Starter

The starter is an important device which turns the crankshaft in order to start the engine. The process is started with a push of a start button or turn of the car key. Before, engines were started in many ways using different techniques that include the most common ones like hand-crank and an electric starter motor.

Hand-crank method

The hand-crank method was used in older vehicles, but it was very difficult and dangerous to the user. All engines don't act the same when it comes to starting up, there can be a misfire or reverse rotation causing a jerking motion. Safety was in question and that was when the electric starter motor was introduced but it didn't have that sharpness that was needed.

Electric starter motor

Also known as the cranking motor it is the most common used on engines that run on gasoline or diesel. Modern vehicles have a starter motor that is accompanied by magnets or a direct current electric motor to turn on. When DC power is applied to the solenoid the lever is engaged which forces out the drive pinion onto the driveshaft.

Common issues with an electric starter motor

A faulty electric starter motor can die on the user instantly with no warning. Noises such as clicking and grinding will be present, and the battery will be weak.