1985 4Runner
 

Hello again everyone, i just bought an 85 4runner SR5. I have a few issues that i need help with. I have to replace the front wheel bearings and i noticed that the grease in the wheel bearings is kind of runny and dark grey? I have replaced bearings before on domestic trucks, and i have never seen a grease like this. My real question is what grease should i use when i put this thing back together? Also the rear axle has a locker, not sure what type, but i notice while driving it on the street i cannot hear it ratcheting? I though that they were suppose to? And finally, i took it out on a pretty rough trail and it did awsome, but i noticed that if i start it on an incline it sounds like the timing chain rattles. As soon as it levels out, its fine and will not rattle again. Even on steep climbs it dosen't rattle, just right as is starts? I appreicate everyone's help and input.

Thanks,
Ryan

the grease is probably that way because its OLD and its mixed with water...

pretty sure you will only hear the ratcheting while going around corners...unless its a spool...then you wont here nothing but tires barking

sounds like valve chatter to me..mine did the same thing
check your clearances then report back..lol

Well I got the front end done, had to break down and get new rotors, bearings, seals and passanger side caliper. Spindle nuts were a nightmare to find, had to go to Toyota dealer!!! But back to the locker, coasting around turns, all i hear is the tires barking. I know it has a locker, is there some kind of additive I can put in the diff. to help? And as far as the time chain, I am at a lost for words, not sure how to tell the difference between valve chatter and timing chain chatter?

You can use a thicker weight oil to help with the ratcheting noise of the locker

If it is a spool then thicker weight oil isnt gonna help you

if u feel like its chain rattle u better change it and change the guides. u dont want to jump timing or bust the chain. it will become a night mare. when u do the timing chain adjust ur valves while ur at it............ as for grease in the knuckles i use Valvoline durablend moly grease. make sure u use a moly-fortified grease.............

I think your right, I need to just be safe and change the timing chain. Anyone have any tips and/or hints they could give me before I jump into this? I have done a timing belt on an 03 tacoma and I changed the belt and the water pump, is there anything else beisdes the chain and the guides that should be changed while I am in there? I appreciate any and all help.

Thanks

when you did the front brakes did you upgrade to V-6 calipers and vented rotors? It makes a big difference and is a direct bolt on..

Sounds like a spool. My Detroit is basically quiet coasting aroung corners with the clutch in but sometimes there is an audible tic tic tic ratcheting sound from it.
I FEEL it more than hear it on the street.

Your bad runny grease is probably from leaking axle seals and you should do a knuckle service kit on it.

Timing chain, water pump and tstat at least and perhaps your standard tune-up.

:guitar:

^^ What he said ^^. As for the rear you either have a spool or a welded rear, thats my guess.

My detroit only makes noise when I hit the gas, and then it is just a loud "clunk". I can also feel it engage. It is not a probelm until it snows and then it becomes alot of fun.
Kevin