käivitusmootorile

Käivitusmootorile is an Estonian term that translates to "starter motor" in English. A starter motor is an electric motor that is used to rotate an internal combustion engine to initiate the engine's operation. This is a crucial component in most vehicles powered by gasoline or diesel engines.

The starter motor works by engaging a small gear, called a pinion, with a larger gear on the engine's flywheel. When the ignition key is turned or the start button is pressed, an electric current is sent to the starter motor. This current energizes the motor, causing it to spin rapidly. The spinning pinion then turns the flywheel, which in turn rotates the crankshaft of the engine. This initial rotation provides the necessary momentum for the engine's cylinders to begin their combustion cycle, leading to the engine starting on its own.

Once the engine has started and is running independently, the starter motor disengages from the flywheel. This is typically achieved through a mechanism called a Bendix drive or a reduction gear starter. The disengagement prevents the starter motor from being spun by the running engine, which could cause damage. Starter motors are powered by the vehicle's battery, and their operation draws a significant amount of current. Therefore, a healthy battery is essential for the reliable functioning of the starter motor.