No start first try, start second try when cold.

[oldwomanbay]

Someone on here will be able to diagnose this quickly, I'm sure. I've included a video.

When cold it sounds like the starter is engaging but no cranking. Then your turn off and try again and it starts every time. When warmed up the problem seems to go away.



Thank you for your help in advance.

 

[benjrblant]

Sounds like the starter is bad. Plunger probably not engaging?
Regardless, I'd be looking for rebuild parts or a reman'd starter.

 

[flintknapper]

Bendix is not engaging your flywheel the first try. Probably due to poor contacts in the starter.

First thing to check is that ALL wiring/cables to your battery and starter (and ground straps) are in good shape and have good connections (not corroded).

Once that has been determined, I'd look at pulling that starter and replacing the contacts and plunger or just replace it with a remanufactured unit.

Pretty sure that will solve your problem.

 

[oldwomanbay]

Thanks guys. Planning to buy a new set of cables from Fourrunner and install them. I've done my best to clean up the existing connections but the cables are original so 20 years old now. I'll double-check the grounds. May have overlooked that.

The starter was just out for a rebuild so if it's the starter itself I won't be too happy.

 

[flintknapper]

The starter was just out for a rebuild so if it's the starter itself I won't be too happy.

New contacts and a new plunger are usually all that is needed BUT...it is very important that both contacts be pushed firmly down into the bottom of the solenoid housing.

You can't just throw them in there (as a lot of folks do). IF they are not level (one is higher than the other), the plunger can not make a good contact with both. When that happens....you either get poor starter performance...or the repair will be short lived.

The starter can be bench tested to help eliminate it as the culprit. Checking connections and the condition of your battery cables and grounds is just the most sensible place to start....because regardless the condition of the starter it can not operate properly if there is an issue with the voltage it receives.

Hope you get it sorted out. Let us know.


Flint.

 

[oldwomanbay]

Old thread but I don't get on here very often. I replaced bendix (starter motor) and all is well again. I will leave video up for reference.