Cold Cranking Test

For complete wiring diagrams, see WIRING DIAGRAMS  . The battery must be fully-charged and load-tested before proceeding.

1. Connect a suitable volt-ampere tester (3) to the battery terminals (1, 2). See the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the volt-ampere tester being used. See Fig 1
2. Fully engage the parking brake.
3. Place the automatic transmission gearshift selector lever in the Park position or place the manual transmission gearshift selector in the Neutral position.
4. Verify that all lamps and accessories are turned off.
5. Prevent the engine from starting.
6. Rotate and hold the ignition switch in the Start position. Note the cranking voltage and current (amperage) draw readings shown on the volt-ampere tester.
   1. If the voltage reads below 9.6 volts, see STARTER MOTOR  . If the starter motor is OK, see appropriate article in ENGINES. If the starter motor is not OK, replace the faulty starter motor.
   2. If the voltage reads above 9.6 volts and the current (amperage) draw reads below specifications, see FEED CIRCUIT TEST  .
   3. If the voltage reads 12.5 volts or greater and the starter motor does not turn, see CONTROL CIRCUIT TESTING  .
   4. If the voltage reads 12.5 volts or greater and the starter motor turns very slowly, see FEED CIRCUIT TEST  .

Fig 1: Volt - Ampere Tester - Typical

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.