Ball joint issue?

paulmars

Active Member
2 years after buying this truck new I noticed all 6 ball joints were leaking grease. Three trips to the dealer, several calls and letters to toyota USA all got me nowhere. So, i been keeping eye on them and trying to wiggle wheels side-side and top-bottom every 5 or so thousand miles. Everything still feels tight as of today.

Back in May 2020 I noticed tear in left steer tie rod boot. Replaced both boots in August 2020. I had to lift up the rubber ball joint boot so it would not get damaged with the removal tool. I didn't see any more grease come out as I did that. I cleaned off all the previously leaked grease before reassembly. I thought ball joint boots would lower back down, but after 600 miles they have not. Maybe because there might not be much grease in them. Pictures below. Both sides look same. As can be seen they have not leaked since August 2020 (600 miles ago).

Feb 2021 I noticed the upper ball joint rubber is degrading both sides. I have no pictures from years ago, but they too have been leaking all this time, but much less. Just the obvious degradation arrows is new. See pics.

this is 2wd 2.4L 5sp 2003 taco w/76.9k miles (not a typo). I'm looking to keep this vehicle running as long as possible. maybe even have it out live me. So, I've been considering this:

or

part of me thinks it's a great idea, and part of me is reminded of the many questionable things sold in the back of those old whitney catalogs.

one site he put some sealant over the hole left after wiping off excessive grease.

your thoughts?

tks,
p
 

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  • BJ left up Feb 2021(1).jpg
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  • BJ right Up Feb 2021 (1).jpg
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  • BJ right Up Feb 2021 (2).jpg
    BJ right Up Feb 2021 (2).jpg
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  • BJ right low Feb 2021.jpg
    BJ right low Feb 2021.jpg
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