lock cylinder housing and is concealed beneath the
steering column shrouds. The molded black plastic
housing for the SKIM has an integral molded plastic
halo-like antenna ring that extends from one end.
When the SKIM is properly installed on the steering
column, the antenna ring is oriented around the cir-
cumference of the ignition lock cylinder housing. A
single integral connector receptacle containing six
terminal pins is located on the opposite end of the
SKIM housing from the antenna ring. A stamped
metal mounting bracket secured to the SKIM hous-
ing has a U-shaped clip formation that is used to
secure the unit to the right lower flange of the steer-
ing column jacket.
The SKIM cannot be adjusted or repaired. If faulty
or damaged, the entire SKIM unit must be replaced.
OPERATION
The Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM) con-
tains a Radio Frequency (RF) transceiver and a
microprocessor. The SKIM transmits RF signals to,
and receives RF signals from the Sentry Key tran-
sponder through a tuned antenna enclosed within the
molded plastic antenna ring integral to the SKIM
housing. If this antenna ring is not mounted properly
around the ignition lock cylinder housing, communi-
cation problems between the SKIM and the transpon-
der may arise. These communication problems will
result in Sentry Key transponder-related faults. The
SKIM also communicates over the Programmable
Communications Interface (PCI) data bus with the
Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the ElectroMe-
chanical Instrument Cluster (EMIC) and/or the
DRBIIItscan tool.The SKIM retains in memory the ID numbers of
any Sentry Key transponder that is programmed into
it. A maximum of eight Sentry Key transponders can
be programmed into the SKIM. For added system
security, each SKIM is programmed with a unique
Secret Key code. This code is stored in memory, sent
over the PCI data bus to the PCM, and is encoded to
the transponder of every Sentry Key that is pro-
grammed into the SKIM. Therefore, the Secret Key
code is a common element that is found in every com-
ponent of the Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS).
Another security code, called a PIN, is used to gain
access to the SKIM Secured Access Mode. The
Secured Access Mode is required during service to
perform the SKIS initialization and Sentry Key tran-
sponder programming procedures. The SKIM also
stores the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) in its
memory, which it learns through a PCI data bus
message from the PCM during SKIS initialization.
In the event that a SKIM replacement is required,
the Secret Key code can be transferred to the new
SKIM from the PCM using the DRBIIItscan tool
and the SKIS initialization procedure. Proper com-
pletion of the SKIS initialization will allow the exist-
ing Sentry Keys to be programmed into the new
SKIM so that new keys will not be required. In the
event that the original Secret Key code cannot be
recovered, SKIM replacement will also require new
Sentry Keys. The DRBIIItscan tool will alert the
technician during the SKIS initialization procedure if
new Sentry Keys are required.
When the ignition switch is turned to the On posi-
tion, the SKIM transmits an RF signal to the tran-
sponder in the ignition key. The SKIM then waits for
an RF signal response from the transponder. If the
response received identifies the key as valid, the
SKIM sends a valid key message to the PCM over
the PCI data bus. If the response received identifies
the key as invalid, or if no response is received from
the key transponder, the SKIM sends an invalid key
message to the PCM. The PCM will enable or disable
engine operation based upon the status of the SKIM
messages. It is important to note that the default
condition in the PCM is an invalid key; therefore, if
no message is received from the SKIM by the PCM,
the engine will be disabled and the vehicle immobi-
lized after two seconds of running.
The SKIM also sends SKIS indicator status mes-
sages to the EMIC over the PCI data bus to tell the
EMIC how to operate the SKIS indicator. This indi-
cator status message tells the EMIC to turn the indi-
cator on for about three seconds each time the
ignition switch is turned to the On position as a bulb
test. After completion of the bulb test, the SKIM
sends indicator status messages to the EMIC to turn
the indicator off, turn the indicator on, or to flash the
Fig. 10 Sentry Key Immobilizer Module
1 - SKIM
2 - BRACKET
3 - CONNECTOR RECEPTACLE
4 - ANTENNA RING
8E - 16 ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULESKJ
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER MODULE (Continued)
indicator on and off. If the SKIS indicator flashes
upon ignition On or stays on solid after the bulb test,
it signifies a SKIS fault. If the SKIM detects a sys-
tem malfunction and/or the SKIS has become inoper-
ative, the SKIS indicator will stay on solid. If the
SKIM detects an invalid key or if a key transponder-
related fault exists, the SKIS indicator will flash. If
the vehicle is equipped with the Customer Learn
transponder programming feature, the SKIM will
also send messages to the EMIC to flash the SKIS
indicator and to generate a single audible chime tone
whenever the Customer Learn programming mode is
being utilized. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/VEHICLE
THEFT SECURITY - STANDARD PROCEDURE -
SENTRY KEY TRANSPONDER PROGRAMMING).
