Starter Inner Parts Inspection: Armature

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 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 a tester.
- If there is continuity, replace the armature.
  
  Fig 1: Inspecting Starter Inner Parts
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Verify that there is no continuity between the commutator and the shaft using a tester.
- If there is continuity, replace the armature.
  
  Fig 2: Checking Continuity Between Commutator And Shaft
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Place the armature on V-blocks, and measure the runout using a dial indicator.
- If not within the specification, replace the armature.
  Starter armature runout
  
  0.05 mm {0.002 in} max.
  
  Fig 3: Measuring Starter Armature Runout
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Measure the commutator diameter.
- If not within the minimum specification, replace the armature.
  Starter commutator diameter
  
  Standard: 29.4 mm {1.16 in}
  
  Minimum: 28.8 mm {1.13 in}
  
  Fig 4: Measuring Commutator Diameter
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Measure the segment groove depth of the commutator.
- If not within the minimum specification, undercut the grooves to the standard depth.
  Segment groove depth of starter commutator
  
  Standard: 0.4-0.6 mm {0.016-0.023 in}
  
  Minimum: 0.2 mm {0.008 in}
  
  Fig 5: Measuring Segment Groove Depth Of Commutator
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.