- when the ignition key is turned to the "start" position, voltage is supplied through the "50" terminal of the ignition switch via the red wire to the traction relay located at the top of the starter;
- the engagement fork moves the gear pinion into engagement with the engine flywheel ring gear;
- the gear engages, after which the traction relay supplies full current from the battery (via terminal "30") through the main contact. The gear begins to rotate the toothed ring and transmits force - the starter turns the engine shaft;
- when the engine is started and the starter switch on the ignition switch is released, the magnetic field in the winding of the traction relay is interrupted and the switch fork is returned to its previous position by the return spring. The gear disengages and the voltage supply to the starter is cut off.
A faulty starter can be identified by the following signs.
When the starter is turned on, clicks are heard in the area where the unit is located, the starter motor rotates slightly with a crunching sound or does not rotate at all. Place the vehicle in first gear and hold the ignition key in the start position while an assistant pushes or rocks the vehicle. If the starter starts, it means that its brushes are worn out, or there is a short circuit in the armature winding, or the commutator is worn out.
It happens that after a long trip the heated starter refuses to work. This effect occurs as a result of the not entirely favorable mutual arrangement of the armature shaft and the gear. When heated strongly, these parts jam into each other, the traction relay cannot move the gear, as a result of which the electrical contact in it does not close. Sometimes it helps to hit the side of the starter with a hammer, while at the same time the assistant should move the ignition switch to the "start" position.