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Car starter. What kind of part is a starter in a car? Purpose of the device and principle of operation of the car starter

The operating condition of the starter device ensures the correct activation of the vehicle's power unit. To eliminate problems with starting the engine, you need to know the principle of operation of the starter.

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Car starter and its functions

The device is a four-band electric motor, made in a small-sized housing. The starter is used to turn the engine crankshaft, which ensures the start of the power unit. To start most machine motors, mechanisms are used that produce about 3 kW of energy.

The starting current is generated by the mechanism and contributes to the rotation of the crankshaft. The amount of current is important for the mechanism, since it significantly determines the efficiency of the unit. Power is supplied from a battery located under the hood. When voltage is applied to the unit, the starter automatically increases power, which is facilitated by the brushes of the device.

Starter device

Below we will consider the structure and types of mechanisms.

Diagram and main components

Ignition system diagram

How the node works:

1. The housing in which the entire structure is assembled. Depending on the type of device, it can have a different shape, but usually the mechanisms are made in the form of cylinders. The housing may include a core equipped with windings.
2. Anchor. This component is made in the form of a special shaft and is equipped with seating surfaces for installing bearing parts. These constituent elements are usually made of steel. In the center of the anchor device there is a core equipped with collector plates.
3. Front cover. It is used to cover all structural elements from external influences.
4. A relay called a solenoid relay. This component is used to supply voltage to the winding of the mechanism. Through the action of the relay, the overrunning clutch is pushed out of its seat. The element must be equipped with contact components and a jumper.
5. Bendix. It is considered one of the main components. Used to supply torque to the flywheel of the power unit. As a result, the gears move out of mesh after the engine is started.
6. Brush holder. Brush elements are used to transfer voltage to the armature device, in particular to its plates. Thanks to the brush holder, you can increase the power of the electric motor as a whole. This is especially true when starting the engine.
7. Rotor component. The rotor axis rotates on bearing sliding devices. These elements wear out over time, so they must be replaced periodically. Due to wear, the voltage passing through the windings is not converted into mechanical energy. If the bearings fail, the driver may hear extraneous sounds that are not characteristic of the proper functioning of the unit.
8. Button for activating and deactivating the ignition. This element is included in the device if the car is equipped with a button to start the power unit without a key.

Kinds

Let's briefly look at the types of knots.

With gearbox

Starters with gearboxes are preferred by many car enthusiasts. The presence of a gearbox ensures less current consumption by the starter device when starting the machine engine. It is noteworthy that the gear mechanisms ensure efficient rotation of the crankshaft even when the battery is dead. The design of such units includes permanent magnets, which allows to minimize possible malfunctions associated with the operation of the winding. In gear mechanisms, the rotating gear wears out the fastest.

User evgenij ignatov talked about maintenance of a gear starter.

Without gearbox

Gearless devices are characterized by a simplified design and directly affect the rotation of the gear. They are simpler in design, so in the event of a breakdown, even an inexperienced car owner can repair the mechanism. When current flows to the switching element, the gear engages the flywheel immediately. Thanks to this, the ignition procedure is faster. Compared to gear mechanisms, these mechanisms have a longer service life. This is due to the fact that problems in the electrical component are minimal.

Gearless car starters may malfunction at low subzero temperatures.

Starter operating principle

The operation of the mechanism can be divided into several stages. First, the drive gear is connected to the rim of the motor flywheel, then the mechanism is started, after which the elements described above are separated.

How does a car starter work:

1. The driver inserts the key into the lock and turns it. This leads to the closure of the contact elements. Current is supplied to the winding and passes through the relay.
2. The anchor element comes into play. The device moves inside the case and then extends the bendix. This causes the gear to engage with the ring gear.
3. When the anchor element hits the desired point, the contact components close. The current begins to flow to the holding winding, and from there to the electric motor of the mechanism.
4. Due to the rotation of the device shaft, the car engine starts. The clutch disengages and returns to its original position after the flywheel rotation speed exceeds the crankshaft rotation speed.
5. The key in the lock returns to its original position. When it returns, current will no longer be supplied to the starter mechanism.

The operating diagram of the device is shown in the video by Mikhail Nesterov.

Starter failure

Now let's look at why the starter breaks and what the causes of the problem may be.

Causes

The main causes of problems with starters:

1. A short circuit in the car's wiring is an electrical circuit that is somehow connected to the mechanism. As a result of a short circuit, the windings may burn out, which leads to smoke in the device. With this problem, a burning smell may appear in the car interior.
2. Relay failure. If the retractor fails, it can cause the bendix to fail. As a result, the device will not be able to contact the crankshaft of the machine’s engine.
3. The Bendix teeth are worn out. Lack of contacts will make it impossible to start the motor.
4. Malfunction in the functioning of the electrical circuit of the mechanism. We are talking about burnout or damage to electrical circuits or contacts.

