Starter Motor: Testing and Inspection

PERFORMANCE TEST




The starter should be submitted to performance tests whenever it has been overhauled, to assure its satisfactory performance when installed on the engine.

Three performance tests, no-load test, load test, and lock test, are presented here; however, if the load test and lock test cannot be performed, carry out at least the no-load test.

For these performance tests, use the circuit shown in figure.

1. No-load test

With switch on, adjust the variable resistance to obtain 11 V, take the ammeter reading and measure the starter speed. Compare these values with the specifications.

No-load test (Standard):
Voltage / Current
11 V / 90 A or less

Rotating speed
- MT vehicles 2,800 rpm or more
- AT vehicles 2,400 rpm or more

2. Load test

Apply the specified braking torque to starter. The condition is satisfactory if the current draw and starter speed are within specifications.

Load test (Standard):
- MT vehicles
Voltage / Load
7.5 V / 8.73 N.m (0.89 kg.m, 6.4 ft.lb)

Current / Speed
300 A / 890 rpm or more

- AT vehicles
Voltage / Load
7.7 V / 16.00 N.m (1.63 kg.m, 11.8 ft.lb)

Current / Speed
400 A max. / 740 rpm or more

3. Lock test

With starter stalled, or not rotating, measure the torque developed and current draw when the voltage is adjusted to the specified voltage.

Lock test (Standard):
- MT vehicles
Voltage / Load
4 V / 780 A or less
Torque 15.7 N.m (1.60 kg.m, 11.6 ft.lb) or more

- AT vehicles
Voltage / Current
3.5 V / 940 A or less
Torque 28.9 N.m (2.95 kg.m, 21.3 ft.lb) or more