Starting System: Description and Operation

ENERGIZING STARTER CIRCUIT
In the basic circuit, the STARTER SOLENOID windings are energized when the IGNITION SWITCH is turned to "START" and the CLUTCH START SWITCH (Manual Transaxle) or the SHIFT LEVER BACKUP AND NEUTRAL SAFETY SWITCH (Automatic Transaxle) is closed.

CLUTCH START SWITCH
The CLUTCH START SWITCH provides voltage to the STARTER SOLENOID windings when the clutch pedal is depressed.

CONTINUITY SWITCHES
The SHIFT LEVER BACKUP AND NEUTRAL SAFETY SWITCH provides voltage to the STARTER SOLENOID windings when the manual selector is in the "P" or "N" position.

STARTER OPERATION
The resulting PLUNGER and SHIFT LEVER movement causes the DRIVE PINION to engage the FLYWHEEL ring gear. This movement also causes the STARTER SOLENOID contacts to close. With the contacts closed, the STARTER SOLENOID provides a closed circuit between the positive (+) BATTERY terminal and the STARTER assembly. Because the STARTER assembly is permanently grounded to the engine block, the circuit is complete and cranking occurs as soon as the STARTER SOLENOID contacts close.

AFTER ENGINE STARTS
When the engine starts, the drive assembly is designed to overrun and protect the armature from excessive speed until the IGNITION SWITCH is released from the "START" position. With the IGNITION SWITCH released, voltage is removed from the STARTER SOLENOID, and the windings de-energize. When the solenoid de-energizes, the return spring in the STARTER SOLENOID forces the contacts open, breaks the circuit between the BATTERY and the STARTER SOLENOID, and disengages the DRIVE ASSEMBLY.