CAUTION: Place the gray inductive current pick-up around the battery positive cable between the battery positive terminal and the starter motor solenoid connection. The easier place to connect the inductive pick-up is in front of the brake master cylinder. The battery positive is covered by a protective wire conduit. This conduit does not need to be removed from this test.

Turn the Starting and Charging System Tester SA 9154Z-A on. Connect large red tester cable to battery positive (+). Connect large black tester cable to battery negative (-). Place gray inductive current pick-up around battery positive (+) cable. Make sure that the arrow on the gray inductive current pick-up is pointing toward the starter motor solenoid.

Fig 1: SA9154Z-A Starting & Charging System Tester
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Press the STARTER TEST button on the system tester. The tester will display:
"INPUT # CYLS." Input the number of cylinders.
Disable the ignition system by disconnecting the electrical connection at the ignition module.
Position the tester so the display can be seen from the driver's seat. When the display says CRANK ENGINE, turn the ignition to the START position. The tester will continue to display CRANK ENGINE for 15 seconds.
The display on the system tester will display the following information:

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.

Safety Warning

Starter Test: Notes

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

When to See a Mechanic

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