D4-300 starting

[bill46]

Does anyone know the D4-300 starting current?
Mine on R32CB shows over 500 A.
Bill

 

[Wee Venture]

The starter motor is 3.6 kw for the Volvo Penta D4. At 12V that would translate to 300 amps. However, when you first crank the engine the momentary draw is higher (and the momentary voltage lower). If you pull the voltage down to 7 volts you can momentarily get over a 500 amp draw. If the voltage remains below 12 volts while you are cranking, as it often does, your draw will remain greater than 300 amps. Disclaimer: I am speaking theoretically as I understand it, I have not measured it myself. It would be interesting to note your voltage at the moment that you see the 500 amp draw.

 

[bill46]

Measured 10.5 volts during starting.

 

[Wee Venture]

500+ amps at 10.5V seems excessive to me. A 3.6KW starter motor should theoretically draw about 350 amps at 10.5V. Maybe I’ll get my clamp meter out and measure mine. Is the starter OEM? Is it possible to read the nameplate and see the listed wattage? Has the starter had performance issues or did you just check the amp draw for other reasons? Maybe now that we’re past the holidays, someone from the factory will be able to provide some insight.

 

[BB marine]

500 amps seems a bit high to start a 3.7L diesel (4cyl) but not out of the question. If the starter is rated at 3.6W @ 12V the amperage draw at a steady loaded state should around 300amps. The amp draw at initial starter engagement can be double that. If there is no noticeable changes and your engine start up is normal I not worry about the initial draw of 500amps. The battery that was installed from the Ranger factory starting battery is 840 CCA or 1050 MCA which will provide able power for the initial 500 amp draw.