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Starter Load Test

  1. Connect test equipment as shown. See Fig 1. Be sure that no current is flowing through ammeter and heavy duty carbon pile rheostat portion of the circuit.
    Fig 1: Test Equipment Connections for Starter Load Test
    G29595
  2. Disconnect the "S" terminal connector from the starter relay and connect a remote control starter switch. Crank the engine and determine the exact voltmeter reading.
  3. Stop cranking the engine and reduce the resistance of the carbon pile until voltmeter indicates same reading as that obtained while starter cranked engine.
  4. The ammeter will now indicate starter current draw under load. Normal starter load current is 150-250 amps for 4" starters or 150-210 amps for 4 1/2" starters. If load test current is not within specified range, starter motor must be overhauled or replaced.