Needle Bearing replacement on driver side only? ECGS bushings

Do people usually replace both sides or just the the driver's side? I read that driver's side is usually the culprit.

Background: I just installed 6112s at 1.4" and noticed the cyclical/intermittent vibration over 40 mph. Doesn't happen in 4wd, so I assume it's the needle bearing(s).

 

No needle bearing on the passenger side

 

Always the driver's side. The passenger side isn't an issue. I've done that job on two of my own vehicles so far.

 

Good to hear. Given your experience, would your recommend getting the removal tool or any of the tools ECGS offers? They have the bushing removal tool, and the install tools for the seal the bushing.

 

Check on here to see if there's a regional thread for your area. Up here in the PNW I've heard of people passing around the ECGS tools to help folks get this done.

 

Good idea. appreciate it

 

The removal tool is essential. You could piece something together with bolts and plate from Lowe's but the money you save wouldn't be worth your time.

I just used a large socket or a seal driver kit from Harbor Freight to seat the bushing. I can't remember which one. It's been a while.

Good news is that I have over 100k miles on the bushing in two different vehicles so it'll last a long time.

Replace the differential seal while you're in there. I'd use OEM for that part.

 

Thanks for the advice. Bushing will be here Wed. I'll avoid traveling at high speeds until then. A member posted exact specs for the removal tool in another thread. I already have the hardware so I'll tinker with making my own.
Never had this issue my 2nd gen and I lifted 3" vs the 1.4" on this 3rd gen.
You don't happen to know the part number for the seal? Or the technical name so I can Google it.

 

I don't have the part number. I'd suggest going to a dealership parts department and having them look it up. As much as I hate going to the dealership, there are sometimes when it's the best option.

Also, if you need to change the differential oil it would be a good time to do it. However, you really don't have to. Since you have to jack up the driver side to do the job, you'll lose very little oil.

 

https://eastcoastgearsupply.com/i-8...7usFLVC0IMrZMX1CCd8czg5aJ_aE6HQ5_RS5qOpVG0uSx

 

I made my own with stuff I had lying around. I cut a slot so the inner piece pivots so it slips into the bearing easily.

 

My needle bearings are 9 years old now.

 

I like to see people fabricating their own SST. I like this tool better than the ECGS tool. Seems like it might lock into the bearing a bit better with no misalignment problems.

Note: SST is Special Service Tool.

Edit:
The ECGS link supplied above in Post #10 will give the seal info for the different differential in both their part numbers and Toyota's part numbers.

 

Same. It's good to be resourceful!

 

I have all the tools from ecgs from my install If some one needs them.