ignition CHRYSLER CARAVAN 2005 Workshop Manual

(1) Connect the positive lead of the voltmeter to
the battery negative terminal post. Connect the neg-
ative lead of the voltmeter to the battery negative
cable terminal clamp (Fig. 13). Rotate and hold the
ignition switch in the Start position. Observe the
voltmeter. If voltage is detected, correct the poor con-
nection between the battery negative cable terminal
clamp and the battery negative terminal post.
(2) Connect the positive lead of the voltmeter to
the battery positive terminal post. Connect the nega-
tive lead of the voltmeter to the battery positive cable
terminal clamp (Fig. 14). Rotate and hold the ignition
switch in the Start position. Observe the voltmeter. If
voltage is detected, correct the poor connection
between the battery positive cable terminal clamp
and the battery positive terminal post.(3) Connect the voltmeter to measure between the
battery positive cable terminal clamp and the starter
solenoid B(+) terminal stud (Fig. 15). Rotate and hold
the ignition switch in the Start position. Observe the
voltmeter. If the reading is above 0.2 volt, clean and
tighten the battery positive cable eyelet terminal con-
nection at the starter solenoid B(+) terminal stud.
Repeat the test. If the reading is still above 0.2 volt,
replace the inoperative battery positive cable.
(4) Connect the voltmeter to measure between the
battery negative cable terminal clamp and a good
clean ground on the engine block (Fig. 16). Rotate
and hold the ignition switch in the Start position.
Observe the voltmeter. If the reading is above 0.2
volt, clean and tighten the battery negative cable
eyelet terminal connection to the engine block.
Repeat the test. If the reading is still above 0.2 volt,
replace the inoperative battery negative cable.
Fig. 13 Test Battery Negative Connection
Resistance - Typical
1 - VOLTMETER
2 - BATTERY
Fig. 14 Test Battery Positive Connection Resistance
- Typical
1 - VOLTMETER
2 - BATTERY
Fig. 15 Test Battery Positive Cable Resistance - Typical
1 - BATTERY
2 - VOLTMETER
3 - STARTER MOTOR
Fig. 16 Test Ground Circuit Resistance - Typical
1 - VOLTMETER
2 - BATTERY
3 - ENGINE GROUND
8F - 18 BATTERY SYSTEMRS
BATTERY CABLES (Continued)

REMOVAL
The battery cables on this vehicle may include por-
tions of wiring circuits for the generator and other
components on the vehicle. If battery cable replace-
ment is required, it will be necessary to extract the
cables out of the engine wire harness assembly. Use
care not to damage the other wires and circuits
which are also packaged into the engine wire harness
assembly.
(1) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position. Be
certain that all electrical accessories are turned off.
(2) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(3) Remove the battery thermowrap (if equipped)
from the battery tray.
(4) Remove the tape from the engine wire harness
assembly, to access the desired battery cable.
(5) One at a time, trace and disconnect the battery
cable retaining fasteners and routing clips until the
desired cable is free from the vehicle.
(6) Feed the battery cable out of the vehicle.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the battery cable in the vehicle.
(2) One at a time, trace and install the battery
cable retaining fasteners and routing clips until the
desired cable is properly installed in the engine wire
harness assembly.
(3) Install the tape on the engine wire harness
assembly.
(4) Install the battery thermowrap (if equipped) on
the battery tray.
(5) Connect the battery negative cable.
BATTERY TRAY
DESCRIPTION
The battery is mounted in a molded plastic battery
tray and support unit located in the left front corner
of the engine compartment. The battery tray and
support unit is secured with two nuts, one is located
directly under the battery and the other is located on
the right side of the tray which also serves as a cool-
ant bottle neck retaining bolt. An additional bolt is
located directly under the battery.
The battery tray and support unit also includes a
engine vacuum reservoir, located in the rear of the
unit (Fig. 17). And a drainage hose, located in the
front of the unit (Fig. 17).
