Bench Testing: Armature
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Subaru Forester, 2003 Subaru Forester, and 2002 Subaru Forester. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Check commutator for any sign of burns of rough surfaces or stepped wear. If wear is of a minor nature, correct it by using sandpaper.
- Check the commutator run-out and replace if it exceeds the limit. See Fig 1 . See STARTER SPECIFICATIONS table under STARTER SPECIFICATIONS.
- Check the depth of segment mold. See Fig 2 . See STARTER SPECIFICATIONS table under STARTER SPECIFICATIONS.
- Check armature for short-circuit by placing it on growler tester. See Fig 3 . Hold a iron sheet against armature core while slowly rotating armature. A short-circuited armature will cause the iron sheet to vibrate and to be attracted to core. If the iron sheet is attracted or vibrates, the armature, which is short-circuited, must be replaced or repaired.
- Using a circuit tester, touch one probe to the commutator segment and the other to shaft. See Fig 4 . If there is no continuity, it is normal. If there is continuity armature is grounded. Replace armature if it is grounded.