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

No Load Test

The starter no load test will uncover such conditions as open or shorted windings, or rubbing starter motor armature. The starter motor can be tested at no load on the test bench only.







1. Make test connections with Rotunda Battery and Starter Tester 010-00725 or equivalent cables connected to starter, large enough to carry high current (the same as in the vehicle). The starter motor will run at no load. Be sure that no current is flowing through ammeter (rheostat at maximum counterclockwise position). Determine exact reading on voltmeter.

CAUTION: Make sure that the starter motor is securely mounted in bench vise while energizing, as starter motor will move or jump.

NOTE: A remote starter switch should be connected in the 'S' circuit for turning the starter ON and OFF during testing.

2. Disconnect starter motor from battery. Then, reduce resistance of rheostat until voltmeter indicates same reading as that obtained while starter motor was running. The ammeter will indicate starter motor no load current draw. Refer to Starter Specifications comparative value.
3. If current exceeds specification, check for rubbing starter motor armature bent output shaft, binding bushings, or shorts in starter motor armature, or brush holder.