Hey guys. I don't know much about suspension parts. I have a 2012 SR5 4x4 4Runner. The part in the center of the picture that has spots on it is really greasy. Can somebody tell me what the name of this part is? Everything else on my 4Runner is super clean, so this greasy part sticks out like a sore thumb. Is that normal, or is it abnormally leaking? I do have some creaking in my suspension/chassis when I turn, so I am also wondering if this could be the culprit. I appreciate any and all input. Thank you so much!
What is this suspension part? Does it need fixing?
- Thread starter csteranko
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FrenchToasty
New member
I believe that's your standard issue BJ right there
Ps: gravity is a b**ch look up from where the grease starts to where it ends
Ps: gravity is a b**ch look up from where the grease starts to where it ends
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mace.
New member
Thanks for all of the input. It appears that ball joint is the winner winner chicken dinner. There is a rubber boot between the parts labeled #4 and #1 (upper control arm and steering knuckle). Halfway down this boot, it becomes really greasy continuing to leak down the steering knuckle. The thing is, this is happening on both sides of the car (front end). Should these be replaced? They seem to be leaking a lot. Are there any how to’s that show how to replace these? I am handy enough to have done all of the maintenance up to 60K miles, but other than a battery, this would be the first thing I would be replacing/fixing on this vehicle. I did do a search on the site, but didn’t find any “how to’s.” Thanks again!
these ball joints and other parts that have grease boots/seals will
leak over time, they can also crack/tear. if the rubber is in good condition weeping of grease will occur normally. if the boot is damaged in any way then you should replace it.
check boots for damage then check that the ball joints are good.
jack up the lower control arm place bar under tire pry up ward to feel the tire if there is any popping ...should be smooth motion prying up only a slight amount will reveal any worn parts.
leak over time, they can also crack/tear. if the rubber is in good condition weeping of grease will occur normally. if the boot is damaged in any way then you should replace it.
check boots for damage then check that the ball joints are good.
jack up the lower control arm place bar under tire pry up ward to feel the tire if there is any popping ...should be smooth motion prying up only a slight amount will reveal any worn parts.
wfo9
New member
Grease leaking out of the boot is normal. I would not worry much about it if there is no play...
If you do need to replace them... best bet is to simply find a set of take off UCAs on here. So many people replace them with aftermarket ones that there should be plenty of barely used ones available for dirt cheap.
If you do need to replace them... best bet is to simply find a set of take off UCAs on here. So many people replace them with aftermarket ones that there should be plenty of barely used ones available for dirt cheap.
I will clean up around the boot and monitor the leaking. It seems that it may just be normal leakage. Also, I mentioned earlier that there was a popping/creaking noise in my suspension. Somehow, I didn't realize it until now, but that noise has stopped since a couple of months ago when I got new tires and an alignment. It is funny how that noise can drive you crazy when it is there, but you forget to appreciate when it is gone. Thanks again for all of your input!
craigster59
New member
I just replaced my UCA's, shocks and springs. Let me know if you need replacements.
Edit: Only 1k miles on the components.
Edit: Only 1k miles on the components.
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