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Disconnect and isolate the battery positive
cable.(3) Remove the battery from the vehicle. (Refer to
8 - ELECTRICAL/BATTERY SYSTEM/BATTERY -
REMOVAL).
(4) Remove the battery tray retaining fasteners
(Fig. 18).
Fig. 17 RS BATTERY TRAY
1 - ENGINE VACUUM RESERVOIR
2 - BATTERY TRAY ASSEMBLY
3 - DRAINAGE HOSE
Fig. 18 BATTERY TRAY POSITION & ORIENTATION
1 - BATTERY TRAY RETAINING FASTENERS
RSBATTERY SYSTEM8F-19
BATTERY CABLES (Continued)

CHARGING
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
CHARGING
DESCRIPTION - CHARGING SYSTEM.......21
OPERATION - CHARGING SYSTEM.........21
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM........22
SPECIFICATIONS
GENERATOR........................23
TORQUE............................23
SPECIFICATIONS - BATTERY
TEMPERATURE SENSOR...............23
SPECIAL TOOLS.......................24
BATTERY TEMPERATURE SENSOR
DESCRIPTION.........................24
OPERATION...........................24
REMOVAL.............................24
GENERATOR
DESCRIPTION.........................24
OPERATION...........................24REMOVAL
REMOVAL - 2.4L......................24
REMOVAL - 2.5L......................25
REMOVAL - 3.3/3.8L...................27
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION - 2.4L..................27
INSTALLATION - 2.5L..................27
INSTALLATION - 3.3/3.8L................27
GENERATOR DECOUPLER PULLEY
DESCRIPTION.........................28
OPERATION...........................28
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - GENERATOR
DECOUPLER PULLEY..................28
REMOVAL.............................29
INSTALLATION.........................29
VOLTAGE REGULATOR
DESCRIPTION.........................30
OPERATION...........................30
CHARGING
DESCRIPTION - CHARGING SYSTEM
The charging system consists of:
²Generator
²Decoupler Pulley (If equipped)
²Electronic Voltage Regulator (EVR) circuitry
within the Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
²Ignition switch (refer to the Ignition System sec-
tion for information)
²Battery (refer to the Battery section for informa-
tion)
²Ambient Air Temperature (If equipped)
²Inlet Air Temperature (calculated battery tem-
perature)(If equipped)
²Voltmeter (refer to the Instrument Cluster sec-
tion for information if equipped)
²Wiring harness and connections (refer to the
Wiring section for information)
²Accessory drive belt (refer to the Cooling section
for more information)
²Battery Temperature sensor (if equipped)
OPERATION - CHARGING SYSTEM
The charging system is turned on and off with the
ignition switch. The system is on when the engine is
running and the ASD relay is energized. The ASD
relay is energized when the PCM grounds the ASD
control circuit. This voltage is connected through thePCM or IPM (intelligent power module) (if equipped)
and supplied to one of the generator field terminals
(Gen. Source +) at the back of the generator.
The generator is driven by the engine through a
serpentine belt and pulley or decoupler pulley
arrangement.
The amount of DC current produced by the gener-
ator is controlled by the EVR (field control) circuitry
contained within the PCM. This circuitry is con-
nected in series with the second rotor field terminal
and ground.
An Ambient air temperature sensor is used to cal-
culate the temperature near the battery. This tem-
perature data, along with data from monitored line
voltage (battery voltage sense circuit), is used by the
PCM to vary the battery charging rate. This is done
by cycling the ground path to control the strength of
the rotor magnetic field. The PCM then compensates
and regulates generator current output accordingly
to maintain system voltage at the targeted system
voltage based on battery temperature.
All vehicles are equipped with On-Board Diagnos-
tics (OBD). All OBD-sensed systems, including EVR
(field control) circuitry, are monitored by the PCM.
