So, the continuation.
The beam is in place, tightened, all connectors are plugged in. Installing cross members. Torque for tightening bolts — 50 N*m.
I’m fastening the steering knuckle to the steering arm on the wheel hub. Torque for securing the tie rod ends onto the steering arms — 60 N*m.
Everything is secured with a cotter pin right away, so I won't forget anything later.
Looks like everything is assembled, but there's an issue. The sensor tie rods are in very poor condition. Original parts aren’t sold separately, and alternatives available are quite disappointing. On the forum, someone mentioned that the ones from a Prado fit as bolt-on replacements; they even provided the part number — 4890635010. I ordered two pieces.
Then it starts to smell like deception since the tie rod is completely different in length. Here's a comparison with stock:
In this case, the comparison is made with stock parts but with new ball joints cranked onto the old steering shaft from the new tie rods. Two such tie rods are installed on the vehicle.
Before installing the guards, I tighten the wheels and lower the car off the hoist, but not completely. Then I connect the VVB fuse, install the battery cable, and start the engine. Wait until the front struts inflate, then fully lower the hoist. The guards weren’t installed because I decided to wash the underside of the hood area without them and reinstall them after cleaning.
Yay! Almost everything is done! There's just a little bit left. Lowering the car, tightening the steering arm nuts all the way. Torque for securing — 294 N*m. Immediately check it.
Then I go to wheel alignment since it’s essential in this case. Before setting up the alignment, I calibrate the air suspension system. Connect Launch and choose Chassis — Air Suspension — Body sensors (something like that). Start adjusting front and rear tie rods until readings are close to zero. Minor deviations are acceptable. All work is done with the engine running.
After that, proceed to set wheel alignment values. Achieved these settings:
Yay! Finally, everything's done! Even I can't believe I managed such a large volume of work. Now nothing rattles or clatters, and the car drives smoothly. It feels great!
So what’s next? Soon, I'll replace the upper front control arms as their bushings are torn. Also need to change rear track bolts and likely control arms for some reason; although the bushings there look very good. The tie rods for the rear sensors also need replacement soon since they're almost worn out. Otherwise, everything is done, with just a bit left and the suspension will be in perfect condition.
By the way, if anyone needs a left ball joint, I’ll sell it cheaply. As I later found out, the boot fits from a Land Cruiser.
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