Circuit Diagnosis - Cranking Circuit

Before removing any unit in a cranking circuit for repair, the following checks should be made:

Battery - Refer to Battery to determine battery condition.Battery
Wiring - Inspect the wiring for damage. Inspect all connections to the starter motor, solenoid, ignition switch, battery and all ground connections. Clean and tighten all connections, as required.
Electrical System General Diagnosis - Refer to Engine will not Crank Testing and Inspection
Starter Solenoid and Ignition Switch - Inspect to determine their condition.
Starter Motor Noise (L36 and L67) - To correct starter motor noise during starting, use the following procedure:
1. Refer to Starter Motor Noise Diagnosis Chart to determine the problem. Testing and Inspection
2. When starter motor noise diagnosis indicates that the pinion should be closer to the flywheel, check to make sure the proper starter motor was installed. When initial starter motor installation is performed, shim(s) are not used.
3. When starter motor noise diagnosis indicates that the pinion should be moved away from the flywheel, add 0.015 inch double shims until noise disappears (do not exceed 0.045 inches).

CAUTION: Never operate the starter motor more than 30 seconds at a time without pausing to allow it to cool for at least 2 minutes. Overheating, caused by excessive cranking, seriously damages the starter motor.