Really Weird Engine Problem...

[tre_03]

Hey everyone. I just wanted to post a very odd engine problem I'm having and see if anyone has any ideas. I have a '93 Tercel with 3EE 4-cyl and manual trans with about 20,000 miles on it(remanufactured engine). Every couple of days or so I'll go out to start it and it just cranks without starting. Since it's a stick I'll just get it rolling and pop the clutch if I'm in a place that I can do that. One time I was in kind of a tight spot to do that and couldn't get it started because I couldn't get it going fast enough. I pushed it back into a parking spot and decided to try to start it again. Amazingly it fired right up, and the "Check Engine" light stayed lit for about 3 or 4 seconds. So the solution I've found to work every time since then is to put it in gear and push it a few inches and then it starts. I have no idea what pushing it could do other than advance some of the internal engine parts. Any ideas on what the problem might be? Thanks in advance for any help.

-Eric

P.S. The weather conditions vary, so it's not climate-related.

[NickR]

Welcome to the board!

That is indeed very weird!

First thing I would do would be to check the codes, to see whay the check engine light came on. That might give you a clue. It is easy to do. Instructions here: http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/t114685.html

[Tercel GTS]

I'd pull the top timing cover and inspect the belt for wear. Also a sea foam treatment may be a good idea, fuel and oil. Also, while inspecting the belt push the car a little bit and see if any pulleys appear to be loose on the shafts.
Other than that I have a spare ECU for a 1993 manual trans car if you'd like to try it.

[tre_03]

Thanks for all the help guys. I ran a code check and found it had thrown a 12 and 25. Lean air-fuel mixture and a hit on the knock control sensor. I really appreciate the two posts I got. Huge help.