Each monitored circuit is assigned a Diagnostic Trou-
ble Code (DTC). The PCM will store a DTC in elec-
tronic memory for certain failures it detects and
illuminate the (MIL) lamp. Refer to On-Board Diag-
nostics in the Electronic Control Modules(Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC CONTROL MOD-
RSCHARGING8F-21

ULES/POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE -
DESCRIPTION) section for more DTC information.
The Charging system ªBatteryº light indicates
problems with the charging system (voltage too high/
low, generator failure, etc.). If an extreme condition is
indicated, the lamp will be illuminated. The signal to
activate the lamp is sent via the PCI bus circuits.
The lamp is located on the instrument panel. Refer
to the Instrument Cluster section for additional infor-
mation.
The PCM uses the ambient air temperature sensor
to control the charge system voltage. This tempera-
ture, along with data from monitored line voltage, is
used by the PCM to vary the battery charging rate.
The system voltage is higher at cold temperatures
and is gradually reduced as the calculated battery
temperature increases.
The ambient temperature sensor is used to control
the battery voltage based upon ambient temperature
(approximation of battery temperature). The PCM
maintains the optimal output of the generator by
monitoring battery voltage and controlling it to a
range of 13.5 - 14.7 volts based on battery tempera-
ture.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors
critical input and output circuits of the charging sys-
tem, making sure they are operational. A Diagnostic
Trouble Code (DTC) is assigned to each input and
output circuit monitored by the OBD system. Some
circuits are checked continuously and some are
checked only under certain conditions.
If the OBD system senses that a monitored circuit
is bad, it will put a DTC into electronic memory. The
DTC will stay in electronic memory as long as the
circuit continues to be bad. The PCM is programmed
to clear the memory after 40 good trip if the problem
does not occur again.
DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES
A DTC description can be read using the DRBIIIt
scan tool. Refer to the appropriate Powertrain Diag-
nostic Procedures manual for information.
A DTC does not identify which component in a cir-
cuit is bad. Thus, a DTC should be treated as a
symptom, not as the cause for the problem. In some
cases, because of the design of the diagnostic test
procedure, a DTC can be the reason for another DTC
to be set. Therefore, it is important that the test pro-
cedures be followed in sequence, to understand what
caused a DTC to be set.ERASING DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES
The DRBIIItScan Tool must be used to erase a
DTC.
The following procedures may be used to diagnose
the charging system if:
²the check gauges lamp or battery lamp is illumi-
nated with the engine running
²the voltmeter (if equipped) does not register
properly
²an undercharged or overcharged battery condi-
tion occurs.
Remember that an undercharged battery is often
caused by:
²accessories being left on with the engine not
running
²a faulty or improperly adjusted switch that
allows a lamp to stay on. Refer to Ignition-Off Draw
Test (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/BATTERY SYSTEM/
BATTERY - STANDARD PROCEDURE)
²loose generator belt.
INSPECTION
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors
critical input and output circuits of the charging sys-
tem, making sure they are operational. A Diagnostic
Trouble Code (DTC) is assigned to each input and
output circuit monitored by the On-Board Diagnostic
(OBD) system. Some charging system circuits are
checked continuously, and some are checked only
under certain conditions.
Refer to Diagnostic Trouble Codes in; Powertrain
Diagnostic manual for more DTC information. This
will include a complete list of DTC's including DTC's
for the charging system.
To perform a complete test of the charging system,
refer to the appropriate Powertrain Diagnostic Proce-
dures service manual and the DRBIIItscan tool.
Perform the following inspections before attaching
the scan tool.
(1) Inspect the battery condition. Refer to the Bat-
tery section (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/BATTERY
SYSTEM - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING) for proce-
dures.
(2) Inspect condition of battery cable terminals,
battery posts, connections at engine block, starter
solenoid and relay. They should be clean and tight.
Repair as required.
(3) Inspect all fuses in both the fuseblock and
Power Distribution Center (PDC) or IPM (if
equipped) for tightness in receptacles. They should be
properly installed and tight. Repair or replace as
required.
