Starting system JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE 2002 WJ / 2.G User Guide

diagnose the charging system after replenishing the
water in the battery for a low electrolyte condition
and before returning the vehicle to service. Refer to
Charging Systemfor additional information.
For battery maintenance schedules and jump start-
ing procedures, see the owner's manual in the vehicle
glove box. Optionally, refer toMaintenance Sched-
ulesandJump Starting, Towing and Hoistingin
the index of this service manual for the location of
the recommended battery maintenance schedules and
the proper battery jump starting procedures. While
battery charging can be considered a maintenance
procedure, the battery charging procedures and infor-
mation are located in the service procedures section
of this service manual. This was done because the
battery must be fully-charged before any battery
diagnosis or testing procedures can be performed.
Refer toStandard Proceduresin the index of this
service manual for the location of the proper battery
charging procedures.
OPERATION
The battery is designed to store electrical energy in
a chemical form. When an electrical load is applied to
the terminals of the battery, an electrochemical reac-
tion occurs. This reaction causes the battery to dis-
charge electrical current from its terminals. As the
battery discharges, a gradual chemical change takes
place within each cell. The sulfuric acid in the elec-
trolyte combines with the plate materials, causing
both plates to slowly change to lead sulfate. At the
same time, oxygen from the positive plate material
combines with hydrogen from the sulfuric acid, caus-
ing the electrolyte to become mainly water. The
chemical changes within the battery are caused by
the movement of excess or free electrons between the
positive and negative plate groups. This movement of
electrons produces a flow of electrical current
through the load device attached to the battery ter-
minals.
As the plate materials become more similar chem-
ically, and the electrolyte becomes less acid, the volt-
age potential of each cell is reduced. However, by
charging the battery with a voltage higher than that
of the battery itself, the battery discharging process
is reversed. Charging the battery gradually changes
the sulfated lead plates back into sponge lead and
lead dioxide, and the water back into sulfuric acid.
This action restores the difference in the electron
charges deposited on the plates, and the voltage
potential of the battery cells. For a battery to remain
useful, it must be able to produce high-amperage cur-
rent over an extended period. A battery must also be
able to accept a charge, so that its voltage potential
may be restored.The battery is vented to release excess hydrogen
gas that is created when the battery is being charged
or discharged. However, even with these vents,
hydrogen gas can collect in or around the battery. If
hydrogen gas is exposed to flame or sparks, it may
ignite. If the electrolyte level is low, the battery may
arc internally and explode. If the battery is equipped
with removable cell caps, add distilled water when-
ever the electrolyte level is below the top of the
plates. If the battery cell caps cannot be removed, the
battery must be replaced if the electrolyte level
becomes low.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY
The battery must be completely charged and the
terminals should be properly cleaned and inspected
before diagnostic procedures are performed. Refer to
Battery System Cleaning for the proper cleaning pro-
cedures, and Battery System Inspection for the
proper battery inspection procedures. Refer to Stan-
dard Procedures for the proper battery charging pro-
cedures.
MICRO 420 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM TESTER
The Micro420 automotive battery tester is designed
to help the dealership technicians diagnose the cause
of a defective battery. Follow the instruction manual
supplied with the tester to properly diagnose a vehi-
cle. If the instruction manual is not available refer to
the standard procedure in this section, which
includes the directions for using the Micro420 electri-
cal system tester.
WARNING: IF THE BATTERY SHOWS SIGNS OF
FREEZING, LEAKING OR LOOSE POSTS, DO NOT
TEST, ASSIST-BOOST, OR CHARGE. THE BATTERY
MAY ARC INTERNALLY AND EXPLODE. PERSONAL
INJURY AND/OR VEHICLE DAMAGE MAY RESULT.
WARNING: EXPLOSIVE HYDROGEN GAS FORMS IN
AND AROUND THE BATTERY. DO NOT SMOKE,
USE FLAME, OR CREATE SPARKS NEAR THE BAT-
TERY. PERSONAL INJURY AND/OR VEHICLE DAM-
AGE MAY RESULT.
WARNING: THE BATTERY CONTAINS SULFURIC
ACID, WHICH IS POISONOUS AND CAUSTIC. AVOID
CONTACT WITH THE SKIN, EYES, OR CLOTHING.
