The engine can’t “start” rotational movement on its own. It needs an electric motor to get it up to a minimal RPM to run, then the engine can run under its own power. The starter is the biggest load on the vehicle’s electrical system. We cannot simply run all that current through the ignition switch, in most systems a relay is used to activate the starter solenoid, and the starter solenoid itself acts as another relay to engage the starter motor (explained later). Before electric starters, automobile owners needed to crank the engine over themselves! This was not ideal for any kind of quick getaway. The starter motor is an electric motor that rotates your engine in order to allow … Continue reading STARTING SYSTEM: COMPONENTS AND WORKING PRINCIPLES