Hello
I have a 1997 Toyota 4-Runner (LTD) which has never given me any problems until recently. I'm not a mechanic or mechanical in any way therefore the vehicle has religiously been taken to the dealership for scheduled maintenance. Lately, when I've gone to start the vehicle, when I turn the ignition...nothing happens, just dead silence...no clicks or anything (The internal overhead light, dashboard lights and radio all work. ). I turn the key and nothing happens. It's sporatic and doesn't do it all the time, just once every couple of days. Sometimes i can turn it 3 or 4 times before it will start. I took it to the dealership who replaced the battery but a day or two later it was doing the same thing. Any ideas as to what might be causing this problem? Thanks

Starter solenoid contacts (most likely) or starter relay.

See:
http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=166530&highlight=starter+contacts

You can buy a contact rebuild kit from Toyota.

Also:
http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTricks/Starter.shtml#OnlineOrdering
http://www.autosupply.ws

You don't need to replace the whole starter.

Yes it is the contacts.

I had a similar problem last winter on my SR5 1997. They replaced the contacts and the problem never re-appeared.

corroded battery cables can cause irratic behavior like that and easy check too..just a thought : )