I understand that it is a switch to connect the battery to the sarter. But why not just make the ignition switch the actual switch?

Is it because the amps are high so the switch would be too big to comfortably use? Because if that is the case, wouldn’t a simple mechanical solution be better?

  • ExtremeDullard@lemmy.sdf.org
    25·
    2 days ago

    Because a starter motor draws a hundred amps or so. The solenoid ensures that closing the circuit is done as quickly as possible to limit sparking - and also keep the sparking as far from the driver’s fingers as possible. Also, it’s closer to the starter motor and the battery, so the cables are short and don’t waste as much power as if they had to snake through the firewall - not to mention the PITA of routing monter copper cables through the firewall.