IN THE EVENT OF CONTACT, FLUSH WITH WATER
AND CALL A PHYSICIAN IMMEDIATELY. KEEP OUT
OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.
A battery that will not accept a charge is faulty,
and must be replaced. Further testing is not
required. A fully-charged battery must be load tested
8F - 8 BATTERY SYSTEMWJ
BATTERY (Continued)

The battery cables (Fig. 17) or (Fig. 18) are large
gauge, stranded copper wires sheathed within a
heavy plastic or synthetic rubber insulating jacket.
The wire used in the battery cables combines excel-
lent flexibility and reliability with high electrical cur-
rent carrying capacity. Refer toWiring Diagrams
for battery cable wire gauge information.
A clamping type female battery terminal made of
soft lead is die cast onto one end of the battery cable
wire. A square headed pinch-bolt and hex nut are
installed at the open end of the female battery termi-
nal clamp. Large eyelet type terminals are crimped
onto the opposite end of the battery cable wire and
then solder-dipped. The battery positive cable wires
have a red insulating jacket to provide visual identi-
fication and feature a larger female battery terminal
clamp to allow connection to the larger battery posi-
tive terminal post. The battery negative cable wires
have a black insulating jacket and a smaller female
battery terminal clamp.
The battery cables cannot be repaired and, if dam-
aged or faulty they must be replaced. Both the bat-
tery positive and negative cables are available for
service replacement only as a unit with the battery
wire harness, which may include portions of the wir-
ing circuits for the generator and other components
on some models. Refer toWiring Diagramsfor more
information on the various wiring circuits included in
the battery wire harness for the vehicle being ser-
viced.
OPERATION
The battery cables connect the battery terminal
posts to the vehicle electrical system. These cables
also provide a path back to the battery for electrical
current generated by the charging system for restor-
ing the voltage potential of the battery. The female
battery terminal clamps on the ends of the battery
cable wires provide a strong and reliable connection
of the battery cable to the battery terminal posts.
The terminal pinch bolts allow the female terminal
clamps to be tightened around the male terminal
posts on the top of the battery. The eyelet terminals
secured to the opposite ends of the battery cable
wires from the female battery terminal clamps pro-
vide secure and reliable connection of the battery
cables to the vehicle electrical system.
The battery positive cable terminal clamp is die
cast onto the ends of two wires. One wire has an eye-
let terminal that connects the battery positive cable
to the B(+) terminal stud of the Power Distribution
Center (PDC), and the other wire has an eyelet ter-
minal that connects the battery positive cable to the
B(+) terminal stud of the engine starter motor sole-
noid. The battery negative cable terminal clamp is
also die cast onto the ends of two wires. One wirehas an eyelet terminal that connects the battery neg-
ative cable to the vehicle powertrain through a stud
on the right side of the engine cylinder block. The
other wire has an eyelet terminal that connects the
battery negative cable to the vehicle body through a
ground screw on the right front fender inner shield,
near the battery.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BATTERY CABLES
A voltage drop test will determine if there is exces-
sive resistance in the battery cable terminal connec-
tions or the battery cable. If excessive resistance is
found in the battery cable connections, the connec-
tion point should be disassembled, cleaned of all cor-
rosion or foreign material, then reassembled.
Following reassembly, check the voltage drop for the
battery cable connection and the battery cable again
to confirm repair.
When performing the voltage drop test, it is impor-
tant to remember that the voltage drop is giving an
indication of the resistance between the two points at
which the voltmeter probes are attached.EXAM-
PLE:When testing the resistance of the battery pos-
itive cable, touch the voltmeter leads to the battery
positive cable terminal clamp and to the battery pos-
itive cable eyelet terminal at the starter solenoid
B(+) terminal stud. If you probe the battery positive
terminal post and the battery positive cable eyelet
terminal at the starter solenoid B(+) terminal stud,
you are reading the combined voltage drop in the
battery positive cable terminal clamp-to-terminal
post connection and the battery positive cable.
