My 4Runner.. trouble cranking and fuel smell

[grrldgr]

My 1992 3.0L V6 is showing it's age.

My 4Runner problem is getting worse by the day. It started the day after I bought it. My truck won't accelerate with the RPMs over 3k. My truck smells like fuel. The fuel filter is 3k miles new. I can't get it to start like it used to now. It will take me at least three cranks for it to turn over. The battery is new too... less than one year old. Any thoughts??

[Brian R.]

Check the fuel line pulse damper. They can corrode and leak - near the firewall.

[grrldgr]

i will give it a look. hmm im curious.. what makes you so sure?

[Brian R.]

It is a known problem with that truck and those are the symptoms.

[grrldgr]

wow! it was leaking! waiting on parts now. will let u know the result when the job is complete. thanks!

[grrldgr]

I picked up my truck today. Uh! The customer service could have been better at that shop. It was the damper, it did cost a lot in labor because the top of the motor had to be removed. It runs and starts better. BUT IT STILL HESITATES AT 3K RPM. It's like it is redlining. That mechanic says it is transmission related, but I just have that gut feeling it isn't. If you could help, the following are new:

fuel filter
water pump
timing belt
tires
brakes, front
radiator cap
a/c belt
shocks, all 4
heater hose
intake gasket
catalytic converter
upper hoses
battery
pcv valve

I purchased 08/2009 with 186k and now has 198k. I'm happy it isnt leaking fuel anymore.

[Brian R.]

Check for trouble codes.

Change plugs - DENSO or NGK brands.

Clean intake

Clean EGR valve.

Check your ignition timing. Check your timing belt, it may be off a tooth on a cam sprocket.

Check for restrictions in the exhaust. Bent exhaust or tail pipe. Crushed or internally corroded muffler.

Check the fuel flow and pressure at the fuel rails. Check for bent/crimped fuel lines. Replace the pump or fuel pressure regulator to fix flow or pressure problem, respectively.

Have your injectors cleaned.

(Are you sure you needed all those parts? Someone may be taking someone for a ride.)