Starting System: Description and Operation

Fig. 1 Disassembled View Of Direct Drive Type Starter. Except Precis:

Fig. 2 Disassembled View Of Reduction Drive Type Starter:

Fig. Disassembled View Of Direct Drive Type Starter. Precis:

The starting system includes a battery, starter motor, magnet switch, ignition switch, inhibitor switch (on models w/automatic transmission), starter or inhibitor relays, connecting wires and battery cables.
When the ignition switch in turned to the Start position, current flows to energize the solenoid windings of the starter motor. As a result, the solenoid plunger and clutch shift lever (on reduction drive units) operates to cause the clutch pinion to engage with the flywheel ring gear, Figs. 1 through 3. At the same time, the magnet switch contacts close to energize the starter motor windings.
The overrunning running clutch pinion gear prevents damage that could be caused by overrunning the starter armature when the engine is started. When the engine is started, the ignition switch must be turned back to the On position to prevent damage to the starter motor or ring gear.