I am just putting the finishing touches on our V6 Swap and our starter is beginning to smoke whlie starting. Seeing as it is a 1989 starter for a smaller less powerful engine, I can see why this might be the case. I remember seeing on here somewhere a comparison of all starters, but I canno't seem to find it. Does anybody know if the 1MZ-FE starter will work in an S54 transmission mated to the 1MZ? So long as it will work in the 3S-FE, I am going to assume it will work, but just wanting to see if anybody has any better information than I do. Additionally, I know toyota's temperature gauges typically are just 'dummy' gauges that look analog, but will hover at about 50% until the engine is in the danger zone temperature wise. Is there a quick solution for getting a real temperature gauge set up using the existing toyota sensors? Thanks
I used a lexus v6 (1mz i believe..) starter just fine on both the trans that comes with the 3s-fe and an s54 from a 5s-fe 6th gen celica. starts up much nicer than the old tired starter. as for the gauge, it isn't really a dummy gauge. it does work, but it has to be interpreted cautiously. anything past 50% just means something isn't working right (sticking thermostat/low on coolant), not necessarily already overheating.
Great news! We went with a 1MZ (not sure if you came across my other thread) and this 24 year old starter just cant hang anymore. Thanks for the tip! Now if anybody has any information about the engine temperature gauge, that would also be appreciated!
I must have missed the statement earlier about the gauge, but that describes exactly why I dont want to trust it. I need a gradual temperature reading, not a warning that could mean hot, but also mean other things.
