Life Expectancy of LBJs? TREs?

[Bstrom]

My '99 Limited has 184k on what I believe are original ball joints and tie rod ends, etc. - the whole suspension for that matter. It drives and handles like a new truck. The undercarriage is dry as a bone. Steering is tight and responsive. No squeals or sqeaks. Is this normal? Should I expect catastrophic failure at any moment?

I am taking preemptive care of this vehicle as I intend to cross the 300k line one day. Had the ball joints changed in my Mercedes recently so I have a very good mechanic to get this done if it needs. What say ye, Runners?

 

[cashmoney]

Nothing drives like new at a 184k. Nothing. You've just gotten used to it. Replace everything with new and it'll be a whole new vehicle.

 

[ThorInc]

The dealership changed mine at about 60,000kms many, many moons ago. I am now at 243,000kms without any signs of play or any visible/mechanical issue. If there is any play and I check it about 3 times a year, I will change both. My parts contact at Yota has not replaced many.

 

[Rock_Rat]

FWIW - I had the original LBJs on mine until I jumped on this forum and saw the failures. Scared the he!! out of me. I had more than 300K on mine. I quickly OJ'd it over to the dealer and picked up two new OEM LBJ's and replaced mine before I drove it again. Next was a new radiator and a transmission cooler. I felt like I barely escaped what could have been a catastrophic event. That being said, I'm not sure about the 99's and their weak spots. But I'm sure OEM LBJ's should be high on the priority list.

 

[Chuckles89]

LBJs should probably be replaced at this point just to be safe. TREs should last 300,000+ miles if they are OEM ones. Mine have 260,000 miles and have zero play and are very tight. The TREs on my dad's 1st gen 4Runner were original at 490,000 miles and didn't have any play.

 

[Bstrom]

I will take it to my front end man and let him do a serious inspection on it. If he detects no play in these components am I still at risk?

Don't mean to be a snit Mr. cashmoney, but this vehicle was a one-owner, garage kept and dealer serviced. It does drive like a new truck. I'm not imagining things. I've taken it off-road and it goes in and out of 4WD beautifully and climbs quietly and resolutely. It is a peach! :toilet:

Thanks for all the perspectives, guys.

 

[Rock_Rat]

Bump it up to your priority list, it's cheap insurance and will help you sleep better at night.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/149467-official-lower-ball-joint-write-up-thread.html

 

[Padre]

Spend $250 to save $1000 and possible personal injury. It seemed like a no brainer when picked up my 01 and now on my 97 it's a high priority too.