VOLTAGE DROP TEST
The following operation will require a voltmeter
accurate to 1/10 (0.10) volt. Before performing this
test, be certain that the following procedures are
accomplished:
²The battery is fully-charged and load tested.
Refer to Standard Procedures for the proper battery
charging and load test procedures.
²Fully engage the parking brake.
²If the vehicle is equipped with an automatic
transmission, place the gearshift selector lever in the
Park position. If the vehicle is equipped with a man-
ual transmission, place the gearshift selector lever in
the Neutral position and block the clutch pedal in the
fully depressed position.
²Verify that all lamps and accessories are turned
off.
²To prevent the engine from starting, remove the
Automatic Shut Down (ASD) relay. The ASD relay is
located in the Power Distribution Center (PDC), in
the engine compartment. See the fuse and relay lay-
out label affixed to the underside of the PDC cover
for ASD relay identification and location.
8F - 18 BATTERY SYSTEMWJ
BATTERY CABLE (Continued)

STARTING
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
STARTING
DESCRIPTION.........................29
OPERATION...........................30
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - STARTING
SYSTEM............................30
SPECIFICATIONS
TORQUE - STARTER...................35
STARTER MOTOR - GAS POWERED......35
STARTER MOTOR
DESCRIPTION.........................35
OPERATION...........................36DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - STARTER
MOTOR .............................36
REMOVAL.............................37
INSTALLATION.........................38
STARTER MOTOR RELAY
DESCRIPTION.........................38
OPERATION...........................38
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - STARTER RELAY . 38
REMOVAL.............................39
INSTALLATION.........................40
STARTING
DESCRIPTION
An electrically operated engine starting system is
standard factory-installed equipment on this model.
The starting system is designed to provide the vehi-
cle operator with a convenient, efficient and reliable
means of cranking and starting the internal combus-
tion engine used to power the vehicle and all of its
accessory systems from within the safe and secure
confines of the passenger compartment. See the own-
er's manual in the vehicle glove box for more infor-
mation and instructions on the recommended use
and operation of the factory-installed starting sys-
tem.
The starting system consists of the following com-
ponents:
²Battery
²Starter relay
²Starter motor (including an integral starter sole-
noid)
²Ignition switch
²Park/neutral position switch
²Wire harnesses and connections (including the
battery cables).
This group provides complete service information
for the starter motor and the starter relay. Complete
service information for the other starting system
components can be located as follows:
²Refer toBatteryin the proper section of Group
8A - Battery for complete service information for the
battery.
²Refer toIgnition Switch and Key Lock Cyl-
inderin the proper section of Group 8D - Ignition
System for complete service information for the igni-
tion switch.²Refer toPark/Neutral Position Switchin the
proper section of Group 21 - Transmission for com-
plete service information for the park/neutral posi-
tion switch.
²Refer to the proper section ofGroup 8W - Wir-
ing Diagramsfor complete service information and
circuit diagrams for the starting system wiring com-
ponents.
Group 8A covers the Battery, Group 8B covers the
Starting Systems, and Group 8C covers the Charging
System. We have separated these systems to make it
easier to locate the information you are seeking
within this Service Manual. However, when attempt-
ing to diagnose any of these systems, it is important
that you keep their interdependency in mind.
The battery, starting, and charging systems in the
vehicle operate with one another, and must be tested
as a complete system. In order for the vehicle to start
and charge properly, all of the components that are
used in these systems must perform within specifica-
tions.
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.
All OBD-sensed systems are monitored by the
PCM. Each monitored circuit is assigned a Diagnos-
tic Trouble Code (DTC). The PCM will store a DTC in
electronic memory for any failure it detects. Refer to
On-Board Diagnostic Test For Charging System
in the Diagnosis and Testing section of Group 8C -
Charging System for more information.
WJSTARTING 8F - 29

OPERATION
The starting system components form two separate
circuits. A high-amperage feed circuit that feeds the
starter motor between 150 and 350 amperes, and a
low-amperage control circuit that operates on less
than 20 amperes. The high-amperage feed circuit
components include the battery, the battery cables,
the contact disc portion of the starter solenoid, and
the starter motor. The low-amperage control circuit
components include the ignition switch, the park/
neutral position switch, the starter relay, the electro-
magnetic windings of the starter solenoid, and the
connecting wire harness components.
