Description & Operation
When ignition switch is turned to START position, battery voltage is applied to Park/Neutral Position (PNP) switch (automatic transaxle) or Clutch Pedal Position (CPP) switch (manual transaxle). Current passes through PNP or CPP switch then on to starter solenoid only when vehicle is in Park or Neutral position (automatic transaxle) or clutch pedal is depressed (manual transaxle). When voltage is applied to solenoid windings, this creates movement of solenoid plunger and shift lever, causing drive pinion to engage flywheel and close solenoid switch contacts. See Fig 1 . When solenoid switch contacts close, starter motor energizes and cranks the engine. As engine starts, pinion overrun clutch protects armature from excessive speed until ignition switch is opened and plunger return spring disengages pinion.