Safety and Ground Operations & Servicing Practice Test

When starting, the starter’s job is to crank the engine until it catches and runs on its own. After the engine starts, you release the starter switch to disengage the starter. This protects the starter from overheating and excessive electrical load, and prevents wear or damage to the starter gear train. Keeping the starter engaged once the engine is running isn’t necessary and can cause damage. The other actions aren’t part of the proper immediate step after the engine has started: holding the starter on risks harm, advancing throttle or applying brakes aren’t the required action at that moment.