Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview

1. Verity the customer's concern by operating the starting system to duplicate the condition.

WARNING
^ WHEN SERVICING STARTER MOTOR OR PERFORMING OTHER UNDERHOOD WORK IN THE VICINITY OF THE STARTER MOTOR, BE AWARE THAT THE HEAVY GAUGE BATTERY INPUT LEAD AT THE STARTER SOLENOID IS "ELECTRICALLY HOT" AT ALL TIMES. A PROTECTIVE CAP OR BOOT IS PROVIDED OVER THIS TERMINAL THAT MUST BE REPLACED AFTER SERVICING. BE SURE TO DISCONNECT BATTERY NEGATIVE CABLE BEFORE SERVICING STARTER.
^ WHEN WORKING IN AREA OF THE STARTER MOTOR, BE CAREFUL TO AVOID TOUCHING HOT EXHAUST COMPONENTS.

CAUTION: When disconnecting the plastic hardshell connector at the starter solenoid S terminal, grasp the plastic connector and pull lead off. Do not pull separately on lead wire.

2. Inspect to determine if any of the following mechanical or electrical concerns apply:

VISUAL INSPECTION CHART

Mechanical
^ Starter motor mounting misaligned.
^ Flywheel ring gear tooth damage.

Electrical
^ Connections loose, damaged or shorting.
^ Damaged battery.

3. If inspection reveals obvious concern(s) that can be readily identified, service as required.
4. If the concerns remain after the inspection, determine the symptoms and Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures