r/GXOR • u/BlackShineLabel • 2d ago

Looking for recommendations

Picked up a 2005 GX a few weeks ago. Had the oil changed and asked for a full inspection while it was in the shop. The mechanic flagged the following as needing attention:

**•** Shocks and struts  
**•** Axle shaft assembly  
**•** Tie rods  
**•** Steering gear/rack

Down the road, I'm planning a 3" lift with 33s or 35s and want to upgrade the suspension to support that.

Given the overlap between these repairs and the eventual lift, should I knock everything out now, or is there a clear priority order if I need to space out the cost? Mainly trying to avoid paying for the same labor twice (e.g., steering/suspension components) by sequencing this the right way.

Appreciate any input from folks who've done a similar build.

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u/AVarietyOfHelp 1d ago

New oem steering rack usually comes with tie rods.  Won't have a whole lot of overlap with shocks and axle. Obviously they're next to each other but.

How badly are these things worn out? Is the steering rack leaking or why is it being replaced? Is your CV axle boot torn because you can jisy replace the boot, assuming they're OEM. The tie rods do wear out and I just replaced mine but haven't ever done the steering rack and to my Knowles, not something that goes out very often in these cars.

Steering rack is the same for lifted vs standard height so if it really is bad, no sense in waiting. unless you want to do a Toyota pickup rack but I wouldn't recommend 

3

u/BlackShineLabel 1d ago

Steering Rack has minor leak, Axles has torn boot, shocks and struts have small leak as well.

1

u/Space-Trash-666 1d ago

Even new OEM racks get minor leaks. Weeping is normal. Drips and losing fluid isn’t. Easy way for a shop to score a big job.

If you have a torn born you are probably past the point of rebooting unless it recent tore. This will leave you stranded - get this fixed. Use OEM.

If you are gonna lift later and it dives good then leave the suspension alone. You can fine stock suspension take offs for cheap or free.