Trouble-shooting

The process of troubleshooting a starter device involves removing the mechanism and disassembling it to find and replace faulty components.

How to repair your device:

1. Turn off the ignition in the car, open the hood and disconnect the terminals from the battery.
2. Find the installation location for the starter mechanism. Disconnect the electrical circuits from the solenoid relay contacts and terminals.
3. Dismantle the protective casing of the power unit.
4. Unscrew the nuts from the top and bottom that secure the assembly to the engine compartment of the car. Remove the mechanism.
5. When you have the unit in your hands, use a wrench to unscrew the nuts on its cover. Dismantle it from the studs, as shown in the photo.
6. Now you can dismantle the winding; it is removed from the housing. If this element burns out or fails, it must be replaced. To do this, you will need a screwdriver, which will be used to unscrew the screws located on the sides of the case. Then the winding is removed from the seat and replaced with a new one, if necessary.
7. To dismantle the anchor element, use a screwdriver to bend the plastic bracket that secures it in engagement. The anchor is removed from the seat. If necessary, it is replaced.
8. To dismantle the drive coupling, use a thin screwdriver to remove the locking element. It will take some effort to remove the ring. The dismantled coupling is removed to the side or replaced.
9. After replacing the damaged elements, the mechanism is assembled, all actions are carried out in the reverse order.

The starter is the main unit of the engine starting system; in fact, it is a direct current electric motor with a mechanical drive. The principle of operation of the starter is based on the movement of the overrunning clutch (bendix) on the shaft when the relay is activated. The functioning of the electromechanical device is short-lived, since after the gear is discarded, it no longer participates in the movement of the car.

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Where is the starter located?

In a car, the starter is located at the junction of the engine and transmission mechanism. The place where these parts of the car equipment are connected is covered with a plastic housing made in the shape of a bell.

Access to it varies depending on the machine model:

• from below, from under the bottom of the car;
• from the engine compartment, under the hood.

The mechanism is fixed according to the standard with three or two bolts.

Location of the starter in the car: red arrows show mounting bolts and electrical wiring connections

Why is a starter needed and what are its functions?

A starter is needed to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy to start the power unit.

The purpose of the mechanism is demonstrated in the video. Author - serzh86.

Types of starters

According to its structure, the electromechanism is divided into two types:

• with the presence of a gearbox in the design;
• without gearbox.

With gearbox

Reductive starters are efficient in operation and save battery power consumption, since permanent magnets in the mechanism increase the period of use of the stator winding.

Advantages:

• increased service life of the part due to the strengthening of the gearbox;
• small size and lightness;
• reliable operation in winter at sub-zero temperatures.

Disadvantages of a gear starter:

• repairing a faulty element requires high competence of a repairman;
• difficulty in selecting spare parts.

Without gearbox

A gearless starter is designed in such a way that it supplies torque directly to the overrunning clutch without transmission through a gear mechanism.

Its advantages include:

• reliability and ease of use in warm weather;
• ease of repair due to lightweight design;
• prevalence of spare parts for restoration to working condition.

The number of disadvantages of starters without a gearbox is no less:

• significant size and heaviness;
• increased consumption of battery energy reserves;
• unreliable operation in the cold season at sub-zero temperatures.

Photo gallery

Starter without gearbox Starter with gear mechanism General diagram of a starter with a gearbox

Starter device

The part is made in the form of a small cylinder placed in a metal body with a length of 13 to 15 centimeters. Often a relay (a similar element, but smaller in size) is also connected to it through a wire. The second cable must be connected to the battery.

The engine starting system in a car includes 5 main elements:

1. Electric motor. Presented as a metal cylinder, inside of which cores and windings are attached. According to the standard, there are four of them; they are fastened with a screw, tightly pressed against the inner wall. Special threaded holes in the housing provide mounting for the front part where the overrunning clutch moves.
2. Anchor. This starter element is made in the form of an axis. It is made of alloy steel and serves as the central part of the mechanism in which the collector plates and core are placed.
3. Solenoid relay. Transmits the impulse from the ignition switch directly to the electric starter motor, pushing out the overrunning clutch.
4. Inclusion drive or bendix. A mechanism with a roller attached to one of the armature shafts. This element is movable and performs an important function in transmitting torque. The meshing gear spins the flywheel rim, ensuring the stability of the mechanism during operation. Immediately after starting the internal combustion engine, the overrunning clutch disengages the gear, maintaining the functionality of the system.
5. Brush unit. Stabilizes the voltage on the armature plates. Brushes and special brush holders perform the main work in the cycle of transmitting current to torque.

