Ball Joints
 

I just had my '92 4Runner serviced at Toyota for the steering relay rod recall. Now I was notified that my lower ball joints were worn and the upper ones have slight play. I don't know a lot about mechanics but could the old steering relay rod have caused the worn ball joints?

they want you to pay them for needless work.

Always a possiblity, depending on the dealer. Of course, he might also need to look into replacing his balljoints...

Do some investigation yourself to see if you need to replace them or not.

Ball joints wear from use. Our trucks have reached and are reaching the age where parts like those need replacing. Whether or not yours are actually bad enough to replace or the dealer just wants your dough is another story.

Frank

There's a way to check if they are worn or not.

Jack up the front end and crank on the wheel to see if they have play in them. I think a Haynes manual will show you exactly how to determine that.

Slop in the steering can also be caused by worn BJs I think, I am going to change mine out sometime. They have 240k+ miles on them and lots of wheeling.

Its super easy to check em on a lift :)

Was just at the garage getting a pre inspection check (i.e. lets see if the 4Runner - which has been in storage for 3-4 years - is in what kind of condition...)

Grab the wheel and pull/push look for play..

Its great to have a car repair shop that will work with you :)

[I have to cean and paint the frame... otherwise its should be GTG]