FixVault

Starter Amperage Draw Test

For information on Ford Color Coded Illustrations refer to OEM COLOR CODING

NOTE: Make sure the test is performed with the engine at 60.8°F (16°C) or above.
  1. Make sure the battery is fully charged. For additional information, refer to: Specifications
  2. Disable the Fuel System. For additional information, refer to: FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURE RELEASE
  3. Connect the 0-500-amp probe to the starter B+ Cable and to the VCMM.
  4. Connect the VCMM and use the Oscilloscope option scaled to 100/A/Div. Add PIDS "Ambient Air Temp" and "Engine RPM".
  5. Crank the engine, no more than 6 seconds at a time.
    NOTE: Allow 2 minutes between tests to allow for starter cooling to prevent overheat and damage to the motor.
  6. Record the results, specifically Ambient Air Temperature (AAT), Starter Current (Current Clamp) and Cranking speed (PCM signal Engine_Speed).
  7. Compare the results to the specifications in the service information. For additional information, refer to: SPECIFICATIONS 
  8. If both signals do not meet specification replace the starter motor. For additional information, refer to: Starter Motor 
  9. Clear all CMT DTCs.