Cranking Test
NOTE:
Ensure engine is at normal operating temperature. High viscosity oil, extreme cold temperatures, or tight engine will increase amperage draw.
- Using a battery load tester, connect positive and negative leads to battery. Connect inductive ammeter pick-up to positive battery cable. Ensure all lights and accessories are off. Place A/T in Park or M/T in Neutral. Apply parking brake. Unplug Automatic Shut Down relay from Power Distribution Center (PDC). Refer to PDC cover for relay location. PDC is located in engine compartment. On M/T models, depress clutch pedal.
- Crank engine and observe voltmeter reading. If voltage drops below 9.6 volts, recharge and test battery. Retest voltage. If voltage remains less than 9.6 volts, bench test starter. See BENCH TESTING . If voltage remains above 9.6 volts, observe amperage reading. If amperage draw is less than specified, perform circuit resistance tests. See the following:
- STARTER SPECIFICATIONS .
- CIRCUIT RESISTANCE TESTS .CAUTION: During cranking, DO NOT draw battery voltage down to less than 9.6 volts. Use care not to overheat starter.
- If voltage reads more than 12.5 volts, and starter does not turn, problem is in battery, relay, solenoid, ignition switch, park/neutral switch, clutch switch or wiring. Check each component until problem is found. If voltage is more than 12.5 volts and starter cranks very slowly, perform circuit resistance tests. See CIRCUIT RESISTANCE TESTS .