new update: one of the rear calipers loosened up on the lower bracket, so that it was rotating during braking. brought it back to the shop. they added some locktite to the pin, but said that using the old brackets was the reason. they were good about suggesting that if i buy the new brackets they would install at no additional charge (i did post out that the job cost more due to them working on the old brackets). ordered and picked up the rear brackets from toyota ($75/ea) and will have them installed soon.

another update: dropped off the 4runner with there caliper brackets ($75/ea). they got it on the lift, but realized that the brackets do not come with the slider pins and bushings, which was really the issue!! so more delay for everyone involved. had to order those additional parts from toyota ($60).

aftermarket caliper boxes come with everything included. toyota separates every part. i can put some of the blame on toyota parts. they should have suggested the brackets and hardware when ordering the caliper piston. also, the indie shop rejected the opportunity to examine the brake parts before starting the job. if the had, they should have spotted the missing components, and i could have ordered them before the job started.

lessons for everyone, i guess.

hopefully final post on this repair. shop took the 4runner in again, and replaced the brackets, pins, bushings, and boots. so, rear brakes completely done with toyota product. hopefully i get another 200k out of them!