Engine Starting System - General Information

The engine starting system consists of the battery, starter motor, starter magnetic switch (solenoid), ignition switch, starter lock switch (A/T models only), wiring harness, and battery cables.

When the ignition key is turned to the "START" position, current flows through the pull-in coil of the starter magnetic switch. The plunger moves the shift lever (fork), which engages the pinion gear (with overrunning clutch) with the ring gear of the flywheel (or torque converter of the A/T). At the same time, the plunger movement closes the contacts and the starter begins cranking the engine crankshaft.

To prevent starter damage caused by high armature speed after the engine starts, the starter overrunning clutch disengages the pinion gear.