Notice: Do not operate the starter motor continuously for more than 30 seconds without pausing to allow it to cool at least 2 minutes. Overheating from excessive cranking will seriously damage the starting motor.

Tools Required

Caution: Unless directed otherwise, the ignition and start switch must be in the OFF or LOCK position, and all electrical loads must be OFF before servicing any electrical component. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent an electrical spark should a tool or equipment come in contact with an exposed electrical terminal. Failure to follow these precautions may result in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.

Testing the starter motor against the specifications while the starter motor is on the vehicle is impossible.

Use the following procedure in order to test for excessive resistance in the starting circuit:

1. Ensure that the vehicle is at room temperature. Colder weather causes higher resistance in the circuit.
2. Ensure that the battery is fully charged.
3. Remove the surface charge if the battery was recently charged.
4. Perform a load test. Refer to Charging System Check .
5. Connect J 39200 across the battery. The J 39200 should show at least 12 volts.
6. Crank the engine.
7. Measure the voltage.

Excessive resistance exists in the circuit if the voltage drops more than 2 volts.

8. Inspect the ground circuit for the following conditions:

•	Loose connections

•	Corroded connections

•	Dirty connections

•	Frayed cables




9. Inspect the starter ground.



10. Connect J 39200 from the negative terminal of the battery to the ground stud on the engine block near the starter motor.
11. Crank the engine.
12. Measure the voltage.

J 39200 should read about 0.2 volt.

Excessive resistance exists in the ground circuit if the reading is 0.5 volt or higher.

13. Remove the starter motor for repair if excessive resistance exist but the following components are in proper condition:

•	The circuit wires

•	The connections

•	The ground circuit