Hillclimber

Just taken the van for a run and noticed the MIL was on. Disconnected the MAF and a black connector at the rear of the cylinder head while removing the starter. Both replaced OK. Is it likely the MIL will go out on its own, or does it need further checks.

Now that the Alphard is running, a family visit is in the offing, so looking for recommendations for a suitable campsite/stopover near Ripon for this coming Saturday night. Reasonable fcailities would be great in case things don't work as expected!

New starter fitted and engine starting without issues. This is how the old one came out. The cone with the front pinion was the real problem area.

On 6/25/2025 at 11:11 AM, Picasso said:

3.0 are known for it they rust them selves in the shoulder of the starter motor is smouth slides in but over time they get stuck in i have known people to brake the starter motor to get it out 

Thats how mine is coming out. Current left with the front cone and pinion still stuck in the mounting hole. Cant see a way to collapse the cone without the possibility of it all dropping in to the bellhousing. Have instilled the help of a neighbour who is a commercial vehicle mechanic. So far his chisels have done far more than mine did!

Having watched a couple of YouTube videos of removing the starter from other Toyota models, it proved to be a remarkably straightforward job. Basically the steps are remove the battery, remove the aircleaner assembly and then remove the two bolts securing the starter to the cylinder block. Took me all of 40 minutes. Then hit the most mind boggling snag I have ever encountered, and I mean EVER! The starter motor flange is corroded to the cylinder block and no amount of blows to the flange edge seems to want to break the bond.

Has anyone encountered anything like this before and has anyone got any realstic suggestions about breaking aluminium corrosion, especially where access to the joint is very limited to large tools or objects. I have the new starter and the old one is not needed as a return.

We have a trip planned for the first weekend in July, and wondering if we will make it!

12 hours ago, Picasso said:

I’m sure you can just take your time 

My brain sometimes goes into full negative mode when looking at something new. Probably something to do with my advancing years! Thanks for your positive thoughts. As for replacement starter, am I good to just go by engine size and vehicle age, or are there differences I need to know. Its a 3.0l V6 from 2002.

3 hours ago, Picasso said:

hello peter try simon contract mechanics 01926-612932    07551578462   give him a call say lee gave you his number great genuine guy he will look after you if he dont answer the phone leave a voice message and name and number he will call you back works on his own or drop a text message he will all ways reply or you can try stuart spencer autos in dudley i bought my alphard off him and he also does repairs 

Thanks for that feedback. Very useful. I was taking the view that it was beyond my above average mechanicing skills, and the lack of an English workshop manual as a guide. Having checked a video, I'm sure I can do it.

I have a 2002 MH10 V6 auto with a stuck/seized starter solenoid. New Acre (my local specialist) tell me they wouldn't be able to do anything for a couple of months. Can anyone recommend another specialist who could change the starter motor for me, ideally in the Midlands area.

One of the rear room light bulbs on my AH10 has failed. How do I get access to it? Tried (gingerly) removing the lens and the whole body but neither seemed to be the way in.

Does anyone recognise this head unit? Need to decide if it is worth keeping or look to upgrade.

Just to add another view is to use a mix of toothpaste and bicarb as a cleaner. I used it on another of my cars where the lenses were badly discoloured and the results were very satisfactory.

Hi everyone. Two days into my new experience of Alphard Camper ownership. Its an 02plate 3.0l model with side conversion and fixed bed/seating. So far, very pleased although still getting used to where things are and the features it's got.