The photo shows the components of the starting device

Connection diagram and operating principle

The principle of operation of the starter is carried out according to a given connection diagram:

1. When you turn the key in the ignition switch, the traction relay is powered by battery electricity and forms a contact.
2. The overrunning clutch gear engages the flywheel and brings it into motion.
3. The switching drive closes the circuit, applying voltage to the armature and plates, thus bringing the electric motor into operating condition.
4. Then the internal combustion engine starts. At the moment when the internal combustion engine spins up faster than the starter, the overrunning clutch disengages the gear and the device turns off.

Standard wiring diagram for starter mechanism

Possible faults

Possible starter malfunctions arise, as a rule, due to violation of its operating conditions.

Signs of breakdowns and diagnostics

Symptoms of the most common starter problems:

• suspicious noise or crackling noise when turning the ignition key;
• the engine stalls without the electric motor operating;
• inability to start the internal combustion engine;
• “sneeze” of the starter mechanism without engaging the flywheel.

Most often, the starting device breaks down due to an open electrical circuit, so you should check:

• battery charge level;
• wiring for damage;
• fastening terminals;
• ignition keyhole.

If there are no problems with the above, then the next step is to check the traction relay. This element can be diagnosed without removing the starter, since the operation of the electric motor depends on it. If, when you close the contacts on the relay with a flat-head screwdriver, the electric motor starts, then the cause of the breakdown lies precisely in this part.

Types of faults

There are two types of starter malfunctions - mechanical and electrical.

Electrical problems requiring qualified assistance:

• periodic closure of the armature winding;
• breakage of the solenoid relay and stator;
• breakage of brushes and contact plates;
• core wear and lack of contact in the electric motor.

Starter mechanical faults:

• locking the switching drive on the flywheel crown;
• deformation of gear teeth;
• damage to bearings and bendix;
• burnt surface of "nickels".

Causes of problems

The most common causes of malfunctions:

1. If the starter begins to “buzz” characteristically and idles, it means that the overrunning clutch is not connected, and the mechanism operates without the gear engaging the shaft. The problem can be resolved by washing the Bendix in a special cleaning solution or gasoline. It is recommended to place the part in a container with liquid, let it sit for an hour and a half, and then move the drive a couple of times to clean the mechanism.
2. If the car does not start, the reason may lie in the lack of power supply. If the circuit is working properly and there is current, it is necessary to check the relay, perhaps the reason lies there. You should thoroughly clean the element from dust, carefully examine the contacts again, assemble and replace the components. If the problem persists, the winding is most likely shorted, and only replacing the part will help.

How to protect the starter from damage?

To protect the starter from damage, you need to know that:

1. Frequent use is one of the main reasons for starter failure.
2. It is strictly forbidden to use an electric starter instead of an internal combustion engine if the fuel runs out. Excessive load on the starter unit damages its individual elements. Structurally, the starting device is not intended to operate in main power unit mode.
3. It is forbidden to keep the starter switched on for more than 10 seconds. Most often, the device burns out when trying to start the engine. One-minute intervals should be taken between passes, so that the structural elements have time to cool down and are not subject to premature wear.
4. It is necessary to regularly check the contact points and terminals of the battery. If oxidation stains are detected, they are cleaned for better current conductivity.
5. After starting the engine, the starter unit must be immediately disconnected. Holding the ignition key in the active position increases wear on the electric motor starting system several times.

Video

The thematic channel Maysternya TV has made a useful video with a visual guide to servicing the starter mechanism.

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Car starter - what is it and how it works

The starter is a small DC electric motor that allows your car to start easily when you turn the key fully in the ignition. Any starter consists of the following main parts:

• electric motor;
• solenoid relay;
• Bendix starter.

Each of these parts performs its own function:

• an electric motor drives the entire system, power is supplied directly from the car battery;
• the retractor relay moves the bendix to the crankshaft flywheel and then closes the contacts of the electric motor after the bendix gear engages the crankshaft flywheel crown;
• Bendix transmits rotation from the starter motor to the crankshaft flywheel.

Thus, if any part of the starter fails, starting the car will be problematic. The starter will also not operate if the battery is dead and does not provide enough energy to drive the starter motor.

How a starter works and what it consists of is taught in driver courses, and it is necessary to know this in order to independently figure out why your car does not start.