(4) Inspect generator mounting bolts for tightness.
Replace or tighten bolts if required. Refer to the Gen-
erator Removal/Installation section of this group for
8F - 22 CHARGINGRS
CHARGING (Continued)

STARTING
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
STARTING
DESCRIPTION.........................31
OPERATION...........................31
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - STARTING
SYSTEM TEST.......................31
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - CONTROL
CIRCUIT TEST........................33
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - FEED CIRCUIT
RESISTANCE TEST....................35
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - FEED CIRCUIT
TEST...............................36SPECIFICATIONS
Torques.............................36
STARTER ...........................37
STARTER MOTOR
REMOVAL
REMOVAL - 2.4L......................37
REMOVAL - 3.3/3.8L...................38
REMOVAL - 2.5L......................38
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION - 2.4L..................39
INSTALLATION - 3.3/3.8L................39
INSTALLATION - 2.5L..................39
STARTING
DESCRIPTION
The starting system consists of:
²Starter relay
²Starter motor (including an integral starter sole-
noid)
Other components to be considered as part of start-
ing system are:
²Battery
²Battery cables
²Ignition switch and key lock cylinder
²Clutch pedal position switch (manual transmis-
sion)
²Park/neutral position switch (automatic trans-
mission)
²Wire harnesses and connections.
The Battery, Starting, and Charging systems oper-
ate in conjunction with one another, and must be
tested as a complete system. For correct operation of
starting/charging systems, all components used in
these 3 systems must perform within specifications.
When attempting to diagnose any of these systems, it
is important that you keep their interdependency in
mind.
The diagnostic procedures used in each of these
groups include the most basic conventional diagnostic
methods, to the more sophisticated On-Board Diag-
nostics (OBD) built into the Powertrain Control Mod-
ule (PCM). Use of an induction-type milliampere
ammeter, volt/ohmmeter, battery charger, carbon pile
rheostat (load tester), and 12-volt test lamp may be
required.
OPERATION
These components form two separate circuits. A
high amperage circuit that feeds the starter motor up
to 300+ amps, and a control circuit that operates on
less than 20 amps.
The PCM controls a double start over-ride safety
that does not allow the starter to be engaged if the
engine is already running.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - STARTING
SYSTEM TEST
For circuit descriptions and diagrams, refer to the
Wiring Diagrams.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, REFER TO THE PASSIVE RESTRAINT SYS-
TEMS BEFORE ATTEMPTING STEERING WHEEL,
STEERING COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL
COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. FAILURE
TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
INSPECTION
Before removing any unit from the starting system
for repair or diagnosis, perform the following inspec-
tions:
²Battery- Visually inspect the battery for indi-
cations of physical damage and loose or corroded
cable connections. Determine the state-of-charge and
cranking capacity of the battery. Charge or replace
RSSTARTING8F-31

the battery, if required. Refer to the Battery section
for more information.
²Ignition Switch- Visually inspect the ignition
switch for indications of physical damage and loose
or corroded wire harness connections.
²Transmission Range Sensor or Park/Neu-
tral Switch- Visually inspect the transmission
range sensor for indications of physical damage and
loose or corroded wire harness connections.
²Starter Relay- Visually inspect the starter
relay for indications of physical damage and loose or
corroded wire harness connections.
²Starter Motor- Visually inspect the starter
motor for indications of physical damage and loose or
corroded wire harness connections.²Starter Solenoid- Visually inspect the starter
solenoid for indications of physical damage and loose
or corroded wire harness connections.
²Wiring- Visually inspect the wire harness for
damage. Repair or replace any faulty wiring, as
required. Check for loose or corroded wire harness
connections at main engine ground and remote jump
post.
²Power Distribution Center (PDC)- Visually
inspect the B+ connections at the PDC for physical
damage and loose or corroded harness connections.
