Parts for your 2005 Toyota Land cruiser-Steering bushes

2005 Toyota Land Cruiser steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Based on Toyota’s Factory Service Manual for the J100/J105 series (1998–2007, Chassis—Steering section) and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalog for 2005 Land Cruiser variants (UZJ100, HDJ100, HZJ105), this model uses a recirculating-ball steering gearbox with a pitman arm, centre link and an idler arm that pivots on serviceable bushes. Gregory’s/Australasian repair manuals covering the 100/105 also note the same layout. That means steering bushes are definitely relevant on a 2005 Land Cruiser—though “steering rack bushes” specifically aren’t, because there’s no rack-and-pinion on this model.

On the 2005 Land Cruiser, steering bushes (most notably the idler arm bushes, and a support bush in the steering column) keep the steering linkage located, smooth out vibration and help the big wagon track straight. When they’re fresh, the steering feels planted and predictable. As they wear, you’ll notice more play at the wheel, wandering on the highway, a clunk over corrugations and sometimes uneven tyre wear.

Inspection is straightforward and worth doing at every service or at least every 20,000 km—more often if it sees corrugations or towing. With the front lifted safely, have a mate rock a front wheel at 3 and 9 o’clock while you watch the idler arm: any sideways slop at the arm or visible cracking in the bush is a cue for replacement. Also feel the steering column for notchiness or looseness that can point to a tired support bush.

When it’s time to replace, choose OE-style rubber bushes for factory ride and NVH, or polyurethane for sharper response and durability in harsh use. If going poly, use the supplied grease and re-lube as recommended. Fit the bushes, then torque all fasteners at normal ride height to avoid preloading. It’s smart to check the idler arm shaft, pitman arm and centre link at the same time, if one bit’s worn, others often are too. Always book a wheel alignment after steering work.

For touring rigs, a pre-trip check of the idler arm bushes can save the day—worn bushes on a heavy Land Cruiser can accelerate tyre wear and make the big fella feel nervous on fast gravel. After fresh bushes, recheck torque after a few hundred kilometres.

• Typical signs of worn bushes: vague on-centre feel, tramlining, clunks over bumps, uneven tyre wear.
• Service tip: inspect every service, replace when play or cracking is present—no fixed interval.
• Note: This model does not use steering rack bushes, any “rack bush kit” advertised for a 2005 100/105 isn’t applicable.

Popular questions

Does a 2005 Land Cruiser have steering rack bushes?
No. The 2005 100/105 Series runs a recirculating-ball steering box, not a rack-and-pinion. Relevant bushes are in the idler arm and within the steering column support. If you’re being sold a “rack bush kit” for this model, that’s not the right part.

How often should steering bushes be replaced on a 2005 Land Cruiser?
There’s no fixed kilometre interval. Inspect them at each service or every 20,000–40,000 km. Replace when there’s play, cracking, clunking or vague steering. Heavy loads, bigger tyres and corrugated roads can bring the schedule forward.

Rubber or polyurethane bushes for the idler arm?
Rubber (OE-style) keeps the factory feel and best NVH. Polyurethane is tougher and tightens up steering response, great for touring or off-road, but can pass a touch more vibration. If using poly, grease them properly and re-lube as specified.