Starter No-Load Test

NOTE: The starter no-load test will determine such problems as open or shorted windings, rubbing armature, and a bent armature shaft.

Connect positive lead of load tester to positive terminal of a fully charged battery. Connect negative lead of load tester to negative battery terminal. See Fig 1.

Fig 1: Test Equipment Connections for Starter No-Load Test
Connect voltmeter leads of load tester to positive and negative battery terminals. Connect a jumper wire between negative battery terminal and starter frame. Connect another jumper wire between positive battery terminal and positive terminal of starter motor. See Fig 1.
NOTE: Be sure that no current is flowing through ammeter.
Turn rheostat to maximum counterclockwise position. Note the exact voltmeter reading. Disconnect the jumper leads from the starter motor. Reduce resistance of the rheostat until voltmeter reading is the same as when the starter was running. Ammeter will now indicate starter no-load current draw. It should be 80 amps.