Starter Motor - Load Test

WARNING: WHEN REPAIRING THE STARTER MOTOR OR CARRYING OUT OTHER UNDERHOOD WORK IN THE VICINITY OF THE STARTER MOTOR, BE AWARE THAT THE HEAVY GAUGE BATTERY INPUT LEAD AT THE STARTER SOLENOID IS ELECTRICALLY HOT AT ALL TIMES. THE PROTECTIVE CAP OR BOOT PROVIDED OVER THIS TERMINAL MUST BE REPLACED AFTER THE MAINTENANCE IS COMPLETE. MAKE SURE TO DISCONNECT THE BATTERY GROUND CABLE BEFORE WORKING ON THE STARTER MOTOR.

NOTE: Before carrying out this test, check the battery to determine its state of charge. Carry out a load test of the battery, using the Alternator, Regulator, Battery And Starter Tester (ARBST). Refer to Battery for the test procedure.

1. Disconnect the ignition coil connector from the ignition coil.
2. Connect the ARBST to the vehicle, using the amperage lead clipped around the positive battery cable.
3. Measure the amperage draw of the starter motor while activating the starting system. A properly operating starter motor will draw from 130 to 190 amps of current.