How the starter works:

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• by turning the ignition key all the way to the right, you ensure that current flows from the battery to the coil of the solenoid relay;
• the bendix is ​​driven by the armature of the retractor relay;
• the bendix gear engages with the crankshaft flywheel, at the same moment the retractor relay closes the contacts and current from the battery is supplied to the winding of the starter motor, thereby ensuring rotation of the bendix gear and transmission of the driving torque to the crankshaft;
• the engine is started - the rotation of the crankshaft is transmitted through the connecting rods to the pistons, the flammable mixture begins to flow and explode in the combustion chambers of the pistons;
• when the flywheel spins faster than the armature, the bendix is ​​disconnected from the flywheel crown and the return spring returns it to its place;
• you turn the ignition key to the left and the starter is no longer supplied with current.

This entire operation takes a few seconds.

As you can see, all parts of the starter are under enormous stress. Most often, it is the bendix and the gear itself that engages the flywheel that fails. You can change it yourself, the main thing is that the new one matches the number of teeth, otherwise you will have to change the flywheel crown, but it costs much more. Do not forget to also monitor the condition of the electrolyte and battery charge.

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The engine starter is one of the main components of the ignition system in any car. Therefore, every car enthusiast should be familiar with the structure and operating principle of this mechanism. This article is dedicated to this particular node.

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Car starter device

So that, if necessary, you can repair a poorly functioning unit in the car yourself, you need to read the description of what a car starter is, in principle. Any electric starter located in the engine compartment allows you to start the car's engine. These devices may differ from each other, but not much, only in certain design characteristics.

Depending on the type, a recoil starter includes from forty to sixty individual components that make up its main parts, including:

• DC electric motor;
• bendix;
• solenoid relay.

These are the main elements of the unit, without which normal operation would be impossible.

In addition to them, the starter device includes:

• the so-called mask;
• brush holder;
• metal case;
• bushing or bearing;
• the so-called anchor.

Every car enthusiast should understand the purpose of the starter and the scheme of its operation and, most importantly, what function its various parts perform. The electric motor is the main component of the unit; its shaft, when the starter starts working and the gears are activated, transmits rotation to the crank pulley of the engine itself. Bendix and retractor relay are additional elements of the system. The purpose of the bendix is ​​to temporarily connect the device shaft to the flywheel crown, which also ensures rotation of the crankshaft.

As for the solenoid relay, it performs several functions:

1. The Bendix moves with the working gear along the electric motor pulley with the movement of the armature.
2. The relay also closes the contacts of the electric motor after the gear is connected to the flywheel ring.

Types of starters

We’ve figured out where the starter is and what it looks like, now let’s look at the main types of starters:

1. Unit with gearbox. This option is recommended by many domestic experts, which is due to the fact that a node of this type is characterized by a reduced current requirement in order to operate normally. Mechanisms with gearboxes allow you to ensure the most optimal rotation of the crankshaft even if the battery charge is minimal. In addition, one of the main advantages of this unit is the presence of permanent magnets, as a result of which possible problems with the stator winding are reduced to virtually zero. However, regular use of the mechanism can cause the rotation gear to fail, but this is usually due to poor quality of the mechanism or defective parts.
2. Without gearbox. The main characteristic of a gearless mechanism is that it has a direct effect on the rotation of the gear. In this case, the main advantage is the simpler design of the unit; accordingly, if necessary, it can always be repaired. After the impulse is transmitted to the electromagnetic switch, the gear is engaged with the flywheel. Thanks to this, it is possible to ensure fast ignition. It is also necessary to take into account that gearless mechanisms are usually characterized by a longer service life, so the possibility of failure is, in principle, minimal. A significant drawback is that a unit without a gearbox can perform much worse at low temperatures.

The principle and features of the unit’s operation

This unit itself is an electromechanical device. Accordingly, the principle of operation of the starter is based on exploiting the voltage supplied by the battery, followed by converting it into mechanical energy.

How does a car starter work:

1. First, after the driver turns the key in the ignition switch, the contacts in the ignition switch close. As a result, the resulting current is redirected via a relay to the pull-in winding.
2. Next, the armature of the retractor relay, which is equipped with an inertial starter, falls into the middle of the mechanism body. Subsequently, he moves the bendix out of the housing, after which it engages the overrunning clutch drive gear with the flywheel crown.
3. At the moment when the above-described anchor reaches its final position, the contacts in the system close. Then the current is transmitted to two windings - the electric motor of the mechanism and the relay. This happens when the gear moves and engages.
4. Then the shaft itself begins to rotate, which helps start the vehicle engine. At the moment when the speed of movement of the flywheel becomes greater than the speed of movement of the shaft itself, the bendix leaves the engagement with the ring. This occurs due to the action of the return spring. Subsequently, the bendix returns to the initial position.
5. After the key in the lock returns to the first position, voltage stops flowing to the unit. The video below provides a detailed lesson for motorists on the principle of operation and the main malfunctions of the unit (the author of the video is Avtoelektrika HF)

As you can see, in general, the principle of operation of the mechanism is quite simple, especially if you have read the information presented above and know what elements the unit consists of. In any case, the starter power plays an important role - the higher it is, the easier it is to start the engine. As for rewinding and repair, there is, in general, nothing complicated here either.