Battery voltage is supplied through the low-amper-
age control circuit to the coil battery terminal of the
starter relay when the ignition switch is turned to
the momentary Start position. The park/neutral posi-
tion switch is installed in series between the starter
relay coil ground terminal and ground. This normally
open switch prevents the starter relay from being
energized and the starter motor from operating
unless the automatic transmission gear selector is in
the Neutral or Park positions.
When the starter relay coil is energized, the nor-
mally open relay contacts close. The relay contacts
connect the relay common feed terminal to the relay
normally open terminal. The closed relay contacts
energize the starter solenoid coil windings.
The energized solenoid pull-in coil pulls in the sole-
noid plunger. The solenoid plunger pulls the shift
lever in the starter motor. This engages the starter
overrunning clutch and pinion gear with the starter
ring gear on the automatic transmission torque con-
verter drive plate.
As the solenoid plunger reaches the end of its
travel, the solenoid contact disc completes the high-
amperage starter feed circuit and energizes the sole-
noid plunger hold-in coil. Current now flows between
the solenoid battery terminal and the starter motor,
energizing the starter.Once the engine starts, the overrunning clutch pro-
tects the starter motor from damage by allowing the
starter pinion gear to spin faster than the pinion
shaft. When the driver releases the ignition switch to
the On position, the starter relay coil is de-energized.
This causes the relay contacts to open. When the
relay contacts open, the starter solenoid plunger
hold-in coil is de-energized.
When the solenoid plunger hold-in coil is de-ener-
gized, the solenoid plunger return spring returns the
plunger to its relaxed position. This causes the con-
tact disc to open the starter feed circuit, and the shift
lever to disengage the overrunning clutch and pinion
gear from the starter ring gear.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - STARTING
SYSTEM
The battery, starting, and charging systems oper-
ate with one another, and must be tested as a com-
plete system. In order for the vehicle to start and
charge properly, all of the components involved in
these systems must perform within specifications.
Group 8A covers the Battery, Group 8B covers the
Starting Systems, and Group 8C covers the Charging
System. We have separated these systems to make it
easier to locate the information you are seeking
within this Service Manual. However, when attempt-
ing to diagnose any of these systems, it is important
that you keep their interdependency in mind.
The diagnostic procedures used in these groups
include the most basic conventional diagnostic meth-
ods, to the more sophisticated On-Board Diagnostics
(OBD) built into the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM). Use of an induction-type milliampere amme-
ter, volt/ohmmeter, battery charger, carbon pile rheo-
stat (load tester), and 12-volt test lamp may be
required.
All OBD-sensed systems are monitored by the
PCM. Each monitored circuit is assigned a Diagnos-
tic Trouble Code (DTC). The PCM will store a DTC in
electronic memory for any failure it detects. Refer to
On-Board Diagnostic Test For Charging System
in the Diagnosis and Testing section of Group 8C -
Charging System for more information.
8F - 30 STARTINGWJ
STARTING (Continued)

Starting System Diagnosis
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTION
STARTER FAILS TO
OPERATE.1. Battery discharged or
faulty.1. Refer to Battery in the Diagnosis and Testing section of
Group 8A - Battery. Charge or replace the battery, if
required.
2. Starting circuit wiring
faulty.2. Refer to Starting System in Group 8W - Wiring
Diagrams. Test and repair the starter feed and/or control
circuits, if required.
3. Starter relay faulty. 3. Refer to Starter Relay in the Diagnosis and Testing
section of this group. Replace the starter relay, if
required.
4. Ignition switch faulty. 4. Refer to Ignition Switch and Key Lock Cylinder in the
Diagnosis and Testing section of Group 8D - Ignition
System. Replace the ignition switch, if required.
5. Park/Neutral position
switch faulty or
misadjusted.5. Refer to Park/Neutral Position Switch in the Diagnosis
and Testing section of Group 21 - Transmission. Replace
the park/neutral position switch, if required.
6. Starter solenoid faulty. 6. Refer to Starter Motor in the Diagnosis and Testing
section of this group. Replace the starter motor assembly,
if required.
