Switch Assembly Operation

CAUTION: Perform the inspection in a short period of time. (Within 3 to 5 seconds)

Loosen the nut which holds the M terminal to the starter body.
NOTE: This procedure is required to facilitate the harness removal from the M terminal.

Fig 1: Locating Starter Body Nut
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Connect the battery positive terminal to the switch assembly S terminal, and connect the battery negative terminal to the starter body. Then, if the pinion protrudes, it is normal.
NOTE: The starter motor may rotate while the pinion protrudes. This occurs due to current that flows to the motor via pull-in coil. This is not a problem.

Fig 2: Connecting Battery Positive Terminal To Switch Assembly S Terminal
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Disconnect the harness from the M terminal. Check that the pinion is being protruded at this time.
CAUTION: Hold the disconnected harness so that it does not contact the terminal or wiring.
Disconnect the battery negative terminal from the starter body. Then, if the pinion returns to its original position, it is normal.

Fig 3: Disconnecting Battery Negative Terminal From Starter Body

Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.