STARTING SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTION
STARTER FAILS
TO ENGAGE.1. BATTERY
DISCHARGED OR
FAULTY.1. REFER TO THE BATTERY SECTION FOR MORE
INFORMATION. CHARGE OR REPLACE BATTERY, IF
REQUIRED.
2. STARTING CIRCUIT
WIRING FAULTY.2. REFER TO FEED CIRCUIT RESISTANCE TEST AND FEED
CIRCUIT TEST IN THIS SECTION.
3. STARTER RELAY
FAULTY.3. REFER TO RELAY TEST, IN THIS SECTION. REPLACE
RELAY, IF NECESSARY.
4. IGNITION SWITCH
FAULTY.4. REFER TO IGNITION SWITCH TEST, IN THE STEERING
SECTION OR 8 WIRING DIAGRAMS. REPLACE SWITCH, IF
NECESSARY.
5. PARK/NEUTRAL
POSITION SWITCH
(AUTO TRANS) FAULTY
OR MIS-ADJUSTED.5. REFER PARK/NEUTRAL POSITION SWITCH TEST, IN THE
TRANSAXLE. SECTION FOR MORE INFORMATION. REPLACE
SWITCH, IF NECESSARY.
6. CLUTCH INTERLOCK
SWITCH (MAN TRANS)
FAULTY.6. REFER TO CLUTCH PEDAL POSITION SWITCH TEST, IN
THE CLUTCH. SECTION. REPLACE SWITCH, IF NECESSARY.
7. STARTER SOLENOID
FAULTY.7. REFER TO SOLENOID TEST, IN THIS SECTION. REPLACE
STARTER ASSEMBLY, IF NECESSARY.
8. STARTER ASSEMBLY
FAULTY.8. IF ALL OTHER STARTING SYSTEM COMPONENTS AND
CIRCUITS CHECK OK, REPLACE STARTER ASSEMBLY.
9. FAULTY TEETH ON
RING GEAR.9. ROTATE FLYWHEEL 360É, AND INSPECT TEETH AND RING
GEAR REPLACED IF DAMAGED.
10. PCM DOUBLE
START OVERRIDE
OUTPUT FAILURE.10. REFER TO PCM DIAGNOSTIC. CHECK FOR CONTINUITY
BETWEEN PCM AND TERMINAL 85. REPAIR OPEN CIRCUIT
AS REQUIRED. IF OK, PCM MAY BE DEFECTIVE.
STARTER
ENGAGES,
FAILS TO TURN
ENGINE.1. BATTERY
DISCHARGED OR
FAULTY.1. REFER TO THE BATTERY SECTION FOR MORE
INFORMATION. CHARGE OR REPLACE BATTERY AS
NECESSARY.
8F - 32 STARTINGRS
STARTING (Continued)

CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTION
2. STARTING CIRCUIT
WIRING FAULTY.2. REFER TO THE FEED CIRCUIT RESISTANCE TEST AND
THE FEED CIRCUIT TEST IN THIS SECTION. REPAIR AS
NECESSARY.
3. STARTER ASSEMBLY
FAULTY.3. IF ALL OTHER STARTING SYSTEM COMPONENTS AND
CIRCUITS CHECK OK, REPLACE STARTER ASSEMBLY.
4. ENGINE SEIZED. 4. REFER TO THE ENGINE SECTION, FOR DIAGNOSTIC AND
SERVICE PROCEDURES.
5. LOOSE
CONNECTION AT
BATTERY, PDC,
STARTER, OR ENGINE
GROUND.5. INSPECT FOR LOOSE CONNECTIONS.
6. FAULTY TEETH ON
RING GEAR.6. ROTATE FLYWHEEL 360É, AND INSPECT TEETH AND RING
GEAR REPLACED IF DAMAGED.
