Got a '96 4Runner, 4WD, V6, 5-speed manual, 315K miles. The oil leaked out of the transfer almost 2 years ago and stranded us until it cooled down and I got to a store and shot some oil into it. That was 85K miles ago. Since then I have changed out the transfer oil several times and it looks pretty good now.

Problem is a nasty vibration over 50 mph that you feel through the shift levers and all through the truck. Recently I elevated the rear wheels and discovered I am able to wiggle the rear output shaft from the transfer to the u-joint (leading to the rear drive shaft) about 1/16 inch or so -- not good. I'm assuming the bearing is shot and I'm wondering if it is replaceable with or without dropping the transfer out and opening it up? Or is it pressed in, which implies a huge headache in replacing it?

Thanks in advance for any help you guys can offer.

 

rebuild or replace. getting another 85K out of it (315K is awesome) after running it dry is very cool

 

THANKS MUCH fellows -- I was afraid you'd say that it was toasted.

Yes, it is quite a compliment to Toyota that the transfer wasn't completely trashed the night it went dry.

I have found a used one through a local junkyard for $350. Should be able to install myself... all told, I think I've gotten off rather fortunately considering the costs associated with on-the-road repairs 400 miles from home. When repair shops spot that out of state license plate they start smelling blood in the water...

 

i had a problem like this and first thing i checked was the bolt that held it on, it was loose allowing it to have slop in it. after tightening it up it went away and all was fine. but i would check that too, could be as easy as a loose bolt.