The SKIS performs a self-test each time the igni-
tion switch is turned to the On position, and will
store fault information in the form of Diagnostic
Trouble Codes (DTC's) in SKIM memory if a system
malfunction is detected. The SKIM can be diagnosed,
and any stored DTC's can be retrieved using a
DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnos-
tic information.
REMOVAL
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG,
PASSENGER AIRBAG, SEAT BELT TENSIONER,
FRONT IMPACT SENSORS, SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG,
OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS
OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE
BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN
WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACI-
TOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FUR-
THER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY
SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE
PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCI-
DENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE
PERSONAL INJURY.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) If the vehicle is equipped with the optional tilt
steering column, move the tilt steering column to the
fully lowered position and leave the tilt release lever
in the released (down) position.
(3) From below the steering column, remove the
two screws that secure the lower shroud to the upper
shroud (Fig. 11).
(4) Using hand pressure, push gently inward on
both sides of the upper shroud near the parting line
between the upper and lower shrouds to release thesnap features that secure the two halves to each
other.
(5) Remove both the upper and lower shrouds from
the steering column.
(6) Disconnect the instrument panel wire harness
connector for the SKIM from the module connector
receptacle.
(7) The SKIM mounting bracket features a clip for-
mation that secures the SKIM to the right lower
flange of the steering column jacket. Pull downward
on the connector end of the SKIM mounting bracket
to release this clip from the steering column jacket.
(8) Rotate the SKIM and its mounting bracket
downwards and then to the side away from the steer-
ing column to slide the SKIM antenna ring from
around the ignition switch lock cylinder housing. Lift
the multi-function switch upward off of the upper
steering column housing far enough to remove the
SKIM antenna ring formation from between the igni-
tion key release button and the multi-function switch
housing.
(9) Remove the SKIM from the steering column.
Fig. 11 Sentry Key Immobilizer Module Remove/
Install
1 - UPPER SHROUD
2 - STEERING COLUMN
3 - WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR
4 - SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER MODULE
5 - LOWER SHROUD
6 - SCREW (2)
7 - IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER HOUSING
KJELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES 8E - 17
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER MODULE (Continued)
INSTALLATION
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG,
PASSENGER AIRBAG, SEAT BELT TENSIONER,
FRONT IMPACT SENSORS, SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG,
OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS
OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE
BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN
WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACI-
TOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FUR-
THER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY
SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE
PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCI-
DENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE
PERSONAL INJURY.
(1) Position the Sentry Key Immobilizer Module
(SKIM) to the right side of the steering column (Fig.
11). Lift the multi-function switch upward off of the
upper steering column housing far enough to insert
the SKIM antenna ring formation between the igni-
tion key release button and the multi-function switch
housing.
(2) Slide the SKIM antenna ring around the igni-
tion switch lock cylinder housing, then rotate the
SKIM and its mounting bracket upwards and toward
the steering column.
(3) Align the SKIM mounting bracket clip forma-
tion with the right lower flange of the steering col-
umn jacket and, using hand pressure, push upward
firmly and evenly on the connector end of the SKIM
mounting bracket to engage this clip with the steer-
ing column jacket.
(4) Reconnect the instrument panel wire harness
connector for the SKIM to the module connector
receptacle.
(5) Position both the upper and lower shrouds onto
the steering column.
(6) Align the snap features on the lower shroud
with the receptacles on the upper shroud and apply
hand pressure to snap them together.
(7) From below the steering column, install and
tighten the two screws that secure the lower shroud
to the upper shroud. Tighten the screws to 2 N´m (18
in. lbs.).
(8) If the vehicle is equipped with the optional tilt
steering column, move the tilt steering column to the
fully raised position and secure it in place by moving
the tilt release lever back to the locked (up) position.
(9) Reconnect the battery negative cable.NOTE: If the SKIM has been replaced with a new
unit, the Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS)
MUST be initialized before the vehicle can be oper-
ated. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/VEHICLE THEFT
SECURITY - STANDARD PROCEDURE - SKIS INI-
TIALIZATION).
TRANSMISSION CONTROL
MODULE
DESCRIPTION
The Transmission Control Module (TCM) is located
in the engine compartment on the right (passenger)
side and is mounted to the inner fender (Fig. 12).
