Symptoms
Front hubs that won't lock, slip under load or let go in reverse. 4Runners.com notes the auto hubs fitted to some 1984–89 4Runners are less reliable than manual hubs and will sometimes unlock in reverse.
The fix, step by step
- Confirm you have auto hubs (no dial to turn on the hub cap).
- Remove the auto hub assemblies and the auto-hub hardware on the spindle.
- Fit LC Engineering's conversion kit: the locking nuts and plates that hold the hub and rotor on the spindle once the auto-hub parts are gone.
- Repack the wheel bearings and set the preload to the factory manual while it's apart, then fit the manual hubs on new gaskets.
- Solid-axle (1984–85) and IFS (1986–89) hubs have different spline counts, so order the right ones.
Tools & part numbers
- Sockets
- spindle-nut socket
- snap-ring pliers
- torque wrench
- wheel-bearing grease and new seals
Where to buy the parts
Manual hub conversion kit, 1984–89 4Runner (4x4)LC Engineering ↗Amazon ↗
Aisin manual locking hubs, 1986–95 IFSLC Engineering ↗Amazon ↗
Aisin manual locking hubs, 1979–85 solid axle (pair)LC Engineering ↗Amazon ↗
Front hub star gasket (Toyota 43531-60010)LC Engineering ↗Amazon ↗
Hunting a used or discontinued part? Search eBay Motors for Toyota 4Runner 1st Gen parts →
Rated for a competent home mechanic with a decent tool kit. Confirm torque figures, fluids and procedures against the factory service manual for your VIN, support the truck on stands rather than a jack, and work at your own risk (disclaimer). Some parts links are affiliate links, which pay us a small commission at no cost to you.