Contents Wiring diagrams Section: Starter All sections

Starters: Diagnosis Saturn SL II

Starter ~225 words

TROUBLE SHOOTING

Note. See TROUBLE SHOOTING article in GENERAL INFORMATION.

ON-VEHICLE TESTING

CAUTIONWhen battery is disconnected, vehicle computer and memory systems may lose memory data. Driveability problems may exist until computer systems have completed a relearn cycle. See COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in GENERAL INFORMATION before disconnecting battery.

Note. Ensure battery is fully charged and in good condition before performing the following tests. If battery is not at (or near) a fully charged condition or if condition is questionable, substitute a known-good battery before proceeding.

BATTERY/STARTER LOAD TEST (ARBST TEST)

  1. Connect ARBST large Red tester cable to battery positive. Connect ARBST large Black tester cable to battery negative. Place Gray inductive current pick-up around battery positive cable. Ensure arrow on Gray inductive pick-up is pointing toward starter motor solenoid.
  2. Disable ignition system by disconnecting ignition module electrical connector. Press STARTER TEST button on ARBST tester. Position tester so display can be seen from driver's seat.
  3. When display says CRANK ENGINE, turn ignition to START position. Tester will continue to display CRANK ENGINE for 15 seconds.
  4. Tester display will display CRANKING AMPS, which shows average amperage drawn by starter during cranking. Amperage should be 80-120 amps at 40-80°F (5-27°C), 70-110 amps at greater than 120°F (50°C), and 90-130 amps at less than 40°F (5°C).
  5. Tester will display CRANKING VOLTAGE, which shows average battery voltage during cranking. If voltage is less than 9.5 volts, perform battery load test.
  6. Tester will display GOOD STARTER or BAD STARTER. If display reads BAD STARTER, ensure no engine or flywheel problems and replace starter motor.