7. Starter motor faulty. 7. If all other starting system components and circuits test
OK, replace the starter motor assembly.
STARTER ENGAGES,
FAILS TO TURN
ENGINE.1. Battery discharged or
faulty.1. Refer to Battery in the Diagnosis and Testing section of
Group 8A - Battery. Charge or replace the battery, if
required.
2. Starting circuit wiring
faulty.2. Refer to Starting System in Group 8W - Wiring
Diagrams. Test and repair the starter feed and/or control
circuits, if required.
3. Starter motor faulty. 3. If all other starting system components and circuits test
OK, replace the starter motor assembly.
4. Engine seized. 4. Refer to Engine Diagnosis in the Diagnosis and Testing
section of Group 9 - Engine.
STARTER ENGAGES,
SPINS OUT BEFORE
ENGINE STARTS.1. Starter ring gear faulty. 1. Refer to Starter Motor in the Removal and Installation
section of this group. Remove the starter motor to inspect
the starter ring gear. Replace the starter ring gear, if
required.
2. Starter motor faulty. 2. If all other starting system components and circuits test
OK, replace the starter motor assembly.
STARTER DOES NOT
DISENGAGE.1. Starter motor
improperly installed.1. Refer to Starter Motor in the Removal and Installation
section of this group. Tighten the starter mounting
hardware to the correct tightness specifications.
2. Starter relay faulty. 2. Refer to Starter Relay in the Diagnosis and Testing
section of this group. Replace the starter relay, if
required.
3. Ignition switch faulty. 3. Refer to Ignition Switch and Key Lock Cylinder in the
Diagnosis and Testing section of Group 8D - Ignition
System. Replace the ignition switch, if required.
4. Starter motor faulty. 4. If all other starting system components and circuits test
OK, replace the starter motor assembly.
WJSTARTING 8F - 31
STARTING (Continued)

INSPECTION
For complete circuit diagrams, refer toStarting
Systemin the Contents of Group 8W - Wiring Dia-
grams. Before removing any unit from the starting
system for repair or diagnosis, perform the following
inspections:
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, REFER TO GROUP 8M - PASSIVE
RESTRAINT SYSTEMS BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY
STEERING WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, OR
INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
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
the battery, if required. Refer toBatteryin the
proper section of Group 8A - Battery for complete ser-
vice information for the battery.
²Ignition Switch- Visually inspect the ignition
switch for indications of physical damage and loose
or corroded wire harness connections. Refer toIgni-
tion Switch and Key Lock Cylinderin the proper
section of Group 8D - Ignition System for complete
service information for the ignition switch.
²Park/Neutral Position Switch- Visually
inspect the park/neutral position switch for indica-
tions of physical damage and loose or corroded wire
harness connections. Refer toPark/Neutral Posi-
tion Switchin the proper section of Group 21 -
Transmission for complete service information for the
park/neutral position switch.
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 harnesses for
damage. Repair or replace any faulty wiring, as
required. Refer to the proper section ofGroup 8W -
Wiring Diagramsfor complete service information
and circuit diagrams for the starting system wiring
components.TESTING
COLD CRANKING TEST
For complete circuit diagrams, refer toStarting
Systemin the Contents of Group 8W - Wiring Dia-
grams. The battery must be fully-charged and load-
tested before proceeding. Refer toBatteryin the
Diagnosis and Testing section of Group 8A - Battery
for the procedures.
(1) Connect a suitable volt-ampere tester to the
battery terminals (Fig. 1). See the instructions pro-
vided by the manufacturer of the volt-ampere tester
being used.
(2) Fully engage the parking brake.
(3) Place the automatic transmission gearshift
selector lever in the Park position.
(4) Verify that all lamps and accessories are
turned off.
(5) To prevent the engine from starting, remove
the Automatic ShutDown (ASD) relay. The ASD relay
is located in the Power Distribution Center (PDC), in
the engine compartment. Refer to the fuse and relay
layout label affixed to the underside of the PDC cover
for ASD relay identification and location.
(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.
