Starter Motor
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Dodge Dakota and 2003 Dodge Dakota. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The starter motor is equipped with a gear reduction (intermediate transmission) system. The gear reduction system consists of a gear that is integral to the output end of the electric motor armature shaft that is in continual engagement with a larger gear that is splined to the input end of the starter pinion gear shaft. This feature makes it possible to reduce the dimensions of the starter. At the same time, it allows higher armature rotational speed, and delivers increased torque through the starter pinion gear to the starter ring gear.
The starter motor uses an overrunning clutch and starter pinion gear unit to engage and drive the gears on the flywheel (or flywheel ring gear).