Starter Inner Parts Inspection: Armature

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mazda 6. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Verify that there is no continuity between the commutator and the core at each segment using an ohmmeter.
- If there is continuity, replace the armature.
  
  Fig 1: Verifying There Is No Continuity Between Commutator And Core At Each Segment Using Ohmmeter
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Verify that there is no continuity between the commutator and the shaft using an ohmmeter.
- If there is continuity, replace the armature.
  
  Fig 2: Verifying There Is No Continuity Between Commutator And Shaft Using Ohmmeter
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Place the armature on V-blocks, and measure the runout using a dial indicator.
Maximum runout

0.05 mm {0.002 in}

Fig 3: Measuring Runout Using Dial Indicator
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Measure the commutator diameter.
- If it is less than the minimum specification, replace the armature.
  Standard commutator diameter
  
  29.4 mm {1.16 in}
  
  Minimum commutator diameter
  
  28.8 mm {1.13 in}
  
  Fig 4: Measuring Commutator Diameter
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Measure the segment groove depth of commutator.
- If it is less than the minimum specification, undercut the grooves to the standard depth.
  Standard depth
  
  0.4-0.6 mm {0.016-0.023 In}
  
  Minimum depth
  
  0.2 mm {0.008 in}
  
  Fig 5: Measuring Segment Groove Depth Of Commutator
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.