Starting System: Description and Operation

STARTER SYSTEM
The function of the starting system is to crank 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 amount of current required by the starter motor while it is cranking the engine.

The starter system includes the following components:
^ Starter motor
^ Ignition switch
^ Battery
^ Transmission Range (TR) sensor
^ Starter motor solenoid relay switch

The amount of resistance in the starting circuit must be kept to an absolute minimum to provide maximum current for proper operation. A discharged or damaged battery, loose or corroded connections, or partially broken cables will result in slower than normal cranking speeds, or prevent the starter motor from cranking the engine.

Sequence of Operation
When the ignition switch is turned to the START position:
^ A fender mounted starter motor solenoid relay switch is energized, which provides voltage to the starter solenoid. The starter solenoid is energized, creating a magnetic field in the starter solenoid.
^ The iron plunger core is drawn into the starter 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 terminals of the starter motor.
^ The current flows to the starter motor, and the starter drive cranks the flywheel ring gear and the crankshaft.
^ As current flows to the starter motor, the pull-in coil of the starter solenoid is bypassed.
^ The hold-in coil keeps the starter drive engaged with the flywheel ring gear.
^ The starter drive remains engaged until the ignition switch is released from the START position.