what is a electric starter motor?

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The starter motor is an electric motor that turns over or "cranks" the engine to start. It consists of a powerful DC (Direct Current) electric motor and the starter solenoid (electromagnet to generate a controlled magnetic field)  that is attached to the motor.

Kettering had designed the mechanism that opened cash register drawers for National Cash Register and he reasoned that he could adapt that to the automobile. GM heard about this innovation and snapped up his Dayton Electric Labs Company (DELCO) and made Kettering the in house wizard. His electric starter was trotted out on the Cadillac first but within a short time it and it's imitators became the industry standard. His starter and the oil fields in Pennsylvania (with their promise of cheap gasoline) sealed the electric car's fate.

1. electric starter history

The complete guide to starter motors. Stripped down and fully explained, including a detailed explanation of starter solenoids, planetary gears and sprag clutches.

​This video is detailed and easy to understand. This Mitsubishi starter motor is taken from a Mazda MX5 Miata.

How to start a 1912 Cadillac Model 30 Tourer with the Delco Self Starting System.

Intrigued? would you like to know more about the "Electric Motor  & Electric Cars " Learn more.. 

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 lessons learned :

The starter motor can fail due to a number of different things, but wear and tear is the primary cause.

Other "potential issue" is that the problem isn’t the starter at all. It’s controlled by a relay and if the relay fails, the starter won’t work.

The starter may also not work if the battery’s charge is too low (the starter turns very slowly), or if the battery is dead (the starter won’t turn at all).

2. how it works?

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3. how does 1912 cadillac self-starter work?

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4. My car's failed electric starter  motor  (because of wear and tear) 

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Like any other mechanical device, when the starter fails or begins to wear out, it will display a few warning signs. ( The following indicators of car starter problems ) :

1. The engine won't turn over and vehicle won’t start : The most common indicator of a problem with your starter is when you turn your key and nothing happens. You may hear no engine sound whatsoever or a loud clanking noise. This is often caused by the starter solenoid or motor that has burnt out or is experiencing an electrical issue. However, this problem may be caused by a dead battery as well. If this occurs, you'll have to contact a mechanic to inspect the starter, ignition system, and other electrical components, as it may be a sign of multiple issues.

2. Starter engages but doesn't spin the motor : There are times when you'll turn the ignition switch and hear the starter activate but will not hear the motor crank over. Issues with the starter are sometimes mechanical in nature. In this case, the problem may be due to the gears connected to the flywheel. Either the gear has stripped or become dislodged against the flywheel. In either case, the engine won't turn over and will require that you have the starter replaced by a certified mechanic.

3. Sporadic starting issues: Loose or dirty wiring within the starter system can cause the car to start or not start irregularly, and it can be hard to repair. It could also be caused by a damaged or failing electrical component. Even if starting problems only happen occasionally, you should get your starter inspected to avoid being unable to get home from an unfamiliar area.

4. Grinding noise when trying to start the motor : Similar to the issue above, this warning sign often occurs when the gears that connect the starter to the flywheel are worn out. However, grinding may also happen inside the starter motor. In either case, it's something that can't be fixed on the car. If this noise continues without the starter being replaced, it can cause damage to the engine's feel, which is a rather expensive repair to have completed.

5. Interior lights dim when starting the car: A short circuit in the the starter motor’s wiring may cause your dashboard lights to dim whenever you start the car. In this case, the starter motor pulls extra current away from the vehicle’s other systems. If a chugging sound accompanies the dimming lights, the bearings within the starter motor may be failing. Regardless, have your vehicle inspected as soon as possible.

6. Smell or see smoke when starting the motor: The starter is a mechanical system that is powered by electricity. Sometimes the starter will overheat because of continued power being supplied to the starter or the starter motor will not shut off after the car's engine has ignited. If this occurs, you'll most likely see or smell smoke coming from underneath the engine. This problem may be caused by a short circuit, blown fuse, or a problem with the ignition switch. In any case, it's important to contact a certified mechanic as soon as you notice this problem.

Problems with the starter are virtually impossible to avoid, as there really isn't a predetermined or recommended replacement by the automotive manufacturer. As soon as you notice freewheeling, grinding noises, smoke, or your vehicle not starting at all, contact a professional mechanic to further assist you in figuring out the problem.