'88 Camry starter problems

[korny351]

Recently purchased an '88 Camry DLX w/ 4 cyl. 3S-FE engine. Two problems have come to light recently. 1) Sometimes, when starting the car, the starter will grind as if the starter is not engaging the flywheel properly. Sometimes, this will happen several times in a row. Then it will start normally. It happens under varying conditions (cold engine, hot engine, etc). Is a new starter in order or is there another explanation? 2) When changing the sparkplugs I found oil puddled in the sparkplug tubes (quite a bit). From other forums, I have learned that this is a common problem, but I am wondering how easy is it to fix. The Chilton manual lists an installation torque for the sparkplug tubes but doesn't really go into any detail about their removal or installation. I am assuming ther must be some kind of seal where they attach to the head, but cannot find any reference as to whether it is an o-ring or what. None of the online parts sources lists any seal for the sparkplug tubes except the seals under the valve cover nuts. Any information would be greatly appreciated

[Brian R.]

Sounds like you need a new starter.

The plug tubes are not sealed with any additional part. They are threaded into the head - that is the seal.

[jannison]

A sealent (made by Loctite) is applied to the threads before installing the spark plug tubes into the head.
Below is info from their sevice bulletin:

"The sealant placed on replacement spark plug tubes may become ineffective with long shelf storage. New replacement spark plug tubes for both 3S-FE and 5S-FE no longer come with sealant on the threads.

Because of this change, it is now necessary to apply sealant to the threads of the spark plug tube prior to installation. Use Loctite(R) # 572 or equivalent.
PART NUMBER INFORMATION

Prev. Part Number New Part Number Part Name

11191-74011 11191-74030 Spark Plug Tube

INTERCHANGEABILITY

Old and new spark plug tubes are completely interchangeable. However, if you are installing an old (P/N 11191-74011) spark plug tube, it is necessary to remove all pre applied sealant from the threads and install new sealant (Loctite(R) # 572 or equivalent)."

John

[JennyDee]

Based on the problem I had with my 88 Camry and the starter, it was actually the flywheel. I had purchased the 88 from a dealer and in MA there is a 60 day drivetrain warranty. Well, the starter was a hit and miss thing. I did replace the starter and the problem still was there. That is, it would not start the engage the flywheel. The dealer did replace the flywheel at no charge. What they told me was that the flywheel always stops at 120 degree posiiton, and I think it was because the compression of the engine or something like that. So the teeth on the flywheel can wear. But the real issue was that Toyota had a bulletin on the problem and that there were some ring gears that were not hardened correctly and that is why the teeth wear out quickly.
So if you still have the problem with the starter not engaging after you replace the starter, it maybe this problem.

[Brian R.]

Thanks for the information. Someone will find it useful.

[korny351]

Thank you all for the information. I've been out of town and was amazed with the detailed info posted. I'll attempt the removal/reinstall of the sparkplug tubes this weekend. Will also do a visual inspection of the flywheel. Rather not go through the expense of replacing the starter if that is not going to cure the problem. Once again, THANX.
John K.