What does an amp inductive pickup measure during a starter current draw test?

An amp inductive pickup is a tool used to measure current, specifically the flow of electric current through a conductor, without the need for direct electrical contact. During a starter current draw test, the inductive pickup is placed around the positive battery cable or the starter motor cable to measure the amount of current being drawn by the starter motor when it is activated.

When the starter motor engages, it requires a significant amount of current, and the amp inductive pickup accurately captures this draw. This measurement is essential for diagnosing the health of the starter motor and the entire starting system. By measuring the starter current draw specifically, you can determine if the starter is functioning correctly and whether there is an appropriate power supply from the battery.

This tool does not measure components like the alternator output, which is related to how the alternator charges the battery when the engine runs, nor does it measure the voltage levels directly from the starter motor or the overall battery. Instead, it focuses specifically on the inductive current flowing through the wire during the starting process, allowing technicians to assess the performance of the starter system more effectively.