Checking Starter Operation – 2.5L NA

Overview

This procedure helps diagnose issues with the starter on a Porsche 944 (8-valve engine) by testing its operation. It’s crucial for identifying whether the starter, ignition switch, or wiring is causing the engine to not turn over. The guide covers both Pre-85.5 (1983–1985.5) and 85.5 Onwards (1985.5–1988) models, with distinctions noted where applicable.

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Tools Required

• Jack stands
• Floor jack
• Two heavy-gauge jumper wires (minimum 12 gauge, approximately 0.9 meters (3 feet) in length)

Parts Required

• Starter solenoid (bendix), 944 604 103 00 (if replacement is needed)
• Starter assembly, 944 604 101 00 (if full replacement is needed)

Required Additional Procedures

Steps in these procedures are required to complete this process:

• Battery Testing
• Starter Removal

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Verify Battery Condition

1. Before testing the starter, ensure the battery is fully charged and operational.

For Pre-85.5 models:
Follow this link to ensure this step – Battery Testing – of the process is followed accurately.

For 85.5 Onwards models:
Follow this link to ensure this step – Battery Testing – of the process is followed accurately.

2. If the battery tests good, proceed to the next step. If not, charge or replace the battery before continuing.

Step 2: Prepare the Vehicle

3. Raise the vehicle using a floor jack and secure it on jack stands to ensure safe access to the starter, located near the transmission.
4. Verify that the transmission is in neutral (manual) or park (automatic) to prevent the vehicle from moving during testing.

Step 3: Set Up Jumper Wires

5. Prepare two heavy-gauge jumper wires, each approximately 0.9 meters (3 feet) long, with a minimum thickness of 12 gauge.
6. Locate the starter solenoid, mounted on the starter assembly beneath the vehicle.
7. Connect one jumper wire to the small terminal on the starter solenoid. This terminal is separate from the one connected to the starter motor.
8. Connect the second jumper wire to the large positive terminal on the starter, which is directly linked to the battery’s positive terminal.
9. Ensure the loose ends of both jumper wires do not touch any metal surfaces on the vehicle to avoid short circuits.

Step 4: Test the Starter

10. Move to a safe position away from the vehicle, ensuring you are not underneath it or touching any metal parts.
11. Momentarily touch the loose ends of the two jumper wires together to activate the starter.

Caution: The engine may turn during this test. Do not perform this step while under the vehicle.

12. Observe the starter’s operation:

If the starter turns normally, the issue lies with the ignition switch or the wiring between the ignition switch and the starter. Consult a professional or refer to wiring diagrams for further diagnosis.
If the starter does not turn, the starter itself is likely faulty and requires further testing or replacement.

Step 5: Address a Faulty Starter

13. If the starter does not operate, remove it from the vehicle for further testing.

For Pre-85.5 models:
Follow this link to ensure this step – Starter Removal – of the process is followed accurately.

For 85.5 Onwards models:
Follow this link to ensure this step – Starter Removal – of the process is followed accurately.

14. Take the starter to an auto parts store or service center for bench testing.
15. If the starter solenoid (bendix), 944 604 103 00, is faulty, replace it. Alternatively, consider replacing the entire starter assembly, 944 604 101 00, as the cost difference may be minimal.

Post Procedure Checklist

• Verify that the starter operates correctly after testing or replacement.
• Check all connections to ensure they are secure and free of corrosion.
• Confirm the vehicle starts reliably when using the ignition key.
• Inspect for any loose tools or parts under the vehicle before lowering it from the jack stands.

Sources

• Clark’s Garage
• Pelican Parts
• Porsche 944 Workshop Manuals
• YouTube