Starting System: Description and Operation

2006 Chevrolet Optra (CANADA) L4-2.0LSECTION Description and Operation



Starting System Description and Operation

Starter

Wound field starter motors have pole pieces, arranged around the armature, which are energized by wound field coils.

Enclosed shift lever cranking motors have the shift lever mechanism and the solenoid plunger enclosed in the drive housing, protecting them from exposure to dirt, icy conditions, and splashes.

In the basic circuit, solenoid windings are energized when the switch is closed. The resulting plunger and shift lever movement causes the pinion to engage the engine flywheel ring gear. The solenoid main contacts close. Cranking then takes place.

When the engine starts, pinion overrun protects the armature from excessive speed until the switch is opened, at which time the return spring causes the pinion to disengage. To prevent excessive overrun, the switch should be released immediately after the engine starts.

Starting System

The engine electrical system includes the following components:

* The battery
* The ignition
* The starter
* The generator
* All of the related wiring

Diagnostic tables will aid in troubleshooting system faults. When a fault is traced to a particular component, refer to that component section of the service manual.

The starting system circuit consists of the following components:

* The battery
* The starter motor
* The ignition switch
* All of the related electrical wiring

All of these components are connected electrically.

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.