My dad has a 96 4Runner that has the 5-speed tranny.

He has had it since new, and we have always had to push the pedal all the way to the floor to get it started. But lately I have had to pretty much stand on the pedal to get it started! The pedal doesn't feel any different (stiffness), but I feel like I am going to push it through the floor to get it to turn over.

It has 116,000 miles on and it still has the original clutch. I have checked the clutch reserivor and it is full. What else could it be? The clutch doesn't slip, but I have noticed that it needs to be 3/4 the way up before it will start moving forward.

Any ideas?

 

There is a switch that has to be depressed in order for the truck to start. It could be worn, or the bracket the switch is mounted on is bent. There is a "tang" on the clutch pedal arm that presses against this switch. You will have to look underneath the dash to see it.

Hope this helps.
G

 

My 2000 was just like this when I got it. Since it was still on warranty even though I bought it used, I just kept bitching at the stealer until they fixed it. They ended up replacing the clutch master cylinder and it solved the problem...

 

My "new" '00 is the same way but some kind soul here assured me that there is a double-nutted switch that can be adjusted for this though I've yet to do it myself. I spoke to the experts at the dealership and the reply was, "they're adjustable".
I will certainly adjust mine when the weather turns friendlier.

Mike

 

Herecheck out Bob's writeup for clutch stuff:
http://www.4runners.org/articles/clutchbush/

I would bet the bushing is worn and should be replaced....that is why the switch is not activating properly.
The switch is what prevents it from starting not a worn clutch or clutch cylinder.
It seems like an electrical deal, not mechanical. Just a guess tho.

 

His pedal has squeaked for a long time. Thanks for the info guys, I will have to check out the sensor and the bushing.

 

this site is ridiculously helpful. wow.



the reason i say this is.. in 30 minutes, slc had a great answer to his question. way to go guys.

 

My 96, with a "new" clutch is the same way. I would adjust the clutch activation "button" found near the pedal shaft like someone mentioned. Depending on the type of driving he does, there is no need to replace the clutch if it isnt slipping. I spoke to a lady that had 268K highway miles on her 96's original clutch.

 

I hadn't noticed that the "plunger switch" was adjustable, however mine produces a single "click" when i depress it to the floor...

The squeek from the pedal is the bushings though and not the ignition "plunger switch" ...

 

Mine is completely fine . When you figure it out let us know just in case mine starts doing it too.

 

Ok that's good to know that a new clutch wont fix anything!
I will probably throw a new bushing in it and adjust the clutch activation "button".

He drives like an old man. He shifts smooth, drives slow, and gets 26 MPG!! My exact opposite!

 

I agree, this board rocks!

If only the alltrac board was this helpful!

 

trav,

dont buy the bushing, ill send you a spare one. pm me w/ your addy.

bob

 

Ya got a PM.

Thanks bud!!

 

Funny, I just got done readin your article on this Bob. Toyota should really engineer a nylon replacement for this stupid part.