02blkgs430

iTrader: (1)

Hi, did it work out for you? Im also contemplating on just re-torquing bolts as well.

jherr

Trent430

I did this last weekend...it got ugly.

Make sure you use a torque wrench and don't OVER tighten those bolts.

I have "heard" you can strip out the threads from the inside of the collar.

97-SC300

iTrader: (17)

Anybody else try this?

jherr

SlkySmooth

I've had a clunk on my LS since I bought it. Replaced tie rods, LCA bushings and it seemed to disappear until I cranked the steering to full lock then shifted into reverse and heard it once again. While driving over gravel I noticed a shimmy that seems to be present on asphalt as well but not as noticeable. I read on one thread that someone had their u joints or u joint bolts replaced is this the same thing? I've still got to replace my tilt motor and spiral cable so I'll plan to torque/replace these bolts regardless

97-SC300

iTrader: (17)

I am amazed how so many people are claiming this problem but I have not seen one thread or post that has a definite solution. It's not suspension related, guaranteed.

I have brand new control arm bushings and balljoints all around, tie rods, sway bar bushings, and shocks. All OEM and all replaced by Lexus within the last 5 months. Perfect alignment,etc.

It seems some people's clunks are much worse than mine. My 04 has 130k miles so maybe that's why it's still very minor but I do hear it at low speeds going up the drive way or bigger/harsher bumps.

My dad's 05 Sienna is REALLY bad. Seems like the same problem but MUCH worse than the LS. His was doing it the day we bought it (with 125k miles) and has not gotten any worse over the two year period that we've owned it so far (now it's at around 163k miles).

StanVanDam

I have had a clunk noise in my 2002 UL since at least 2011, at 96,000km, and I took it to a Toyota dealership to diagnose, but they couldn't find anything wrong (so they didn't charge me for the diagnostic). I even gave them the specific method of reproducing the noise - parked on a slight uphill, turn the wheel full lock or close to full lock, and shift into reverse - there will be a clunk as soon as the transmission engages or as soon as the wheel is at full lock.

I recall there were a few other threads on this topic where someone said there were a few odd strut or suspension bolts that were not torqued properly. I am still waiting for a definitive answer to show up on these forums instead of throwing parts at the problem. Does anyone know if it's possible that the LS430 made this noise straight out of the factory? The LS430 does have an unusually sharp turning radius - maybe that has something to do with it.

SlkySmooth

At this point I figure I won't cure the clunk until nearly every suspension part has been replaced not sure if that'll ever happen tho

Hagar

Did you happen to take a look at this thread?

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls-...d-clunk-2.html

SlkySmooth

I'd only skimmed over the discussion about the steering repair at the dealership as well as the TSB repair which I thought about doing when I took apart my steering wheel to replace the tilt motor and spiral cable. After taking a second look I'll definitely be replacing those steering bushings when I'm able to do my motor/transmission mounts.

whutt

Bumping this to keep the conversation going as I have this issue and have replaced the following:

• LCAB
• Steering Rack Bushings
• Ball joints
• Spline-d screws (all 3)
• UL Air -> BC Coils

All have not fixed it. I have a 04 UL and think the air suspension slowly losing the ability to dampen caused the steering rack bushings to become ovals and transmitted vibrations to the spline joints IN the telescoping portion of the intermediate shaft.

My tech [Vinam in SoCal] spoke at length with me how he had one Toyota intermediate shaft exhibit this issue and he used a special purpose grease that comes with a syringe to pack the telescoping portion. He did it once, was a pita, and the grease was super expensive and a band-aid. I'm debating grabbing that $75 ebay part and throwing it in or might see what the access looks like to pack the telescoping shaft with grease.

Will try and keep this thread updated with findings.

warminwisc

ANYONE address this yet? I have mine hopefully being fixed Monday lower steering shaft Toyota dealer

kos

iTrader: (1)

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls-...ml#post5604007

Bumping this to link the above post for those like myself that will tackle the joint behind the steering wheel cover, which is where my clunk sounds like its coming from. I already bought the bolts that @bradland posted, and did the middle joint inside the cabin, but was nervous to try and tackle the one behind the wheel cover.