Question 54Motor Plants - 1st Asst/Chief

The correct answer is B) Helps absorb the shock when the pinion engages the flywheel ring gear. The Bendix drive friction clutch is a key component of a Bendix drive starter, which is commonly used in internal combustion engines. The primary function of the friction clutch is to help absorb the sudden shock and impact when the starter pinion gear engages with the flywheel ring gear during engine cranking. This shock absorption helps protect the starter components from damage and ensures a smooth engagement of the starter with the engine. The other answer choices are incorrect because they do not directly describe the main operating characteristic of the Bendix drive friction clutch. Option A relates to the air start distributor, which is not directly connected to the Bendix drive. Option C describes the disengagement of the pinion, which is a separate function of the Bendix drive mechanism. Option D refers to preventing overrunning, which is a secondary function of the Bendix drive, but not its primary purpose.