Heavy Duty Alternator

While cranking problems can be frustrating, identifying and correcting the root cause does not have to be. The first step is to identify the symptoms. In a cranking system, you can divide your symptoms into one of three possible troubleshooting categories: 1. Slow Crank: The starter will crank; however, the engine RPM is slow to start the vehicle. 2. Click No-Crank: The solenoid clicks but the starter doesn’t crank. 3. No-Click No-Crank: The solenoid doesn’t click, and the starter doesn’t crank. In this Tech Tip video, we review the steps you need to follow to identify and then fix your cranking problem.

A starter engagement system is responsible for engaging the pinion with the ring gear, keeping the pinion engaged while cranking, and disengaging the pinion after the engine starts. There are three different types of starter engagement systems that can be used in vehicles: positive shift, soft start, and indexing drive. In this tech tip video, we walk through how each works, as well as where it's most likely to be used.

Liftgates are an important tool on many trucks and trailers—however, they can quickly deplete the batteries used to operate them.Like other components, a liftgate adds to a truck’s electrical load. If the alternator is not equipped to handle the load, it can result in several issues, including: low battery state of charge, reduced battery life, poor liftgate operation, and possible starting issues. In this video, we review tips you should consider when selecting an alternator for your vehicle.

No one likes having to file a warranty claim, so we’ve done our best to make it fast and easy—and that starts with helping you understand what’s covered and what’s not. In this video we cover the top 3 claims not covered by warranty: 1. Trouble Not Found 2. Prolonged Power Applied/Extended Abutment 3. External Circuit Control Issues

If you are unfamiliar with the IMS, you may try to remove it—not realizing its many benefits. Many of the Delco Remy brand starters come equipped with an Integrated Magnetic Switch, or IMS. The IMS provides a higher current draw for the motor. It does this by reducing voltage drop and controlling battery current. This ensures the solenoid receives the maximum available voltage in any starting condition. If you are unfamiliar with the IMS, you may try to remove it—not realizing its many benefits. However, doing so would result in significant control circuit problems. It will also void your warranty. If an IMS is part of your gear reduction starter, you should never remove, bypass or uninstall it. This video provides two options for you to consider.

In this Tech Tip Video, we explain why you can replace a starter with an offset pinion with one that is centered. Despite the new starter having a different pinion size, tooth count and placement it may still be able to be used. Starters are designed to match the engine ring gear for proper mesh and performance. Most starters—including Delco Remy branded starters—have a centered pinion. However, some manufacturers use an offset pinion. If the old starter’s pinion is offset and the new one is centered, you will notice the pinion on the new starter is larger in size. The larger pinion is needed in order for the pinion to reach the ring gear when it is centered. Additionally, you’ll likely notice a higher tooth count. An offset pinion, on the other hand, has a smaller pinion size. So, in order for it to reach the ring gear, the pinion is offset and moved closer to the ring gear. Frequently, an offset pinion will have fewer teeth.

Some of our newer all-makes starter models have larger mounting holes—this makes them more versatile as they are able to fit engines with either size bolt. The mounting holes on newer models are five-eighths of an inch. That’s slightly larger in diameter than the nine-sixteenths of an inch on the older models. That difference, though, doesn’t limit if and where you can use the starter. The solution to accommodate the larger holes is quite simple and inexpensive. All you need are flat washers. We recommend a grade 5 or better washer for each of the mounting holes. This flat washer accommodates the change in bolt hole size without needing anything more.

If you service newer trucks, you may have come across ones equipped with a dual input IMS starter. It is important to be aware of it so you can understand how it’s different so you can service it correctly. The dual input IMS starter has two wiring connection inputs, rather than one. These inputs provide both power (+12V) and ground. Together, they give the vehicle control over the power flowing in and out of the IMS when it is energized. This Tech Tip video reviews the differences between a dual input and single input IMS starter.

When there are starter issues, you may think about doing a current draw test to pinpoint the issue. Yet, on a class 8 truck, a current draw test may not reveal what you need to know to fix your cranking problem. Plus, on these vehicles, a current draw test is more involved and time-intensive. And perhaps most frustrating—you often don’t get an accurate reading. That’s why the BorgWarner technical team recommends another diagnostic route to identify the issue and fix the cranking problem.