2006 Tacoma Starter

If I replace the starter in my 6 cyl 06 Tacoma (87k miles) how likely is it that I’ll also have to replace the flywheel ring gear?

 

None likely at all unless there was a manufacturing defect such as the starter being misaligned. The OEM ring gear is particularly tough.

 

Very very very rare. That's a chevy 350 problem lol

 

Unless there was an issue that caused it to chew up the teeth on the flywheel/flex plate (which is rare) it should never have to be replaced.
Why are you replacing the starter at 87k? Unusual for one to fail at that low of mileage.

 

Still pretty old though being a 2006

OP is it making nasty noises like rocks in a can?

Last week I pulled a starter out of a Subaru where the nose that supports the drive gear had broken off. That one sounded terrible but the ring gear was surprisingly ok

 

Sometimes I only get a click when I turn the key, or there’s a half second delay between the click and the starter engaging.

 

Don't worry about the ring gear, just put a starter in it

I like Denso

 

You don't need an entire starter. You can fix this for less than 50 bucks.

The key to this puzzle. One single click and then nothing. That click is the starter relay which sends power to the starter solenoid to pull it in. The solenoid pulls in the plunger that connects the copper contacts for the starter motor power and extends the bendix gear to engage the flywheel. The problem is the copper contacts inside the solenoid are burned and need to be replaced.

You can buy the contacts and plunger new from Nations Starter and Alternator for about 30 - 35 bucks. Much cheaper than hundreds for a rebuilt POS from Autozone or big bucks from the dealer.

https://www.nationsstarteralternator.com/Starter-Rebuild-Kits-s/37.htm


Check this video for rebuilding the solenoid on the starter. The biggest issue with the V6 Engine and 4X4 is you have to take the starter out through the drivers wheel well area.

https://youtu.be/qwokxzjlYcQ

 

Thanks for the info but rebuilding a starter is beyond my skill set. I was a half-assed backyard mechanic in the ‘70s but my knuckle busting days are over.

 

Did you watch the video?

It is easy as pie, don't shortchange yourself.

I'm 67 years old and I did mine in just over an hour from start to finish.

It's your money, spend it as you see fit. Good luck.

 

Kids........ always strutting their stuff.

 

When I grow up I want to be just like you!

 

Replace starter... now in a 2014 but owned a 2006 prerunner prior. Starter went out at 80k. Pull and replace, not a bad job.