2003 4.7l v8 starter replacement

[CA->CO_Kevin]

I have a 2003 4.7l 4Runner with approximately 137,000 miles. I bought the vehicle with ~ 80,000 miles. I personally replaced the timing belt, water pump, and extras.

However, the starter has been giving me, particularly my wife, some issues. The typical signs of bad contacts are rearing their ugly head. I know I can simply replace the contacts, but I want to put in the higher strength 2.0kw starter.

I know I need the intake manifold gasket for the replacement, but what heater hoses and such should I replace while its all torn apart?

 

[dkyleb]

Honestly, 137k miles seems low for a starter replacement. I suggest checking absolutely everything else out first. Battery, alternator, grounds, etc. Make sure everything is clean and secure.

It's no easy job changing that starter out.

 

[DisguisedRope]

Honestly, 137k miles seems low for a starter replacement. I suggest checking absolutely everything else out first. Battery, alternator, grounds, etc. Make sure everything is clean and secure.

It's no easy job changing that starter out.

I had to replace my starter contacts at 70k. They were extremely worn. Mileage is a good baseline to know when repairs need to be done, but not always the best. Since starters only see wear when the truck is actually started, driving 300 miles in one shot is not the same wear as 6 separate 50 mile trips. If the truck is used a lot for short trips the starter will definitely wear out sooner.

Regardless, I have heard its difficult to get to the starter on the v8. Mine is a v6 and it wasn't easy, but it wasn't terrible. I made a writeup for the v6 if anyone needs it.

 

[dkyleb]

I had to replace my starter contacts at 70k. They were extremely worn. Mileage is a good baseline to know when repairs need to be done, but not always the best. Since starters only see wear when the truck is actually started, driving 300 miles in one shot is not the same wear as 6 separate 50 mile trips. If the truck is used a lot for short trips the starter will definitely wear out sooner.

Regardless, I have heard its difficult to get to the starter on the v8. Mine is a v6 and it wasn't easy, but it wasn't terrible. I made a writeup for the v6 if anyone needs it.

You make am excellent point and a very logical prospective. Thanks for posting that!

 

[CA->CO_Kevin]

The starter is finicky. Sometimes it'll start fine for months, then other times it'll act up every time. Battery is pretty damn new, so I know it's not that.

Are the 1.4kw and 2.0kw starter simply interchangeable?

 

[DisguisedRope]

The starter is finicky. Sometimes it'll start fine for months, then other times it'll act up every time. Battery is pretty damn new, so I know it's not that.

Are the 1.4kw and 2.0kw starter simply interchangeable?

Exact situation I was seeing. Replaced my battery twice before I dug in to the starter and found the obvious cause of all my problems.