Uniballs after 2000 miles of Winter in NH

[JimJr15]

I had to remove my UCAs to replace the bushings that had been improperly greased by the shop that did my lift.

Here's what my uniballs looked like when I turned them over.

Should I be concerned??

 

[2016 4Runner SR5]

One of the reasons I won't ever run a uniball arm again. Truth is, they are not worth the work on a daily driver. There are ball joint arms on the market with as much or more movement as a uniball and much less maintenance required. Just food for though.

As for being concerned, uniballs need constant maintenance and grease. You can try lubing them up and keep your eye on them. I'd lube them monthly for the time they're under your truck. That or swap the uniballs for the new ICON Delta joints.

 

[sandcrawler]

I had to remove my UCAs to replace the bushings that had been improperly greased by the shop that did my lift.

Here's what my uniballs looked like when I turned them over.

Should I be concerned??

they don't look awesome considering such a short amount of time, but i'd take it as an instructive moment: consider their maintenance a priority.

during the winter, take it to a self-wash bay often and pay special attention to spraying off the uniballs — above and below. when you get it home, clean out any remaining grit and douse them in Tri-Flow then let it sit to soak in until the next time you drive it.

all that said, now that they're off it's the perfect time to give them a thorough cleaning.

 

[wfo9]

Those look like ICON tubular UCAs. I've seen lots of talk about the uniballs they used being problematic due to the stainless steel material in that particular ball.

They do offer the delta joint replacements now.

I'm not convinced any ball joint can compare to the performance of a uniball, but the fact is most people don't need the performance of a uniball.

Also. I would not worry much about a little discoloration... especially when most will clean right up.

If it starts making noise... and clunking... then I would consider doing something. Until then, 5 minutes of maintenance here and there should keep you going.