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Discussion » Questions » Transportation » Mechanically speaking, exactly what damage is done when you unintentionally turn on the ignition switch when the engine is already running?
Randy D

Mechanically speaking, exactly what damage is done when you unintentionally turn on the ignition switch when the engine is already running?

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Posted - July 12, 2021
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Responses


  • 16826
    The starter pinion can't turn that fast, so the teeth won't mesh. You can break a tooth on the ring gear if you hold the switch for a long time. The starter pinion is very robust for a reason and almost indestructible.
      July 12, 2021 4:53 PM MDT
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  • 53524

     

      Thank you!
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      July 12, 2021 4:54 PM MDT
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  • 44649
    Maybe these days. I had one lose teeth on my 65 Plymouth starter and I never made the mistake that Randy asked about.
      July 13, 2021 12:13 PM MDT
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  • 16826
    Metal fatigue? Or corrosion?  I've heard of stripping teeth off the ring gear, but never off the starter itself.
      July 13, 2021 10:21 PM MDT
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  • 44649
    Oops...you are probably correct. I never repaired it.
      July 14, 2021 10:05 AM MDT
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  • 581
    You make yourself look stupid for doing it.
      July 12, 2021 5:23 PM MDT
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  • 17614
    Your husband yells at you.
      July 13, 2021 1:10 AM MDT
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  • 53524

    Lol!

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      July 13, 2021 12:13 PM MDT
    1