(a) If the voltage reads below 9.6 volts, refer to
Starter Motorin the Diagnosis and Testing sec-
tion of this group. If the starter motor is OK, refer
toEngine Diagnosisin the Diagnosis and Testing
section of Group 9 - Engine for further testing of
the engine. If the starter motor is not OK, replace
the faulty starter motor.
Fig. 1 Volts-Amps Tester Connections - Typical
1 - POSITIVE CLAMP
2 - NEGATIVE CLAMP
3 - INDUCTION AMMETER CLAMP
8F - 32 STARTINGWJ
STARTING (Continued)

(b) If the voltage reads above 9.6 volts and the
current (amperage) draw reads below specifica-
tions, refer toFeed Circuit Testin this section.
(c) If the voltage reads 12.5 volts or greater and
the starter motor does not turn, refer toControl
Circuit Testingin this section.
(d) If the voltage reads 12.5 volts or greater and
the starter motor turns very slowly, refer toFeed
Circuit Testin this section.
NOTE: A cold engine will increase the starter cur-
rent (amperage) draw reading, and reduce the bat-
tery voltage reading.
FEED CIRCUIT TEST
The starter feed circuit test (voltage drop method)
will determine if there is excessive resistance in the
high-amperage feed circuit. For complete circuit dia-
grams, refer toStarting Systemin the Contents of
Group 8W - Wiring Diagrams.
When performing these tests, it is important to
remember that the voltage drop is giving an indica-
tion of the resistance between the two points at
which the voltmeter probes are attached.
Example:When testing the resistance of the bat-
tery positive cable, touch the voltmeter leads to the
battery positive cable clamp and the cable connector
at the starter solenoid. If you probe the battery pos-
itive terminal post and the cable connector at the
starter solenoid, you are reading the combined volt-
age drop in the battery positive cable clamp-to-termi-
nal post connection and the battery positive cable.
The following operation will require a voltmeter
accurate to 1/10 (0.10) volt. Before performing the
tests, be certain that the following procedures are
accomplished:
²Battery is fully-charged and load-tested. Refer to
Batteryin the Diagnosis and Testing section of
Group 8A - Battery for the procedures.
²Fully engage the parking brake.
²Place the automatic transmission gearshift selec-
tor lever in the Park position.
²
Verify that all lamps and accessories are turned off.
²To prevent the engine from starting, remove the
Automatic ShutDown (ASD) relay. The ASD relay is
located in the Power Distribution Center (PDC), in
the engine compartment. Refer to the fuse and relay
layout label affixed to the underside of the PDC cover
for ASD relay identification and location.
(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 clamp (Fig. 2). Rotate and hold the ignition
switch in the Start position. Observe the voltmeter. If
voltage is detected, correct the poor contact between
the cable clamp and the 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
clamp (Fig. 3). Rotate and hold the ignition switch in
the Start position. Observe the voltmeter. If voltage
is detected, correct the poor contact between the
cable clamp and the terminal post.
(3) Connect the voltmeter to measure between the
battery positive terminal post and the starter sole-
noid battery terminal stud (Fig. 4). 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 cable connection at the solenoid.
Fig. 2 Test Battery Negative Connection Resistance
- Typical
1 - VOLTMETER
2 - BATTERY
Fig. 3 Test Battery Positive Connection Resistance -
Typical
1 - VOLTMETER
2 - BATTERY
WJSTARTING 8F - 33
STARTING (Continued)

Repeat the test. If the reading is still above 0.2 volt,
replace the faulty battery positive cable.
(4) Connect the voltmeter to measure between the
battery negative terminal post and a good clean
ground on the engine block (Fig. 5). 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 attachment on the
engine block. Repeat the test. If the reading is still
above 0.2 volt, replace the faulty battery negative
cable.(5) Connect the positive lead of the voltmeter to
the starter housing. Connect the negative lead of the
voltmeter to the battery negative terminal post (Fig.
6). Rotate and hold the ignition switch in the Start
position. Observe the voltmeter. If the reading is
above 0.2 volt, correct the poor starter to engine
block ground contact.
If the resistance tests detect no feed circuit prob-
lems, refer toStarter Motorin the Diagnosis and
Testing section of this group.
