hi,
i doubt its the case with yall since the symptoms seem to be common on many GZEs, but i'll just share something that happened to me previously. the first person who transplanted my NA 4AGE installed the engine improperly, causing it to sit at an angle instead of level (timing belt side high, gearbox side low). it was about a 1 degree slant and these were the problems that plagued me before i realized the error;
- both driveshafts often wear quickly
- front left wheel bearing had to be replaced once every 3 months, to the point that the knuckle housing got eaten away.
to picture this problem, i'd say its the exact same effect as what acbc first replied; as the case with excessive lowering, the driveshaft is made to operate at an awkward angle and places abnormal stress when in operation. i dont think many mechanics would make this mistake; i just thought u guys could check it out (for those driving LEs that is).
Another factor to consider is the fact that FF AE8x chassis are prone to deformation and detereoration under GZE influence. taken from the words of an ex-Toyota factory technician (which i dont admire, but is knowledgeable by the way; long story), the LE chassis especially local 1.3 and some 1.5 models are not really designed to take the power and the driving habit of GZEs. without subframes to reinforce the middle front structure, LEs are prone to chassis bending and metal fatigue if driven wildly. Most of you might already know about those 2 reinforcing metal rods that are present from Japan models of from local GL chassis, but an old car like ours can take only so much punishment. its just a thought; hope it can help u look in the right direction.
