mswenso1

I will try to make this brief but I REALLY need help! I have a 2000 4runner Ltd 4x4. When I start it in the morning it starts right up. No issues with turning over or anything. However, when I put it in drive, it has no torque. I do not think it is a transmission issue because it doesn't 'pop' into gear and finally go. I hit the gas and it blows smoke out the tail pipe (unburned fuel) but will crawl forward. After 5 min or so of feathering the throttle or letting it warm up, hit runs like normal.

I just replaced the fuel filter, spark plugs (with Iridium NGK plugs) NGK ignition wires, ran some Lucas injection cleaner through it, replaced the PCV valve and cleaned the MAF.

The issue was there before I did this tune up but thought the ignition work would fix it.

The only existing issue I know of is that I probably need to do a power steering flush. When I first start it, it wines a little but goes away quickly. No issues with power or anything, just going to replace all fluid with synthetic Mobil 1.

Like I said, I don't think it is a tranny issue because it engages into drive, 2nd and low just fine but I can floor it or feather it for the first few minutes and it just crawls and smokes.

Check my signature for mods. I do have the resonator box delete, deck plate mod on the vehicle. That's about it for the engine.

If I don't respond quickly it is because I am at work but would really appreciate any help! I live in Colorado and the high tomorrow is supposed to be 30 degrees or so for a high. It definitely seems to be worse when cold.

One more note. My wife was in a car accident a few weeks ago in the Runner. They replaced the front end, bumper, rebar, right fender,ect. The day I got it back the skid plate fell off. This reveiled that the right front axle was leaking at the center diff. The 4x4 solinoid was also leaking. Had the shop pull the diff and reseal both items. No issues with engaging diff lock or regular 4wheel drive. Thought it might be pertinent info though.

Thanks again for your help! I need it as the Runner is our primary vechicle during the winter.

If you know what it is feel free to respond here or email me or even call me or text me.

My email is swenson.m41@gmail.com
My number is seven two zero-two91-four262

I am in Centennial, CO

Thanks you all!

mswenso1

Bump for some help PLEASE

turbo8

How is the transmission fluid?

mswenso1

I haven't checked transmission fluid in a little while. UPDATE: So, as sure as I was that it WASN'T the trans, I decided to try something today. When I got in it this afternoon, 30 degrees out, I started it and it was bogging in drive. I shifted it to Low and behold it picked right up. I shifted back in drive again and it bogged. So I kept it in low for maybe two minutes and then shifted it into drive and all was well. I have done this twice today. So...does that mean that I just might be low on fluid? That it is taking the tranny a little to warm up and for the fluid to expand and get warm?

mswenso1

My update is in reference to your question by the way

turbo8

why don't you check the fluid level when cold?

j-man

i just posted about a week ago regarding the same exact thing. Turns out its a solenoid in the tranny - u have to pull the pan and there are 3 of them - not sure which one is bad so either replace all 3, or somehow test them & see.

mswenso1

How much did it cost you to replace the solenoids? Do you know what they are called? By pulling the pan i assume you mean the oil pan?

Black_1985_SR5

iTrader: (1)

The transmission oil pan

j-man

Its actually in the trany fluid pan, and i havent done it yet - its actually on my buddies 2000 4runner limited also - he's just living with it and lets his rig warm up before he drives it but will be replacing all 3 pretty soon.

mswenso1

That makes sense, I guess I am still wondering how worried should I be? Since they are solenoids and have to do with the fluid, should I worry about the trans going out or wearing out any gears?

Actually, now that you mention it, I think I saw a DIY on this once. Do any of you remember the link or the topic. I don't think it was "tranny solenoid" or anything like that.

jbudhram015

Is this related to that issue that's specific to the LTD's that when the battery gets weak it starts to have all manner of shifting weirdness? I read some threads where guys were being told they needed new transmissions and they were able to resolve the issue with a fresh battery. Had something to do with low voltage to a shift solenoid......could be unrelated but just a thought.

j-man

You are 100% correct. We switched out for a new battery and it solved that issue. How freakin wierd!!

jbudhram015

Lol, win.