Starting System: Description and Operation

Fig.1 Starter Location:

STARTING SYSTEM
The starting system has:
- Ignition switch
- Starter relay
- Powertrain Control Module (PCM) for double start over ride
- Wiring harness
- Battery
- Starter motor with an integral solenoid

These components form two separate circuits. A high amperage circuit that feeds the starter motor up to 300+ amps, and a control circuit that operates on less than 20 amps.
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) controls a double start over ride safety that does not allow the starter to be engaged if the engine is already running.

STARTER MOTOR
The Starter Motor is a permanent magnet starter motor. It uses an integral non-serviceable solenoid. It is attached to the front side of the engine bolted to the bell housing.

When the starter relay is energized, the solenoid contacts close. A planetary gear train transmits power between starter motor and pinion shaft. The fields have permanent magnets.

STARTER RELAY
The Starter Relay is a micro relay located in the Power Distribution Center (PDC), positioned in the left side of the engine compartment.

As battery power is applied to the relay from the ignition switch, battery power is applied to the starter motor through the relay to the starter solenoid.

The starter relay ground is provided by the PCM. when the park/neutral switch contacts are closed, indicating Park or Neutral, the PCM will supply the ground path for the starter relay at key ON. This will occur if the engine RPM is below a predetermined value.

FEED CIRCUIT AND CONTROL CIRCUIT
The Starting System has:
- Ignition Switch
- Starter Relay
- Park/Neutral Starting Back-Up Lamp Switch (automatic)
- Clutch Interlock/Upstop Switch (manual)
- Powertrain Control Module (PCM) for Double Start Override
- Wiring Harness
- Battery
- Starter Motor with an integral solenoid

These components form two separate circuits. A high amperage Feed Circuit that feeds the starter motor up to 300+ amps, and a Control Circuit that operates on less than 20 amps.

The PCM controls a double start override safety that does not allow the starter to be engaged if the engine is already running (above 200 rpm).