Steering Catching

starting to have a little issue with my steering "catching". Almost feels like the steering column is locking up and its releasing, only its happening when driving down the road. Any thoughts ?

 

Bad intermediate shaft.

Probably the outer. Especially if it's original.

 

Willing to be its the original. Is it a major pain to replace? Also if you know a cost estimate? Thanks, I appreciate it

 

Check this thread out. Don't know that it could be considered a permanent solution, but I ran into this issue last summer, and applied the WD, then lithium grease, and haven't had the issue since.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/stiff-steering.122153/

 

Yep, do this. ^^^^^ Or hit it with pb blaster to extend its life a bit.

 

Not a major pain to replace, but you might be able to get some more life out of it. Jack the front end up so you can get underneath the truck. Then, from the under side, spray the universal joint on the shaft with penetrating oil while somebody turns the steering wheel back and forth from above. This sometimes frees the joint up. Then apply a good coat of Fluid Film to the joint to keep it lubricated and prevent future corrosion. If that doesn't work, install a new shaft.

 

Thanks! I will try the easy fix first!

 

Dude, just repair it properly. If it breaks loose you will loose the ability to steer.

 

Good point. If the joint is actually failing, you could end up in trouble.

On a related note, don't buy an aftermarket part. I got to see an aftermarket shaft right next to a brand new OEM Toyota shaft last week. The aftermarket part looked like a toy compared to the OEM part.

 

Yep. This.

If the shaft is binding already it's a telling sign that it is in bad shape internally and it should be addressed appropriately.

 

Well by easy fix I mean lube it up and get the part ordered! Appreciate you all for the responses!

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/how-to-lower-intermediate-steering-shaft-fix.638653/

 

^^This^^
A new one from the Stealership was about $160.00. Simple install...just be sure to run your seatbelt through the steering wheel to keep it from rotating and busting your clockspring.

 

This ^^^^^^^ Excellent point!

 

I've been spraying for almost two years now, once every couple of weeks.. eventually though something will let go

 

Has anyone ever gotten a line on the replacement U joint? I thought i saw that a U joint for some quad driveline worked, hell of a lot cheaper than replacing the whole shaft at 160.

 

I suppose you could use a part from a 4wheeler as the direct link to your trucks steering system to "save" 100 bucks. OR you could just pay the 160 and not be foolish IMHO some repairs you don't scrimp on...this is one of them. Its 160.00 not 1600.

But if you must, here's the link https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/2nd-gen-lower-steering-shaft-rebuild-diy.543377/

 

No experience with this site or part https://www.1aauto.com/2005-15-toyo...MImPjM8srX6AIVB7zACh3OJgHpEAQYASABEgJ6ZvD_BwE I went OEM. However, I understand being budget conscious...so it might be worth a shot.

 

these guys are local to me and they stand behind everything they sell..

 

No reason not to do it the way right now.