Description

In the basic circuit, the STARTER SOLENOID windings are energized when the IGNITION SWITCH is turned to "START" and the CLUTCH START SWITCH/NEUTRAL START SWITCH is closed. The CLUTCH START SWITCH, installed on manual transaxle equipped vehicles, provides a ground for the Starter Relay coil when the clutch pedal is depressed. With the coil grounded, and the IGNITION SWITCH in "START," the Starter Relay is energized and BATTERY voltage is applied to the STARTER SOLENOID windings. The NEUTRAL START SWITCH, installed on automatic transaxle equipped vehicles, provides voltage to the STARTER windings when the manual selector is in the "P" or "N" position. With the IGNITION SWITCH in "START," BATTERY voltage is applied to the STARTER SOLENOID windings. The resulting PLUNGER and SHIFT LEVER movement causes the DRIVE PINION to engage the engine 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. 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, a 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.