how do i test for a bad starter?

Try turning the headlights on, then operating the starter. If the lights go dim, the battery is not good enough - starters pull a very large current. Another thing to check are the battery & starter connection after operating the starter & if any of them warm up, there will be high resistance there , even if they are tight, in which case dismantle & clean the parts - after disconnecting the battery. Hope this helps !

davidj
October 2011