Repair and Diagnosis: Electrical: Starters: Description

Cranking circuit consists of battery, ignition switch, starter/solenoid, clutch start switch (M/T), transaxle position switch (A/T) and related wiring. When the ignition switch is turned to the START position, the starter solenoid windings are energized. This causes the plunger to move the shift lever, which engages the pinion with the engine flywheel ring gear. The movement of the plunger also closes the main contacts, applying battery voltage to the starter.

When the engine starts, the pinion will overrun, protecting the armature from excessive speed and the flywheel from damage. When the ignition switch is released, the plunger return spring disengages the pinion.