Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
1996 Ford Probe Base, StandardFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Armature Test
- Using an armature growler, check armature for internal shorts. Check for shorts between commutator and armature shaft, using an armature growler or ohmmeter. Replace armature if shorted.
- Place armature on "V" blocks. Using a dial indicator, check commutator runout. If runout is more than specification, turn commutator in lathe. See STARTER MOTOR SPECIFICATIONS . If commutator diameter is less than specifications, replace armature. See STARTER MOTOR SPECIFICATIONS .
- Ensure commutator is free of burnt spots and scoring. If commutator surface is dirty, wipe with cloth. If commutator is excessively scored, use lathe to refinish commutator.NOTE: DO NOT use emery cloth on commutator.
- If depth between commutator segments is less than specification, undercut to specification. See the STARTER MOTOR SPECIFICATIONS . If armature shows signs of rubbing pole pieces, ensure pole pieces are tight. Check armature for bent shaft. If armature shaft is bent, replace armature.
Factory Service Tools
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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.
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