Starting System: Description
All models are equipped with Delco-Remy starters. When the ignition switch is turned to the START position, the Delco-Remy starter solenoid windings are energized. This causes the solenoid plunger to move the shift lever, which engages the pinion with the engine flywheel ring gear. The movement of the plunger also closes the main solenoid contacts, applying battery voltage to the starter motor. See Fig 1 .
When the engine starts, the pinion will overrun, protecting the armature from excessive speed and the flywheel from damage. When the ignition switch is released, the plunger return spring disengages the pinion.
All Cadillacs have a starter inhibit function that prevents engagement of the starter once the engine is running. The PCM checks for an engine RPM signal greater than engine cranking speed. Once the engine is running, the Pass-Key(R) decoder module provides the starter inhibit signal to the PCM, the relay control is prevented from closing and ignition key input is ignored.