Description & Operation

WARNING: Deactivate air bag system before performing any service operation. For 1995 Tercel, see AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM , for 1996 Tercel, see AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article in ACCESSORIES & EQUIPMENT.

Tercel models use either planetary type or reduction gear type starters.

Reduction gear type starters contain an integral solenoid attached to drive housing, a reduction idler gear and bearing installed into starter housing, and a clutch drive assembly. The clutch drive assembly is mounted to starter housing and is driven by the reduction idler gear from armature shaft. The brush holder assembly retains 4 brushes and 4 springs in the end cover of field frame housing.

Planetary gear type starters contain a clutch pinion drive assembly mounted in-line with armature shaft. The clutch pinion drive assembly is mounted onto drive end of planetary gear carrier shaft which is driven by armature shaft. The planetary gears increase torque from armature to turn clutch pinion drive assembly.

Tercel models use a starter relay to energize starter. Manual transmission vehicles use a clutch start switch and automatic transmission vehicles use a park/neutral switch to energize starter relay. On models with theft deterrent system, theft deterrent system ECU provides ground for starter relay.