**Updated with new question** Starter problem, right?

[scott.475]

Okay, if I can hear and feel the starter solenoid click, but the starter does not turn over, that means the problem should be localized to the starter and not up line somewhere, right? The battery has plenty of juice to turn the alternator, and I can definitely feel the solenoid click, it just does not turn the alternator. I tried going with an Autolite alternator, and it has never turned over a single time. Gonna go with a Toy part after I return it, if y'all affirm my suspicions.

Thanks.

[Prismo]

As long as the battery & connections are good I would think it is the starter.

[reklund5]

sounds like bad starter contacts to me.  You might get away with installing new contacts ($25 or so from the dealer) if it's a Toyota starter.  If its not, then I'd replace it with a Toyota reman starter.  Autozone/NAPA/PepGirls/Checker starters are absolute junk.

Ryan

[Uncle Jesse]

starter contacts would be my guess too.  I just put some in a truck the other day.  While someone cranks the engine, get a stick or handle to thwhack the starter with.  See if that helps it turn over.  If its the contacts, here is a page on how to replace them.

http://www.off-road.com/toyota/tech/starter/index.html

[BigMike]

Scott,

This is definitely the contacts.

Here's a pic of the old contact (left) that I replaced on my 3RZ:


Your contacts are either worn very thin, or someone over tightened them, and they wore down sideways and now they are not making contact any more.

The rock wacking idea Jeese mentioned is exactly what you need to do to try to loosen up the contacts-

BigMike

[scott.475]

Alright, thanks guys. I'm not going to mess with it, since it is a BRAND NEW Autolite starter. I'm just going to return it and buy a Toyota one instead.

[scott.475]

Hey guys, I looked here to get prices on a new Toy starter. http://www.trademotion.com/partlocator/index.cfm?action=getLocator&siteid=213871&chapter=AMM809&appSectionid=5&make=34&model=Pickup&year=1991&catalogid=1

Go to about the middle of the page. One is shown "with Heavy Duty" and one "without Heavy Duty." does anybody know what the "heavy duty" refers too? And whether I should spring for it on my 3.0?

Thanks!

[reklund5]

The difference is minimal...go for the standard duty and you'll be fine 

Ryan

[scott.475]

YEEEEEHAAAAA! It runs! It really runs! Time will tell if it continues to start on demand, but I am realllly happy now.

Next project: gotta replace the broken front diff, probably with a SAS.

[Anthony]

Did you go with a Yota starter ?? I have the same problem with my 3.0. I have put 3 after markets in under warranty. It does the same thing as what your's is doing. Just waiting to get some extra cash to spring for a yota  starter.

[scott.475]

Yes, Toy starter. They recommend the heavy duty one if you live in somewhat cold climates. Basically, if it is cold and wet and/or snowy, they say to use the heavy duty.

[79coyotefrg]

The battery has plenty of juice to turn the alternator, and I can definitely feel the solenoid click, it just does not turn the alternator. I tried going with an Autolite alternator, and it has never turned over a single time.

ok    you should be turning the 'starter'  in order to start the engine.   if the battery has plenty of juice 12 + volts it should turn the starter, if its not and you here a loud click you need a starter,    i always suggest the underdrive or gear reduction starter, less draw on the battery and starter cable and easier to bolt up