Drag Link Rebuild on HJ61

[Hikeshi]

Hi guys,

I am rebuilding the drag link that is connected to the steering arm and have run into a snag. The threaded cap that keeps all the components inside the drag link is corroded (been there for 20 years, go figure). I have sprayed WD40 and penetrating oil on it, but so far no go.

I can't seem to figure out how to twist the sucker out of there. It is really stuck in there and doesn't seem to respond to the large flat head screw driver I am using and is getting kinda chewed up from my efforts. Fortunately the rebuild kit comes with a new one.

Any suggestions?

Thanks,

Hikeshi

 

[CruisinFJ60]

good air hammer.

 

[Dynosoar]

Buy a new drag link! This is YOUR steering, do you really want to drive around on rebuilt corroded parts? They are not that expensive, and you will have a safe system that will last another 20 years. Keep your old one as a rebuilt spare.


Dynosoar

 

[Spike Strip]

Harbor Freight makes flat head slotted tools for those types of caps -- LINK

But I stongly X2 what Dyno said.

I wouldn't take any chances with steering for a 50 dollar drag link. You can get the whole Toyota arm, with both joints and the bar for under $200.

 

[Tinker]

I can't picture the cap (& too lazy to go downstairs & look): can you drill it out & re-tap it?

 

[Hikeshi]

Thanks for the suggestions; as for buying new ones, because it is a RHD vehicle, locating a new drag link is not as simple as going to Toyota and getting it. Especially the link attached to the steering arm since the steering dampener mount is opposite to LHD.

The rebuild kit comes with all the components and a brand new screw in end plug/cap. And everything is MADE IN JAPAN. The drag link housing is a mildly corroded on the outside, but the inside should be okay because it is packed with grease. Just need to get the plug out and everything will be fine...

Cheers,
H

 

[MangoMan]

Look on Australia's ebay (eBay Australia - Buy or sell practically anything on eBay, the world's online marketplace) and you will find full sets of tie rod ends for 60 series for AU$70.00 brand new. The company is called East Coast 4WD and they will ship anywhere in the world. Hope this helps.

 

[lehiguy]

Thanks for the suggestions; as for buying new ones, because it is a RHD vehicle, locating a new drag link is not as simple as going to Toyota and getting it. Especially the link attached to the steering arm since the steering dampener mount is opposite to LHD.

The rebuild kit comes with all the components and a brand new screw in end plug/cap. And everything is MADE IN JAPAN. The drag link housing is a mildly corroded on the outside, but the inside should be okay because it is packed with grease. Just need to get the plug out and everything will be fine...

Cheers,
H

I hate to break it to you, but the factory steering stabilizer is trash, I wouldn't worry about losing it. There are tools designed specificaly for what you're doing, I have used them before.