CONTROL CIRCUIT TESTING
The starter control circuit components should be
tested in the order in which they are listed, as fol-
lows:
²Starter Relay- Refer toStarter Relayin the
Diagnosis and Testing section of this group for the
procedures.
²Starter Solenoid- Refer toStarter Motorin
the Diagnosis and Testing section of this group for
the procedures.
²Ignition Switch- Refer toIgnition Switch
and Key Lock Cylinderin the Diagnosis and Test-
ing section of Group 8D - Ignition System for the pro-
cedures.
²Park/Neutral Position Switch- Refer to
Park/Neutral Position Switchin the Diagnosis
and Testing section of Group 21 - Transmission for
the procedures.
²Wire harnesses and connections- Refer to
Starting Systemin the Contents of Group 8W -
Wiring Diagrams for complete circuit diagrams.
Fig. 4 Test Battery Positive Cable Resistance -
Typical
1 - BATTERY
2 - VOLTMETER
3 - STARTER MOTOR
Fig. 5 Test Ground Circuit
1 - VOLTMETER
2 - BATTERY
3 - ENGINE GROUND
Fig. 6 Test Starter Ground - Typical
1 - STARTER MOTOR
2 - BATTERY
3 - VOLTMETER
8F - 34 STARTINGWJ
STARTING (Continued)

OPERATION
These starter motors are equipped with a plane-
tary gear reduction (intermediate transmission) sys-
tem. The planetary gear reduction system consists of
a gear that is integral to the output end of the elec-
tric motor armature shaft that is in continual
engagement with a larger gear that is splined to the
input end of the starter pinion gear shaft. This fea-
ture makes it possible to reduce the dimensions of
the starter. At the same time, it allows higher arma-
ture rotational speed and delivers increased torque
through the starter pinion gear to the starter ring
gear.
The starter motors for both engines are activated
by an integral heavy duty starter solenoid switch
mounted to the overrunning clutch housing. This
electromechanical switch connects and disconnects
the feed of battery voltage to the starter motor and
actuates a shift fork that engages and disengages the
starter pinion gear with the starter ring gear.
Both starter motors use an overrunning clutch and
starter pinion gear unit to engage and drive a starter
ring gear that is integral to the torque converter
drive plate mounted on the rear crankshaft flange.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - STARTER MOTOR
Correct starter motor operation can be confirmed
by performing the following free running bench test.
This test can only be performed with the starter
motor removed from the vehicle. Refer toStarting
Systemin the Specifications section of this group for
the starter motor specifications.
(1) Remove the starter motor from the vehicle.
Refer toStarter Motorin the Removal and Instal-
lation section of this group for the procedures.
(2) Mount the starter motor securely in a soft-
jawed bench vise. The vise jaws should be clamped
on the mounting flange of the starter motor. Never
clamp on the starter motor by the field frame.
(3) Connect a suitable volt-ampere tester and a
12-volt battery to the starter motor in series, and set
the ammeter to the 100 ampere scale. See the
instructions provided by the manufacturer of the
volt-ampere tester being used.
(4) Install a jumper wire from the solenoid termi-
nal to the solenoid battery terminal. The starter
motor should operate. If the starter motor fails to
operate, replace the faulty starter motor assembly.
(5) Adjust the carbon pile load of the tester to
obtain the free running test voltage. Refer toStart-
ing Systemin the Specifications section of this
group for the starter motor free running test voltage
specifications.
(6) Note the reading on the ammeter and compare
this reading to the free running test maximum
amperage draw. Refer toStarting Systemin theSpecifications section of this group for the starter
motor free running test maximum amperage draw
specifications.
(7) If the ammeter reading exceeds the maximum
amperage draw specification, replace the faulty
starter motor assembly.
STARTER SOLENOID
This test can only be performed with the starter
motor removed from the vehicle.
(1) Remove the starter motor from the vehicle.
Refer toStarter Motorin the Removal and Instal-
lation section of this group for the procedures.
(2) Disconnect the wire from the solenoid field coil
terminal.
(3) Check for continuity between the solenoid ter-
minal and the solenoid field coil terminal with a con-
tinuity tester (Fig. 7). There should be continuity. If
OK, go to Step 4. If not OK, replace the faulty starter
motor assembly.
