What component of the starter motor is responsible for directing magnetic fields?

The field coils are crucial components of a starter motor as they generate the magnetic field necessary for its operation. When electrical current passes through the field coils, it creates a magnetic field that interacts with the armature. This interaction between the magnetic field and the armature produces the rotational motion required to start the engine.

The armature serves as the rotating part of the motor, but it is the field coils that provide the necessary magnetic field for this rotation to occur. Without the field coils, there would be no magnetic field to interact with the armature, and thus, the starting process would fail. This is why the field coils are specifically identified as responsible for directing magnetic fields within the starter motor.

In contrast, the pinion gear is responsible for engaging with the engine's flywheel to crank the engine, while the overrun clutch allows the starter motor to disengage from the engine once it has started, preventing damage. These components are essential to the overall function of the starter motor but do not play a direct role in generating the magnetic field.