The SD-260 is a straight drive starter with the pinion driven directly by the armature shaft. It has pole pieces arranged around the armature that are energized by the wound field coils. The shift lever mechanism and the solenoid plunger are enclosed in the drive housing in order to protect them from exposure to dirt, icing conditions, and splash.

The solenoid windings are energized when the ignition switch is turned to the START position and the transmission is in NEUTRAL or PARK. The resulting plunger and shift lever movement causes the pinion to mesh with the engine flywheel ring gear, the solenoid main contacts to close, and the engine cranking takes place. When the engine starts, the pinion overrunning clutch protects the armature from excessive speed until the key is released, at which time the plunger return spring causes the pinion to disengage. In order to prevent excessive overrunning, the key should be released immediately when the engine starts.

Notice: Do not crank the starter motor for more than 30 seconds at a time. Cool for at least two minutes after cranking before continuing. Excessive cranking can cause serious damage to the starter motor as well as erroneous test results.

The part number can be found either stamped on the outside of the closed end frame or on an identification tag attached by a through bolt.

The starter motor bearings are lubricated during motor assembly and do not require service except starter motor overhaul.

Maintenance

Keep all of the terminals in the electrical system clean and tight. Loose or corroded connections or terminals cause resistance in the system which may cause hard starting. Inspect the starting system regularly in order to locate and correct the potential causes of trouble before the system is affected. If the battery, the wiring, and the switches are in good condition and the engine is functioning properly, but a starting system problem occurs, inspect the starter motor.