Repair and Diagnosis: Electrical: Starter: Description

Cranking system consists of battery, starter motor, ignition switch, starter relay and related wiring. When ignition switch is turned to the START position, starter solenoid windings are energized. This causes plunger to move pinion drive lever, which engages pinion with engine flywheel ring gear. Movement of plunger also closes main contacts, applying battery voltage to starter motor.

When engine starts, pinion will overrun, protecting armature from excessive speed and flywheel damage. When ignition switch is released, plunger return spring disengages the pinion.