How can I test a starter?

[swcejk2002]

Hello forum. I have my engine out of the boat. I have a couple of starters. I would like to check them before I install either one of them. Isn't there a way to hook up 12 battery power to them and see if they'll crank?

 

[Bt Doctur]

Re: How can I test a starter?

neg to the starter case, pos to the main lug, jump from the main lug to the small lug on the solenoid.solenoid should send out the bendix drive and spin the starter,. BUT the correct way is to have a load test done at a shop.

 

[bigskiohio]

Re: How can I test a starter?

load test on a starter,How do they do that? autozone will test it but not load test as the gear would have to engage something. which on the floor is just as good. small lug to big lug is bendix ,shoots gear in the other braided big cable is the starter motor.

 

[Bifflefan]

Re: How can I test a starter?

DONT USE AUTOZONE!!!!
Their tests are a joke, not a funny one eather.
The best way is to have it tested at a starter/alt. shop.
If you really want to test it at home,
find a block of soft wood, hook up NEG to starter case, then POS to lug.
Have a friend hook up the other end to a good batt, then while holding the starter firmly shove the block of wood into the gear, (it will be ok).
If the starter stops or slows down then its no good, if it keeps constant and starts burning the wood its good.
Ther is no way to check one properly without a load on it.

This was taught to me by an old guy at the local reapair shop.
Hes been doing it that way for more years than i have been alive.