Clutch / starter lock out switch

[march56]

I have a 98 tacoma 5 spd manual and the clutch seems to need to be pushed in too far to the floor in order to start. Is there and adjustment for this or do I just need a new clutch? I attempted to bend the braket which holds a switch made by depressing the clutch pedel but it didn't seem to help.
Any experience with this would be helpful.
Thanks a million,
-march56

[Flash75]

You may have a hydraulics problem. Check the fluid level in the clutch master cylinder. Top up with DOT 3 brake fluid if it's low. Inspect around the push rod for leaking fluid. Crawl under the truck and look for leaks in the clutch release/slave cylinder. With the engine not running have an assistant push the clutch pedal to the floor while observing the clutch release arm for movement. It should move approximately 3/8" to 1/2". If all is OK so far check the pedal travel and free play. This link for a 2003 Tacoma should be very similar to your truck.
http://misc.mmdsi.net/tacoma/tacoma-...anual_Volume_2
Click on volume II, find the clutch pedal inspection in the clutch section and follow the instructions. If the clutch release point is still too low the clutch should inspected for wear/replacement.

Clifton

[march56]

Hey flash75,
Based on what you said and the added fact that this clutch hops badly coming off a standing start with the least excuse, it probably needs a new clutch.
Thanks a bunch for the tips,
best regards,
-march56

[podwich]

Isn't the clutch switch adjustable by screwing it in or out? I have a 2000 Tacoma and that's how mine is.

Perhaps the switch is failing or it's simply out of adjustment. If you have cruise, you might have two switches on the clutch-one to tell it if you hit the clutch (to disengage cruise) and one to let it know the clutch is fully depressed. You'd need the latter one correctly adjusted and correctly operating here.