Starting System: Description and Operation

The starting system cranks the engine at a speed fast enough to permit the engine to start.
- Heavy cables, connectors and switches are used in the starting system because of the large current required by the starter motor while it is cranking the engine.
- The amount of resistance in the starting circuit must be kept to an absolute minimum to provide maximum current for starter motor operation.
- A discharged or damaged battery, loose or corroded connections or partially broken cables will result in slower-than-normal cranking speeds. These concerns may even prevent the starter motor from cranking the engine.
- In case of starting system difficulty, the operator may have discharged the battery before calling for assistance.
- A road service procedure is to aid the service technician in such cases of a discharged battery.

The starting system consists of:
- The permanent magnet gear-reduction starter motor with a solenoid-actuated drive
- The battery
- A remote control starter switch (part of the ignition switch)
- The transmission range sensor
- The starter solenoid
- Heavy circuit wiring

Sequence of Operation
When the ignition switch is turned to the START position:
- Voltage is provided to the starter solenoid. The starter solenoid is energized directly from the ignition circuitry. A magnetic field is created in the solenoid coil.
- The iron plunger core is drawn into the solenoid coil.
- A lever connected to the starter drive engages the drive pinion gear to the flywheel ring gear.
- When the iron plunger core is all the way into the coil, its contact disc closes the circuit between the battery and the starter motor terminals.
- The current flows to the motor. The starter drive gear cranks the flywheel and the engine crankshaft.
- As current flows to the motor, the solenoid pull-in coil is bypassed.
- The hold-in coil keeps the starter drive engaged with the flywheel.
- he starter drive remains engaged until the ignition switch is released from the START position.