STARTER
ENGAGES,
SPINS OUT
BEFORE
ENGINE
STARTS.1. BROKEN TEETH ON
STARTER RING GEAR.1. REMOVE STARTER. INSPECT RING GEAR AND REPLACE
IF NECESSARY.
2. STARTER ASSEMBLY
FAULTY.2. IF ALL OTHER STARTING SYSTEM COMPONENTS AND
CIRCUITS CHECK OK, REPLACE STARTER ASSEMBLY.
STARTER DOES
NOT
DISENGAGE.1. STARTER
IMPROPERLY
INSTALLED.1. INSTALL STARTER. TIGHTEN STARTER MOUNTING
HARDWARE TO CORRECT TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS.
2. STARTER RELAY
FAULTY.2. REFER TO RELAY TEST, IN THIS SECTION. REPLACE
RELAY, IF NECESSARY.
3. IGNITION SWITCH
FAULTY.3. REFER TO IGNITION SWITCH TEST, IN THE STEERING
SECTION. REPLACE SWITCH, IF NECESSARY.
4. STARTER ASSEMBLY
FAULTY.4. IF ALL OTHER STARTING SYSTEM COMPONENTS AND
CIRCUITS CHECK OK, REPLACE STARTER ASSEMBLY.
5. FAULTY TEETH ON
RING GEAR.5. ROTATE FLYWHEEL 360É, AND INSPECT TEETH AND RING
GEAR REPLACED IF DAMAGED.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - CONTROL
CIRCUIT TEST
The starter control circuit has:
²Starter motor with integral solenoid
²Starter relay
²Transmission range sensor, or Park/Neutral
Position switch with automatic transmissions
²Ignition switch
²Battery
²All related wiring and connections
²Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
CAUTION: Before performing any starter tests, the
ignition and fuel systems must be disabled.²To disable ignition and fuel systems, disconnect
the Automatic Shutdown Relay (ASD). The ASD relay
is located in the Power Distribution Center (PDC).
Refer to the PDC cover for the proper relay location.
STARTER SOLENOID
WARNING: CHECK TO ENSURE THAT THE TRANS-
MISSION IS IN THE PARK POSITION WITH THE
PARKING BRAKE APPLIED. THIS MAY RESULT IN
PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
(1) Verify battery condition. Battery must be in
good condition with a full charge before performing
any starter tests. Refer to Battery Tests.
RSSTARTING8F-33
STARTING (Continued)

(2) Perform Starter Solenoid test BEFORE per-
forming the starter relay test.
(3) Perform a visual inspection of the starter/
starter solenoid for corrosion, loose connections or
faulty wiring.
(4) Locate and remove the starter relay from the
Power Distribution Center (PDC). Refer to the PDC
label for relay identification and location.
(5) Connect a remote starter switch or a jumper
wire between the remote battery positive post and
terminal 87 of the starter relay connector.
(a) If engine cranks, starter/starter solenoid is
good. Go to the Starter Relay Test.
(b) If engine does not crank or solenoid chatters,
check wiring and connectors from starter relay to
starter solenoid and from the battery positive ter-
minal to starter post for loose or corroded connec-
tions. Particularly at starter terminals.
(c) Repeat test. If engine still fails to crank prop-
erly, trouble is within starter or starter mounted
solenoid, and replace starter. Inspect the ring gear
teeth.
STARTER RELAY
WARNING: CHECK TO ENSURE THAT THE TRANS-
MISSION IS IN THE PARK/NEUTRAL POSITION
WITH THE PARKING BRAKE APPLIED. THIS MAY
RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
RELAY TEST
The starter relay is located in the Power Distribu-
tion Center (PDC) in the engine compartment. Refer
to the PDC label for relay identification and location.
Remove the starter relay from the PDC as
described in this group to perform the following tests:
(1) A relay in the de-energized position should
have continuity between terminals 87A and 30, and
no continuity between terminals 87 and 30. If OK, go
to Step 2. If not OK, replace the faulty relay.
