Alignment results--question:

[Utahfj62]

I too am disappointed in the early rack replacements. Disappointed though is it.

Overall the 100-series are more reliable overall than any other Series since sources have tracked it. They surpass the famous 80-series as well. IF the trouble was a trouble that just "quit on you" then it would effect the history of the Series. The racks do not (unless you never have your vehicle inspected).

You are right once again- my close friend works for Toyota USA and has told me repeatedly that the motor in the 100 series is one of - if not the most problem free motors Toyota has made. The steering rack didn't "quit on me" - it still works fine - it's just a bit juicy and dripping onto the driver side control arm and skid plate. I'm a bit obsessive when it comes to my 100 being mechanically clean and operating perfect.

The issues I have had with the truck have been minimal compared to my friends who wheel 40's 60's and 80's. Every truck has it's pros and cons - I guess I'm still just reeling from knowing I have to pull the steering rack in the near future. I have the type of personality that every thing has to be 100% mechanically on the truck - I have scratches and dings on the outside that I don't care about but mechanically it has to be 100%. I do my own work when I can and knowing the rack is leaking drives me nuts! It still works fine - the seal on the main gear leading into the rack is what has blown. I started searching and found that you and others have been through numerous racks and it is frustrating.


So to get back to the topic of your orginial post - Do you believe the rack loosing fluid and loosening up will have immediate effect on the wear of your tires? Mine has blown on the main gear not the wheel sides. The steering still feels tight and performs as it shoud - it just is wet and messy underneath on the main gear going into the rack.

 

[ShottsUZJ100]

So to get back to the topic of your orginial post - Do you believe the rack loosing fluid and loosening up will have immediate effect on the wear of your tires? Mine has blown on the main gear not the wheel sides. The steering still feels tight and performs as it shoud - it just is wet and messy underneath on the main gear going into the rack.

I have not seen any tire wear issues until my last set and that was 100% my fault. Last year I had a record year in sales in 13-years. No time to wheel or keep up with Cruisers. It needed an alignment for a LONG time. I was a dumb aXX and for some reason I just put that one thing on the back burner. Dumb.

 

[hoser]

I don't know if there is even room for it but perhaps a steering damper could help with longevity.

 

[LandCruiserPhil]

I don't know if there is even room for it but perhaps a steering damper could help with longevity.

Where would one connect it? And if you find a way you would need 2.

For the record original rack no leaks, no problems.....yet! 143K

 

[hoser]

Here's an example of a steering rack and damper from an Audi A8. I'm assuming the inner shaft is one piece so just one damper needed?