What engine component does the starter engage with to start the engine?

What engine component does the starter engage with to start the engine?

• A. Piston
• B. Crankshaft
• C. Flywheel
• D. Camshaft

Answer: (C)

When you start an engine, the starter’s job is to rotate the engine over. It does this by its pinion gear meshing with the teeth on the flywheel (or flexplate in some transmissions) that’s attached to the crankshaft. Once the starter turns the flywheel, the crankshaft starts rotating, which lets the pistons move and the engine begin the combustion process. The starter doesn't directly engage the piston or the camshaft—the flywheel provides the engagement surface that transfers the starter’s rotation to the crankshaft.

When you start an engine, the starter’s job is to rotate the engine over. It does this by its pinion gear meshing with the teeth on the flywheel (or flexplate in some transmissions) that’s attached to the crankshaft. Once the starter turns the flywheel, the crankshaft starts rotating, which lets the pistons move and the engine begin the combustion process. The starter doesn't directly engage the piston or the camshaft—the flywheel provides the engagement surface that transfers the starter’s rotation to the crankshaft.