on my buddies 2000 4runner 4x4 v6 AUTO 120k miles:
Problem:
Start up when cold, shift into D, and hit the gas - It feels like its running in limp mode - no power and barely drives off. But if you shift into L or 2, it drives & shifts just fine. once warmed up - drives just fine.

Any ideas?

fyi - tranny was flushed 10k miles ago, motor has no codes & was tuned up within the last 10k miles. It just started all of a sudden, not a gradual problem.

 

I think it's the rear axle seals. I had a very simalar situation. The gear oil sticks like glue between the shoes and drums. It only happened after the truck was parked for 4+ hours. Sometimes when I would make a tight u turn the tire would actually skid a little. After I got new axle seals (and cleaned the reasr brakes) I never had the issue again.

Of course, could be a solenoid as well....but that would likly throw a code.

 

good idea, but its not the axles nor anything binding up preventing forward movement. Its something within the tranny, and im wondering if there is a solenoid or something that is responsible for this.

 

Ok, mmm

Let me ask, If you put the truck in Drive and don't touch the gas or brake would it move at all? What about 2 and Low?

Just courious...

 

Its just when its cold and in D. It doesnt do it in 2, L, or shifted into Low - Just when in D in 2/4hi.

 

Sticky solenoid, or bad 1st gear shift sprag. Try some Lucas trans additive first. If that doesn't work, you might want to swap out the solenoid. If it's the sprag, look for a used tranny.