Solenoid Winding Test
- To check hold-in winding, connect an ammeter and switch in series with a 12-volt battery and the `switch' terminal on the solenoid. See Fig 1 . Connect a voltmeter to the `S' terminal and to ground. Connect carbon pile across battery. Adjust the voltage to 10 volts and note the ammeter reading.
- PG-250 starter motor reading should be 10 to 20 amperes.
- To check both windings, connect as for previous test. Ground the solenoid motor terminal `M'. Adjust the voltage to 10 volts and note the ammeter reading. It should be 60 to 85 amperes for PG-250 motors.
- Current draw readings that are over specifications indicate shorted turns or a ground in the solenoid windings. Replace the starter solenoid.
- Current draw readings that are under specifications indicate excessive resistance. A zero reading indicates an open. Check/repair connections when possible, otherwise replace starter solenoid. The starter solenoid and drive end housing are serviced as an assembly.
CAUTION:
Do not allow both solenoid windings to be energized for more than 15 seconds at a time, or the pull-in winding could be damaged by overheating.