(2) Resistance between terminals 85 and 86 (elec-
tromagnet) should be 75  5 ohms. If OK, go to Step
3. If not OK, replace the faulty relay.
(3) Connect a battery B+ lead to terminals 85 and
a ground lead to terminal 86 to energize the relay.
The relay should click. Also test for continuity
between terminals 30 and 87, and no continuity
between terminals 87A and 30. If OK, refer to Relay
Circuit Test procedure. If not OK, replace the faulty
relay.
CAV FUNCTION
30 B (+)
85 IGNITION SWITCH OUTPUT
86
PCM-CONTROLLED GROUND
87 STARTER RELAY OUTPUT
87A NO CONNECT
Starter Relay Pinout
Starter Relay Pinout
Starter Relay Pinout
8F - 34 STARTINGRS
STARTING (Continued)

RELAY CIRCUIT TEST
(1) The relay common feed terminal cavity (30) is
connected to battery voltage and should be hot at all
times. If OK, go to Step 2. If not OK, repair the open
circuit to the PDC fuse as required.
(2) The relay normally closed terminal (87A) is
connected to terminal 30 in the de-energized position,
but is not used for this application. Go to Step 3.
(3) The relay normally open terminal (87) is con-
nected to the common feed terminal (30) in the ener-
gized position. This terminal supplies battery voltage
to the starter solenoid field coils. There should be
continuity between the cavity for relay terminal 87
and the starter solenoid terminal at all times. If OK,
go to Step 4. If not OK, repair the open circuit to the
starter solenoid as required.
(4) The coil battery terminal (85) is connected to
the electromagnet in the relay. It is energized when
the ignition switch is held in the Start position and
the clutch pedal is depressed (manual trans). Check
for battery voltage at the cavity for relay terminal 86
with the ignition switch in the Start position and the
clutch pedal is depressed (manual trans), and no
voltage when the ignition switch is released to the
On position. If OK, go to Step 5. If not OK, check for
an open or short circuit to the ignition switch and
repair, if required. If the circuit to the ignition switch
is OK, see the Ignition Switch Test procedure in this
group.
(5) The coil ground terminal (86) is connected to
the electromagnet in the relay. It is grounded by the
PCM if the conditions are right to start the car. For
automatic trans. cars the PCM must see Park Neu-
tral switch low and near zero engine speed (rpm).
For manual trans. cars the PCM only needs to see
near zero engine speed (rpm) and low clutch inter-
lock input and see near zero engine speed (rpm). To
diagnose the Park Neutral switch of the trans range
sensor refer to the transaxle section. Check for conti-
nuity to ground while the ignition switch is in the
start position and if equipped the clutch pedal
depressed. If not OK and the vehicle has an auto-
matic trans. verify Park Neutral switch operation. If
that checks OK check for continuity between PCM
and the terminal 86. Repair open circuit as required.
Also check the clutch interlock switch operation if
equipped with a manual transmission. If OK, the
PCM may be defective.
SAFETY SWITCHES
For diagnostics of the Transmission Range Sensor,
refer to the Transaxle section for more information.
If equipped with Clutch Interlock/Upstop Switch,
refer to Diagnosis and Testing in the Clutch section.
IGNITION SWITCH
After testing starter solenoid and relay, test igni-
tion switch and wiring. Refer to the Ignition Section
or Wiring Diagrams for more information. Check all
wiring for opens or shorts, and all connectors for
being loose or corroded.
BATTERY
For battery diagnosis and testing, refer to the Bat-
tery section for procedures.
ALL RELATED WIRING AND CONNECTORS
Refer to Wiring Diagrams for more information.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - FEED CIRCUIT
RESISTANCE TEST
Before proceeding with this operation, review Diag-
nostic Preparation and Starter Feed Circuit Tests.
The following operation will require a voltmeter,
accurate to 1/10 of a volt.
CAUTION: Ignition and Fuel systems must be dis-
abled to prevent engine start while performing the
following tests.
