I recently purchased a 87 4runner. It had starting issues when I bought it where it was finicky with having the clutch pushed in. Tonight, I started it and took it for a drive and now it doesnt start at all. I changed nothing, only took it for a drive. When you push the clutch in, and turn the key it clicks, but doesnt act like its a dead battery with the rapid click of the solenoid. I am at a loss as to what it could be. Im going to try the neutral saftey switch but I dont think it has one being that its a 5 speed. Is there some other form of a switch? It has no clutch start cancel switch, so I know its not that. Anybody with any ideas, help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

 

RAD4Runner has a great write up on cleaning the Starting Solenoid. It is on the passenger fender and it has about 6 tabs that need to be lifted up and take the lid off and just take some sandpaper and clean the contacts. Could be several other issues.

Not having the clutch cancel switch has me thinking someone has probably jury rigged it so I would suggest getting it wired right. All 4 Runners I have seen have the cancel switch.

 

Mine did that and I bumped the starter with a piece of wood (not hard) and it has not given any problem since. I've seen it happen when one sits up for a while and is not used. I'll agree the solenoid just needs a little attention.