98 Tacoma 4X4

[elksnout]

My truck has developed a vibration I can feel in the floor boards and seems to be getting worse along with a noise I would best describe as a truck rolling down the freeway with deep lugged mud tires. Somewhat of a howl from inside the cab. Three summers ago I replaced the u-joints that were shot. So the other day I jacked up the rear so I could spin the tires and checked for play in the driveline. Everything is tight except the center bearing has a good ( 1/4 to 3/8'' ) play in all directions. Plus I see where the rubber is cracking. Truck is an auto with the 3.4 and just under 180,000 miles. Center bearing has never been replaced. I'm thinking this is my vibration? I can't feel anything in the steering wheel or in the brake pedal while braking. Everything else underneath seems tight and I cannot visually see anything else. Anyone have any ideas?

Thanks, ES.

[Bigtine96]

Are you referring to your carrier bearing? because yes if the rubber is cracked and you have that much play its bad. Easy fix go into rockauto.com and order the part. takes about a hour to replace a carrier bearing.

Could also be your ujoints in your driveline..

[Soldier5]

I too have a 98' tacoma 4x4 except mine is a manual and I'm experiencing the same noise/vibration. Pretty certain mine is the driver side front wheel bearing going out. Les Schwab also told me I had a wheel bearing starting to go out. Got a quote on how much it would cost to fix, was told about $300.

[Cylvertip]

Sounds like a front wheel bearing.  Throw a jack under the front and get the suspect tire of the ground.  With the tire off the ground, simultaneously grab the bottom of the tire with one hand and the top with the other. If it is the wheel bearing, the tire will rock back and forth if you push/ pull on it.  Try both front tires to be sure.

[BLUEBULLS]

sounds catastophic, both of you guys should dump your trucks now for CHEAP! I could probably help you with that

sincerely,
Tacoma Lover