What to check if a starter is the supsect
- Regular inspections can keep starters cranking the first time, every time. This includes voltage drop checks, visual inspections and preventive corrosion protection.
- Ensure alternators are specified for the application and system needs.
- Use low-voltage disconnect system accessories.
- Make sure any inverters are high-quality with minimal parasitic draw while not in use.
- The battery should have a cold-cranking amp and reserve capacity that meets system needs.
Turning on a truck triggers a series of actions, beginning with the starter motor. The starter motor draws electricity from the battery to turn the engine’s flywheel, kicking off the combustion process.
Starter failure often stems from worn internal parts, such as solenoids or brushes, contamination from oil or dirt, or underlying electrical issues. Starters also wear out more quickly if they’re misaligned or from frequent starts.
Here’s how to keep heavy-duty starters cranking.
When should I inspect the starter?
Don Jordan, product manager for DENSO, says regular inspections should check starters are properly aligned, clean and connections are tight.
“Regular maintenance should include voltage drop checks, visual inspections and preventive corrosion protection on electrical connections,” says Brian Thompson, North American fleet director for PHINIA. “Other things that can be helpful include ensuring alternators are specified for the application and system needs, using low-voltage disconnect system accessories, and making sure you’re using a high-quality inverter with minimal parasitic draw while not in use. It’s also crucial your battery has a cold-cranking amp and reserve capacity that meets the system needs.”
What are some signs the starter is failing?
Mark Weremy, technical product manager for industrial rotating electric at Terrepower, maker of Wilson starters and alternators, says there are several signs to look for in a failing starter:
- Nothing happens when the truck is started, not even clicking sounds.
- A grinding sound when attempting to start the truck. This may indicate the starter drive gear is not engaged with the flywheel properly.
- Intermittent starting problems.
- Smoke from the starter, which can indicate overheating, worn brushes, an electrical short or excessive resistance.
Weremy says while these may be signs of a failing starter, they also could be indicative of another problem, such as a low battery, corroded or worn cables, heat from overcranking or poor connections that caused a short, or oil or moisture intrusion.
[RELATED: Alternators critical to keeping a truck rolling]
Jordan agrees. If a truck has difficulty starting, he says, the operator should report the problem right away and avoid repeated attempts to start the engine. Overcranking can overheat the starter and cause it to fail or shorten the lifespan of the starter motor.
“When assessing your truck for starter failure symptoms, it’s important to keep an eye out for slow or sluggish cranking, or an absence of clicking or cranking,” Thompson says. “These are usually signs you need to get your vehicle checked out. Technicians will then need to examine if there’s a dilemma with the battery state of charge, starter circuit or cabling and voltage.
He adds, “Keep in mind other systems also can lead to excessive cranking or affect starting, such as fuel systems, air flow systems or even the electronic computer module. A full 360-inspection of the ring gear and flex plate may be warranted if the issue is related to the starter engagement.”
