97 4Runner Fluttering on Start Up - Toyota 4Runner Forum

MarkBlack · 11-10-2019, 03:24 AM

I recently purchased my 97 4Runner and occasionally on start up it flutters right as it turns over. I don't know a better way to describe it besides fluttering.
I don't have any codes come up. And when it does turn over it isn't idling high and there isn't any shaking. Once it turns over its perfectly fine.

All the input is greatly appreciated!

pluton · 11-11-2019, 01:51 AM

Does 'flutter' means that when starting the engine the engine sputters and runs rough for a second or two, and then after that it runs normally?
My '97 has not had that particular issue, but if it did, I'd look at spark (coils, cables, plugs) and maybe sensors (MAF, ?) to start.

19963.4lsr5 · 11-11-2019, 08:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pluton

Does 'flutter' means that when starting the engine the engine sputters and runs rough for a second or two, and then after that it runs normally?

My '97 has not had that particular issue, but if it did, I'd look at spark (coils, cables, plugs) and maybe sensors (MAF, ?) to start.

I was wondering that myself. On two of my 3.4’s the flutter right after startup was antifreeze including the thick white vapor out the tail pipe for 30 seconds.

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MarkBlack · 11-13-2019, 03:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pluton

Does 'flutter' means that when starting the engine the engine sputters and runs rough for a second or two, and then after that it runs normally?
My '97 has not had that particular issue, but if it did, I'd look at spark (coils, cables, plugs) and maybe sensors (MAF, ?) to start.

EXACTLY THIS!! Im changing the plugs out tomorrow. It happened before in my 05 F150 and I replaced the plugs. However the motor ended up blowing at 75k miles a few months later. So I wasnt sure if it was something more than just plugs.

MarkBlack · 11-13-2019, 10:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pluton

Does 'flutter' means that when starting the engine the engine sputters and runs rough for a second or two, and then after that it runs normally?
My '97 has not had that particular issue, but if it did, I'd look at spark (coils, cables, plugs) and maybe sensors (MAF, ?) to start.

I replaced my plugs today. Running the NGK iridiums. Im still having the sputter/flutter issue. Could it be something more??

MarkBlack · 11-13-2019, 10:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 19963.4lsr5

I was wondering that myself. On two of my 3.4’s the flutter right after startup was antifreeze including the thick white vapor out the tail pipe for 30 seconds.

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I havent noticed any white smoke. Ill check in the AM.

negusm · 11-14-2019, 12:01 AM

Fuel related? Maybe let the fuel pump run for a minute and cycle the key to try and get it pumped up? Then see if it starts easier?

Had an old Ford car with a faulty pump. I would cycle the key from off to ACC to get the fuel pump to work (don't crank the engine). After a bit, it would build up enough pressure for the car to start. Otherwise, you would get some weird starts.

-Mike

MarkBlack · 11-14-2019, 12:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by negusm

Fuel related? Maybe let the fuel pump run for a minute and cycle the key to try and get it pumped up? Then see if it starts easier?

Had an old Ford car with a faulty pump. I would cycle the key from off to ACC to get the fuel pump to work (don't crank the engine). After a bit, it would build up enough pressure for the car to start. Otherwise, you would get some weird starts.

-Mike

Thanks for the advice. Ill try that tomorrow. I was thinking the fuel pump as it also has long crank times. I also already replaced the starter but it didnt help. Fuel pump was my next guess.

MarkBlack · 11-14-2019, 01:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pluton

Does 'flutter' means that when starting the engine the engine sputters and runs rough for a second or two, and then after that it runs normally?
My '97 has not had that particular issue, but if it did, I'd look at spark (coils, cables, plugs) and maybe sensors (MAF, ?) to start.

Im going to looking into the MAF sensor and fuel pump tomorrow.

AntleredRuin · 11-14-2019, 10:49 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MarkBlack

I replaced my plugs today. Running the NGK iridiums. Im still having the sputter/flutter issue. Could it be something more??

Did you use the double spark spark plugs? This engine needs them specifically.

19963.4lsr5 · 11-14-2019, 01:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MarkBlack

I havent noticed any white smoke. Ill check in the AM.

Get a borescope you can plug into your phone for 20 dollars and look into the spark plug holes for drops of antifreeze on a piston. It’s the only sure way to positively identify a bad head gasket in my opinion.

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MarkBlack · 11-14-2019, 04:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AntleredRuin

Did you use the double spark spark plugs? This engine needs them specifically.

I did not get double spark. I asked the guys at O'Reillys and they said the NGK 5464 where the best ones. They are the iridium IX's. Did I get the wrong ones? I read through the forums, and read not to get the double platinum's. But idk if thats double spark.

19963.4lsr5 · 11-14-2019, 05:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MarkBlack

I did not get double spark. I asked the guys at O'Reillys and they said the NGK 5464 where the best ones. They are the iridium IX's. Did I get the wrong ones? I read through the forums, and read not to get the double platinum's. But idk if thats double spark.

When I bought the 96 it had iridium plugs. Two years later I but the dual electrode plugs in and didn’t notice and difference.

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AntleredRuin · 11-14-2019, 05:07 PM

I guess your mileage may vary, but the engine does ask for it (there's a sticker on the timing belt cover, I think).

I know it's technically because of the waste spark system so you'll get more life out of your spark plugs, but I've seem some people talk about performance issues, too.

MarkBlack · 11-14-2019, 05:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 19963.4lsr5

When I bought the 96 it had iridium plugs. Two years later I but the dual electrode plugs in and didn’t notice and difference.

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Okay so I should be alright!

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