Hi all,

I picked up a 96 5MT 4Runner SR5 around Christmas with 173k KM on the clock. It's been a great truck so far, but I'm just starting to notice some issues that need attention.

I'm pretty certain that the front driver side wheel bearing is going, and I'm pretty sure the rotors are warped because I'm now getting a pretty good shimmy while breaking. I had a front bearing go on my car in the fall, and I replaced it myself, so I know what it sounds like when it goes.

I searched and read a post about wheel shimmy, and it seems these rigs have problems with rotors, so I'm planning on ordering (2) front wheel bearings and Rotors, along with brake pads.

I don't have a large budget for this, which is why I'm going to do the work myself, and I can't really afford to keep it off the road for more than a weekend. What would you recommend as a quick check list to make sure this is exactly what my problem is, and if there is anything else worth doing while I'm in there

I'm new to the site, so could any of you point me in the direction of some good write-up sites for 4runners? And do any of you Canadian members know any good online part sources? I've tried ebay a couple of times and had some luck with it for my other car, any good vendors you know?

Thanks for reading, I would really appreciate any help getting this situation sorted out on the cheap.

Jay

If the shimmy happens while braking, then the rotors are the likely cause. Jack each front tire up separately and try to wobble them by hand. You'd be best off if you get a friend to wobble the tire while you look at the ball joints and tie rod ends. If you can't see play in those but the tire still wobbles, the bearings are likely.

I get a shimmy when light braking but if I press harder on the pedal it goes away. Ideas?

Wheel bearings will make noise more pronounced when going around turns.

The brakes on the 4runner is notorious for warping or getting hot spots. If you can afford it, or when you can, upgrade to the Tundra brakes. (plenty of post about it)

Double check your tie rods as with that many miles, they are probably worn out. Any kind of play is unacceptable.


Have you tried adjusting the rear brakes? It sounds like they might be a little loose. Also, same for you, check your tie rod ends and see if there is any play.

If you are getting shaking while braking, then you might just try re-bedding the brake pads. It has fixed this problem for a couple guys on here, and it is quick and free. It didn't fix it for everyone, but it is worth a shot.

......

I do remember skimming over a post about that. Your right, I should try that first and see what happens.