Battery/Starter Load Test (ARBST Test)

1992 Saturn SC StandardSECTION Battery/Starter Load Test (ARBST Test)
  1. Connect large Red ARBST tester cable to battery positive. Connect large Black ARBST tester cable to battery negative. Place Gray inductive current pick-up around battery positive cable.
  2. Ensure that arrow on Gray inductive pick-up is pointing toward starter motor solenoid.
    NOTE: Place Gray inductive current pick-up around battery positive cable between battery positive terminal and starter solenoid connection. Easiest place to connect inductive pick-up is next to brake master cylinder. Battery positive cable runs under master cylinder and is covered by a protective wire conduit. This conduit does not need to be removed for this test. On Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) models, inductive pick-up can be placed between ABS master cylinder and starter motor.
  3. Disable ignition system by disconnecting ignition module electrical connector. Press STARTER TEST button on ARBST tester. Position tester so display can be seen from driver's seat.
  4. When display says CRANK ENGINE, turn ignition to START position. Tester will continue to display CRANK ENGINE for 15 seconds.
  5. Tester display will display CRANKING AMPS, which displays average amperage drawn by starter during cranking.
  6. Amperage at 40°-80° F (5°-27° C) should be 80-120 amps, greater than 120° F (50° C) should be 70-110 amps, and less than 40° F (5° C) should be 90-130 amps.
  7. Tester display will display CRANKING VOLTAGE, which displays average battery voltage during cranking. If voltage is less than 9.5 volts, perform battery load test.
  8. Tester display will display GOOD STARTER or BAD STARTER. If display reads BAD STARTER, replace starter motor.
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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.