Two problems related to rear suspension springs have been reported for the 1998 Toyota 4Runner. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Rear bearings have failed. There was a recall issued by NHTSA #02v021, which sited the rear suspension parts needed to be replaced on all 1996-1998 Toyota 4runners. The problem was for 2wd but was issued for 4wd vehicles also to avoid confusion. (mine is a 4wd) my question is, if the springs were under-sized, will this cause damage or undue strain to the rear bearings? also, Toyota refused to honor the recall statement from the NHTSA that states that "Toyota will recall these vehicles to avoid public confusion as to which vehicles should receive the replacement parts. ".
Rear spring loose,replacement necessary. Yh.