just a quick question on the difficulty of replacing a 4 runner starter. it doesn't look too hard. looks like the removal of the underplate and there it is????


thanks
roy

Hi Roy, and other Forum folks

I have the same question, ie I have a 1990 4 Runner (V6 / 2 wheel drive) that needs the starter replaced. A friend has offered to help me replace it with a rebuilt, but needs me to find out this question: "Does the system need to be primed, and if so, how do you do it?" Plus any important key notes. He has swaped out two starters in his two 4 Runners successfully over the years but mine is a much older model so he's not sure about the "priming issue."

Have you recieved any help on your "how to" question? I'm in great need of getting my 4 Runner running but am afraid to go to a shop and get gouged, so if my friend can do it it will save me much needed cash.

Barbara

Yes, you just need to remove the skid plate (4 bolts). However, you need a long (as in 3' long) extension to your ratchet.

The starter is on the right side tucked up, and the only way at it is from the front...long.

The other thing is, you don't need a whole new starter. Toyota sells starter-rebuild kits for about $45. There's only 1 thing that really wears and it's replaceable.

Yep, it's as simple as that. You'll most likely need new starter contacts instead of whole new starter. You can get them here for cheap and also read how to DIY:

http://4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTricks/Starte...ml#Introduction

Humanoid,

That link is great. Thanks !
Hope to see you here more often.

I really like your spinning Avatar too. I am now challenged to get my Goat animated..... ROFL !!!!

Thanks Everyone!

Your instructions are so helpful --really excellent information!

And thanks for the heads-up re: "that part doesn't exist" or "you have to buy a whole new one." Boy have I been there before! A dealer recently tried to sell me a $330. battery cable when all I went in for was a $1.69 terminal connector! Sheesh...

Barbara

Barbara ...that is so true about parts! I almost hate going to a dealership and asking because if they even smell that you might not know, they'll gouge you. Sad but true!