Starting issues on '96

[YodaOne]

I didn't realize you had a distributor. I would go ahead and replace the distributor cap. Wouldn't worry about oem for that part either, it's not a mechanical part. Pick one up at any local parts store, swap it over and see if that helps. If it doesn't, just return it. Just the cap, mind you. But take the cap off and inspect the gap of the contacts and make sure no moisture has made its way in there.

The cap looked good, no moisture in it at all. My boyfriend has been looking over the wires and whatnot while I was working and said they're all looking good.
Side note, apparently other vehicles in the same parking lot as my vehicle are having the issues. We got a lot of rain mind you, but mine at least sounds like it's trying to start, their vehicles aren't even trying to turn over.

 

[fdmsiv]

I had a similar problem, the car would sort of start when it wanted to until it didn't want anymore. Granted this was a V6, however I replaced the fuel pump and filter. It wasn't terribly expensive and was semi easy to do. No more issues.

 

[YodaOne]

Well guys, we didn't figure it out, but she cranked today after we had the hood up and made sure everything was nice and dry after all our rain. We turned her and gave her a little gas and she cranked up no problems. So....still not sure what exactly it was causing my problems but I will be doing some intense checking and inspecting this weekend when I get time. Luckily there's no rain forecast. Thank you everyone for helping though!

 

[AgeOfOctane]

Glad it finally started for you. Intermittent issues are nearly impossible to track down when they aren't acting up. You'll probably not be able to find the issue until it won't start the next time. My bet is still on the ignition system. Check the link I sent you so you know how to check for spark the next time it happens, so you can trace it back to the source of the problem. It can really only be that something is keeping it from getting fuel or spark, and if you smell gas, it's most likely getting fuel. And as I mentioned previously, a short in the ignition system often happens in humid conditions. Distributor caps can have cracks that are invisible to the eye and will exhibit the same symptom you describe. Also, if it won't start and its dark, yiu may get lucky and actually be able to see a flash of light wherever it's shorting out.

 

[YodaOne]

Glad it finally started for you. Intermittent issues are nearly impossible to track down when they aren't acting up. You'll probably not be able to find the issue until it won't start the next time. My bet is still on the ignition system. Check the link I sent you so you know how to check for spark the next time it happens, so you can trace it back to the source of the problem. It can really only be that something is keeping it from getting fuel or spark, and if you smell gas, it's most likely getting fuel. And as I mentioned previously, a short in the ignition system often happens in humid conditions. Distributor caps can have cracks that are invisible to the eye and will exhibit the same symptom you describe. Also, if it won't start and its dark, yiu may get lucky and actually be able to see a flash of light wherever it's shorting out.

Yeah, pay day is Wednesday so were gonna go ahead and replace the distributor cap and check a few other things. I thought the distributor was new but on closer inspection I don't think so. Regardless, I know there are things that need to be done to her to make sure she's good, just adding to my list of things to learn how to do I guess!



Update, we finally got a chance to go pick up a new cap and some other things I was looking at replacing today. We took the cap off the distributor and we could definitely see a little condensation inside from the rain we got yesterday! So, here's to hoping that was it! Also changed the wires since we already have new plugs and cap, figured why not! Thank you guys for helping me try to diagnose! I really appreciate it!

 

[sugjavier]

Please watch the video link I attached above. ChrisFix shows you how to do all the things your asking. The best is to use a engine stethoscope.They can be picked up online or at something like harbor freight for cheap. If not you can use a long screw driver. The video shows you how.

https://www.amazon.com/Lisle-52500-...1551051369&sr=8-4&keywords=engine+stethoscope



But I forgot this is linked to rain and water. I agree with ageoctane about following the wires. check the spark plug wires and check the ignition coils. make sure they are clean and getting power.


You can always get a spark plug tester for cheap as well. Can be picked up at harbor freight too.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002STSC...ce6&ref_=pd_luc_rh_crh_rh_bxgy_03_02_t_img_lh

So I did this with that tool and it only did 1 small spark and done.
Isn't it supposed to keep sparking???

What should else should I look at if it cranks strong and normal but it seems like a spark issue?

not sure if i rule out fuel issue already and focus on the spark thing.

 

[MarkBlack]

I had this same issue in my 97. I replaced the starter too, but after looking closer the wire coming off the battery was loose. Idk if you have checked yours. But after tightening it down, I havent had the issue again.

 

[Lil. S]

I think for someone to help you, you are going to have to be a little more specific about what it is doing, or not doing when you try to crank it over. That seems to be the critical issue at the moment. Don't worry about the throttle cable for now.

Is it cranking too slow to start?
No crank at all but a clicking of the starters soleniod?
Nothing happens at all when you turn the key?
Are the lights on and OK? Do they dim when you try to crank it?
Is it a standard? Does the 'clutch start cancel' button change anything?

Start with the basics. Make sure the battery terminals are clean and tight and the cables are not crap. What is the resting voltage of the battery before you try to crank it?

Just because the starter has been replaced does not mean it is good, especially if it is not an OEM starter.

Hi,
I've been having starting issues with my 96, 6 cylinder, 4 runner for some time now (manual). Nothing happens when I try to start the car, no noise or action. I can tell it wants to grab but it doesn't.
Everything works great, except for, it doesn't start randomly and sporadically.
The clutch start does not work when this happens.
The other day I was not able to jump start my car with cables (this is new).
I have a new battery and a new starter, just cleaned the terminals.
There was a lot of power getting drawn out from some Satilite or something the previous owners put in it. We disconnected what was drawing power and the levels of the battery went back to normal.
Do you have any advise, ideas or suggestions on what this could be.
PS:I was having a lot of the same issues as the original post from this comment. thanks in advance!