Cranking Test

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 15 other vehicles, including the 2001 Plymouth Neon, 2001 Dodge Ram Wagon, 2001 Dodge Ram Van, 2001 Dodge Pickup, and 2001 Dodge Neon. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Remove air cleaner assembly, if necessary, to access battery terminals.

NOTE: Ensure engine is at normal operating temperature. High viscosity oil, extreme cold temperatures, or an engine with tight piston ring-to-cylinder clearance, will increase amperage draw.

NOTE: If vehicle is equipped with dual batteries, ensure driver's side battery is used for this test.

Using a battery load tester, connect positive and negative leads to battery. Connect inductive voltmeter pick-up to positive battery cable. Disable ignition and fuel systems. See DISABLING/ENABLING IGNITION & FUEL SYSTEMS .
Ensure all lights and accessories are off. Place Automatic Transmission (A/T) in "P" position or Manual Transmission (M/T) in Neutral. Apply parking brake. Crank engine and observe voltmeter. If voltage is more than 9.6 volts and cranking amperage draw is more than specified amps, perform CIRCUIT RESISTANCE TESTS . For applicable amperage draw specifications, see appropriate table under STARTER SPECIFICATIONS .
If voltage is 12.5 volts or more and cranking amperage draw is less than specified, check starter circuit components in following order: starter solenoid, starter relay, starter relay circuit, park/neutral position switch or transmission range sensor (A/T), clutch pedal position switch (M/T), ignition switch, wiring harness and connections.