If the device has failed and you do not know how to make a starter, then first of all you need to pay attention to the elements that are most often subject to wear:

• solenoid relay;
• brushes that tend to wear out;
• The bearings also wear out, if this is the case, the device will begin to vibrate.

A self-made mechanism can be used if its other components are not destroyed during the vibration process. More information about how the procedure for repair, disassembly, and dismantling at home is carried out is presented in the video below (the author of the video is Vladislav Chikov).

What else do you need to know about the starter?

The device with a gearbox is mounted on engines characterized by high power, as well as diesel internal combustion engines. The gearbox itself, which has several gears in its device, is installed directly in the housing and allows you to increase the voltage several times. Accordingly, this helps to increase torque.

We have already talked about the advantages of such mechanisms, but now we will consider them in more detail:

1. Geared devices are more efficient, their efficiency is much higher.
2. If the engine is started cold, the device will consume less current.
3. The geared element, compared to the gearless element, is more compact.
4. The gearbox allows you to maintain operating efficiency and operational features even when the starting current of the battery decreases.

As for gearless devices, they are simpler in design, but more resistant to increased loads.

Sorry, there are no surveys available at this time.

Video “Video lesson - how a car starter works”

A detailed video tutorial on the operating principle of this vehicle unit is presented in the video below (the author of the video is Mikhail Nesterov).

The starter is the main unit of the engine starting system, spinning its shaft to the rotation speed required to start the engine. Knowing what a starter is in a car and what it serves is necessary in order to determine the malfunction and carry out repairs.

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Device Description

This device is made in the form of a cylinder placed in a metal case. Its length is about 15 cm and its diameter is approximately 7-10 cm depending on the model. Another smaller cylindrical element, a relay, can be connected to the starter mechanism. The node will connect to at least one wire from the battery, another wire can go to the relay.

Why is a starter needed in a car and where is it located?

A starter in a car is a mechanism whose purpose is to act on the crankshaft in order to rotate it, necessary for.

The starter is installed at the junction of the power unit and the gearbox. A plastic casing made in the shape of a bell is usually located here. Depending on the car model, the starter mechanism can be installed closer to the top or bottom. In the first case, the car owner will have access to it from the engine compartment, and in the second, from under the bottom. The device is fixed using two or three bolts.

Car starter device

Structurally, this unit in the machine consists of the following components:

• 1 – drive shaft;
• 2 – bushing located on the front cover of the mechanism;
• 3 – restrictive ring;
• 4 – gear equipped with an internal ring of the overrunning clutch;
• 5 – overrunning pulley roller;
• 6 – drive device shaft support with liner;
• 7 – planetary gear axis;
• 8 – sealing element;
• 9 – bracket for the mechanism lever;
• 10 – the lever of the drive device itself;
• 11 – front cover of the starter mechanism;
• 12 – anchor relay device;
• 13 – fixing winding;
• 14 – traction winding;
• 15 – solenoid relay;
• 16 – rod of the above element;
• 17 – retractor relay core;
• 18 – plate with contact elements of the mechanism;
• 19 – protective cover of the solenoid relay;
• 20 – contact screws;
• 21 – terminal for connecting positive brush elements;
• 22 – bracket;
• 23 – brush holder;
• 24 – positive brush;
• 25 – anchor device shaft;
• 26 – coupling element;
• 27 – back cover of the mechanism, equipped with a bushing;
• 28 – collector device;
• 29 – vehicle starter housing;
• 30 – permanent magnet;
• 31 – core of the anchor device;
• 32 – armature shaft support with installed liner;
• 33 – planetary gear of the mechanism;
• 34 – the main gear of the device, which is central;
• 35 – carrier;
• 36 – gear equipped with internal teeth;
• 37 – device tapping ring;
• 38 – hub with an external ring of the overrunning clutch.

