Bought Used 07 Tundra 4WD - Found a TSB - Suggestions?

I bought a used 07' Tundra 4WD last year and I love it, great truck. I don't recall noticing this during the test drive or even recently after purchase, but about 6 months I did notice what sounds like a rubbing in the front end that is accompanied by a vibration that can be felt through the gas pedal. It continues even if in neutral but goes away when switched to 4WD. It seems like it comes and goes in terms of severity, but it's a persistent issue.

I was able to find the Toyota Service Bulletin regarding the issue and it was something that would be replaced under warranty but my truck's warranty is long expired and I didn't buy a used car warranty.

My question for the experts out there -- is this a big deal, meaning, if I don't have this repaired will it lead to a larger problem down the road or it just a nuisance issue?

I don't drive the truck much, less than 6,000 miles a year, and I still owe a bit on it so the thought of throwing down $2,500 or more to replace the front differential carrier assembly (as recommended by the link below) isn't what I particularly want to do.

https://eastcoastgearsupply.com/files/PDF Files/tsb-0121-08-t9r-front-diff-growl.pdf

 

I'd think if the recall had not been performed regardless of mileage it should be done. The answer is no if you don't ask.

 

What speed is your truck making the vibration. Mine was doing it at higher speed and I used the east coast gear but it actually ended up being a front wheel bearing. If its at low speed then then gear should solve your issue.

 

It's not a recall but rather a service bulletin. I'm well out of warranty so they're not gonna fix it for free.

 

Mine is doing this at low speeds. It seems like it might be also doing it at higher speeds but it's hard to tell with engine and road noise.

 

Then most likely the east coast supply part will fix the issue. Buy the tool too.

 

Which part exactly?

 

https://eastcoastgearsupply.com/i-1...amshell-bushingeliminates-needle-bearing.html

 

Thanks! Is this a big deal to take care of in terms of safety or to prevent further damage or is it just a nuisance issue?

 

I think it’s more of a nuisance issue.

 

Witnessing very similar issue on a 2010. Thanks for the research, guys!

The 0121-08 TSB is also mentioned on other forums. I hope this is it.

 

There's another thread about this (probably a few) but in it someone who bought the tool was lending it to people. If I remember correctly it was a "send me your address and pay for shipping and I'll send it to you. Then when the next forum member needs it do the same" situation. Maybe someone else will remember. If that's the case it should be a sticky so the member who bought it and started it can get praise and anyone who needs the tool will be able to find who has it.