Oh, it's going to be a fun day for me (sarcasm)

[Mr. Berks]

It sounds like you may have two separate issues, but one of them definitely sounds like the starter. Once you get the starter sorted out, I would continue your process of elimination to figure out why it's dying once you get it started. I agree with some of the previous posters that it sounds like you may have a fuel issue of some sort.

Here's a writeup on the starter contact replacement:
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/63228-another-starter-contacts-removal-thread.html

Thank you SO MUCH for your input!

Just to clarify, the engine has never died after it's been started, so I can eliminate that anything with the fuel delivery system or fuel filter is an issue.

Based on this, it's most definitely the contacts. The write-up link you provided is super detailed too! I should be able to get under and take care of this myself.

Thanks! Thanks! Thanks!!!!

Will keep you guys posted as soon as I can get the new contacts and get under to replace.

 

[Mr. Berks]

[UPDATE] Problem solved!

The starter contacts were the issue all along.

The new starter contacts I ordered came in last week and I finally set aside some time yesterday to switch them out.

First of all, much thanks to everyone who posted and helped me get through this issue. I am an amateur @ car repair, but with your input I was able to get more knowledge about my 4runner and save a lot of $$$ (from what I imagine the dealer would have charged).

@AKAndy: the write-up you linked was PERFECT!!

@97-4xFunner: thanks for your input!

I've linked some photos I took of the before/after. The contacts were worn down to about half of the original size.

For anyone attempting to do this in the future, the starter was absolute MADNESS trying to maneuver while working within the confined space of the wheel well, but it can be done. Heh... my arms today look like I was in a street fight with a quick and clever cat.

Thanks again fellow 4runner forum buds!

 

[Mr. Berks]

From watching the video I'd say it's the common starter contact issue. You turn the key and all you get is a click right? Then after several tries it starts no problem? To bad you said you had the starter tested. So you already had it out? Could have changed those contacts already.

Yep, contacts indeed. All fixed now.

I never had the starter out. The service tech @ the auto-parts store hooked-up a machine to the battery which tested the starter, supposedly.

Good thing this place exists for 2nd opinions =]