New 4Runner Preventative Maintenance

[Kyngfish]

Hola. Just bought a 1998 4Runner Limited with 138k miles.

Just reading through threads and driving the car. I've got some weird stability issues at high speeds (70+), and though the steering feels tons better than some other examples I drove, I feel like it could be a bit tighter.

Also took a look at the Lower Ball Joints and they seem to be original so I'm doing the following:

• Replacing both lower ball joints with OEM parts (ouch)
• Replacing outer tie rod ends (while I'm in there - also OEM)
• Replacing steering rack bushings with the energy suspension kit

Anything else I'm missing? Once I feel like shelling out a bit more money I'll do the Tundra front brake upgrade, do FJ Coils (Tundra coils? Which is better?).

Also, I'm not really clear after reading all the threads about the bilstein 5100s. I looked in MRT Motorsports, are the ones they offer for the 4Runner for the 4Runner specifically? Or are they the Tacoma ones people say have a softer ride? I prefer stiffer overall.

I wouldn't mind a bit of lift, but also not really a priority. I just want the best ride I can get and good steering manners. I don't really offroad, but I do go out into the country and I want it to manage rougher environments, but mostly it's my get-around-town-truck.

Thanks in advance for feedback.

 

[mtbtim]

Since you're new and maybe haven't seen the DIY videos on the forum yet, here's a couple videos that can help you out. Welcome to the club.

Here's the link to the DIY Video Thread:
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/217550-3rd-gen-toyota-4runner-diy-videos.html

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YywcR0E9bM4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bfLvtEnX9qk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

 

[mtbtim]

Also, here's a Preventative Maintenance Thread I started. There's good information and discussion in here.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/221201-3rd-gen-4runner-preventative-maintenance.html

 

[Jszeszko]

How much do oem lower ball joints typically cost?

 

[Kyngfish]

How much do oem lower ball joints typically cost?

85 if you want to pay shipping. 91-93 if you have amazon prime and don't want to pay shipping. That's each. So all-in it's 200. Add another 100 for the outer tie rod ends if you want to do those as well.

Add 100 for your tears.

 

[Jszeszko]

85 if you want to pay shipping. 91-93 if you have amazon prime and don't want to pay shipping. That's each. So all-in it's 200. Add another 100 for the outer tie rod ends if you want to do those as well.

Add 100 for your tears.

Ok, that's not bad at all, my cost at the toyota dealership I work at is $82, $162 is full price.

 

[AntleredRuin]

How much do oem lower ball joints typically cost?

OEM cost $80-90 per side.
DON'T go aftermarket. They might be cheaper but they won't last even a 5th as long. LBJs should be changed out as preventative maintenance; they often show no signs of wear before failing. OEM usually last 100-150k, often times 250k+.
Aftermarkets might get you 20-30k if you're lucky.
When LBJs fail, it'll hurt (you and your wallet) quite a bit more, so for peace of mind, go OEM.

Addition: sorry for the preaching. The other posts were added as I was typing mine.

 

[Jszeszko]

OEM cost $80-90 per side.
DON'T go aftermarket. They might be cheaper but they won't last even a 5th as long. LBJs should be changed out as preventative maintenance; they often show no signs of wear before failing. OEM usually last 100-150k, often times 250k+.
Aftermarkets might get you 20-30k if you're lucky.
When LBJs fail, it'll hurt (you and your wallet) quite a bit more, so for peace of mind, go OEM.

Addition: sorry for the preaching. The other posts were added as I was typing mine.

I work for Toyota, there's no reason for me to go aftermarket or really even do the work myself when it costs me so little to have it done at the dealership.