Starter mechanism diagram

Starter operating principle

When you try to start the engine, the unit operates as follows:

1. Current is supplied through the closed contact elements of the ignition switch to the mechanism relay. After this, it goes to the terminals of the traction winding.
2. The anchor device of the traction relay begins to perform translational movements inside the mechanism body. This causes the overrunning clutch to move until the teeth of its operating gear engage with the teeth of the flywheel ring.
3. When the anchor device of the traction relay reaches the final position, this will lead to the closure of the contact elements. As a result, current is supplied directly to the winding of the electric motor, as well as to the element holding the relay.
4. The shaft of the starter mechanism begins to transmit torque to the crankshaft of the power unit, for which a flywheel is used. The rotation supply helps ensure that the machine's engine starts.
5. After the rotation speed of the flywheel becomes greater than the engine crankshaft, the teeth of the Bendix working gear will leave the mesh with the crown. This will lead to the return of the overrunning clutch spring to its initial state, which was before the engine was started.
6. In the next step, the key in the position lock returns to its standard state. This leads to the cessation of current supply to the contact elements of the starter device from the battery. In the future, the functioning of the car engine takes place without the participation of the mechanism.

When starting the machine's engine is completed, power is no longer supplied to the starter assembly.

User Mikhail Nesterov spoke in detail about what a starter is in a car and the operating principle of this device.

Types of starters

This type of device can be divided into two types:

• with gearbox;
• without him.

With gearbox

The main feature of this type of mechanism is reduced current consumption to ensure efficient operation of the unit. Thanks to this, the starter can efficiently crank the engine crankshaft even in the event of a low battery charge. The main advantage of the devices is the use of permanent magnets in the design. This makes it possible to ensure a longer service life of the stator winding and reduce problems associated with it to a minimum.

In practice, car owners of cars equipped with such starters face other problems. For example, long-term operation leads to failure of the rotating gear. However, this malfunction is usually caused by a factory defect or poor-quality manufacturing of the mechanism.

In addition to a long service life, gear units have the following advantages:

• compact dimensions and light weight;
• low cost of spare parts for repair and restoration of the mechanism;
• the ability to effectively start the power unit at low temperatures.

Disadvantages of devices:

• Spare parts for repairing the unit are difficult to find, so they often have to be ordered;
• as a result of the low cost of parts, their quality suffers;
• difficulty in performing repairs compared to gearless mechanisms.

User Dmitry Traktorenko spoke about the operating features of gear devices.

Without gearbox

By design, this type of mechanism is not equipped with a gear element, but is characterized by a direct effect on the rotation of the gear. The main advantage is a more simplified design of the starter unit, which allows you to repair it yourself. When the supply of current to the electromagnetic switch element is completed, the gear of the mechanism instantly engages with the flywheel. This promotes faster ignition and engine starting.

This type of starter mechanisms is characterized by increased endurance, which helps to increase service life. This reduces the likelihood of faults occurring due to current exposure. The disadvantages of gearless devices include poor quality of operation in severe frost.

The main advantages of starters not equipped with gearboxes:

• high reliability;
• possibility of simple repairs;
• If the device breaks down, you can easily find parts to restore it on sale.

• gearless mechanisms are more bulky, their mass is higher;
• such a device requires more electricity to operate;
• As a result of the expensive materials used in the production of such starters, the cost of replacing parts will be higher.

The Ingvar channel spoke in more detail about the choice of devices between gearbox and gearless options.

The most common starter faults

If the starter in a car begins to work intermittently, this leads to difficulties in starting the internal combustion engine. Problems in the functioning of the mechanism can be eliminated independently, but to do this you need to understand the “symptoms” of the problem.

Signs of malfunction

The following signs may indicate that the starter mechanism will soon fail:

1. When turning the key in the ignition switch, delays appear. The battery is charged. It is necessary to pay attention to diagnosing the device, in particular, checking the solenoid relay.
2. Difficulty turning the crankshaft of the power unit. The problem may appear in the cold season, then it indicates a low battery. But if this happens in the summer and the battery is charged, then it is necessary to diagnose the brush assembly and the condition of the bearing elements.
3. When starting the engine, the gear of the starter mechanism has difficulty disengaging with the flywheel crown. A sound uncharacteristic of the device's operation appears.
4. When you turn the key in the lock, the crankshaft begins to rotate, but the power unit does not start.
5. When the driver tries to start the car, the starter assembly does not rotate and does not show any signs of operation.
6. The car's power unit was started successfully, but after that the starter unit does not turn off. It continues to rotate and consume a certain amount of electricity.

