1998 4Runner starting issues - need advice

I have a 1998 4runner with 149K miles on it. I just recently began to have problems when I switched to a commute of only 10 minutes away. I thought it was the battery so I had it tested...and there is a parasitic drain. But the battery was 5+ years old so I had it replaced anyway. That worked great for about two weeks- now I’m still having starting issues. I just realized this morning that if I get just my toes on the clutch and really floor the clutch-it starts to chug and then I have to give it gas, and my vehicle will start. Question is… Is this a clutch issue, starter issue, combined with a parasitic drain issue??? How do I begin to diagnose?? How can I start ruling things out?? Thanks in advance!!

 

Hi I’m a owner of a 4th gen myself I can offer advice on one thing take a voltameter and hook it up to your battery while the car is not running and the key is not in the ignition see if there is a current draw make shure interior lights are off as well if there is a draw go to your fuse box and then begin pulling fuses one by one and seeing if the draw goes away or lessens if so then investigate whatever the fuse powers I hope this helps good luck

 

You can also disconnect components systematically until the drain disappears. This can eliminate full circuits, easily. Be careful doing this, as that an electrical arc could cause further damage.

Once running, does it idle rough? Or does it seem to idle like normal? This can also be a clue.

 

Thanks. Got my husband and his dad to diagnose it—it is actually the starter. I am replacing it today with the help of YouTube.... any tips on replacing a starter on a 1998 4Runner??

 

Glad you found the issue, it's a part that hasn't failed on me yet. I wouldn't think it would be too difficult. Maybe someone else can chime in.

 

Thanks....It’s done