OPERATION
The Transmission Control Module (TCM) is the
controlling unit for all electronic operations of the
transmission. The TCM receives information regard-
ing vehicle operation from both direct and indirect
inputs, and selects the operational mode of the trans-
mission. Direct inputs are hardwired to, and used
specifically by the TCM. Indirect inputs originate
from other components/modules, and are shared with
the TCM via the vehicle communication bus.
Some examples ofdirect inputsto the TCM are:
²Battery (B+) voltage
²Ignition ªONº voltage
²Transmission Control Relay (Switched B+)
²Throttle Position Sensor
²Crankshaft Position Sensor
²Transmission Range Sensor
²Pressure Switches
²Transmission Temperature Sensor
²Input Shaft Speed Sensor
Fig. 12 Transmission Control Module Location
1 - Transmission Control Module
8E - 18 ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULESKJ
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER MODULE (Continued)
LOAD TEST TEMPERATURE TABLE
Minimum VoltageTemperature
ÉF ÉC
9.6 volts 70É and above 21É and above
9.5 volts 60É 16É
9.4 volts 50É 10É
9.3 volts 40É 4É
9.1 volts 30É -1É
8.9 volts 20É -7É
8.7 volts 10É -12É
8.5 volts 0É -18É
(7) If the voltmeter reading falls below 9.6 volts, at
a minimum battery temperature of 21É C (70É F), the
battery is faulty and must be replaced.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - IGNITION-OFF
DRAW TEST
The term Ignition-Off Draw (IOD) identifies a nor-
mal condition where power is being drained from the
battery with the ignition switch in the Off position. A
normal vehicle electrical system will draw from five
to thirty-five milliamperes (0.005 to 0.035 ampere)
with the ignition switch in the Off position, and all
non-ignition controlled circuits in proper working
order. Up to thirty-five milliamperes are needed to
enable the memory functions for the Powertrain Con-trol Module (PCM), digital clock, electronically tuned
radio, and other modules which may vary with the
vehicle equipment.
A vehicle that has not been operated for approxi-
mately twenty days, may discharge the battery to an
inadequate level. When a vehicle will not be used for
twenty days or more (stored), remove the IOD fuse
from the Power Distribution Center (PDC). This will
reduce battery discharging.
Excessive IOD can be caused by:
²Electrical items left on.
²Faulty or improperly adjusted switches.
²Faulty or shorted electronic modules and compo-
nents.
²An internally shorted generator.
²Intermittent shorts in the wiring.
If the IOD is over thirty-five milliamperes, the
problem must be found and corrected before replac-
ing a battery. In most cases, the battery can be
charged and returned to service after the excessive
IOD condition has been corrected.
(1) Verify that all electrical accessories are off.
Turn off all lamps, remove the ignition key, and close
all doors. If the vehicle is equipped with an illumi-
nated entry system or an electronically tuned radio,
allow the electronic timer function of these systems
to automatically shut off (time out). This may take
up to three minutes. See the Electronic Module Igni-
tion-Off Draw Table for more information.
ELECTRONIC MODULE IGNITION-OFF DRAW (IOD) TABLE
ModuleTime Out?
(If Yes, Interval And Wake-Up Input)IODIOD After Time
Out
Radio No1to3
milliamperesN/A
Audio Power
AmplifierNoup to 1
milliampereN/A
Body Control Module
(BCM)No4.75
milliamperes
(max.)N/A
Powertrain Control
Module (PCM)No 0.95 milliampere N/A
ElectroMechanical
Instrument Cluster
(EMIC)No 0.44 milliampere N/A
Combination Flasher No 0.08 milliampere N/A
Automatic
Transmission
Controller (EATX)Yes, 20 minutes 120 milliampere 0.70 ma
8F - 14 BATTERY SYSTEMKJ
BATTERY (Continued)
CHARGING SYSTEM
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
CHARGING SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION.........................22
OPERATION...........................22
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - CHARGING
SYSTEM............................22
SPECIFICATIONS
TORQUE - EXCEPT DIESEL.............23
GENERATOR RATINGS - GAS ENGINES . . . 23
SPECIAL TOOLS.......................24
BATTERY TEMPERATURE SENSOR
DESCRIPTION.........................24
OPERATION...........................24
REMOVAL.............................24
INSTALLATION.........................24
GENERATOR
DESCRIPTION.........................25OPERATION...........................25
REMOVAL.............................25
INSTALLATION.........................26
GENERATOR DECOUPLER PULLEY
DESCRIPTION.........................26
OPERATION...........................27
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - GENERATOR
DECOUPLER.........................27
REMOVAL.............................27
INSTALLATION.........................30
VOLTAGE REGULATOR
DESCRIPTION.........................31
OPERATION...........................31
CHARGING SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION
The charging system consists of:
²Generator
²Electronic Voltage Regulator (EVR) circuitry
within the Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
²Ignition switch
²Battery (refer to 8, Battery for information)
²Battery temperature sensor
²Generator Lamp (if equipped)
²Check Gauges Lamp (if equipped)
²Wiring harness and connections (refer to 8, Wir-
ing for information)
OPERATION
The charging system is turned on and off with the
ignition switch. The system is on when the engine is
running and the ASD relay is energized. When the
ASD relay is on, voltage is supplied to the ASD relay
sense circuit at the PCM. This voltage is connected
through the PCM and supplied to one of the genera-
tor field terminals (Gen. Source +) at the back of the
generator.
