Toyota car and truck forums

Hi all -

I'm the proud owner of a 1999 Tacoma 4x4 V6. I recently rolled 100K, and did so on a 3K road trip. I've noticed the last couple days that when I get in to start 'er up in the morning that I'm having trouble getting it to turn over. I only two or so months ago replaced the battery too. What happens is I'll turn the key, and sometimes the engine half rolls (starts) or only "clicks" (like you'd expect with a dead battery). The odd thing is, that if I take the truck out of gear, release the clutch, and then put it back in gear, it then starts right up. Also, the first morning back to work after the road trip, I started the truck up and put it in reverse, I felt some resistance. I gave it a little more gas, felt a "jerk" (almost like I had been stuck on something, or was backing over something) and then I was able to back down the driveway with no more worries. I havent yet taken it to the dealer, but probably will soon. Any ideas as to what might be troubling my baby? Thanks for any and all advice...

Eric

Starting issues could be related to bad contacts on the starter or a bad starter bendix (given that you replaced the battery recently and that the jumping the gears/clutch straightens it out). You can have your starter tested to see if it draws too much current - sign of brushes going bad or worn, and check to see if the bendix pops out (gear that engages the flywheel). Doesnt mean that the starter is toast - could just need a rebuild (especially true if the unit is a Denso piece - rebuild kits are easy to install and make the starter electrically brand new).

Could also be a clutch interlock switch going bad or making intermittent contact - this tells the truck that you have pushed in the clutch and will turn the motor over.

The funny behavior of the truck in the morning after your trip might have been just the brakes sticking on you. If it doesnt happen again, I wouldnt worry about it.

I agree though my money's on the clutch interlock switch. You can bypass that and for a little time rule it out.

Hi guys - Thanks for the advice. Actually turned out to be a bum starter. Got that replaced and now the world is right again. Thanks again,

EN