The starter

The starter

Operation

When operating the starter hand lever through a flexible coupling a lever is operated (see FIG 11:5) which controls the pinion engagement with the flywheel. As the lever completes its movement it closes the starter switch contacts. The starter motor rotates driving the engine through the pinion and ring gear. As soon as the engine fires the starter hand lever must be released which will open the starter switch contacts so stopping the starter motor and the pinion will return under the action of a spring to a neutral position.

Tests for a starter which does not operate

Check the condition of the battery and particularly the connections to the terminals and to earth. If the battery is charged, switch on the lights and operate the starter hand lever control. If the lights go dim but the starter does not operate it shows that current is reaching the starter motor. The probability is that the pinion of the starter shaft is jammed in mesh due to dirty pinion splines or a broken spring. To release the pinion engage a low gear with the ignition switched off and rock the vehicle backwards and forwards which should allow the pinion to be disengaged from the flywheel ring gear. If it proves impossible to free a jammed pinion the starter motor must be removed for examination and repair.

If the lamps do not go dim, check the starter switch and also check the connection between the battery and the starter switch to ensure that they are tight and making good electrical connection. If the starter motor still does not work it should be removed from the power unit for inspection.

Removing the starter

To remove the starter motor from the power unit proceed as follows:

1. Disconnect the positive terminal from the battery post.
2. Release the hand lever control cable from the starter motor engagement lever.
3. Disconnect the battery cable terminal from the starter motor switch.
4. Remove the retaining nuts and washers holding the starter motor to body to the transmission bellhousing and gently ease backwards and lift away the starter motor.