What is a common test to check the condition of a starter motor?

Testing the voltage drop during cranking is a common and effective method to evaluate the condition of a starter motor. During this test, the technician measures the voltage at the battery terminals while the starter is engaged to see how much voltage is lost through the wiring and connections. A significant voltage drop indicates that there may be poor connections, corroded wiring, or issues with the starter motor itself, which can hinder its ability to function properly.

This method is particularly useful because it assesses the entire starting circuit, including the battery, starter solenoid, and wiring. It ensures that sufficient voltage reaches the starter motor to allow it to turn over the engine effectively. If the voltage drop is excessive, it suggests resistance in the connections or components, indicating that maintenance or repairs may be necessary to ensure reliable starting performance.

Other options like measuring resistance across the battery terminals or inspecting the battery for physical damage are important checks but do not directly assess how the starter motor operates under load conditions. Checking the fuel pump pressure is unrelated to the starting system and focuses on a different aspect of engine performance, thus making it an inappropriate choice for evaluating the starter motor's condition.