(4) Check for continuity between the solenoid ter-
minal and the solenoid case (Fig. 8). There should be
continuity. If not OK, replace the faulty starter motor
assembly.
Fig. 7 Continuity Test Between Solenoid Terminal
and Field Coil Terminal - Typical
1 - SOLENOID
2 - SOLENOID TERMINAL
3 - OHMMETER
4 - FIELD COIL TERMINAL
Fig. 8 Continuity Test Between Solenoid Terminal
1 - SOLENOID
2 - SOLENOID TERMINAL
3 - OHMMETER
8F - 36 STARTINGWJ
STARTER MOTOR (Continued)

(8) Remove the starter motor from the engine com-
partment.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the starter motor in the engine com-
partment.
(2) Reconnect the solenoid terminal wire harness
connector to the connector receptacle on the starter
solenoid. Always support the starter motor during
this process, do not let the starter motor hang from
the wire harness.
(3) Install the battery cable eyelet onto the sole-
noid battery terminal. Always support the starter
motor during this process, do not let the starter
motor hang from the wire harness.
(4) Install and tighten the nut that secures the
battery cable eyelet to the solenoid battery terminal.
Tighten the nut to 11.3 N´m (100 in. lbs.). Always
support the starter motor during this process, do not
let the starter motor hang from the wire harness.
(5) Position the starter motor to the front of the
automatic transmission torque converter housing and
loosely install both the upper and lower mounting
screws.
(6) Tighten the lower (forward facing) starter
motor mounting screw. On 4.0L engines, tighten the
screw to 41 N´m (30 ft. lbs.). On 4.7L engines, tighten
the screw to 54 N´m (40 ft. lbs.).(7) Tighten the upper (rearward facing) starter
mounting screw. Tighten the screw to 54 N´m (40 ft.
lbs.).
(8) Lower the vehicle.
(9) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
STARTER MOTOR RELAY
DESCRIPTION
The starter relay is an electromechanical device
that switches battery current to the pull-in coil of the
starter solenoid when the ignition switch is turned to
the Start position. The starter relay is located in the
Power Distribution Center (PDC), in the engine com-
partment. See the fuse and relay layout label affixed
to the inside surface of the PDC cover for starter
relay identification and location.
The starter relay is a International Standards
Organization (ISO) micro-relay. Relays conforming to
the ISO specifications have common physical dimen-
sions, current capacities, terminal patterns, and ter-
minal functions. The ISO micro-relay terminal
functions are the same as a conventional ISO relay.
However, the ISO micro-relay terminal pattern (or
footprint) is different, the current capacity is lower,
and the physical dimensions are smaller than those
of the conventional ISO relay.
The starter relay cannot be repaired or adjusted
and, if faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.
OPERATION
The ISO relay consists of an electromagnetic coil, a
resistor or diode, and three (two fixed and one mov-
able) electrical contacts. The movable (common feed)
relay contact is held against one of the fixed contacts
(normally closed) by spring pressure. When the elec-
tromagnetic coil is energized, it draws the movable
contact away from the normally closed fixed contact,
and holds it against the other (normally open) fixed
contact.
When the electromagnetic coil is de-energized,
spring pressure returns the movable contact to the
normally closed position. The resistor or diode is con-
nected in parallel with the electromagnetic coil in the
relay, and helps to dissipate voltage spikes that are
produced when the coil is de-energized.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - STARTER RELAY
The starter relay (Fig. 13) is located in the Power
Distribution Center (PDC), in the engine compart-
ment. Refer to the fuse and relay layout label affixed
to the underside of the PDC cover for starter relay
identification and location. For complete circuit dia-
grams, refer toStarting Systemin the Contents of
Group 8W - Wiring Diagrams.
Fig. 12 Starter Wire Harness Remove/Install - 4.7L
Engine
1 - SOLENOID BATTERY TERMINAL EYELET
2 - NUT
3 - SOLENOID TERMINAL CONNECTOR
4 - BATTERY STARTER AND GENERATOR WIRE HARNESS
5 - RETAINERS
8F - 38 STARTINGWJ
STARTER MOTOR (Continued)