Hey guys. I have a '91 4Runner that has had transmission shifting problems for the last six months. In an attempt to track the problem down, we have changed the transmission fluid and changed the throttle linkage. The problem only occurs during the first 1 to 2.5 miles after sitting overnight. The vehicle sticks in first gear until about the 4500 to 5000 rpm mark and then gerks really badly, like it pops out of gear.

We recently discovered that in addition to the shifting problems, the throttle linkage broke at both ends and had to be replaced. The first thought was that this was the primary problem, however, after replacing the cable, it continued to do it. We have thoroughly adjusted the cable to no avail. We have called all the dealerships and repair shops around town to find out where the cable adjustment should be. Everyone just says "To the point where the wire is crimped, plus some." Unfortunately, the replacement linkage does not have a crimp on either end, so this information is rather useless.

Does this sound like a problem with the transmission internally or does it sound more like a linkage problem? If it's internal, would it generally be a complete rebuild or just something quick and easy. Lastly, if it is a rebuild, where do I find good information on installing the 3.4L automatic into my truck. I haven't found information such how to attach the speedometer or if I need a newer gauge cluster. The 2nd Gen 4Runners use a rotating speedo cable, however, the 3rd Gen doesn't have the rotating cable. It seems to be an electronic link. If I need a new gauge cluster, will the 3rd Gen fit into the 2nd Gen dashboard without modification? And will the lack of battery and oil pressure gauges cause any errors in the onboard computer? Any and all help would be greatly appreciated.

 

actually around 92.5-93 models of the 2nd gens, got the electronic speedos.

sounds like you have a solenoid issues within the tranny...

lucky for you, i have a tranny from a 96/97 on my 90. and there is a very well documented case of this:

http://www.4x4wire.com/toyota/tech/autocrawler/

i did the same exact thing about a month phil johnson did his...

 

oh one more thing.

i kept the gauge and all electrical stuff. marlin just modified the speed sensor to work with everything on the car.

so right now, if wanted to, i can rip out everything between the engine and the rear driveshaft and put in all stock tranny, transfer case, shifter assembly, all from a 90 model...

 

oh the reason the tranny from 3rd gens work with my speedo cable, is that, IIRC, the cable is plugged into a black box that converts the mechanical signal into an electronic one...

FWIW. i replaced my cable last year and i used the p/n from my 90 to search for the correct one and it just plugged and played...