My 4Runner has 58k miles on it and it turns out that my steering rack bushing is worn out. Apparently the only way to fix this is to change the complete rack and pinion (~$1000).

I'm wondering what caused the bushing to wear out, I have done some off-road, but most if light stuff.

About 2k miles ago I had an OME lift mounted (std 2-3"). The place that mounted them says that it can't be the lift, since all angles are maintained, but I'm not so sure and I'd hate to pay $1000 for a repair only to see it get worn out again.

Any thoughts on:
1) What it could be?
2) Do you know of any bushing kits for the 4th gen?
3) Have others seen the same?

 

The steering rack bushings half way down this page say they are for 01-04 4Runners. I've never seen a rack from an 03 and up so I don't know if they're different from the 01/02.
http://www.northwestoffroad.com/parts/urethane1.html

Otherwise try calling Energy Suspension and see if they're working on 4th gen 4Runner bushings.

 

Thanks for the quick answer. I think the "04 bushings" from northwest offroad are for '04 Tacoma and not the '04 4Runner, which changed in '03. They are closed today, but I'll call and verify next week.

Energy suspensions have plans to make one, but no clear date for when they will.

Any other suggestions? or guesses to what could have caused the wear out?

Thanks

 

I don't know why they'd wear out so fast, I've got 155,000 km on my 01 4Runner, with a 3" lift and 32" tires. I just replaced my bushings a few months ago, and they weren't really all that bad.

 

Did you order these bushings from NWOR? I just bought my 04 V8 4Runner and it feels as if there's a touch of slop in the steering. I talked with John out at NWOR and he seemed pretty sure it was the bushings.

Consequently, I'm ordering the bushings in the link above. FWIW, the bushings for my truck are 80078-L. Unfortunately, I have to send them a MO because their min. order amt is $40. And I couldn't figure out anything else I wanted.

As soon as I get them, I'll report back if they fixed my issue.