"The wheel bearings in the front both have about 1/3-1/2" play up and down. The bigger problem is that the axle that goes into the right side of the front pumpkin has way too much play, probably 1/2" again, maybe even slightly more. It's causing a loud grinding noise when turning, even when it isn't technically engaged through the 4wd system. To be more specific, it's the passenger side axle/shaft..."

A part of a thread on t4r.org this is the best discription of what has been happening to my truck. I don't think its the actually CV axle or joint because the play is actually right up against the front diff. Is there a seal or bearing right inside of where the axle assembly enters the front diff? What do you guys think it could be.

Sorry if this has been covered I've searched several things and came up with nothing.

 

bump.

 

What are you drivring, The CV does not enter the diff. It is bolted on too a flange thingy look at this link it shows A good diagram of the halfshaft of a second Gen
https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f128/changing-cv-boots-86-95-ifs-toyotas-81059/
Let us know what year and model and I know someone will chime in soon

 

I dont think there is a bearing inside the spindle. I packed my wheelbearing yesterday and was kinda looking around in there. It looks the the CV is suppored on the hub side by either your ADD flange or hubs.

By 1/2" of wheel bearing play do you mean up/down or in/out?

 

There are a pair of bushings inside the spindle that support the CV shaft. They are pressed in.

 

Internet Roadkill I think you are speaking of the spindle bushings in the steering spindle. If so there is a great right up for red3.slow here https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f128/steering-spindle-bearing-replacement-2nd-gen-4runner-76360/
I guess we need to wait till he chimes back in on where the and how the play is.

 

Never even knew those were in there..... should probally knock on wood now..

 

no Doubt the write looks like a PITA, am getting an alignnment know as we type, and need a new pitman arm.
Sorry no more hijacking of this thread. back to his excessive play problem if anyone knows or as any ideas. I think internetroadkill i on the right track though

 

No worries on hijacking I find just about any info helpful. Your right on the flange I was just at a loss of what to call it. And sure enough right after I posted this I found the thread on the steering spendle and that sounds pretty much like thats wrong with mine. Except I bet mine is far more worn if i'm getting this noise. I'll talk to my friends stepdad and see if he thinks we can tackle a repair like that If not I'll have to cough up the cash and get it repaired.

 

FYI: The spindle bushings use moly grease, *NOT* wheel bearing grease. Yes, it's weird that the spindle has two types of grease inside it.

Another FYI: I tried the chisel method of removing the cone washers on mine and it didn't work at all. The only thing I accomplished was ruining the cone washers. (They are pricey to replace.) The method that does seem to work pretty reliably is to take an aluminum rod about 1/2" in diameter and 6" long or so and use it as a punch on the end of the hub studs. Place the aluminum rod on the end of the stud and smack it with a heavy hammer. The cone washer will pop out. You can drill a small recess on the end of the rod to keep it from skipping off the stud. Brass rod will also work, but I prefer aluminum because it's soft and it won't damage the studs.

If you replace the bushings, you need to check/set the clearance between the CV shaft snap ring and the outer bushing.

 

Just a note on these spindle bushings. Toyota sells a kit that changes them to needle bearings. This helps the freewheeling and also the lack of grease issue. You need to grease those bushings every year or so. If not they don't last to long and you get a vibration when in 4X4.

 

I wish I knew about the needle bearing kit. I just rebuilt my spindles 4 months ago.

 

I don't know if it is worth it. I did it on one side of my 88. The kit was around $250 canadian for one side. That truck died so not sure if it lasted any longer.

 

Thanks for the imput guys. I'm going to tackle it in a few weeks once my friends stepdad finishes moveing so he can help us. I hope this is what it is. If we can't get it I think I'll just take her to Central Arkansas Toyota. BTW if you live around central arkansas this is an wonderful shop. Jim is a fair guy and he'll take care of you and make sure his repairs are done and done well.