Starting System: Testing and Inspection

Fig. 1 Exploded View Of Starter Motor:

Refer to Fig. 1, when troubleshooting starter motors.

Fig. 2 Starter Solenoid Terminal Identification:

Fig. 3 Starter Switch Terminal Identification:

DOES NOT TURN ENGINE WHEN IGNITION/STARTER SWITCH IS OPERATED

Use SUN VAT-40 or SUN VAT-60 or their equivalents for measurements.
1. Ensure solenoid switch connections are satisfactory, ground straps between engine and body are tight and free of corrosion and that battery is fully charged.
2. Measure voltage at terminal 50, Fig. 2 of solenoid switch while cranking. Reading should be 8 volts minimum.
3. If reading is satisfactory, proceed to step 6.
4. If there is no voltage, or voltage is less than 8, measure voltage at terminal 50, Fig. 3 of ignition/starter switch. Reading should be 8 volts minimum.
5. If there is no voltage, replace ignition/starter switch.
6. If voltage is satisfactory, Inspect wiring between terminal 50 on ignition/starter switch and terminal 50 on starter solenoid and repair or replace as necessary.
7. If reading is satisfactory from step 3, measure voltage at connection 3, Fig. 1 for field winding on solenoid switch. Reading should be 8 volts minimum.
8. If there is no voltage, replace solenoid switch.
9. If voltage is satisfactory, replace starter.

TURNS ENGINE TOO SLOWLY OR ENGAGES & WILL NOT TURN ENGINE

1. Ensure engine is filled with oil of recommended viscosity, then check V-belt tension, wire connections, battery voltage and charge if necessary and clean battery terminals.
2. Crank engine.
3. If starter turns engine, system is operating properly.
4. If starter does not turn engine, clean starter terminals and tighten connections, then clean and tighten ground strap connections between transmission and body at transmission.
5. Crank engine.
6. If starter turns engine, system is operating properly.
7. If starter does not turn engine, starter is defective, replace starter.