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2003 Tundra - not starting

Discussion in '1st Gen Tundras (2000-2006)' started by LilMommaD, Jul 12, 2019.

  1. Jul 12, 2019 at 10:13 PM
    #1
    LilMommaD

    LilMommaD [OP] New Member

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    I took ownership 2-3 days ago of 2003 Tundra...4.7. I have driven over 200 miles in just this short time. Multiple trips each day with no issues. Was going to run a quick errand this evening and it wouldn't start. There is a medium to moderately paced clicking but nothing else. I'm almost thinking it could be the starter. But, I was made aware that it would need a new battery pretty soon. The interior lights do come on as well as headlights, but all are noticeably dimmer. And, warning chimes (key, door) on also. Any guidance of what to replace first.
     
    OR18TRD likes this.
  2. Jul 12, 2019 at 10:37 PM
    #2
    Black Wolf

    Black Wolf Bigfoot Hunter, Sasquatch too, but not Yeti

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    Welcome from Colorado. Get your battery checked first. If good...then have alternator checked...if good....starter might be going bad. Lots of 1st gen Tunny owners here will chime in. A bit late now. Let's see what tomorrow brings here.
     
    OR18TRD likes this.
  3. Jul 13, 2019 at 2:45 AM
    #3
    Prostar 190

    Prostar 190 SSEM #9 I would rather be water skiing

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  4. Jul 13, 2019 at 5:15 AM
    #4
    FirstGenVol

    FirstGenVol Brake Czar

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    Hi there. Replace the battery and get back to us if that doesn't work. The starters don't fail very often on our trucks which is a good thing because are a real nightmare to get to.
     
  5. Jul 13, 2019 at 6:23 AM
    #5
    bajaphile

    bajaphile New Member

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    What is the voltage of the battery? Should be at least 12.3V.

    What you describe is pretty common for a dying battery however. The clicking is the solenoid within the starter. If you get a jump and replace the battery, measure voltage while engine running. Ensure alternator is putting out ~13.5 to 14V at idle.
     
  6. Jul 13, 2019 at 6:39 AM
    #6
    02goes

    02goes New Member

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    Sounds like the battery. If possible stop by a parts place and have them check battery, they will do it for free.
     
  7. Jul 13, 2019 at 7:16 AM
    #7
    Professional Hand Model

    Professional Hand Model A.K.A ‘Golden Hands’

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  8. Jul 13, 2019 at 10:07 AM
    #8
    TVU682

    TVU682 New Member

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    sounds like the battery... get back with us if you change the battery and continue having the same issue... we will be able to help you out
     
  9. Jul 13, 2019 at 10:21 AM
    #9
    bmf4069

    bmf4069 Yup, that's car parts in a dishwasher

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    Since nobody has said it, I'll say it. It's probably the battery.
     
  10. Jul 14, 2019 at 1:49 AM
    #10
    LilMommaD

    LilMommaD [OP] New Member

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    2003 Tundra-my first BIG truck.
    Just an update:
    My baby is up and running again. And, YES,YES, and YES, it was the battery. Moreover, a lack of battery!
    Lord only knows why, but the battery that was in it was one you would expect to see in a MUCH SMALLER vehicle. Maybe a civic or an escort. Definitely, not a Tundra.
    So, now I have another question! After putting new battery in and making sure she would turn over, I decided to do a fluids check.
    Climbed up in engine compartment (don't laugh-I'm vertically challenged), and I am able to locate all but 1. Where is the reservoir for transmission fluid? I located the dipstick for level but wondering where I would pour it should it be low?
     
    bmf4069 likes this.
  11. Jul 14, 2019 at 6:05 AM
    #11
    Professional Hand Model

    Professional Hand Model A.K.A ‘Golden Hands’

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    Pour it in through the dipstick tube using a skinny funnel.
     
  12. Jul 14, 2019 at 6:18 AM
    #12
    FirstGenVol

    FirstGenVol Brake Czar

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    There isn't a traditional reservoir. It's in the pan below the truck. If you aren't sure if it's ever been done, a drain and fill would be a good idea. It's extremely easy. The key is to measure how many quarts you get out(should be around 4) and put that much back it. As stated above, you fill through the dipstick.

    Auto Zone sells a $5 funnel that works great.

    0413191307_HDR.jpg
     
    TX-TRD1stGEN, bmf4069 and hammeron like this.

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