I just bought a 93 4 Runner Sr5, The guy i bought if from said it did not run and wasn't sure why. I got a good battery for it, charged it up, put it in. When I turn the key you can hear the solenoid engage but it will not crank/turn over. I put it in drive (it an automatic trans) and pulled it, it isn't locked up. before i go pulling the starter I wanted to check and see if anyone has ever dealt with this issue before? I am used to manual transmissions and 91 and older runners, so input would be much appreciated. Thanks

 

Btw, i have cruised other thread and they all mention clicking, ie the relay. The sound is more what i call a clunk than clicking.

 

Have you turned the engine over by hand?

 

Excellent description. That makes it easy for people to help remotely. Clunking suggests the solenoid (heavier duty version of really because it also has to move a mechanical part- the plunger) is energizing. You verified it is the solenoid (piggy-backed) on the starter motor, that's clunking right? Most probable causes are:
1) Bad contacts - (4Crawler has write-up on his site), OR
2) Plunger is stuck and not actuating all the way to close contacts - less probability than (1).

Tapping the solenoid with wooden handle of hammer while starting test would help verify.

Either way, it would require taking off starter assembly to inspect, clean, replace contacts


Would not hurt but this would only be needed IF you have indication that starter motor is attempting to turn the engine- You hear it hum or groan struggling to turn the motor. There's no indication of that so symptoms above point more to solenoid.

 

Unfortunately after swapping starter I did give and and try turning by hand and it seems the engine is locked up. Not very pleased, but I picked it up cheap so i guess i can't complain too much.