Original post date: August 18, 2014
What is unique to the Previa is the SADS (Separate Auxiliary Drive Shaft). The motor is mid ship, in the middle of the van.
The accessories, such as all belt driven components, Supercharger, power steering, alternator.. are located upfront under the hood. The SADS connects these. One of the main issues for wear and tear is the SADS couplers, couplers in rubber, goes out. This will lead to a ticking noise.
I started to ask people about options and everyone suggested OEM Toyota parts. I asked because I saw some cheap stuff on Ebay and even those reviews showed that they only lasted 2yrs.
While at a junkyard, I was snapped a picture of a worn out SADS.
This ticking noise is harmonic (from what I read) and has a bit of a vibration to it. Definitely felt when those belts up front are being stressed (A/C on, turning while stopped).
So I bought the original Toyota for $230.
There is also a TSB (technical service bulletin) for these since everyone probably complained!
Nonetheless, I hope these last for a few years, I mean if these vans didn’t start to have issues after 10-15 yrs, I hope it lasts that long!
Part Number 04374 -28011
Service Note on Previa Vans:
Click on the photo at right. There is a tab on a bracket that must be installed correctly. Installed wrong it will wear new flex disc out in 6-12 months.
http://www.driveshaftspecialist.com/Import%20html/Toyota.html
