A question for you, guys. I have a 1999 LS400 with 96,000 miles all suspension parts are original(except strut rods - changed them like a year ago). I have stock 16" wheels on. When driving on gravel/bumpy/loose surface, I feel sort of a play in the steering wheel. Do you know what that might be? Don`t feel anything on pavement.
Thanks,
Val

 

Maybe steering rack bushings? I don't recall the OEM tolerance but think it is like 1.5" to 2" play in the steering wheel when engine is turned off and you turn wheel left to right. I have factory manuals and can check tonight for my second gen.

The fact that it is only on loose roads and not on pavement makes me think your steering bushings are fine though.

 

I also replaced strut rods, but still have some knock from time to time.
I believe its lower Ball joints, or upper ones.

 

Anyone knows how long lower ball joints are supposed to last on 1998 1999 2000 LS400? Any info will be of help.

 

pretty sure they last right until they break

 

wow, master of the obvious.

"hey, what kinda gas mileage does the LS400 get?.... well, you can get as many miles as you can until you run out of gas.".......

 

it's true though, pretty much none of the suspension components have "designated" lifetimes according to the OEM Repair manuals, just to replace them when they go out of spec.

 

I was just trying to see what others experienced. 100K miles? 60K?
Pure, at what mileage were your ball joints replaced? I currently have 97K miles on my 1999 LS.

 

im at 117k ish and they're still good