Start Test; Starter Test - Sealey TA500 Manual

8. Start Test

8.1 Starter Test

The function of a vehicle's starting system is to rotate the engine's
crankshaft fast enough so that combustion can take place, and the
engine can begin to run under its own power. This system is
commonly referred to as the "cranking system".
Providing the cranking power needed for reliable engine starts
requires all starting system components to be in good working order.
Testing the starting system can confirm that it is functioning properly,
or provide valuable diagnostic information to isolate a problem in the
system.
The STARTER TEST measures the cranking voltage. If the engine
cranking speed is good, and the cranking voltage reading is within
specifications, you can generally conclude that the starting system is
functioning properly. But, if the starter does not crank, cranks too
slowly, or the volts reading is not within specifications, further
testing will be required. To get more accurate results, this scan tool
incorporates a temperature compensation feature to aid in tests.
Before performing the STARTER TEST, the starting system should
be visually inspected for physical defects, and some preliminary
checks should be performed that will aid you in diagnosing a starting
system problem. These are taken care of during the pretest.
PRETEST
1. To prevent possible personal injury and protect the vehicle from
damage, inspect the starting system for defects. Check for the
following; then repair and/or replace any defective components.
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Battery defects.
Frayed or broken electrical wiring.
Corroded or loose connections.
Loosely mounted starter motor, series-parallel switch,
magnetic switch, solenoid, starter relay, etc.
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