Low frequency vibration and new belt slip noise

[Jakeskate]

I have been noticing a vibration when I accelerate. it is a low frequency vibration that I only noticed when I was traveling around 60mph or more. now this vibration is all the time and very pronounced in low RPMs when I accelerate. when I let off the gas it is fine. I have had a check engine light for a ear or so now but I know that it is from a sensor issue with the catalytic converter. it has bee rattling when I hit about 1500-2000 rpms but I think that is unrelated to my vibration problem. the vibration is getting worse everyday I drive and today when I slow down and accelerate from almost being stopped I'm hearing a slight belt squeal that goes away quickly. I don't even know where to begin on what the problem could be and i'v heard many theories just by asking around. I've heard u-joints or bearings, spark plugs, I've heard the catalytic converter that's bad may be causing it, wires, o2 sensors, fuel filter, transmission is bad... you name it. it's an 02 4runner 2wd with brand new 31x10.5" BFG All Terrains. my old set of tires were the same. I know its not a tire or balancing issue because it doesn't vibrate when I let off the gas. The vehicle purrs like a cat when it idles and there is no vibration when I rev the engine in neutral. I'm afraid to take the vehicle to the dealership because they will most likely charge me an arm and leg to diagnose the problem and probably do work that doesn't really contribute to this problem. it is getting worse day by day and I am really hoping my favorite vehicle doesn't take a crap on me. I love my 4runner. any help or advice would be much appreciated!

 

[KidVermicious]

Five speed or automatic?

 

[TheDurk]

Five speed or automatic?

It's an '02, so slushbox. Last 5-speed was 2000.

I honestly don't think this is one that you can diagnose over the internet. Best bet would be to hope a member in your area will take a look.

Since truck has to move to get the vibration, trans and driveline are first suspects. Flexplate, ujoints, etc. Engine and trans mounts are a possibility. I assume no change when turning, or you might have to consider a wheel bearing. Squeal is probably a different issue.

Can you see/feel any movement/vibration in the shifter when it happens?

 

[gamefreakgc]

If your cat is loose, I wouldn't rule out that your exhaust might also be loose and causing some of the vibration. It might be hitting a certain frequency when accelerating or something like that.

My first though is the drive shaft though, they are known to fall out of balance over time and cause vibrations that get worse at higher speeds.

 

[19963.4lsr5]

First thing I would do is drop both driveshafts and look for a bad u-joint.

 

[Jakeskate]

It's an '02, so slushbox. Last 5-speed was 2000.

I honestly don't think this is one that you can diagnose over the internet. Best bet would be to hope a member in your area will take a look.

Since truck has to move to get the vibration, trans and driveline are first suspects. Flexplate, ujoints, etc. Engine and trans mounts are a possibility. I assume no change when turning, or you might have to consider a wheel bearing. Squeal is probably a different issue.

Can you see/feel any movement/vibration in the shifter when it happens?

there is a little vibration in the shifter but not as much as the whole vehicle. my rear license plate is starting to rattle now. so I'm pretty sure most of the vibration is coming from the rear end. it's almost like its coming from under or behind my seat. it does not change when I turn, its the same. I'm gonna take it in Friday to the dealership and give all my money away probably. I know the service writer so hopefully he can cut me deal or something...

 

[Jakeskate]

First thing I would do is drop both driveshafts and look for a bad u-joint.

is that a job I can do myself? I have tools. I don't have a press or ujoint puller kit tho..

 

[19963.4lsr5]

You should be able to take the drive shaft off with a 1/4 drive socket set. When you pull it move them around. Anything stiff and nochie or has play in the caps is bad. Then you could take that shaft somewhere to get repaired.

All those u-joints have grease zerks on them if they are still OEM. If you find one stiff and not smooth moving you could try and grease it. If it doesn't move smooth have it replaced.

If it has play it needs replaced.

To me the drive line can be greased every other oil change.

 

[TheDurk]

You should be able to take the drive shaft off with a 1/4 drive socket set. When you pull it move them around. Anything stiff and nochie or has play in the caps is bad. Then you could take that shaft somewhere to get repaired.

All those u-joints have grease zerks on them if they are still OEM. If you find one stiff and not smooth moving you could try and grease it. If it doesn't move smooth have it replaced.

If it has play it needs replaced.

To me the drive line can be greased every other oil change.

He's 2wd. I believe they had no zerks from the factory.

 

[19963.4lsr5]

Wow. Never thought that.

 

[TheDurk]

Wow. Never thought that.

Take a look at this:

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/120941-2wd-rear-driveshaft-u-joint-info-needed.html

 

[Jakeskate]

You should be able to take the drive shaft off with a 1/4 drive socket set. When you pull it move them around. Anything stiff and nochie or has play in the caps is bad. Then you could take that shaft somewhere to get repaired.

All those u-joints have grease zerks on them if they are still OEM. If you find one stiff and not smooth moving you could try and grease it. If it doesn't move smooth have it replaced.

If it has play it needs replaced.

To me the drive line can be greased every other oil change.

Thanks a lot for the info. hopefully this fixes my problem