skshepherd

Hello, haven't posted in a while, no problems since I fixed leaking rear axle per yotatech writeup.

Currently I have an intermittant problem with the truck starting. I've read posts about the worn contacts in the starter but most folks say the turn the key and hear a click but no turn over of the engine.

In my case I get int turn the key, all idiot lights come on, continue turning the key and nothing. Idiot lights stay on nice and bright. Then a try or two later it starts right up.

Its almost like the starter is getting no juice at all. Kind of like if you sit in the truck, arm the alarm, and then try to start it.

I bought the truck used and it has I believe an AudioVox alarm in it.

I really don't know where to begin on the alarm if thats the issue, just wondering if others had this same issue and found it to be something other than the starter kill on the alarm going nuts.

I'd appreciate any suggestions.
Thanks,
Steve

racermp

does it start if u keep trying to start it without messing with the alarm?

86autoyota

My 86 doesn't have an alarm and it started to do that. Is your truck an auto? Because if it is, it could be that the neutral safety switch might be having issues. Mine did so we took it apart and cleaned it and that seemed to have solved the problem.

drguitarum2005

does it start up right away if your're being jumped? i suspect it would. the first thing (and simplest) i'd look at is the battery. weak batteries can do WEIRD things to your vehicle's electrical system. there are lots of things it COULD be but a battery is so simple to test out. i'd start there

BajaRunner

Check: Ground and lead to starter.

Ground from starter goes to engine block on pass side, and obviously starter lead goes to + terminal. Sounds like a ground issue. Might just be loose enough to cause problems.

Also, you don't necessarily need to have a "CLICK" to experience bad terminals in the starter. I never got the click when mine started to go. Finally, when it went for good, I got the CLICK.

I doubt it has anything to do with your alarm.

So, most likely, your contacts are going out. But, might as well check the connections first before diving in.

Jewels

Check: bat fluid, bat terminals for corsion and solid conection, starter ground and hot wire,(do you have a test light?).
if everythings good and you have your idiot lights, it might be you starter relay.

skshepherd

Thanks guys, I have a lot to check. If you try a few more times it starts right up. Most of the time when you get in and try and start it it is fine.

How do you clean the auto switch? It really acts like there is some kind of starter kill, just like if you try to start it when the alarm is set.

With it as old as it is it could also very well be the ground or the contacts themselves. I think I'll try the easy stuff first.

Thanks guys!

racermp

the starter is going out if u just keep turning the key then it starts

if it was an alarm problem, it would not start untill u go back and mess with the alarm buttons/lock and unlock the door

skshepherd

Ok, got the parts from a shop in town. Slightly smaller than original but otherwise symetrical. Toyota tech in town said those were what they used.

Problem Fixed!
Thanks Forum friends!

Ron Helmuth

just to clarify-was it the starter contacts?

simonpsu1

I am having the same problem, can you clarify what you replaced/checked etc.

CLin9383

bump. looking for confirmation it was starter contacts. i turn the key and nothing!