When I bought my 4runner a few weeks ago it was not running, so I never got to test drive it. After fixing the timing belt and getting it running I was incredibly disappointed in how slow it was. I know they are called 3.slows but it was much worse than I expected.

After doing fuel filter, plugs etc I was seeing no improvement. Today I had my son floor the gas pedal (while it was off) and I noticed the throttle was not opening all the way when he did this. I looked at where the pedal attaches to the cable and found the rubber spacer was split and the was a lot of slack in the cable. I zip tied it back in place and its a HUGE difference. I guess my throttle was only opening 50-75%.

I'll have to see if this holds up. I might need a new throttle cable.

 

My spacer was split like that when I bought it too. I just wrapped electrical tape around it and it has held for 1.5 years now. I imagine your cable ties will last forever!

I did not notice that mine was any slower due to the split spacer, but I did notice that I had to push really hard on the pedal and it was hard to let the clutch out smoothly (due to the pedal return spring being so wound up before the throttle actually opened).

 

I had the same problem. Seems to be designed to fail after 20 years and 150,000 miles:-)

I think I made a new spacer out of some heavy duty rubber hose and fastened it on with zip ties. That was 4 years and 40,000 miles ago.

 

Sounds like mine should hold up then. Nice to find an easy fix for once.

 

Hmm, where is this connection located? Up under the dashboard or is it in the engine bay? Cant tell from the pics

 

This is at the top of the gas pedal. It kinda tucks up under the dash

 

Thanks,ill take a look at mine.

 

Yeah I need to check mine, its nice when the fix is that easy! Thanks for the tip.

 

well looks like i have to check mine now....

 

Awesome thanks for posting this, I honestly didn't even consider this to be the culprit