Cold Cranking Test

NOTE:

For complete starter wiring circuit diagrams, Refer to the appropriate wiring information. The battery must be fully-charged and load-tested before proceeding. Refer to BATTERY .

Fig 1: Induction Ammeter, Positive & Negative Clamp

Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC

1 - POSITIVE CLAMP

2 - NEGATIVE CLAMP

3 - INDUCTION AMMETER CLAMP

Connect volt-ampere tester (1) and (2) to battery terminals. See instructions provided by manufacturer of volt-ampere tester being used.
Fully engage the parking brake.
Automatic transmissions, place gearshift selector lever in the Park (P) position.
Verify all lamps and accessories are turned off.
To prevent a gasoline engine from starting, remove the Automatic Shut Down (ASD) relay. The relay is located in Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM). Refer to label on the TIPM cover for relay location.
NOTE:
Attempt to start engine a few times before proceeding with following step.

NOTE:
A cold engine will increase the starter current (amperage) draw reading, and reduce the battery voltage reading.
Rotate and hold the ignition switch in START position. Note the cranking voltage and current (amperage) draw readings shown on volt-ampere tester.
1. If the voltage reads below 7.2 volts, refer to DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING . If the starter motor is OK, refer to appropriate Engine Electrical Diagnosis article for further testing of the engine. If the starter motor is not OK, replace the faulty starter motor.
2. If the voltage reads above 7.2 volts and current (amperage) draw reads below specifications, refer to FEED CIRCUIT TEST in this section.
3. If the voltage reads 12.5 volts or greater and the starter motor does not turn, refer to CONTROL CIRCUIT TESTING in this section.
4. If the voltage reads 12.5 volts or greater and the starter motor turns very slowly, refer to FEED CIRCUIT TEST in this section.