Truck is a 1985 4Runner 4x4 22re 5-speed.
The truck recently started to have this issue where it would turn over then sputter out within seconds. The starter turned over the engine without any trouble (strong start). I can hear the fuel pump running when I turn the key.
The very next day I go in to the garage to try and see if I can figure out what's wrong, but now it won't start at all! It was as if the starter was no longer connected.
Using a volt meter, I got 12volts at the battery and at the ground the battery is wired to. (Battery and alternator replaced within 2 months)
Could it be a fuse? Maybe a bad ground somewhere else? Any help is appreciated.

 

I checked and cleaned all of the fuses and the engine grounds in this very helpful thread https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f116/22re-ground-wire-locations-guide-194413/
I ran a 10awg wire from the negative battery terminal to the ac compressor bracket (good ground checked with a volt meter) as I didn't have this engine ground listed in the thread above. STILL no start but I left the wire in place for the rest of the time as it wasn't hurting anything.
Checking with a volt meter on the starter solenoid plug while my friend turned the key to start the engine showed that I only had about 6 volts going to it. I ran a direct jumper wire to the solenoid from the positive terminal on the battery and finally, I got the engine to turn over. the starter now ran with the key in the ignition almost like the starter needed a wake up. But still the engine would die after just a few seconds.
Then I ran a direct jumper wire to the fuel pump while my buddy turned the key in the ignition. Fuel pump was running great, but still the same sputter out within a few seconds.
After that I used an ohms meter to test along the AFM prongs http://4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTricks/AFM/index.shtml#AFMtesting everything check out ok!
I finally got so impatient, I took the intake tubing off, pinned the throttle body open with a screw driver, direct jumper to the fuel pump, while my buddy turned the key. Still! Just a start then a high rev followed by a run for 3 seconds.
The spark plugs, cap, and rotor have been replaced within a month. Tomorrow I plan on running the fuel pump past the fuel filter in to a bucket to see if the fuel is good. I just need some suggestions or and advice. Thanks!

 

Have you checked the IACV?


Fuel Filter Clogged? When was that last changed?


Air in the fuel line?


Catalytic converter or other exhaust problems?

 

I'll have to check those out

 

I'd check the Catalytic converter and IACV first... but if it has been ages on the filter that can't hurt at all... just change it...

 

Any luck man on figuring out the problem?