87' 4runner won't start

I have an 87' 4Runner with an intermitent starting problem. 9 times out of 10 it will start on demand. Once in awhile it will not start. When I turn the key I get no response at all. Nothing.
The battery is fairly new and checks out fine when tested. I have replaced the starter, the positive and negative cables along with the spark plugs, cables, cap & rotor and the ignition wire.
When this happens I can generally jump start the vehicle and it will turn over however this is not always true.
Any help would be appreciated.

Check your connections at the battery again.
A quick way to check this is to turn on your headlights and try starting. if you have bright lights and nothing happens then it is NOT the conections.
However if you lose all power to everything or the headlights go out then clean and tighten the connections.
Good luck.

Check your connections at the battery again.
A quick way to check this is to turn on your headlights and try starting. if you have bright lights and nothing happens then it is NOT the conections.
However if you lose all power to everything or the headlights go out then clean and tighten the connections.
Good luck.

Thanks, I have checked and double checked the connections. I have full power to lights, stereo, etc., even when the truck will not start.
I had a similiar problem with a Jeep one time but it was the Neutral Safety Switch. My 4runner has a 5sp manual transmission. Would the clutch safety switch act up in the same way? Is there a way to test this?

Good information!
Yes see where the clutch switch enables the starter, this may turn out to be a simple adjustment of the clutch switch position.
If the switch enables at the very bottom of the clutch travel adjust it.
Put a meter on it if it doesn't enable and measure where the continuity changes. do this with out power, as it will interfere with meter operation.
Good luck

Good information!
Yes see where the clutch switch enables the starter, this may turn out to be a simple adjustment of the clutch switch position.
If the switch enables at the very bottom of the clutch travel adjust it.
Put a meter on it if it doesn't enable and measure where the continuity changes. do this with out power, as it will interfere with meter operation.
Good luck


Just wanted to update you. I found the problem. The ground wire behind the block to the firewall had loosened slightly and was causing my intermitent starting problem. Once I cleaned and tightened this connection - the truck ran / runs great. Thanks for your input.

GOOD JOB!
That must have been tricky.