G 1500 1/2 Ton Van V6-4.3L VIN W (1997)
Starter Motor: Testing and Inspection
Cleaning, Inspection, and Electrical Tests - SD-255 Starter Motor
CLEAN
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All parts by wiping with a clean cloth.
NOTICE: Do not clean the starter motor parts in a degreasing tank. immersing parts in a cleaning solution will dissolve permanent lubrication and may
damage electrical Insulation, causing shortened motor life.
INSPECT
1. Bushing or armature bearing fit in the end frame, lever housing, and drive end frame housing. If the bushings or bearings are damaged or worn,
replace them.
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Lubricate the bushings before assembling the starter motor. Avoid excessive lubrication. Do not lubricate roller bearings. They are
permanently lubricated at time of manufacture.
2. Armature shaft for runout or scoring. Replace the armature assembly if the condition of the armature shaft is questionable.
3. Commutator for discolored or uneven conductors.
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Do not turn the commutator.
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Do not undercut the insulation.
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Clean the commutator with No. 240 grit emery cloth. Blow away any copper dust present. If the commutator cannot be cleaned, replace the
armature.
Testing Armature For Short Circuits
4. Armature for short circuits.
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Rotate the armature in a growler with a steel strip, such as a hacksaw blade, held on the armature parallel to the shaft. The steel strip will
vibrate on the area of the short circuit.
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Shorts between the commutator bars are some times produced by brush dust or copper dust.
5. Armature for opens.
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Look for loose connections where the conductors join the commutator bars. Poor connections cause arcing and burning of the commutator.
Testing The Armature For Grounds
6. Armature for grounds using a self powered test lamp.
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If the test lamp lights when one test probe is placed on the commutator and the other test probe is placed on the armature core or shaft, the
armature is grounded.
7. Brushes for wear. If the brushes are worn to half the size of a new brush, replace the assembly.