If the starter mechanism does not turn the crankshaft, the device relay does not click and the armature does not rotate

This may be due to the following problems:

1. The battery has been discharged and the device is faulty. It is necessary to diagnose the battery and restore its charge by using a charger.
2. The presence of oxidation or poor contact or starter mechanism. The problem is solved by cleaning and restoring the contact element.
3. Problems in the functioning of the contact component of the ignition switch. In this case, the switch device will have to be removed and completely disassembled to determine the cause of the problem. If the contact group is burnt out, it must be replaced.
4. The presence of an interturn short circuit or a short circuit to ground in the winding of the solenoid relay of the starter mechanism. The problem may be a broken electrical circuit. The device is subject to diagnostics. Rewinding the windings can solve the problem, but often does not allow this to be done. It would be advisable to replace it.
5. The reason may be that the anchor device of the traction relay is stuck. The latter requires diagnosis. If it fails, it is replaced with a new one.

If the starter assembly slowly cranks the crankshaft of the power unit, the reasons may be:

1. Burning of the collector device or the appearance of a short circuit between the plate elements of the assembly. A detailed check is required and, if necessary, the manifold must be replaced.
2. Critical wear of the brush mechanism or its freezing. A complete disassembly of the starter device and checking of the elements is required. It is possible that the position of the brushes can be adjusted, but if they are worn out, then the only solution to the problem is to replace them.
3. A break in the winding of the stator mechanism or anchor device. It will be necessary to measure the resistance of these components. You can try to rewind the winding, but this often does not work. Most likely, parts will need to be replaced.
4. Interturn short circuit or short circuit to ground in the windings of the stator mechanism or armature. In this case, the problem can be solved in a similar way - by measuring the resistance and rewinding the conductors.

If the starter unit is working normally, but the crankshaft does not rotate, the causes of the malfunction will be different and the device will need to be dismantled and disassembled:

1. Freewheel slippage. You can dismantle the bendix and try to restore it, but this unit is usually not repairable. It will have to be changed.
2. Failure of the clutch deactivation lever or the axis of this element jumping out.
3. Breakage of the coupling drive ring or buffer spring element.
4. The movement of the drive device on the screw thread of the armature shaft has become tighter. This element may also become stuck.

If, when turning the starter device, you hear the grinding of the gear on the flywheel teeth, the causes of the problem may be the following:

1. The appearance of nicks in the teeth of the device. It cannot be restored; the mechanism must be replaced.
2. Incorrect adjustment of the gear travel of the drive device, as well as the closing moment of the contact elements of the switch. Correctly setting the mechanism can solve the problem.
3. Weakening of the spring element of the drive device. You can try to adjust the position of the spring; if necessary, replace it.
4. The solenoid relay may be stuck. With this problem, the starter unit will not turn off after starting the power plant.

How to protect the starter from damage?

To increase the service life of the mechanism, it is necessary to periodically carry out its maintenance. It makes sense to check the operation of the device if, when you try to start, the engine does not start within the first five seconds.

Points that will prevent rapid breakdown of the starter mechanism:

1. It is necessary to use the automatic engine start function carefully if the anti-theft system provides such an opportunity. Remote starting of an internal combustion engine quickly burns out the starter mechanism and contributes to accelerated battery discharge.
2. You cannot move the vehicle using this unit. This is often resorted to by drivers whose vehicles unexpectedly run out of fuel. With such operation, the structural elements of the device quickly wear out and fail. This is facilitated by the increased loads under which the starter operates.
3. The unit must not be left activated after starting the power unit for more than ten seconds. If the car engine does not start, you need to let the mechanism wait at least a minute, only then try again. This will allow the starter assembly to cool. Its parts heat up quickly upon startup; if they do not cool down, the device will wear out quickly.
4. Periodically it is necessary to diagnose the reliability of the contact elements on the battery terminals. If there is oxidation, the components must be cleaned, as this will cause an obstruction in the flow of current from the battery to the starter.
5. When the power unit is started, the unit must be turned off immediately. You cannot hold the key in a position that facilitates the operation of the starter after starting the internal combustion engine. This will cause it to wear out quickly.

The Maysternya TV channel spoke about the features of maintenance of this type of device.

Starter diagnostics and repair

The procedure for checking and repairing the mechanism is divided into several stages:

• removal;
• device disassembly;
• diagnostics and recovery;
• assembly and installation.

Dismantling

The removal procedure is considered using the example of the VAZ 2101 model:

1. The negative contact from the battery is disconnected, which will prevent short circuits in the system. It is recommended to treat the starter mounting screws with WD-40. They are usually tightly fixed and may be difficult to remove.
2. The air filter device is removed from the internal combustion engine carburetor. To do this, the screws securing it are unscrewed and the assembly is dismantled.
3. Using a wrench, you need to unscrew the nuts that secure the starter mechanism to the engine block.
4. Then the assembly is moved forward and the connected wires are disconnected from it. When performing a task, it is recommended to remember their location, or better yet, take a photo so as not to confuse them when connecting.
5. The starter mechanism is removed.

