97 4cyl 'extended' warm/hot starts

[chimmike]

I'm new to this forum, but not to tuning, mechanical/technical info.........

Anyways my mom has a 97 4cyl 4wd runner. Really nice car, got it with low miles.

Problem is, when warm or hot, it takes a while to start.....a few seconds of cranking.........

I think it's vapor lock, but I'm not sure...perhaps the fuel pump isn't priming right?

the car runs perfectly once started...and only occurs when the engine is warm/hot.

plugs/oil/wires all have been changed, new starter as well.

I searched and couldn't find anything, by the way

 

[chimmike]

anybody?

come on, 20 views and nobody has any ideas?

 

[dancojgl]

come on, 20 views and nobody has any ideas?

I haven't got a clue. I never had any trouble with my '96 4Runner...

Personally, I'd break down and take it to a Toyota shop and let them look at it.

—Dan

 

[chimmike]

I just have a feeling it might be the fuel pump priming poorly, or a bad relay somewhere.

it's not serious enough that the car runs poorly....it's in excellent shape, but I'm just afraid the hard cranking will kill the starter pretty fast.

 

[biglatka]

I just have a feeling it might be the fuel pump priming poorly, or a bad relay somewhere.

it's not serious enough that the car runs poorly....it's in excellent shape, but I'm just afraid the hard cranking will kill the starter pretty fast.

I'll take a stab at it. You may be right suspecting the fuel pump or a relay controlling the fuel supply, but I would also look for something that is either tied to fuel supply or ignition timing, and the engine coolant temperature. Such as a sensor/actuator that is vacuum controlled depending on the coolant temperature. I know it's a bit of stretch but if the obvious doesn't turn out to be the culprit I'd give that idea a try. Off course when you're troubleshooting like that, it's important to have a shop manual. Not sure I helped you.

Otherwise, as one of other respondents said, take it to Toyota and pay the man. I agree, a steady diet of hard starting is not good for it (and your Mom too) .

 

[chimmike]

I do my own tuning, but I'm 5 hours from home and therefore unable to tear into her vehicle.

I see the vac line from the fuel press regulator just rests on the valve cover.....this might cause a problem in itself.....but I may just suggest to her what you all think....to take it to toyota.