Clutch pedal goes to far down?

[ontherunner]

My problem is I have to push the clutch pedal on my 98 all the way to the floor to get it to shift and when it's cold I can't get it to go into first at all. I couldn't say how long this has been going on as I just got this 4runner a month ago. I know absolutely nothing about mechanics and unless it's a super easy fix I will more than likely have to take it in to be repaired but I'd like to at least have a rough idea why it's doing this so I don't get taken. Being a girl, mechanics see me coming and all they see is a big fat $!!!!

 

[topdown4runner]

1st thing to do is check the resivuar (sp) for proper level.
If it is full, how is the color? It should be mostly clear. If it is dark, it's time for a flush.
If it is empty, or nearly empty, you probably have a leak somewhere.

I don't know about the newer 4Runners, but on my '87, I can be underneath the truck looking where the slave cylinder is. When someone else pushes down on the clutch, I can see the lever move.
If yours is visable ( outside the tranny like the older ones ) then you should be able to see it move.
If it doesn't move when clutch depressed, you will likely need a clutch master cylinder, or slave cylinder, or both.
On the '87, they are cheap and mostly easy to replace. Probably the same with yours.

Pick up a Haynes manual ( about $35 at Autozone type stores ) It will detail how to diagnose your problem & how to replace the parts.

Hopefully some of the guys with the 3rd gen 5speeds will chime in soon.

Good luck!

 

[ontherunner]

Thanks! I checked the reservoir fluid and it was full and clear. I'll have someone help me look at the slave cylinder today. I'm wondering if the clutch pedal just needs to be adjusted? I'm going to copy and post this over to the 3rd gen forum as well.