The “Auto Repair and Maintenance” channel presented a detailed guide to dismantling the device, describing all the features of this process.

Parsing the device

1. The retractor cylinder is removed from the device. To do this, disconnect the cable and unscrew the nut on the contact screw. Then it is recommended to screw the fastening element with the washer back on so as not to lose it.
2. Using a screwdriver, remove three screws that secure the cylinder to the starter device. The retractor element is dismantled and the spring part is removed. The anchor device is being removed. To do this, it must be pulled up, disengaged and dismantled.
3. The next step is to remove the protective casing of the starter mechanism. To do this, use a screwdriver to unscrew the two mounting bolts and dismantle the cover.
4. The two coupling bolts are unscrewed. The cover is removed from the starter mechanism housing.
5. The screws are unscrewed, with the help of which the winding of the device is fixed to the plates of the brush assembly holder. The insulating pipe is removed.
6. The cover on the side of the collector device is disconnected from the body of the mechanism itself.
7. The starter winding jumper is removed from the brush holder. The elements themselves are removed using a screwdriver.
8. The rear bushing is being pressed out; to complete the task, a mandrel of the appropriate diameter will be required.
9. Then the cotter pin of the drive device lever, as well as its axis, is removed. To do this you will need a flat head screwdriver.
10. After dismantling the rubberized plug, the starter drive unit must be disengaged from the clutch and removed.
11. The next step is to remove the drive lever.
12. The washer and the retaining ring are removed. At this stage you need to be careful not to lose details.
13. Next, the coupling of the drive device is removed from the shaft of the anchor element of the mechanism.
14. At the final stage of disassembly, the front bushing is pressed out of the assembly cover. A mandrel of the required size is used.

Check and recovery

After disassembling the device, all components are diagnosed and repaired or replaced:

1. At the first stage, brushes are diagnosed for wear. The height of these elements must be at least 1.2 cm for the VAZ 2101. This value may differ depending on the car model. A caliper is used for diagnosis. If the check shows wear on the brushes, these elements must be replaced.
2. Then a visual diagnosis of the windings is performed; traces of burning are not allowed on them. The anchor assembly must be intact, there must be no defects or chips on it.
3. If cracks are found on the housing of the starter device, this problem can only be solved by replacement. Through such damage, moisture can enter the mechanism, which will lead to its complete breakdown. Finding a new housing is problematic, and if this cannot be done, then the starter is replaced.
4. The coupling must not wear out. It is necessary to visually assess the integrity of its teeth. If at least one of them is missing, the coupling must be replaced.
5. The so-called nickels of the retractor cylinder are diagnosed. These elements must have good contact. Otherwise they change.
6. If, when the device is activated, the assembly rotates, but the flywheel does not rotate, the problem must be looked for in the gears. Damaged items must be replaced.
7. If, when you try to start the engine, a click is heard, but the internal combustion engine does not start, then the retractor cylinder must be replaced.
8. Then the shaft seat is diagnosed; it must have the appropriate diameter. A small gap is allowed on the anchor device of the starter mechanism, but if the gap is significant, the part must be replaced. It is recommended to clean the surface of the element with fine-grained sandpaper. You also need to flush the collector device.

The drive gear, armature seat, and bearing elements are subject to lubricant treatment - this will prevent rapid wear of the starter.

Assembly and installation

The assembly procedure is a more complex task that is performed in reverse order, with:

1. When installing the retaining ring on the anchor element, you must be careful: if the part falls, you need to find and install it.
2. When performing a task, the brushes of the mechanism must not be swapped. This will lead to incorrect operation of the device and a short circuit.
3. During installation, all bolts must be fully tightened to secure them. In this case, you should be careful not to damage the threads on the elements. Before tightening, it is recommended to treat the screws with lubricant, which will make them easier to unscrew during further disassembly.
4. When installing the device, tightening the fastening elements to the power unit must be done gradually. This will prevent possible distortion of the mechanism.
5. After installing the device, all previously removed components are reinstalled in the engine compartment. The air filter is put in place. A block with wires is connected to the starter mechanism. Then you need to reconnect the cables to the battery terminals.

Photo gallery

Photo of the starter and its connection diagram:

Video “Features of installing a unit after repair”

User Sergey Romanov spoke about the features of installing the starter mechanism after repairs, using the example of a Zhiguli.