How Many Amps Does a Semi Truck Starter Draw?

Truck starters are an important component of any vehicle, but they are especially important to semi trucks. Semi truck starters must draw enough power to start the large diesel engines of these vehicles. Knowing how many amps a semi truck starter draws is important for diagnosing problems with the starter or for choosing a replacement starter.

What Is An Amp?

An amp (abbreviated from ampere) is a unit of electric current. It is used to measure the rate of flow of electricity in a circuit. Electric current is measured in volts, so amps and volts are often used together to measure the power being delivered.

How Many Amps Does A Semi Truck Starter Draw?

The exact amount of amps that a semi truck starter draws varies depending on the type and size of engine it is powering. However, most semi truck starters draw anywhere between 160-250 amps when cranking the engine. This means that it takes a powerful electric current to start these large diesel engines.

Testing The Starter

If you want to test your semi truck starter, you will need an amp meter or clamp-on ammeter. This device can measure the amount of current that is flowing through your circuit. To use it, connect one end to your battery and one end to the terminal on your starter motor.

When you turn on the ignition switch, you should see an amp reading that falls within the range above.

Conclusion

In conclusion, semi truck starters draw anywhere from 160-250 amps when cranking their large diesel engines. This amount of electric current is necessary for starting these powerful engines reliably and safely. Knowing how many amps your semi truck starter draws can help you diagnose problems with it or choose a suitable replacement starter.

Photo of author

James Gardner