Let's Find Out the Function of the Starter Dynamo and How It Works

The dynamo is one of the vital components of a vehicle that plays an important role as the wheel drive when the engine is started. 

When this component experiences damage due to several factors, of course, the vehicle's engine cannot start and produce maximum power. 

To get to know it better, here are the functions of the dynamo and how it works. 

Main Function of the Starter Dynamo

As previously explained, the starter dynamo is a component that acts as the wheel drive when the engine is started. 

In other words, the dynamo will rotate the engine for the first time, so the rider does not need to push or kick-start it first for the engine to start. 

The starter dynamo has a relatively high risk of damage due to several factors such as a dead battery due to lack of electrical flow, worn carbon brushes, burned windings on the starter, and damaged starter solenoids. 

Fortunately, there are several effective tips to avoid damage to the dynamo. Tips to maintain the dynamo to prevent it from easily breaking include providing regular maintenance. 

In addition, you also need to ensure that the positive and negative battery cables are connected properly to minimize the risk of damage to the dynamo. 

Even a disconnected dynamo cable makes it unable to function. In fact, the function of the dynamo itself is very important for the vehicle. 

Read also: All About Car Electrical Systems, From Systems to Schematics

How the Starter Dynamo Works

First, please set the starter switch or known as the ignition key to the start position. Then the electrical current will flow to the pull in coil which will connect terminal 30 to terminal C when grounded. 

Generally, there is no interrupted current from the pull in coil to ground. If the electrical connection is interrupted, it is due to the carbon brush being worn out. The carbon brush can be found before and after the armature. 

In other words, the pull in coil cannot operate if the vehicle's starter cannot be turned on. Therefore, you must pay attention to the signs of worn carbon.

A sign that the starter relay has run out of carbon brush is the sound of contact in the relay when connected to the starter. 

Under normal conditions, the pull in coil automatically pulls the contact as well as the plunger and shift level that pushes the pinion to connect with the rotation of the dynamo and flywheel. 

When signs of damage are visible, take it to a workshop considering the dynamo's function is very important. When terminal 30 and terminal C are successfully connected, the pull in coil stops working because the voltage at terminal 50 and terminal C is almost the same. 

Meanwhile, when the dynamo is rotating the flywheel, the hold in coil will play a role in holding the contact to remain connected to terminal 30 and terminal C. 

At the same time, the hold in coil also serves as a holder for the pinion gear which will eventually rotate the flywheel until the engine starts. 

Although the working sequence of the dynamo is quite long, it can happen briefly and makes it easier for the user. That is the function of the dynamo and how it works that you need to know. 

Read also : Signs of a Damaged Car Starter Dynamo and Its Causes