2006 GX470, ~147K miles.I have questions/comments about vibration in the differential. Had vibration under load in the 40-60 mph range. Read previous posts for the TSB on this and had the local Toyota dealer diagnose and replace the front differential damper. The TSB has two parts. This repair is the first part and seems to have taken care of the vibration. Unfortunately, there is now a very fast vibration but only when I let off the gas at speeds around 50-70mph. The vibration is similar to running over speed warning serrations on the side of some roads. My guess is that this would be covered under the 2nd part of the TSB. Estimate from the dealer for this repair is $2300-2600. Ouch. Have put probably1000-1500 miles on the vehicle since the first repair. Questions: Does anyone know how long I can push this without causing additional major damage? Does this repair need to be performed by a Lexus or Toyota dealer or would a good transmission shop be able to do the job at lower cost? Tired of problems with these newer cars. Sigh...need to have my '67 Camero back.

 

I haven't seen the TSB, but any good 4x4 shop can work on the driveline - you'd just have to get them the parts. And then you wouldn't be paying Lexus hourly rates.

Chip H.

 

Thanks for the suggestion and advice Chip. I'll check with some local shops. The TSB is DL001-08 and has 20pp. The first 5pp cover the repair I referenced above and states a 0.5 hour repair time to replace and install a vibration damper. The 2nd repair states 8.5 hours labor, is covered in pages 6-20 and requires removing the automatic transmission, transfer case, etc. Apparently not a simple repair. Here is a link to the TSB for anyone interested with the same problem:http://www.justanswer.com/uploads/sn...gx_droan_1.pdfMy main concern is how long can I let this go before causing additional damage.

 

I just had a look at that PDF. Yeah, you're probably better off replacing the transfer case with a remanufactured one. (for the curious - the TSB says to replace the transfer case multi-link chain - not a procedure for the faint hearted and shallow of pocket)

Chip H.