I have a 84 4runner. It has some play in the draglink where it connects to the steering arm on the knuckle. It not very much but needs fixing. My local parts store said they do not carry the draglink. I was told by another person to remove the cotter pin and tighten it up. Whats the correct thing to do about this. Thanks.

 

Try to tighten up the end:
- http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/4R_suspension.shtml#How-To

Some folks have had luck putting a small coin (penny or dime) in behind the back ball socket half to take up any slack. Otherwise, there are a few places that carry rebuild kits for those or you could get a used one at a junkyard or pick up a new dropped drag link, I think Superlift and Rancho make some.

 

moog makes a replacement draglink for around $120 last time I checked.

And if you're going to tighten it, it's best to disassemble to inspect the cups that engage the ball. If they're really worn, tightening it won't keep it together for long.

Losing your steering at speed will likely kill the truck, and possibly you along with it. Check it carefully, this isn't a good area to save a few dollars.

 

you can purchase rebuild kits for the ends from toyota or napa. New cups, spring, pin, and end plug, cotter pin and seal.

 

Thanks for the replies guys.

I actually bought this truck a short while ago and just started driving it everyday. I think the previous owners let is sit for some periods of time. Hence a 1984 with 136K. The steering was never lose or anything it just had a pop when steering back and forth. The draglink was the only area that felt like it could have some play. I went ahead and greased it and it seems much better. I realize it's and important connection and I will keep a close eye on it. Thanks

 

Well after greasing the draglink it gets better for a while, but eventually starts getting sloppy again, so I believe a rebuild is in order. I found the rebuild kits on Rockauto for a good price but there is a problem. I cannot get the dang plug to turn. The cotter pin had to be taken out in pieces with a punch and I am sure I got all of it. A large screwdriver just isn't near enough leverage.

 

Might try a flat blade screwdriver bit for a socket wrench and see if that helps. Or see the tool I made on the web page I posted a link to earlier.

 

you can also buy draglink sockets from some tool companies. Mine's made by MAC Tools.

Proto, MAC and Snap-On make them. Haven't looked at Sears, they might make one too.




$14. from these guys:
http://www.drillspot.com/products/65...ag_Link_Socket



FWIW, the whole reason I bought my truck at the price I got it for was because the draglink came apart on the previous owner, and scared the living daylights out of him. Sold it to me for a song.