Starter run-on, and on.

[Ivan80]

Anybody ever experience this...

3 times over the last few months, when I've started the truck, the starter kept running even after the truck was started. Turning the key off kills the engine, but the starter keeps running, and running.

I put the key back in the ign switch, and turn to the on position, the engine fires up, and the starter is still running. This has gone on for 5 minutes or so, during which I am turning the ignition switch on and off. I've beat on the top of the starter also while this was happening, but that didn't work. I haven't yet figured out yet what gets it to stop, but it eventually does.

I'm concerned that if my wife drives the truck and this happens, that she will drive with the starter engaged.

Lately I have been starting the truck using the remote starter and it hasn't happened, yet. If that continues to work, I'll have to look at the ignition switch.

So what do you guys think? Ignition switch, magnetic switch in the starter?

[dfmorse]

A new starter and/or solenoid is what will fix this. Worn out ign sw is rare, but possible.

...

[Gumby]

It's the starter contacts inside the solenoid on top of the starter.

Simple fix and common as all get out.

[tehcruiser]

I'd say that either the starter relay, or starter solenoid is sticking. IMO, those are the only two possible causes, with the starter solenoid being first on the list.
Good luck.

[Ivan80]

Thanks fellas. I'll call Dan tomorrow.

[Beowulf]

Originally Posted by tehcruiser

I'd say that either the starter relay, or starter solenoid is sticking.

The 1FZ-FE 80-Series do not have a starter relay; just the solenoid on the starter. This problem should be fixed ASAP. A couple of members have had fires and serious electrical system problems as a result.

Stop driving it until this gets fixed.

-B-

[Ivan80]

Noted. Thanks B.

[Lka1988]

x2,000 what B said. I was very close to having a similar situation, but I replaced the contacts before they started sticking.

Got the wrong plunger too...

[flat4turbo]

I have this problem right now! My 94 cruiser's starter is complete stuck in the "ON" position.

I had to pull the battery to get it to stop!!! Wheh! What a freak-out!


I went into the dash and removed the relay and the damn thing still turns when I plug the battery back in with the key in my hand!


Where can I get solenoid plunger at? Or other rebuild parts?

OR Should I just replace the whole starter?

Any help would be appreciated!

--f4t

[Beowulf]

f4t,
This is a fairly well documented repair. There is a write-up in the 80-Series FAQ, George Scolaro has a web page, and I believe there is a write-up on the Slee offroad web site.

You can get the starter terminal kit and a plunger at your local Toyota dealer or just call Cruiserdan at American Toyota (IH8MUD Vendor). In an emergency like you are in now, you can R&R the starter and clean up the terminals with sandpaper and a file, put them back in and you should be able to get another month or two before you have to go back in with the new parts.

Let us know if you cannot find the write-ups and someone will post the links for you.

-B-

[scottm]

I think this malfunction and resulting fire is one of the few things that can total an 80 without crushing it. On my old Audi 200 it was the electrical splice under the passenger floor, they never just wore out.

My local dealer carried contacts, but not plungers. And they didn't have the longer "cold weather" contacts mine came with.

[ddorsch]

I had the same problem last year.Replaced the the contacts and haven't had a problem since.I got the kit from my local Toyota dealer.


Dave

[flat4turbo]

Beowulf, et al.

Thanks for your quick response. I'm going to pull the starter tomorrow and see if I can clean it up.

I live outside Philly and will also call my local dealer in PA since they are usually quick with getting parts. If all else fails, I'll definitely get a hold of Cruiser Dan as you suggest.

Do you know what the kit numbers are off hand or link to the thread (I'll be searching some after this post).

THANKS AGAIN!!!!

-f4t

[Beowulf]

George's write up: Starter Motor Contacts

Slee offroad write up: Slee - Replacing Starter Contacts (Toyota 80 Series Land Cruiser)

You should get the p/n from your starter before you call Cruiserdan so he can get the correct parts. There are 2 or 3 different starters in the same years.

-B-

[Ivan80]

In one emergency instance when the run-on happened I was able to reach in through the wheel well and strike the part of the starter where the plunger lives to stop the run-on and get home.

The plunger and contact kit fixed the problem and is a job.