Yes, I'm paranoid...

[Apache]

I've only had my 1993 3.0TD for a couple of weeks, but as happens every time you buy a car you're unfamiliar with, I notice noises or peculiarities. Nothing has come to anything, but are there any 'stock faults' with this model to be aware of?

Only wee problem I've had is a reluctance for the starter motor to go some mornings (I can hear the solenoid, but nowt happens). After a few tries, it usually starts and fires no problem. Oddly, doesn't seem to be an issue once the car has been run that day. I figure I need to get underneath and check connections to the starter as it seems a little exposed to wet and crud down there.

I'll be having the timing belt changed shortly as I'm not sure whether its been done or not. What is the replacement interval?

Last question question relates to the folding rear seats. There appears to be hinges at the front of the base of the seats, but I'm stumped as to how to lift the bases in order to fold the seats flat. Any clues?

[dirtydog]

I'll be having the timing belt changed shortly as I'm not sure whether its been done or not. What is the replacement interval?

Last question question relates to the folding rear seats. There appears to be hinges at the front of the base of the seats, but I'm stumped as to how to lift the bases in order to fold the seats flat. Any clues?

Every 100,000kms i think for the belt.

Seats should pull up with a handle (probably dug down the back) needs quite a tug then you can pull the handle to fold the seat backs down.

Tim

[TonyN]

Its usually the soloniod contacts in the starter. Easy to do, even the repair kit from Toyota is cheap.

[Apache]

Thanks folks! Oddly enough its started fine the last couple of days. Is the starter motor common to lots of Toyotas if I can pick up a contacts kit from a Toyota dealer? Which models use the same starter? (Mines an auto 3.0TD 1993)

I'll try to find the handle for the rear seats when it isn't quite so wet!!!

I've got 63'000 miles showing, so I guess the belt is due. The importer told me it had been done, but only had a load of bumph in japanese. I'd rather not take the chance!

[Sparky]

the handles to lift the back seats are tucked down the gap where the seatbelt releases come through.

[dirtydog]

is that a question or a statement?
errm mine do yes.

[Gizmo]

Thanks folks! Oddly enough its started fine the last couple of days. Is the starter motor common to lots of Toyotas if I can pick up a contacts kit from a Toyota dealer? Which models use the same starter? (Mines an auto 3.0TD 1993)

I'll try to find the handle for the rear seats when it isn't quite so wet!!!

I've got 63'000 miles showing, so I guess the belt is due. The importer told me it had been done, but only had a load of bumph in japanese. I'd rather not take the chance!

Seems to be a few happening now the weather is closing in. Heres a discussion link that provides parts and cost..Plus do a search as Fieldsy has done an excellent editorial on changing the starter components

http://www.yotasurf.co.uk/forums/sho...hlight=starter

[Apache]

Great to know I'm not alone! Symptoms exactly the same as some of the other posters. However, its been fine for the last couple of days, despite the weather getting colder and wetter.

The glowplug threads have been very useful too. I'd been starting immediately the light goes off (1/2 sec or so) without realising the plugs stay on for a bit. Starts better now i know!

Thanks guys. A really useful forum!