Got a starting problem with my '88 Runner. Whenever I go to turn the key I get the click, click, clicking, sound instead of it turning over. Seems I have plenty of juice with my headlights, interiers, ect. I tried jumping it as well and it still won't start.

I noticed my shift lever is extremely loose, but the indication on the lever itself seems to be moving into all the gears selected. I had this problem the other day and I jammed the lever up to park and it worked fine. Came out the next day and did the same thing, only this time it just gave me the clicking sound again.

Is there a switch in the gear handle that may be preventing it from starting and turning over? Any help would be great guys... thanks!

 

I would start with the shifter. Sound like its not going into Park all the way(assume its a A/T) and therefore can't start without it there. Then check the battery grounds or solenoid ground on the starter.

 

X's 2

Also on a note with that shifter, may be a faulty neutral safety switch. You may have jarred it the right way to make it start the one time. You can rig to work all permanently, or just replace it, but I know some are expensive, and I've just bypassed it in several of my past vehicles. I have a 5 speed, so I couldn't begin to tell you where it is on it, but if the shifter feels solid after toying with it, that would be my next thing to inspect.

btw, welcome to YotaTech!

 

Yeah, it's an A/T. That's what I was thinkin' as well... the shifter. But I looked at it to try and tighten the thing and it looks like I may have to crack open the whole assembly unless there's a quick way to tighten the handle. Anyone else have to tighten their shifter??

 

The shifter handle itself inside the cab will not stop the truck from starting. You need to make sure the connection between the shifter and the rod is tight. Have someone shift it inside the cab, and watch the shifter on the side of the trans under the truck. It should make a full click into Park. Really though, i doubt its the shifter.

I would suspect the Neutral safety switch, assuming your starter is not to blame. You could always remove and have your starter tested, that would eliminate that culprit, as well as not costing you unnecessary money to replace a neutral safety switch.

 

Bad starter.....

 

Get under the truck and tap your starter with a hammer maybe 10-15 times. IF the truck starts then you have a bad starter