It’s not a common issue, just luck of the draw. Everything gets blown out of proportion on TW.

I would definitely change the fluid in the diff and make sure there is absolutely no debris in there. Throw in a bushing afterward and call it a day.

 

Do you have the truck back yet? If so did the dealer at least put a new needle bearing in? It won’t drive smoothly at all with the bearing in that deteriorated state because the bearing (or bushing if applicable) supports the CV.

As for 2WD specifically, only the needle bearings and spider gears are turning in 2WD, so assuming the needle bearing is replaced or upgraded with the bushing, it should be fine…..however if it were me I’d probably be removing the front diff and cracking the halves open to get all the rogue needle bearing remnants out, and then seal it back up to reinstall.

Do you have a lift?

 

It is common for the needle bearing to fail. Not catastrophically like above. There are warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored.

Toyota has TSB's out for multiple models. In stock form these needle bearings fail. It starts with a vibration/groaning/humming. Then the worst case like you see above, total destruction of the bearing.