Starter Component Inspection

Starter Solenoid Test

1. Check the hold-in coil for continuity between the S terminal and the armature housing (ground). The coil is OK if there is continuity.





2. Check the pull-in coil for continuity between the S and M terminals. The coil is OK if there is continuity.

Armature Inspection and Test
1. Inspect the armature for wear or damage due to contact with the permanent magnet or field winding.

Armature Inspection:

- If there is wear or damage, replace the armature.

2. Check commutator surface and diameter.
- If the surface is dirty or burnt, resurface with emery cloth or a lathe within the following specifications, or recondition with #500 or #500 sandpaper.
- If commutator diameter is below the service limit, replace the armature.








Commutator Diameter
3. Measure the commutator runout.
- If the commutator runout is within the service limit, check the commutator for carbon dust or brass chips between the segments.
- If the commutator runout is not within the service limit, replace the armature.




Commutator Runout

Armature Inspection And Test:

4. Check for mica depth. If necessary, undercut mica with a hacksaw blade to achieve proper depth. If service limit cannot be maintained, replace the armature.

Checking For Continuity:

5. Check for continuity between the segments of the commutator. If an open circuit exists between any segments, replace the armature.





6. Place the armature on an armature tester. Hold a hacksaw blade on the armature core.
- If the blade is attracted to the core or vibrates while the core is turned, the armature is shorted. Replace the armature.





7. Check with an ohmmeter that no continuity exists between the commutator and armature coil core, and between the commutator and armature shaft. If there is continuity, replace the armature.

Brush Holder Test





1. Check that there is no continuity between the (+) and (-) brush holders.

If there is continuity, replace the brush holder assembly.





2. Insert the brush into the brush holder, and bring the brush into contact with the commutator, then attach a spring scale to the spring. Measure the spring tension at the moment the spring lifts off the brush.

Brush Inspection

Measure the brush length. If not within the service limit, replace the brush (or brush holder assembly).




Brush Length

NOTE: To seat new brushes after installing them in their holders, slip a strip of #500 or #600 sandpaper, with the grit side up, over the commutator and smoothly rotate the armature. The contact surface of the brushes will be sanded to the same contour as the commutator.

Overrunning Clutch Inspection

1. Slide the overrunning clutch along the shaft. Does it move freely? If not, replace it.

Overrunning Clutch Inspection:

2. Rotate the overrunning clutch both ways. Does it lock in one direction and rotate smoothly in reverse? If it does not lock in either direction or it locks in both directions, replace it.