Hey everyone! I have a small engine problem. Hopefully its small. Its been so nice here lately (upstate NY) that I have been driving my other car the last few days. I went to take the 4runner out last nite and it wouldn't start after sitting for just a few days! It turned over and sounded like it wanted to start, stumbled a bit but never caught. I tried it today and it eventually started after some serious cranking. Seemed like temperature has something to do with it, maybe battery? I don't want to kill my engine trying to start it.

What else should I check to make its reliable?

The funny thing is my other car has sat for the last month. After I got the snow and ice off, she started right up! (also a toyota)

Thanks!
Andy

 

I've had a problem with my truck starting in the cold weather, but it's just the battery. If I have a problem it starts just fine with a jump, but other than that I don't have a problem. I say try a new battery or try just jumpin it to see if thats it.

 

Hey there thanks for the reply. What type of battery should I get? My truck sits outside all winter and I have a good audio system going in soon.

 

there really isn't a specific type of battery I can suggest. I do suggest however that when you put in your system you install a capacitor. They are good for keeping your lights from dimming when your subs hit. Changing your battery should help though. Something else I noticed that helped with the whole situation is make sure you completely turn off your radio and vents and everything b4 you turn off your vehicle. Part of the problem in starting it might be that you're tryin to draw too much juice right off the bat.

 

I would get a sealed battery. I have an AC Delco, but Optimas are supposed to be the best.

 

NOOO!! Don't get a capicator!!! Get a new alternator first, and do it the right way. Only buy a cap if you have problems AFTER the alternator. (or have a mega huge system)

I run an Optima Yellow Top (deep cycle=longer life). Great battery, I've left my stereo on for like 8 hours with my subs and it still started like a champ.

 

I had the same problem with my Hilux Surf this very morning and I'm glad I looked into the thread, I was thinking it might be a fuel problem cos it turns OK but no start (its a deisel by the way)

 

It is almost certainly a fuel problem in your diesel because it has no spark. Run a compression test and if all looks good then start going through the fuel system. You'll make alot of us jealous over here with that diesel of yours!

 

Hey thanks for the info! Here's a follow up question. I am installing a JL 500/1 sub to power my sub ( if it wasn't winter it would be in already!) Do I really need a new alternator? And does a deep cycle battery have the cranking amps to start the car reliably?

 

I dont think you'll need a new alternator. See how badly your lights dim.
The great thing about the Optima Yellow top is that it has roughly 75 more cranking amps than my previous "premium" battery.
I've never had a problem starting my rig. Freezing cold no problem. Leaving stereo on for hours, no problem. I would suggest getting your stuff installed, and see what happens from there. You may not need anything. But if you do want a new battery, FOR SURE get a YELLOW TOP.