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Toyota Axle Beef

Installing a Birfield eliminator kit
By Jay Kopycinski
129 0409 Birf 01 Z

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Straight-axle Toyota trucks and 4Runners use constant-velocity Birfield joints in the front closed-knuckle axle. The joint mates the inner and outer axles with a six-ball-joint assembly. These front axles are reasonably durable.
129 0409 Birf 03 Z
Pushing the Birfield's limits with tires taller than 35 inches can result in destruction of the bell of the Birfield, as shown here.
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The conversion kit includes inner and outer axleshafts made from 4340 high-nickel alloy steel, new spindles, U-joints, bronze housing bushings and housing seals.
129 0409 Birf 05 Z
To add ultimate joint strength to the heavy-duty axle kit we decided to use a set of CTM Racing U-joints.
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The provided bronze bushings were installed into the axlehousing to prevent the axleshaft from coming into contact with the trunion bearings in the knuckle.
129 0409 Birf 07 Z
Each axleshaft was slid into the housing. Care should be taken to prevent damage to the seals.
129 0409 Birf 08 Z
The new spindles were slid over the axleshafts and mated to the knuckles using the stock bolts and lock washers.
129 0409 Birf 09 Z
With the bushings installed, the inner axle seals were pressed into the housing. These are used, as in the stock setup, to keep the gear oil out of the knuckles.
129 0409 Birf 10 Z
The provided rubber boot should be installed on each of the outer stub axles. The rubber boot rides against the back of the spindle and keeps the axle assembly from moving side to side.
CTM Racing Products, Inc.
32991 Calle Aviador, Ste. E
San Juan Capistrano
CA  92675
Sky Manufacturing
www.sky-manufacturing.com
Randy's Ring & Pinion
Everett
WA

ringpinion.com

Toyota 4runner Research
Toyota 4runner Finding a fuel efficient automobile today is easier than ever. Check out the Toyota 4runner buyer's guide providing information on car specs, reviews and fuel economy. The 2009 4runner is available with the following engine options: V8, V6, and comes with comparable warranty coverage to other vehicles in its class. You also might want to research the Dodge Durango and the GMC Sierra.

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