Engine Starting System Check

GENERAL INFORMATION

If the starter does not operate with the ignition key in the 'START' position, the following causes are possible:

– Battery faulty. – Open circuit between the ignition switch, solenoid switch, battery and starter. – Faulty solenoid switch. – Mechanical or electrical fault in the starter.

To check the battery, switch on the headlights. If they dim after a few seconds, the battery is discharged. Recharge or replace the battery. If the headlights do not dim, operate the starter and observe the lights. If they dim, voltage is reaching the starter and the fault is in the starter. If the headlights remain bright (and there is no click from the solenoid switch), this indicates damage in the electrical circuit or a faulty solenoid switch. If the starter turns slowly and the battery is in good condition, the starter is faulty or there is high resistance in the starter circuit.

If a fault in the electrical circuit is suspected, disconnect the battery and clean all connections and contacts in the starter power circuit. Reconnect the battery and, using a voltmeter, check the voltage at the circuit elements up to the starter.

If the battery and electrical circuit are in good condition, disconnect the power cable from the solenoid switch and connect a voltmeter to it. Turn the ignition key to the 'START' position. Full battery voltage should be present in this position. The solenoid switch contacts can be checked by connecting a voltmeter between the solenoid switch terminal connected to the starter and ground. When the ignition key is turned to 'START', the voltmeter should show voltage. If there is no voltage, the solenoid switch is faulty.

If the electrical circuit and solenoid switch are serviceable, the starter is faulty.