03DelcoRemy Diagnostic Manual130004222020

Page 14 3-10. BATTERY CABLE TEST WITH DUAL-BATTERY LOCATIONS (SEE FIGURE 3-4) This test applies if the vehicle has more than one battery location and the batteries are connected to the starter by separate cables. Essentially, this is the same as the previous test with a single battery location (paragraphs 3-7 through 3-9) except as follows: 3-11. TEST PROCEDURE (See Figure 3-4). NOTE If the system usually operates on 24-volts, connect one battery at each location to the starting motor, making a temporary 12- volt system. 1. Disconnect batteries from first set. 2. Test second set cables as described in paragraph 3-8 except apply 250 amp load at starter (125 amp for 24-volt system). 3. Use same voltage drop or loss limits as specified in paragraph 3-8. 4. Reconnect first set of batteries and disconnect second set. 5. Repeat steps 2 and 3 for first set of cables. 6. Replace cables or repair circuits with excessive voltage drop. 3-12. TEST COMPLETION. If temporary 12-volt test connections were made for 24-volt system, reconnect batteries to vehicle specifications for 24-volt operation before starting vehicle. However, if the tests following are to be performed, keep the temporary 12-volt hook-up. CARBON PILE POSITIVE VOLTAGE LOSS NEGATIVE VOLTAGE LOSS FIRST SET SECOND SET FIGURE 3-4. Battery Cable Test - Typical Dual Box 12-Volt System 3-13. STARTER SOLENOID CIRCUIT TEST The starter shifting in and out, or not pulling in, is often caused by high resistance in the starter solenoid circuit. When the solenoid circuit has excessive voltage loss, the starter pinion may not engage the flywheel. If it does engage, it may drop out too soon when battery voltage lowers. The solenoid circuit usually consists of a magnetic switch with leads to and from the starter solenoid. Some vehicles use only a push-button switch to control the starter solenoid and this same test applies.