my surf wont start (sometimes)

[tradeaid]

I have a uk supplied 1995 4runner 3.o diesel manual. I have shipped this to tanzania where i have a project. its only done 40k miles with full toyota service history so is in superb condition BUT it occasionally wont start. There are no toyota experts in the bush so would really love some guidance.
95 % of time it runs beautifully but i have noticed that
a the engine will always crank., so i dont think its a faulty immobiliser
b if the glowplug warning light comes on it always starts
c if the glowplug warning light does not come on then it will crank but not start
d if the car is left out in the sun, and we are talking hot in tanzania, no glow light, no start
parked in shade or early in morning, glow light fine, starts fine
all other indicators such as engine management light are fine
Any help would be much appreciated

[charvell]

I have a uk supplied 1995 4runner 3.o diesel manual. I have shipped this to tanzania where i have a project. its only done 40k miles with full toyota service history so is in superb condition BUT it occasionally wont start. There are no toyota experts in the bush so would really love some guidance.
95 % of time it runs beautifully but i have noticed that
a the engine will always crank., so i dont think its a faulty immobiliser
b if the glowplug warning light comes on it always starts
c if the glowplug warning light does not come on then it will crank but not start
d if the car is left out in the sun, and we are talking hot in tanzania, no glow light, no start
parked in shade or early in morning, glow light fine, starts fine
all other indicators such as engine management light are fine
Any help would be much appreciated

Check all the conections to the glow plugs if they are ok i would go for changing the plugs, some one else may have another solution.

[tradeaid]

the paras

Thanks for help. Must point out that although god created the paras it is us REME mugs that keep all their kit working!
brian currie

[mickey]

if i don't de-activate my immobiliser before starting, the engine will crank, but not start..in this sitiuation, the glow plug, or pre-heat light will not show..on touching the immobiliser with the "device" (for want of a better word)..the light will immediately show, and all will be well in the starting compartment..depending on the type of immobiliser i guess..maybe your problem does point to that area?

[charvell]

Thanks for help. Must point out that although god created the paras it is us REME mugs that keep all their kit working!
brian currie

I was a PTI on the P company course, had lots of REME trying to better themselves, good bunch much better than the engineers

[mickey]

but can you boys get a hilux surf started? we ain't gonna be winning no conflicts if the convoys ground to a halt