It's possessed !

[k91]

Here's a good one....about a week ago, I went to the garage to start the cruiser (97 FJ80). Turned the key and all I got was a click from the solenoid. I then immediately checked to make sure the tranny was in "Park" and tried again. It started right up. No thoughts about, I assumed that it was simply the vehicle was not left in park all the way.....Three or four days later, same senario. Go out to start..blah..blah, but after moving the shift lever still hear the click only. I then shook the key for grins and then it started.

The next day when I went to take off, got the click and then here's the strange part...the "A/T temp" light and the "check engine oil" light came on when the vehicle started. It idled really rough for about 10 seconds and then died. I tried to start it again and it started right up like nothing happened.

Since then I will still get the "Click" and no start every so often, but not every start. I tried all the searches and could not find any like this. My first thought was the starter, but the light show threw me off. Any ideas out there are appreciated!! Matt

 

[TomH]

You need to replace the starter contacts. The light show often happens when the contacts are bad. You'll want to replace the contacts right away as they could "weld" themselves together and cause a fire.

Tom

 

[IdahoDoug]

This is a potential show-stopper that can end with an engine electrical fire. If you're going to drive the truck until they're replaced ($22 from Cdan here on the forum), then loosen the battery's ground connection so at least if it welds the starter on, you can stop it by frantically opening the hood and pulling the connection quickly.

The "rough idle" was likely the part where the starter was engaged while the engine was running. You got lucky and the contacts detached. It's only a matter of time and there's a TON of material here on "starter contacts" for your searching pleasure.

DougM

 

[Mickldo]

Does any body know if diesel 1HZ starters use the same contacts/have the same starting problem as the petrol motors? Having an under bonnet fire doesn't exactly turn me on. My 1HZ sometimes has a split second delay after turning the ignition key.