'89 4Runner. My relay rod is bent. Not dramatically but enough that I can see it, and w/ the abuse this thing gets it must be replaced.

Is there an upgrade/stronger aftermarket one for the IFS steering?
If not, what is the conventional wisdom on the standard (beck/arnley etc) replacements? Other option is a used OE one. I actually have an old one in the garage, but I don't know what year its off of... e.g. could be one of the recalled ones...

 

And you've already gotten the recall performed?

If so, then you're on your own. You'll have to fork over the money for a new one. I, for one, wouldn't trust an old used one. You just never know.....

I've never heard of a stronger aftermarket one. Guys?

 

My '89 4Runner isn't covered by the recall.
Yes, I'm "on my own". I bent it, it's up to me to replace it....
Yeah, I don't trust an old used one, I just keep it as an emergency spare.

There are several beefy ones that go along w/ hi-steer etc for SA or SASed trucks, but i need a replacement for stock IFS.

 

OK I'm thinking seriously about beefing an old OE one by sleeving it w/ .250 DOM, w/ ID that matches the OD of the main shaft of the relay rod.

I figure I'll have to cut it in the middle, slip teh halves into the tube so the yre-join up in teh middle, then weld around the ends so it's all held together again. Perhaps also dril la few holes in the sleeve DOM to use for plug-welds ensuring it's all 1 solid piece.
Thoughts on this?
Seen some discussion in the past on home-made upgrades (AxleIke...). Also - whats the consensus, is this rod cast or forged? I have no experience welding w/ cast...

 

total chaos makes a beefed up relay rod.

 

Yes... and it is rediculously expensive for what you are actually getting (just a relay rod for $500). If I had that kind of coin to drop, I'd be paying for fabrication of a whole new setup...