Front end replacement parts

Hello and thanks to all who can provide guidance,

| Stock | 2007 4runner v8 limited
>200k miles

I need to replace cv joints and boots, (the cv axles are likely ok), UCA/LCA, and possibly wheel bearings (have some play when pushing on the tire).

I want my 4 runner to last as long as possible.

#1 Are there any front end parts that should be replaced by OEM only or specific items that aftermarket exceeds in quality? (I've read in this forum that OEM cv axles are better and to just rebuild them if needed)

#2 If I'm repairing everything I said previously, should I just repair everything else? (Struts, suspension, anything else that I'm leaving out)

#3 Should I buy individual pieces or are there kits where all the items are equally as high quality?

Thanks again

 

Factory parts are always best...well, most of the time
..I'd check through RockAuto for things or even Advanced Autoparts if you have one locally as they are in the final stages of filing chapter 11 and one can acquire MANY parts for about 90% off...all good to great parts, too.

Suspension bits, like coil springs and struts I'd shop almost any aftermarket as they'll be better than old stock factory stuff...Ironman 4x4 has some legit deals right now and they've been touted very well. Ebay is another option...bearings for hubs have been great from RockAuto in my perai al experiences. You got this! Make a lost of items to replace and start a spreadsheet to determine the best bet for you...there's a reason why Toyotas last longer typically then other brands...they use Toyota parts!

 

Awesome. Thanks for the info. I'm fine with buying oem from toyota. I just needed confirmation that I wouldn't be blowing my money. Suspension struts and coils I'll definitely buy after market. I didn't realize Advanced Autoparts was going out of business, I'll definitely check out the few stores in my area. Thanks for the heads up. I'll do my due diligence on the other sites you mentioned.

Thus far, my drive train has been running excellent. I have a J vin # so I just assume it runs great still bc it was assembled in Japan and then shipped over to the states to be dropped into an American built chassis haha

 

Yes sir...best 4.7 the US ever got! I too have a runner!

 

Careful when purchasing from a company going out of business. Beware of "All Sales Final" as that will bite you as you wouldn't be able to return for exchange/refund if the part doesn't work for some reason.

 

Were all 4.7L engines built in Japan? I never looked that far into it. I just noticed the Vin #'s that starts with J were built over there.

 

I assumed all 4runner 2uZs were built in Japan...only the 4runner versions...but, I cannot quote anything...

 

Thanks, that's good advice.

 

OEM for UCA, LCA, CV joints/boots if you want OEM quality. If you want to upgrade there are options. For wheel bearings get Koyo, NSK, or OEM (Koyo and NSK made for Toyota anyway so...).
Suspension I would indeed upgrade, but Im biased. I recommend Bilstein, OME, Dobinsons IMS. There are kits for all of these, or you can piece meal it as desired

 

Thank you. I was looking at Dobinsons' shock mounts, so I'll get the strut and springs from them as well (i don't want to mix and match those items). Then I'll go OEM for the rest I think. Again, thanks for the direct and solid advice.

 

+1 on Dobinsons, i have their IMS suspension and its great.

 

CVJ for axles, get the wheel bearings here:

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/wheel-bearings-hubs-press-service-oe-nsk.537080/

As far as upper and lower, upper is get aftermarket. Lower I would rebuild as they are expensive.