Couple problem I'm hoping to solve

[TexasSlinger]

Hey gang

Just bought an Non Limited 02 4x4 v6 auto with 197k on it. Real nice rig
1st problem. I feel a slight looseness in the steering wheel like there is a little amount of play especially when going over small bumps. Do the lower shafts wear out on these?

2nd problem the air mix motor that you see from under the pass side foot area goes to warm randomly but regularly. At least twice on the way home (25 minutes). I read about the actuators making noise but none that say they act up randomly. It'll move to hot especially when going over some big Houston pot holes. Is have to "reset" it by moving the dial to hot for a moment then back to cold.
Thanks


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[octanejunkie]

Check your steering rack bushings, if those are tight then look at inner and outer tie rod ends. My money is on the bushings.

 

[TexasSlinger]

Check your steering rack bushings, if those are tight then look at inner and outer tie rod ends. My money is on the bushings.

Yea that's what I figured. The big one on pass side is squished out. Likely original


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[enapa]

Yea that's what I figured. The big one on pass side is squished out. Likely original


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wheelersoffroad.com Like $25 and free candy. Can't beat that.

 

[Nate_GB]

Could be steering rack bushings or tie rods, but it could also be the collapsible steering column. These trucks have a bit of an issue where some play develops in the column. Quite a few people have tack welded the column to resolve the issue. It's pretty well documented with write ups if you want to go looking.

Here is a write up on the air mix servo. May or may not be your problem, but it sounds like you're gonna be pulling it out anyway.
Grinding/clicking under dash - air mix servo - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums