When you turn the key in the switch (castle) ignition to position «D» voltage from the battery is applied to the retracting and holding windings of the traction relay, as a result, the drive lever moves and the starter gear engages with the gear rim of the engine flywheel. At the same time, the armature of the traction relay closes the power contacts (at this moment, the retracting winding is turned off), and the starter motor is powered by the battery. The starter armature rotates the engine crankshaft through the freewheel. After starting the engine, when the gear speed exceeds the speed of the starter shaft, the freewheel is released and slips, thereby protecting the starter from high speed and damage.
Note. In order to avoid many starter malfunctions, follow a number of simple rules when operating it:
- - when starting the engine, turn on the starter for no more than 10–15 s and again after 20–30 s. Continuous operation of the starter for a long time may cause overheating. If after three attempts the engine does not start, then check and eliminate malfunctions in the engine power supply system or in the ignition system;
- - after starting the engine, immediately turn off the starter, as long-term rotation of the drive gear by the flywheel can damage the starter freewheel;
- - it is not allowed to move the car with the help of a starter, as this causes its significant overload and damage.