We finally got the upper case I key on the old Underwood typewriter fixed, so now is the time for a first person missive pertaining to recent developments. You may have noticed a break in the action around here at the mighty Clunkbucket. No, I have not sold out to clandestine publishing interests in Moldova. The bad news is I won't be hanging out in California as much as I have … [Read more...]
Replace Window Regulator
Modern and more luxurious cars than the 1982 Toyota Starlet have equally modern conveniences such as self-parking guidance systems and electrical windows. The Starlet has a small high-impact plastic crank that is turned to open and close the window. The plastic crank is attached to a simple and durable device known as the window regulator. The window is in turn attached to one … [Read more...]
Tercel is not a Starlet
Because the mighty Starlet often gets mistaken for a Tercel, we bring you this first generation Toyota Corolla Tercel sedan. Not one but two generations of Tercel were sold alongside the Starlet's four short years in the USA, with the second generation three-door hatchback version appearing to be the primary source of model confusion. The Starlet is not a Tercel for many … [Read more...]
Tool of the Week: Vacuum Gauge
From the atmospheric pressure and faulty carburetor adjustment division of Tool of the Week comes the large dial vacuum gauge. As the Starlet was going through its bi-annual carburetor meltdown, the time was right to bust out the vacuum gauge to see what was going on. Spark was there for sure. There was plenty of air. That left fuel and fuel delivery as suspects. This … [Read more...]
No recalls for 1982 Toyota Starlet!
It might need a few new valve springs. The input shaft bearing in the transmission is whining a little. There's a wobble or two here or there. One of the camshaft lobes may be in trouble. Clunks? Plenty. We're really hoping the clutch cable doesn't finally give out either. The good news is that even with 230-plus thousand miles on the original 4K-C engine - there are no recalls … [Read more...]