The amount of DC current produced by the gener-
ator is controlled by the EVR (field control) circuitry
contained within the PCM. This circuitry is con-
nected in series with the second rotor field terminal
and ground.
A battery temperature sensor, located in the bat-
tery tray housing, is used to sense battery tempera-ture. This temperature data, along with data from
monitored line voltage, is used by the PCM to vary
the battery charging rate. This is done by cycling the
ground path to control the strength of the rotor mag-
netic field. The PCM then compensates and regulates
generator current output accordingly.
All vehicles are equipped with On-Board Diagnos-
tics (OBD). All OBD-sensed systems, including EVR
(field control) circuitry, are monitored by the PCM.
Each monitored circuit is assigned a Diagnostic Trou-
ble Code (DTC). The PCM will store a DTC in elec-
tronic memory for certain failures it detects. Refer to
Diagnostic Trouble Codes in; Powertrain Control
Module; Electronic Control Modules for more DTC
information.
The Check Gauges Lamp (if equipped) monitors:
charging system voltage,engine coolant tempera-
ture and engine oil pressure. If an extreme condition
is indicated, the lamp will be illuminated. This is
done as reminder to check the three gauges. The sig-
nal to activate the lamp is sent via the CCD bus cir-
cuits. The lamp is located on the instrument panel.
Refer to 8, Instrument Cluster for additional infor-
mation.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - CHARGING
SYSTEM
The following procedures may be used to diagnose
the charging system if:
²the check gauges lamp (if equipped) is illumi-
nated with the engine running
8F - 22 CHARGING SYSTEMKJ
²the voltmeter (if equipped) does not register
properly
²an undercharged or overcharged battery condi-
tion occurs.
Remember that an undercharged battery is often
caused by:
²accessories being left on with the engine not
running
²a faulty or improperly adjusted switch that
allows a lamp to stay on. Refer to Ignition-Off Draw
Test in 8, Battery for more information.
INSPECTION
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors
critical input and output circuits of the charging sys-
tem, making sure they are operational. A Diagnostic
Trouble Code (DTC) is assigned to each input and
output circuit monitored by the On-Board Diagnostic
(OBD) system. Some charging system circuits are
checked continuously, and some are checked only
under certain conditions.
Refer to Diagnostic Trouble Codes in; Powertrain
Control Module; Electronic Control Modules for more
DTC information. This will include a complete list of
DTC's including DTC's for the charging system.
To perform a complete test of the charging system,
refer to the appropriate Powertrain Diagnostic Proce-
dures service manual and the DRBtscan tool. Per-form the following inspections before attaching the
scan tool.
(1) Inspect the battery condition. Refer to 8, Bat-
tery for procedures.
(2) Inspect condition of battery cable terminals,
battery posts, connections at engine block, starter
solenoid and relay. They should be clean and tight.
Repair as required.
(3) Inspect all fuses in both the fuseblock and
Power Distribution Center (PDC) for tightness in
receptacles. They should be properly installed and
tight. Repair or replace as required.
(4) Inspect generator mounting bolts for tightness.
Replace or tighten bolts if required. Refer to the Gen-
erator Removal/Installation section of this group for
torque specifications.
(5) Inspect generator drive belt condition and ten-
sion. Tighten or replace belt as required. Refer to
Belt Tension Specifications in 7, Cooling System.
(6) Inspect automatic belt tensioner (if equipped).
Refer to 7, Cooling System for information.
(7) Inspect generator electrical connections at gen-
erator field, battery output, and ground terminal (if
equipped). Also check generator ground wire connec-
tion at engine (if equipped). They should all be clean
and tight. Repair as required.
SPECIFICATIONS
TORQUE - EXCEPT DIESEL
DESCRIPTION N-m Ft. Lbs. In. Lbs.
