If you’re planning to replace your vehicle’s starter motor, you have no choice but to learn how to strip the starter motor. It’s a pretty straightforward process, and with the right guidance, you can learn it in no time. Whether it’s learning how to jerk the fork off of a pre-engaged starter to the proper way of removing a solenoid, read more to know it all!
What is a starter motor?
Before you start learning how to strip the starter motor, it is important to know what it is. A starter motor is a device that cranks or rotates the combustion engine to make the engine operate using its power. A starter motor disconnects itself from the engine as it starts to run independently. The engine then relies solely on its combustion.
A starter motor is an electric component. Thus, it comprises elements such as a solenoid and a DC electric motor. To power the solenoid, the motor uses current from the hearth and battery. The battery must be of at least 12 volts. If your starter motor is clicking but not starting, it hints toward battery voltage issues.
A starter motor’s primary function is to provide the engine with the first two rotations. Otherwise, many people think of it as an unnecessary load.
Components of a starter motor
A starter motor consists of:
Armature:
Placed on the driveshaft is an armature. It is electromagnetic. Furthermore, multiple windings and conductor loops wrap it.
Commutator:
It is placed on the back housing and part of the shaft. For electricity conduction, brushes use the shaft. A commutator is composed of two plates placed on top of the armature’s axle—these plates connect the electromagnet’s coil.
Brushes
Brushes conduct electricity by rubbing the commutator. They run on only a specific part of the commutator.
Solenoid
A solenoid has two wire coils that wrap the core. It acts as a switch connecting the car’s battery and starter motor.
Plunger
A plunger’s job is to exert force to engage the pinion.
Lever Fork
Linked together are the lever fork and plunger. The fork helps the plunger push and interact with the pinion.
Pinion
The pinion gets engaged when the engine starts. It consists of springs and gears. Pushed towards the flywheel teeth is the gear. This is done to engage the pinion.
Field Coils
Field coils are held by screws. There are two coils, and these field coils are powered by the battery, which makes them electromagnetic to generate an electromagnetic force in the armature’s vicinity.
A starter motor’s setup
Before you get into how to strip the starter motor, you need to understand how every component has been set up. Firstly, disconnect the car from the starter motor. The motor usually has a cover band connected to the motor using two bolts. Four bolts are used at every end without a cover band. To secure the commutator’s end often, a spring clip is used. Keep replacements for spring clips as they cannot be used and are hard to find.
How To Strip The Starter Motor
Learning how to strip the starter motor is no rocket science. Firstly, use methylated spirit to wash all parts of the motor. Use petrol in case you don’t have a methylated spirit. However, when you reassemble all the parts, ensure every part has been properly dried. I fail to dry every part. Your car can light up on fire in case of a small part.
The field coils have insulations. Check it before reassembling the motor. In addition, the through bolts should steer clear of the field coils and not touch their connections in any way. While replacing the nuts, make sure the terminal post doesn’t start turning.
Solenoid Removal
Nutted together are the solenoid and motor’s body. Thus, you will first have to unscrew the nuts. Then, set the solenoid free by unhooking it. Furthermore, when you fit the solenoid again, make sure the plunger has some engine oil.
Pre engaged starter: Stripping it off
Now, since you have successfully removed the solenoid, it’s time you take the actuating fork off too. To a pin, the actuating fork is forcefully fitted. Thus, you need to jerk the fork off to take it out. To secure the pivot table in some motors, a split pin will be used. Take the pin out while simultaneously pushing out the pivot pin from the other side.
Often screwed inside is the pivot pin. An eccentric shoulder is used to make the screws adjustable. Mark the position of these screws and their shoulders to fit them back in the right place. Now, unscrew the pins and free the locknut. Furthermore, some pivot pins have a bolt head that needs to be unscrewed using a small spanner.
An actuating fork is either metallic or plastic based. Tied to the actuating plate are the fork’s prongs. Some motors use rivets for this. Don’t remove them. Replace the fork in case of damage. You can remove the fork by sliding it off from the armature shaft.
If a circular spring-clip holds the commutator end, it needs to be levered off using a screwdriver. You will have to exert some pressure for this one, so make sure to not damage the shaft while you’re at it. Finally, you will notice bolts attaching the endplates to the motor’s body. Thus, take the endplates and armature out.
The commutator’s end. You will have to exert some pressure for this one, so make sure to not damage the shaft while you’re at it. Finally, you will notice bolts attaching the endplates to the motor’s body. Thus, take the endplates and armature out.
Inertia started: Dismantling.
Unscrew the bolts connecting the commutator endplate to the motor and gently take the terminal post off. Now, release the plate by taking the brushes out from the housings. Lastly, remember to mark the brushes’ lead to refit them at the right place.
Starter Motor red flags
If your starter motor shows the following symptoms, it needs your immediate attention.
The engine doesn’t start.
If your car has problems starting or stops completely, the starter motor is troublesome. Other symptoms include poor ignition switch and car battery failure. (Check out Best car batteries)
Freewheeling
Another sign of a dysfunctional starter motor is freewheeling. Freewheeling occurs when there is no engagement between the flywheel and the starter motor. Your car’s engine won’t crank despite the whining noise when this happens.
Overheating
A red flag you must always look out for in your vehicle is overheating and smoke. It usually indicates a short circuit or because your starter motor has been working for too long.
Starter Motor becomes oily.
Positioned dangerously is the starter motor. This is because oil leaks can easily penetrate inside. In case of oil seeps into your starter motor, it will not just start glitching, but its life span will also reduce.
Conclusion
It is imperative that every driver gains at least a vague idea of how to perform basic tasks such as refitting drive belts, fixing their car’s heater, lubricating locks, etc. By learning such skills, you will not just save a heap of money but also garner a better car sense the next time you go to buy a new car for yourself. So, learn how to strip the starter motor on your own and make your life easier.
