TANDEM SOLENOID STARTER HAVING HELICAL PINION GEAR AND STARTING SYSTEMS INCORPORATING THE SAME

A starter assembly for rotating a helical ring gear of an engine, including a connector with first and second inputs, an electric motor, a helical pinion gear, and an actuator. The motor is in communication with the first input for generating rotational torque in response to signals at the first input. The helical pinion is in rotational communication with the motor. The actuator is in communication with the second input and moves between a disengaged position, with the helical pinion spaced from the helical ring; and an engaged position, wherein the helical pinion meshes and can rotate with the helical ring. The actuator moves between the positions in response to signals occurring at the second input. The inputs are independent such that the actuator can move the helical pinion to the engaged position and the motor can subsequently rotate the helical ring so as to start the engine.