Generator Horizontal Mounting Bolts - 3.7L 57 42 -
Generator Vertical Mounting Bolt - 3.7L 40 29 -
Generator Mounting Bolts - 2.4L 57 42 -
B+ Terminal Nut at Top of Generator 13 - 115
Generator Decoupler 110 81 -
GENERATOR RATINGS - GAS ENGINES
TYPE PART NUMBER RATED SAE AMPS ENGINES MINIMUM TEST AMPS
DENSO 56044530AB 124 2.4L 88
DENSO 56044532AB 136 2.4L 96
DENSO 56041693AA 136 3.7L 96
DENSO 56029914AA 160 3.7L 112
KJCHARGING SYSTEM 8F - 23
CHARGING SYSTEM (Continued)
STARTING SYSTEM
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
STARTING SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION.........................32
OPERATION...........................32
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - STARTING
SYSTEM............................33
INSPECTION - STARTING SYSTEM.........37
SPECIFICATIONS
TORQUE - GAS POWERED.............38
STARTER MOTOR - GAS POWERED......39
STARTER MOTOR
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - STARTER
MOTOR .............................39REMOVAL.............................39
INSTALLATION.........................41
STARTER MOTOR RELAY
DESCRIPTION.........................41
OPERATION...........................42
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING -
STARTER RELAY......................42
REMOVAL.............................43
INSTALLATION.........................43
STARTING SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION
The starting system consists of:
²Starter relay
²Starter motor (including an integral starter sole-
noid)
Other components to be considered as part of start-
ing system are:
²Battery
²Battery cables
²Ignition switch and key lock cylinder
²Clutch pedal position switch (manual transmis-
sion)
²Park/neutral position switch (automatic trans-
mission)
²Wire harnesses and connections.
The Battery, Starting, and Charging systems oper-
ate in conjunction with one another, and must be
tested as a complete system. For correct operation of
starting/charging systems, all components used in
these 3 systems must perform within specifications.
When attempting to diagnose any of these systems, it
is important that you keep their interdependency in
mind.
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.Certain starting system components are monitored
by the PCM and may produce a Diagnostic Trouble
Code (DTC). Refer to Emission Control. See Diagnos-
tic Trouble Codes for additional information and a
list of codes.
OPERATION
The starting system components form two separate
circuits. A high-amperage feed circuit that feeds the
starter motor between 150 and 350 amperes (700
amperes - diesel engine), 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 igni-
tion switch, the clutch pedal position switch (manual
transmission), the park/neutral position switch (auto-
matic transmission), the starter relay, the electro-
magnetic windings of the starter solenoid, and the
connecting wire harness components.
If the vehicle is equipped with a manual transmis-
sion, it has a clutch pedal position switch installed in
series between the ignition switch and the coil bat-
tery terminal of the starter relay. This normally open
switch prevents the starter relay from being ener-
gized when the ignition switch is turned to the
momentary Start position, unless the clutch pedal is
depressed. This feature prevents starter motor oper-
ation while the clutch disc and the flywheel are
engaged. The starter relay coil ground terminal is
always grounded on vehicles with a manual trans-
mission.
8F - 32 STARTING SYSTEMKJ
If the vehicle is equipped with an automatic trans-
mission, battery voltage is supplied through the low-
amperage 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 position 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 manual transmission flywheel or on
the automatic transmission torque converter or
torque converter 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 betweenthe 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 in conjunction with one another, and must be
tested as a complete system. For correct starting/
charging system operation, all of the components
involved in these 3 systems must perform within
specifications.
Starting System Diagnosis
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTION
STARTER FAILS TO
OPERATE.1. Battery discharged or
faulty.1. Refer to Battery. Charge or replace battery, if required.
2. Starting circuit wiring
faulty.2. Refer to 8, Wiring Diagrams. Test and repair starter
feed and/or control circuits, if required.
3. Starter relay faulty. 3. Refer to Starter Relay in Diagnosis and Testing.
Replace starter relay if required.
4. Ignition switch faulty. 4. Refer to Ignition Switch and Key Lock Cylinder.
Replace ignition switch if required.
5. Clutch pedal position
switch faulty.5. Refer to Clutch Pedal Position Switch.
6. Park/Neutral position
switch faulty or
misadjusted.6. Refer to Park/Neutral Position Switch. Replace
park/neutral position switch if required.
7. Starter solenoid faulty. 7. Refer to Starter Motor. Replace starter motor assembly
if required.
8. Starter motor faulty. 8. If all other starting system components and circuits test
OK, replace starter motor.
KJSTARTING SYSTEM 8F - 33
STARTING SYSTEM (Continued)