(1) To disable the Ignition and Fuel systems, dis-
connect the Automatic Shutdown Relay (ASD). The
ASD relay is located in the Power Distribution Cen-
ter (PDC). Refer to the PDC cover for proper relay
location.
(2) Gain access to battery terminals.
(3) With all wiring harnesses and components
properly connected, perform the following:
(a) Connect the negative lead of the voltmeter to
the battery negative post, and positive lead to the
battery negative cable clamp. Rotate and hold the
ignition switch in the START position. Observe the
voltmeter. If voltage is detected, correct poor con-
tact between cable clamp and post.
(b) Connect positive lead of the voltmeter to the
battery positive post, and negative lead to the bat-
tery positive cable clamp. Rotate and hold the igni-
tion switch key in the START position. Observe the
voltmeter. If voltage is detected, correct poor con-
tact between the cable clamp and post.
(c) Connect negative lead of voltmeter to battery
negative terminal, and positive lead to engine
block near the battery cable attaching point.
Rotate and hold the ignition switch in the START
position. If voltage reads above 0.2 volt, correct
poor contact at ground cable attaching point. If
voltage reading is still above 0.2 volt after correct-
ing poor contacts, replace ground cable.
(4) Connect positive voltmeter lead to the starter
motor housing and the negative lead to the battery
negative terminal. Hold the ignition switch key in
RSSTARTING8F-35
STARTING (Continued)

the START position. If voltage reads above 0.2 volt,
correct poor starter to engine ground.
(a) Connect the positive voltmeter lead to the
battery positive terminal, and negative lead to bat-
tery cable terminal on starter solenoid. Rotate and
hold the ignition switch in the START position. If
voltage reads above 0.2 volt, correct poor contact at
battery cable to solenoid connection. If reading is
still above 0.2 volt after correcting poor contacts,
replace battery positive cable.
(b) If resistance tests do not detect feed circuit
failures, replace the starter motor.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - FEED CIRCUIT
TEST
NOTE: The following results are based upon the
vehicle being at room temperature.
The following procedure will require a suitable
volt-ampere tester (Fig. 1).
CAUTION: Before performing any starter tests, the
ignition and fuel systems must be disabled.(1) Check battery before performing this test. Bat-
tery must be fully charged.
(2) Connect a volt-ampere tester to the battery ter-
minals. Refer to the operating instructions provided
with the tester being used.
(3) To disable the ignition and fuel systems, dis-
connect the Automatic Shutdown Relay (ASD). The
ASD relay is located in the Power Distribution Cen-
ter (PDC). Refer to the PDC cover for proper relay
location.
(4) Verify that all lights and accessories are OFF,
and the transmission shift selector is in the PARK
and SET parking brake.
CAUTION: Do not overheat the starter motor or
draw the battery voltage below 9.6 volts during
cranking operations.
(5) Rotate and hold the ignition switch in the
START position. Observe the volt-ampere tester (Fig.
1).
²If voltage reads above 9.6 volts, and amperage
draw reads above 280 amps, check for engine seizing
or faulty starter.
²If voltage reads 12.4 volts or greater and amper-
age reads 0 to 10 amps, check for corroded cables
and/or bad connections.
²Voltage below 9.6 volts and amperage draw
above 300 amps, the problem is the starter. Replace
the starter refer to starter removal.
(6) After the starting system problems have been
corrected, verify the battery state-of-charge and
charge battery if necessary. Disconnect all testing
equipment and connect ASD relay. Start the vehicle
several times to assure the problem has been cor-
rected.
SPECIFICATIONS
Torques
DESCRIPTION N´m Ft. Lbs. In. Lbs.
Starter Mounting Bolts 47.4 35
Starter Solenoid Battery
Nut11.3 8.3 100
Fig. 1 Volt Ampere Tester
8F - 36 STARTINGRS
STARTING (Continued)