testing the solenoid

[CROSSJCG]

how to test the solenoid and test the starter and what voltage should it read,while cranking or running

 

[Trent]

Re: testing the solenoid

You should have at least 9.5 volts at the starter while cranking. If you dont you have either a battery or wiring problem. If you do have 9.5 volts while cranking and are still having problems you have a starter problem.

 

[ob]

Re: testing the solenoid

Crossjcg,You didn't explain what problem you were having.Will the starter motor not turn over?Does the solenoid click when key is turned?Does nothing happen when key is turned.If starter motor is internally shorted voltage readings may not read 9.5 while cranking.That cranking voltage figure is generally derived from a starter that is operating properly.

 

[CROSSJCG]

Re: testing the solenoid

thank you for your responses ,my starter motor hesitates or slow cranking,but not all the time all the connections are good, and a new battery my solenoid does make a click when the key is turned and pushed in, suspect the starter motor is failing,is it wise to rebuild my old starter or should i buy new? thank you for any advice you could give me on this subject

 

[ob]

Re: testing the solenoid

Crossjcg, First thing I would do is to remove starter and have it tested with known good voltage source and also for internal shorting or ground if you still feel it is suspect and have ruled out all possibility of poor connection or cooroded 12v cable and engine grounds.<br /> There are several sources available for rebuilding starters or purchasing new.This site may give some ideas as to what one would cost.<br />WWW.maxrules.com<br /> Could just be starter soleniod is not making good connection through points even though it is clicking when key is turned.Solenoids are cheap and would recommend new one if replacing starter anyway.They can ohm out well yet still not hold points closed adequately under cranking load.

 

[Davidandkerrie69]

Re: testing the solenoid

To determine where you're losing voltage, put a voltmeter across the solenoid terminals. This will measure the voltage drop which should be negligable. You can also do the same between solenoid - starter or solenoid - battery to determine cable/joint breakdowns. Have someone crank the engine whilst you hold the probes on the terminals as this test only works whilst under load. The best figure would be zero voltage drop however you will never get this with resistance in cable, switch contacts etc.<br /><br />David