Hi Mr. Scotty!
I finally get to ask you a question regarding an on again/off again (literally) problem I'm having. I'm the proud owner of a 2001 Toyota Tundra SR5 Extra Cab with the 4-speed automatic and 4.7L engine. It has just over 493,000 miles on it and its still running great, tight as a drum, EXCEPT for every now and again it takes a couple turns of the ignition to get the engine to catch. It happens infrequently and I'm not showing any codes at the moment however I did just fix and clear some vacuum codes (cracked/worn out hoses). The battery and starter are both in good condition and turn over the engine. When the problem occurs about the third time the key is turned usually with a touch of the gas peddle it starts and runs fine. I seem to have the problem most during high temp days (112+) but I'm not certain that has anything to do with it. The throttle body was just replaced by the dealer not to long ago as well, if that's important at all. The mystery is both annoying and frustrating as I take GREAT pride in maintaining this vehicle. Toyota trucks run deep in our family. Any help would be greatly appreciated! Love your channel, been a long time fan and subscriber! Keep up the awesome work!!!
Thanks,
Chris Estrada
well possibilities are still pretty open, especially at that mileage.
I would start with basics: spark plugs, fuel pressure, cylinder compression, and maybe even an injector leak down test.
If you look in the FAQ we have no start troubleshooting with a bunch of Scotty videos that might help.
Your ignition switch may be wearing out.
I know the ignition switch was replaced about ten years ago, the truck has one key (set) to open the doors, and one key (set) to start it. How long do ignition switches generally last?
I honestly wouldn't be surprised if that was the problem though! My old war horse has seen a thing or two, been places if you know what I mean.
it takes a couple turns of the ignition to get the engine to catch.
can you please clarify this.
Are you saying the starter motor cranks every time, but the engine doesn't run, or
you sometimes get no cranking?
Clarification: The starter cranks every time, no issues. And plenty of juice from the battery. However the engine doesn't catch the first or even the second time I turn the key, it usually takes three tries before the engine catches and runs. Then the problem will reoccur maybe once more the same day and then not happen again for a week or two. I'm completely stumped and DO NOT want to pay a mechanic to try and figure out a problem that is so infrequent. Nothing against mechanics, its just the whole "well I heard a sound" thing.
I should add on "occasion", even when the engine catches on the first ignition turn, very infrequently I catch just a whiff of fuel, not sure if that's relevant. I've checked all the fuel lines and the injector bars, cant see any indication of fuel leaks and the bolts are all tight. At least as far as I can get a torque wrench on them by the book or just good common uggah-duggas to snug everything down.