Parts for your 1993 Toyota Caldina-Centre bearing

1993 Toyota Caldina centre-bearing: what’s fitted and what isn’t

Based on Toyota’s factory documentation, a centre-bearing (also called a carrier bearing) is only relevant to 1993 Toyota Caldina models equipped with full-time/part-time 4WD. Front-wheel-drive (FWD) Caldina models do not use a centre-bearing because they don’t have a rear propeller shaft. This is confirmed in Toyota workshop literature for the ST19# series (Caldina/Carina/Corona) where the “Propeller Shaft” section applies to 4WD variants only, and in the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) which lists a “Bearing Assy, Centre Support, Propeller Shaft” under the Propeller Shaft group for ST195G 4WD models, with no such listing for FWD ST190G variants.

Why it’s not used on FWD Caldina: the FWD layout mounts the engine transversely and drives the front wheels via short drive shafts, there’s no long, two-piece prop shaft running to a rear differential, so there’s no need for a centre support bearing. The 4WD Caldina adds a rear driveline with a two-piece prop shaft that requires mid-span support and vibration control, hence the centre-bearing shown in Toyota’s 4WD “Propeller Shaft” service procedures and parts diagrams.

If you’ve got a 4WD 1993 Caldina, the centre-bearing sits between the front and rear halves of the prop shaft. Its job is to support the shaft, keep everything aligned under load, and knock down NVH (noise, vibration, harshness). When the rubber cushion perishes or the bearing develops play, you’ll often hear a droning or humming that rises with road speed, a thump on take-off, or feel a shudder under acceleration. Left to worsen, it can accelerate wear in the universal joints and even affect the rear diff mountings.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to check the centre-bearing every 20,000–30,000 km. Look for cracked rubber around the carrier, inspect for free play in the bearing, and check the mounting bracket bolts for tightness. If replacement’s on the cards, mark the prop shaft halves before separation so phasing stays correct, support the exhaust and heat shields as needed, and drop the centre bracket. The old bearing is pressed off the shaft, the new one should go on square with any dust seals and the rubber carrier oriented as per the manual. Refit the bracket, tighten to factory torque, and keep the shaft aligned to your marks to avoid new vibrations. It’s also worth checking the universal joints and rear diff mount while you’re under there—doing it once, doing it right.

DIYers can handle the job with a press, but most workshops in Australia and New Zealand will sort it quickly and balance-test the shaft if needed. After refit, a short road test to confirm no vibration through 60–100 km/h is the go.

• Applies: 4WD ST195G Caldina (centre-bearing fitted)
• Not applicable: FWD ST190G Caldina (no centre-bearing)
• Technical sources: Toyota ST19# series Repair Manual “Propeller Shaft” (4WD only), Toyota EPC Propeller Shaft group (centre support bearing listed for 4WD models)

Popular questions

Does every 1993 Toyota Caldina have a centre-bearing?
Not every one. Only the 4WD versions use a centre-bearing because they have a two-piece rear prop shaft. FWD cars don’t have a rear prop shaft at all, so there’s no centre-bearing fitted.

What are the tell-tale signs the centre-bearing is failing on a 4WD Caldina?
Common signs include a humming or droning noise that changes with speed, a thump when taking off, and a shudder under load. Visual checks often reveal cracked rubber in the carrier or noticeable play when you lift the shaft near the bearing.

Can a 4WD Caldina be driven with a worn centre-bearing?
You might limp along for a bit, but it’s not recommended. A failing centre-bearing can increase vibration, which can damage the universal joints and stress other driveline mounts. Best to sort it before it strands you or causes a bigger bill.