MicroVAT™
To avoid unwanted resetting of vehicle electronic
X
systems caused by removal of the battery, use a
Computer Memory Saver, part number YA960 or
YA961. These devices plug into the cigarette lighter
and maintain computer and electronic system
memories while batteries are disconnected.
Problems in other systems can cause no or slow
X
cranking, such as:
— Internal engine defects such as tight bearings,
— Overheated engine,
— Liquid in cylinders causing hydrostatic lock,
— Extremely cold temperatures,
— Oil viscosity very high or low,
— Higher compression due to excessive carbon
deposits,
— Incorrect ignition or diesel injection timing, or
— Alternator, A/C compressor, or other motor driven
component seized, etc.
If the starter spins but does not crank engine, remove
X
starter and inspect starter drive and flywheel. Check
for proper starter drive pinion clearance per
manufacturer's specifications.
If starter is noisy, check for loose, worn or misaligned
X
starter components or flywheel. On starters with
adjustable pinion clearance, check and adjust, if
necessary.
Run engine and listen for abnormal sounds that could
X
be caused by internal alternator problems, belt
problems, damaged alternator fan, misaligned pulley,
etc. Repair or replace malfunctioning components as
required.
Check dashboard charging system lamp, or gauge if
X
vehicle is so equipped, for indication of charging
system malfunction.
Diesel Testing Tips
If two batteries are wired in parallel, disconnect one
X
battery before performing a BATTERY LOAD TEST.
Connect MicroVAT to battery closest to starter when
X
conducting a STARTER SYSTEM TEST or closest to
alternator when conducting a CHARGING SYSTEM
TEST.
E-8
Visual Inspection
Before conducting any tests, perform a visual inspection
of the vehicle's battery, starter, charging systems,
related components and wiring. Repair or replace
components as required. Check for the following:
• Correct battery part number – size must meet
minimum capacity requirements for vehicle,
• Cracked case,
• Cracked cell cover,
• Defective sealing of case to cell cover,
• Corroded cell connector(s) or terminals,
• Loose or over-tightened battery hold-down causing
internal battery breakdown,
• Dirt or conductive acid on battery top,
• Improper electrolyte level,
• Frozen electrolyte or damage from freezing,
• Frayed, broken, melted or damaged electrical cables
or wiring,
• Loose starter motor, switch, solenoid, relay, etc.
• Loose, overtight, frayed, stretched, glazed, oily, or
improper alternator belt,
• Loose alternator mounting bolts,
• Damaged external alternator or generator fan,
• Corroded or loose electrical connections, or
• Improperly grounded voltage regulator.
Key Terms
Use the following definitions for a description of the
buttons functionality.
ON / RESET Button
Turns MicroVAT tester ON or immediately stops any test
in progress and resets the tester.
Y (YES) Button
Advances menu selections forward, allows test results to
print following a test sequence, and zeros amp probe
when in Digital Multimeter mode.
N (NO) Button
Exits screen or test and returns to the last screen.
(MORE)
Indicates to use scrollwheel to obtain additional test
results.