Alignment/Suspension

[soundmanlpte]

Hey guys,

I did a bit of searching but haven't found exactly what I'm looking for and I have a few questions. I know nothing about suspension/underbody stuff and am trying to learn so I can make this bad boy last forever.

My 3rd gen 2wd has 230k miles on it. I just did the tundra brake job and in the process lost my wheel key and stripped a wheel stud on the rear (long story). I had to drive it for 2 days with only 5 lugs (really stupid in hindsight), and feel like it caused a new vibration that's remained even after I replaced the stud. So...

1. Next job is rear axle seals. While I'm doing that, should I replace the rear wheel hubs in case that is the issue? What would be messed up by driving with 5 lugs for a bit?

2. I have been wanting to do an alignment. But at this mileage, what should I do before that? What parts effect the alignment?

I'd appreciate any guidance you can offer. I know I can't expect a perfectly smooth ride on a 20 year old truck but I think it's gotten worse after all the work (and damage) I've done.

 

[IBallEngineer]

Hey guys,

I did a bit of searching but haven't found exactly what I'm looking for and I have a few questions. I know nothing about suspension/underbody stuff and am trying to learn so I can make this bad boy last forever.

My 3rd gen 2wd has 230k miles on it. I just did the tundra brake job and in the process lost my wheel key and stripped a wheel stud on the rear (long story). I had to drive it for 2 days with only 5 lugs (really stupid in hindsight), and feel like it caused a new vibration that's remained even after I replaced the stud. So...

1. Next job is rear axle seals. While I'm doing that, should I replace the rear wheel hubs in case that is the issue? What would be messed up by driving with 5 lugs for a bit?

2. I have been wanting to do an alignment. But at this mileage, what should I do before that? What parts effect the alignment?

I'd appreciate any guidance you can offer. I know I can't expect a perfectly smooth ride on a 20 year old truck but I think it's gotten worse after all the work (and damage) I've done.

Leaving of one lug nut will not cause a vibration. Nor will it cause any damage to anything. Even if you bent the mounting flange on the drive axle while installing a stud, it would not cause a vibration. Even if you bent your wheel on the rear, it would not cause a vibration. An unbalanced rear wheel is very hard to detect, you could rotate it to the front and if nothing changes, which it won't if it is in balance, you can start looking elsewhere for the vibration. If it gets worse, balance the tire, then start looking elsewhere for the vibration.

As for the alignment, you should have your Lower front Ball joints inspected very thoroughly by a qualified tech as they are prone to failure. Or just have them replace with Original Toyota replacements and feel secure. Steering rack bushings should get a close look also. The rest of the front suspension could be fine, or not, that is totally an independent thing. My two 3rd gens have 310K and 225K respectively and neither has worn out suspension parts.

 

[soundmanlpte]

Aweosme. Thanks for the response. Very helpful.