1988 SR5 pickup 22RE 2WD 470K
My pickup has recently developed a habit of clicking without starting. I am trying to be methodical with it.
For example, today I checked the battery before starting: 12.8 volts, but the relays clicked and the engine wouldn't crank.
After I attached the battery charger for 5 minutes, it started right up although it cranks longer (due to, I think, flooding from the fuel pump relay).
I drove to town and made several stops without a problem
I replaced the ignition relay recently and haven't had a problem until after I reconnected the dash-mounted temp gauge after removing the lower dash and fiddling with the brake booster mounting nuts.
There might be a slight battery drain, but the engine should start with 12.8 volts.
Do any of you know what the problem might be?

 

Check this thread out and see what you think, I had the same thing with my 91, sometimes it would click, sometimes it was crickets and did nothing. Added a relay as explained in this thread and all is well

https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f116...runner-307493/

 

Thanks. That's a lot to digest.
However, the original relay and wiring worked OK for 450K.

 

How old is the starter. The solenoid contacts could be worn, pitted, or oxidized. My was intermittent and clicking only. I tore apart the solenoid and saw one contact badly pitted. Also looked like very little of it was being contacted. I then tore down the whole starter, spray cleaned all internals including windings with electronic cleaner as it leaves no residue, and replaced the contacts. Once back in the truck it has been starting fine.

 

The starter is original. It might need some maintenance. Thanks

 

Original 1988 starter? Wow. My 86 is on the 3rd one. Aftermarket ones don't last as long, even Aisin. Remove it and take it all apart. It's just 2 mounting bolts, ground strap bolt, and electrical clip to remove. The starter is very easy to take apart and clean. I'd order the contact kit before hand just in case.

 

The starter relay was wired wrong at the factory.

Please help us help you.
To be methodical,
Please let us see what you are dealing with, What does your starter relay look like and where it is?
Exactly what do you hear click,
The circuit opening relay behind the glove box?
The starter relay?
The starter solenoid?
Does the starter solenoid clunk energetically?

Check if your starter solenoid CONSISTENTLY works when you apply 12V directly from battery to its control pin as shown on here: