Well my engine has ticked a little since I got it. But now it seems louder then before. And then last week on Tuesday I had trouble starting it twice. First time was after stopping at a gas station and filling up. Went back out to the truck, and had turned the key. It turned over but wouldn't start. After several atempts it finally started. So I went back to work and took care of some things. Then maybe a hour later I went out to back my truck up to the loading door, it wouldn't start again. Finally get it started, leave it running while I go inside and punch out for a long lunch. I drove home and parked it in front of the garage and came here to search for my problem.

After searching I found that it was probably the fuel pump and I could jump the circuit. So I made a jumper wire and left it in the cab. But haven't had the problem since? But after then I started the truck again and with the hood open I pulled the throttle cable a couple times. And from the drivers side at higher rpms I could hear a metal rattling sound from the engine. A new sound.... I pulled the throttle a few more times just to hear it again and try to figure out what it was.

So I wrapped everything up and got some food since I was still on lunch break. Went back to the shop and loaded up my truck, I had to drive 150 miles to one of our other locations to train some guys in. Once I got onto the freeway, while getting up to speed I heard the rattle again! After that I was very very light on the gas pedal. And I had no problems the entire trip down or back. I even managed to get 19mpg on the way down. I have not filled up since my return though.


So what could this be? Is this a sign of my timing belt going out? I did check my timing over the weekend and it was at 5*, not 10. But I know there is some jumper I should disconnect for a true reading, I was to lazy to find it at the time. Next time I'll do it right.

And if it needs a rebuild I am hoping I can put that off until spring/summer. I hate doing major work on my trucks in the winter. But I feel confident enough in my self to rebuild a engine.

 

Greetings,
Ah yes, the old 3.0 injector tick, it gets louder with each mile!! No kidding, it comes with the payments! However, don't get it confused with a badly needd valve adjustment! If you have to adjust the valves on the old 3.0, I will tell you as will any one else, it's one PITA!!
Do check your timing, (With the jumper attached this time Te & E1) If you see your timing is off, the old T-belt could be strtching out!!!
When you say it wouldn't start> weak battery kind a start or straight up wouldn't turn over? A stretched T-belt will knock your time off, hence, hard start! If it's no longer a tick and a now a knock, GL! Start tearing her down!

Good Luck,
Harry

 

Thanks for the reply,

I have not heard the rattle again, just that one day. The other week I even popped the hood and reved it up a few times. It didn't rattle once, just the normal injector tick. And I also have not had any problems with starting it either. It was turning over just fine, and I think it was the fuel pump acting up before.

I'll check the timing with the jumper this weekend and adjust it. If it is off I'll be changing that this summer. But the engine seems to be happy again.

 

Etype R, I'm having the same exact problem. I just had my engine rebuilt a few months ago and i only have approx. 2400 miles on the engine atm. But i also have a ticking noise. Like you said you've always had a ticking noise before, but not it is louder then the normal noise. and i had a hard time starting my truck just once. and there is also somewhat of a rattle or some other kind of a noise apart from that ticking noise; usually more noticeable when you turn on your truck after many hours of sitting.

My question to you is, What ended up being the problem? I know this thread was from 6 years ago and i dont even know if you still use yotatech but if you do can you please reply. Ive been busting my head over this problem all week long.

 

It's so odd to me, Harry, Etype and Richard...

A buddy of mine, named Andy, has an 89 3.0 5 Speed 4Runner..... Just like Richard(redeth), my buddy does.... IT'S SILENT... Aside from the normal decibel level of any rolling engine. NO ticking/ thumping/etc. BUT, I've now seen this 'Infamous 3.0 Injector CLICK'... So I guess that's something that has to be considered when trying to inspect my buddy Richards rig(he might have it over so I can give a second perspective, soon).... With a stethoscope.... I'd like to also listen to the Injectors, one by one, if possible. Even Richards mechanic kept saying that to him..... HOWEVER, I hear a bit of a 'dull knock' as well, on his.... And I KNOW that isn't an injector. Hopefully it's just something breaking in on his new motor... We'll see.

Clad to see it's seemingly worked itself out for now, Etype R

 

I'll bet good money the "tick" is your fuel pressure regulator.

Az far as the starting issue, probably COR going OR the VAFM vane is sticking closed.