sage

Just wanted to f/u some results on my 97 4Runner with @90K miles:

Problems:
1. Cricket sound that went away when I pushed in my clutch and frequency of which increased as I increased speed.
2. 4Runner wouldn't start until cranked a few times. Sound it made was a "click, click" - battery was new and fuel system was okay.

Solutions:
1. Needed a new throwout bearing and clutch assembly. The flywheel was machined and the clutch feels awesome.
2. Starter contact was bad. Now 4 runner starts without any hesitation. Picture of worn starter contact is attached. The semicircular groove shouldn't be there. The groove forms over time and the eventually the contact to start is not made due to the space created.

Thanks for everyone's help and especially for the recommendation to go to Protrux in San Marcos (SoCal). I HIGHLY, recommend this place to ANYONE in the SoCal area....Jim knows his stuff and will walk you into the garage to answer any questions you have.

Sage