Has anyone changed out the starter on a 97 4 Runner? I know there has to be a way, but I don't see how you physically get it out of the engine compartment after you get it loose. The only thing I've found in manuals so far is to remove electrical connector and cable, remove the two bolts and slide forward ... which would get it loose from the engine, but then what? It could probably come out the top except transmission dipstick tube appears to be in the way among other things. Do you have to drop part of the exhaust? or ?? Inquiring minds want to know ... mine is intermittant with 196,000 miles. thanks, Howard

Howard, I tried to do this on my 96. Based on what I read in this forum, I suspected my contacts were failing (they were). But for the life of me, I could not figure out how to get that dang starter out of there... After pondering it a bit, I figured it out. Drove the vehicle to my favorite shop and handed them the contacts. They had it out, fixed and back in in less than an hour. Best $70 I ever spent. :)

Charles, Thanks ... I hear you about "the best $70 I ever spent". Were those contacts the small brass ones that transfer the power from the external connections? The Toyota parts folks are telling me that is a common problem for which they stock non Toyota parts for. I double checked yesterday the starting relay in the fuse box by the left fender, op ch'd good, pulled in every time with good continuity. Also jumped this relay and checked battery voltage while attempting to start with the key. Battery voltage only dropped maybe 3/10s of a volt when it didn't crank, whereas it went to 10 v or lower while cranking, as expected. So still need to get the starter off. On that note, I went back to the Toyota dealer and asked how to get starter out? They said, drop the splash shield in the right wheel well and it comes out through there ... looks doable, will probably tackle this on Thursday or Friday. thanks, Howard

Howard, Yes, those are the contacts - big heavy duty ones that handle the high current. A lot of people end up getting a new starter, because they don't know any better. Personally, I think my 96 is different than a 97. I removed the splash shield, and I still didn't see that puppy coming out.... Good luck. Charles

Charles, I also found a shop locally that would take a look at the starter for $35 plus parts, so may do that. Toyota has the contacts but also recommended changing the plunger which they would have to order. We'll see once I get it out. thanks, Howard

you have to remove the front passenger side wheel, remove the transmission dip stick, and the remove the bolt holding the brake line in place, that bold is on the inside of the frame. you probably won't be able to see it, so just feel for it. push the brake line out of the way but don't disconnect it or else you'll have to bleed you brakes once reconnected. now reach your hand into the space you just created and wiggle, twist and turn that starter every which way you can to get it out. it will come out but you have to be patient, it will only come out a certain way. tom

Tom, You have obviously done this job before :) You were right on, I did end up disconnecting the brake line where it connected to the block that is bolted to the frame. About the only thing I might add is if you are doing it with the truck on jack stands you almost have to have someone to help you hold it in position while you start the bolts when reinstalling. Thanks for the help, I appreciate it. I did take the starter to the local shop and the contacters and plunger were quite worn. He oiled the bearings, polished the armature, checked brushes (ok) and we're good to go ... starts first try every time now! Thanks for the help guys! :) Howard