The starter has a freewheel with pre-engagement with the traction relay. When starting the engine, the traction relay moves the drive gear, bringing it into engagement with the flywheel ring gear before the starter is activated. Once the engine has started, the freewheel prevents the transfer of power from the engine to the starter.
More detailed information on the various systems can be found in the respective Chapters of this Section. Although repair operations are given in some cases, the usual action is to replace the failed component.
When working on the electrical system, extra care must be taken not to damage the semiconductor devices (diodes and transistors) and avoid electric shock.
Always remove rings, watches, etc. before working on the electrical system. Even with the battery disconnected, capacitive discharge may occur if the component's power clamp is accidentally shorted by a metal object. This may cause electric shock or severe burns.
Do not confuse the battery clamps. Components such as a generator, electronic controls or any other having a solid state circuit can be irreparably damaged.
When starting the engine using large wires and a starting device or a separate battery, you need to connect plus to plus and minus to minus. This also applies when connecting the battery to the charger.
Never disconnect battery, alternator, or any electrical wiring or instrumentation while the engine is running.
Do not allow the engine to rotate a generator that is disconnected from the electrical system.
Never test a generator by shorting its output terminals to ground.
When working on the electrical system, make sure the negative battery cable is disconnected.
Before using arc welding on a vehicle, disconnect the battery, alternator and components such as electronic ignition control and fuel injection system to protect them from damage.