Starting Issues

[3 DOGS]

It's been a while since I had to bug you guys. Unfortunately I must do it again.
My 03 Taco DC has difficulty starting at times. When I turn the key it is turning over but won't actually start. Sometimes it takes 2-3 times doing this before it will start. It only has 51500 miles on it.
My questions are:
Starter?
FI system?
Would FI system cleaner work?
Something much worse?
These are pretty basic questions I guess - I'm not very mechanically inclined. I am only good at destroying stuff not so good at repair.
Any thoughts, ideas and suggestioins?
Thanks

3 DOGS
03 Taco DC TRD 265/75/16 Hercules Terra Trac AT, F/G Topper, and Bedrug

 

[BogusBlake]

Describe the symptoms a little more-does it does it click and not turn over? Does it turn over, but weakly? Does it turn over strong, but just not fire? Does it smell like gas afterward?

Have you checked the air filter?

 

[3 DOGS]

Symptoms:
The starter sounds normal. No weakness or sluggishness to the sound.
No funny smells before, during or after. I do remeber once or twice white or gray smoke - but just a puff.
Air filter is "clean". No dusty trail runs. Hasn't been off road since last October.
It may take 3 times to finally get it to fire. Usually twice.
Happens inconsistantly - sometimes after sitting for a while. Sometimes after running in the store and trying to leave. Nothing consistant to figure a pattern.
Again just trying to see if anyone else had this same issue.
Could this be the timing chain already at 51500 miles?
Thanks for any help.
3 DOGS

 

[njtaco]

Is it always when the truck is warm? Vapor lock maybe?

Try turning the key to run, but do not crank it. 5-6 seconds later, crank it to start it. (This lets the electric fuel pump work a bit first.)

Have you changed fuel stations lately? Any chance of water in the fuel? A good dry-gas product may work. IIRC, use the one WITHOUT the scull-and-crossbones on the label, it is easier on the fuel lines and works better.

My ECHO and my 03 4-runner did the same thing, but only a couple of times each before they were sold/traded in. I never did accomplish a firm diagnosis. Good luck with it.

Have you changed the spark plugs yet? I just did mine and it made quite a difference. Stick with factory plugs, IMHO.

 

[Super Doody]

Symptoms:
The starter sounds normal. No weakness or sluggishness to the sound.
No funny smells before, during or after. I do remeber once or twice white or gray smoke - but just a puff.
Air filter is "clean". No dusty trail runs. Hasn't been off road since last October.
It may take 3 times to finally get it to fire. Usually twice.
Happens inconsistantly - sometimes after sitting for a while. Sometimes after running in the store and trying to leave. Nothing consistant to figure a pattern.
Again just trying to see if anyone else had this same issue.
Could this be the timing chain already at 51500 miles?
Thanks for any help.
3 DOGS

There are 2 TSBs you may want to check out.

One is for upgrading your engine wire harness fo better grounding

The other one is for extentsion of the fuel suction tube.

http://www.customtacos.com/tech/index.php?article=244


Literally, there could be a million things that could effect start up. Good luck. Let me know if have any additional questions.

 

[BogusBlake]

That sort of sounds like an ignition issue, especially the white puffs (unburned gas igniting in the exhaust). I'd check the plugs, the plug wires, and maybe the grounding.

It also sounds like bad gas. My buggy acts like that when I forget to put Staybil in the tank during the summer down time.

 

[LJRockstar]

I would Start by putting a new fuel filter in it, Before I switched to motorcycles, I used to be an auto Machanic, sounds like a similar set of symptoms. One load of crummy gas can plug up a fuel filter to the point that you cant blow through it. even if it doesn't fix the prob, at 50,000 it's a good idea anyway.

HTH

 

[3 DOGS]

I appreciate all the input.
I plan on new filters air and fuel. Might as well do the plugs too. Then I'll head to the dealer for the TSB's listed.
Once again I Thank you guys for your advice. I will let you know after everything is done if things change.

 

[Super Doody]

I appreciate all the input.
I plan on new filters air and fuel. Might as well do the plugs too. Then I'll head to the dealer for the TSB's listed.
Once again I Thank you guys for your advice. I will let you know after everything is done if things change.

IMHO, you should look at the TSB first. There are TSBs for a reason...its because it has ocurred to so many other trucks with the simliar years. First thing you should do is check the ground on your truck in the following areas:

1. Neg. terminal on battery to body.
2. Ground on engine which right below the oil fuel filter
3. Ground towards the front of the engine near heater house

Your truck is still new and low miles (my 03 has 78K miles), I really doubt it the fuel filter or ignition. Changing a fuel filter on a vehicle with less than 100K is a waste of money...its a lot of internet hype. The fuel lines are really tight and if you F- the threads on the fittings, its a lot of hassle.

I've done extensive research on this issue because I was having intermitten start up problems myself. In my situation it was a little different because I have non-stock fuel system for my supercharger.

Also check the voltage on your battery.