FREE REPAIR MANUALS & LABOR GUIDES 1982-2013 Vehicles
Courtesy of Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Starter Solenoid: Testing and Inspection

Magnetic Switch Pull In Test:





Pull-In Test Of Magnetic Switch
1. Disconnect wire from M-terminal of magnetic switch.
2. Connect a 12 V battery between S-terminal and M-terminal.

CAUTION: This test must be performed quickly (in less than 10 Seconds) to prevent coil from burning.

3. If pinion moves out, then pull-in coil is good. If it doesn't, replace magnetic switch.

Magnetic Switch Hold In Test:





Hold-In Test Of Magnetic Switch
1. Disconnect wire from M-terminal of magnetic switch.
2. Connect a 12 V battery between S-terminal and body.

CAUTION: This test must be performed quickly (in less than 10 Seconds) to prevent coil from burning.

3. If pinion remains out, everything is in order. If pinion moves in, hold-in circuit is open. Replace magnetic switch.

Magnetic Switch Return Test:





Return Test Of Magnetic Switch
1. Disconnect wire from M-terminal of magnetic switch.
2. Connect a 12 V battery between M-terminal and body.

CAUTION: This test must be performed quickly (in less than 10 Seconds) to prevent coil from burning.

3. Pull pinion out and release. If pinion quickly returns to its original position, everything is in order. If it doesn't, replace magnetic switch.