TL L5-2451cc 2.5L SOHC MFI (1997)
Starter Test
4. Unplug the connector (BLK/WHT wire and solenoid terminal) from the starter. Make sure the shift lever is in [P] or [N], then connect a
jumper wire from the battery positive (+) terminal to the solenoid terminal. The starter should crank the engine.
^ If the starter still does not crank the engine, remove it, and diagnose its internal problem.
^ If the starter cranks the engine, go to step 5 and continue the test.
5. Check the ignition switch.
6. Check the starter cut relay.
7. Check the A/T gear position switch.
8. Check the security control unit.
9. Check for an open in the BLK/GRN wire between the ignition switch and starter cut relay, and check for an open in the BLK/WHT wire
between the starter cut relay and starter.
Check for Wear and Damage
The starter should crank the engine smoothly and steadily. If the starter engages, but cranks the engine erratically, remove it, and inspect the starter
drive gear and torque converter ring gear for damage.
Check the drive gear overrunning clutch for binding or slipping when the armature is rotated with the drive gear held. If the clutch is damaged,
replace the clutch assembly.
Check Cranking Voltage and Current Draw
Cranking voltage should be no less than 8.5 volts. Current draw should be no more than 380 amperes.
If cranking voltage is too low, or current draw too high, check for:
^ Dead or low battery
^ Open circuit in starter armature commutator segments
^ Starter armature dragging
^ Shorted armature winding
^ Excessive drag in engine
Check Cranking rpm
Engine speed during cranking should be above 100 rpm.
If speed is too low, check for:
^ Loose battery or starter terminals
^ Excessively worn starter brushes
^ Open circuit in commutator segments
^ Dirty or damaged helical spline or drive gear
^ Defective drive gear overrunning clutch
Check Starter Disengagement
With the shift lever in [P] or [N], turn the ignition switch to "START (III)", and release to "ON (II)". The starter drive gear should disengage from
the drive plate/ring gear when you release the key.
If the drive gear hangs up on the drive plate/ring gear, check for:
^ Solenoid plunger and switch malfunction
^ Dirty drive gear assembly or damaged overrunning clutch
Starter Solenoid Test
