Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

No Load Test

The starter No Load Test will identify open or shorted windings and a possible rubbing starter motor armature or bent starter motor armature shaft.

1. Connect a fully charged battery, an Alternator, Regulator, Battery and Starter Tester (ARBST), and a remote starter switch to the starter motor. Connect the remote starter switch between the battery positive (+) post and the starter motor S-terminal. Connect the starter motor B-terminal to the battery positive(+) post. Connect the ARBST positive (+) terminal and negative (-) terminal to the corresponding battery post. Make sure that the battery and starter motor are grounded.

WARNING: MAKE SURE THAT THE STARTER MOTOR IS SECURELY MOUNTED ON A BENCH BECAUSE THE STARTER MOTOR MAY MOVE OR JUMP WHEN IT IS ENERGIZED.

2. Engage the remote starter switch.
3. The starter motor should eject the starter drive and run smoothly. If the starter motor does not run smoothly, replace it.
4. While the starter motor is running, check the voltmeter and ammeter.
5. The voltage should be greater than 11.0 volts and the amperage should be no more than 70 amps.
6. If the voltage is lower than the 11.0 volts, or the amperage is higher than 70 amps, replace the starter motor.