1983 Toyota Pickup BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

System Check

  1. Check for battery voltage at terminal 2 (Green/White wire) of pre-heating timer with ignition on. If no voltage is present, check for 1 volt at terminal 3 (Brown) and terminal 9 (White). If not present, replace current sensor. If voltage is present, replace pre-heating timer.
  2. Check that voltage at terminal 2 (Green/White) is no longer present after engine starts. If voltage is still present, disconnect alternator warning relay and retest. If okay with relay disconnected, repair charging system. If not, replace pre-heating timer.
  3. Turn ignition off and stop engine. Turn ignition on again and check that current flow to terminal 8 (Green/Red) at timer is present according to temperature chart. See Fig 1.
    Fig 1: Pre-Heating Time/Temperature Chart
    G34679Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  4. If no voltage is present, replace timer. If voltage is present for wrong time, disconnect temperature sensor. Voltage should be present for 150 seconds, or 7 seconds with sensor lead grounded. If voltage is present as described, replace water temperature sensor. If time is still incorrect, replace timer.
  5. If voltage was present for correct period of time, check for voltage at terminal 8 (Green/Red) with ignition at "START" position. If no voltage, replace timer. If voltage is present, turn ignition off.
  6. Turn ignition on again. Check for voltage at glow plugs a few seconds later. If no voltage, check for battery voltage at positive side of current sensor (above No. 3 cylinder). If present, replace sensor. If not, replace No. 1 glow plug relay.
  7. Voltage at glow plugs should drop from 12 to 6 volts after a few seconds of operation. If not, check for battery voltage at positive side of ballast resistor (below intake manifold). If present, replace resistor. If not, replace No. 2 glow plug relay.
  8. If all voltage measurements are correct, measure glow plug resistance. Resistance should be close to zero. If infinity, replace glow plug.
Factory Service Tools

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.

Shop Manual-Ready ToolsCompare Repair QuoteQuote Shield Pro

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

Rather have a pro handle this?

A certified mobile mechanic comes to your home or office. They bring the tools, you stay comfortable. No tow truck, no waiting room, no surprises.

Comes to youSame-day available12-month warranty
Get a Free Quote

No obligation. See pricing before you book.