89'Yota4Runner

So I went to take my 1995 4Runner that I have worked on for a while now for safety, and one lower control arm did not pass. I didn't think much of it until I went to look for a replacement. I am located in Ontario, Canada. Canada is about the worst place to find cheap automotive parts. However, it doesn't seem to be any different in the US either. They are expensive. My question is, would 96-02 lower control arms work on my 4Runner. I am sure the answer is no, but I see so many online and they are very cheap compared to the one on my 95. I am mechanically inclined, have a welder and decent skill using said welder. I am thinking I will just patch my current one, but wondered about this option. Let me know guys, as i am sure you will. Thanks.

RAD4Runner

Highly Doubt it will work. Second gen uses a torsion bar coupled to upper control arm. Third gen uses struts coupled to lower control arm.
Then SEARCH BALL-JOINT FAILURE THIRD-GEN.

89'Yota4Runner

Yeah, I figured that I would most likely have to remove the mount for the shock off of mine and mount it to the 3rd Gen, at the least. I think I may just attempt to rebuild them with some new steel and see if it passes. The cheapest I can find the LCA's is around $167 on Ebay. I just can't afford to put OEM's on it at the price they want. I will have to swap the bushings as I won't be using the Dorman ones from all that I have read.

scope103

We all like to save money, but your truck failed a safety inspection because your Lower Control Arm was UNSAFE. Are your welding skills so great you can turn a piece of junk into something that may save your life? In exchange for $167? (This Toyota Dealer in Florida charges $158-$224, depending on the model of your truck. https://parts.lakelandtoyota.com/sho...rimLevel=18380 )

Or, if you're willing to take a chance on used (for the money: I wouldn't): https://www.ebay.com/itm/89-95-Toyot...1/272771902683

89'Yota4Runner

You are right. I completely agree after thinking more about the "rebuilding" bit. I will go ahead and most likely order the new dorman brand ones and get the OEM bushing kit. I first have to wrestle the little buggers off the truck, so will see you in a week. hahaha. Thanks for making up my mind for me. Will have the family in the vehicle - not just myself. Better go new. Cheers.