Bad cv joint or front differential?

[rex66m]

Hello all. New to the forum - just bought an 06 4x4 v6...love it (takes me back to my fj80 days). Seems to have a loose front drivers side axle (specifically where it enters the differential). Had it in for an oil change and they seemed to think I need a new front differential (yikes) as opposed to an cv shaft. It also seems to grind a bit when turning hard left. Any thoughts and comments are appreciated, Thanks

- rex in bham

 

[4gin007]

check this out. I had the same problem. Installed this bushing and all has been great ever since. close to 10k miles now.

just a suggestion

TOYOTA 8" CLAMSHELL CV AXLE BUSHING

 

[rex66m]

Thanks! looks to be a viable option. can i take this to mean that some play is relatively common?

 

[lehiguy]

There is a needle bearing that rides directly on the CV shaft. If the shaft is worn, replace it. If the bearing is trashed, get it out and put a new bearing in. I have a hard time believing that a bushing would be better than a bearing, especially since the shaft turns constantly. I wouldn't do it. Getting the shaft out of the diff is easy (remove lower ball joint bolts, stabilizer bar, pry out shaft) the bearing can be accessed once the shaft is out.

 

[4gin007]

Some play seems to be common. The shaft could be worn. The only way to tell whats wrong is to pull the axle.




The bushing i referd to is made out of the same material as a crank bearing or rod bearing. So if its good enough for that why wouldnt it be good enough for the axle?