In a hydraulic starting system, where is the accumulator typically located?

In a hydraulic starting system, the accumulator is typically located between the pump and the starting motor. This positioning is crucial because the accumulator serves the purpose of storing hydraulic fluid under pressure. When the starting motor is engaged, the accumulator releases this stored energy to provide a quick, powerful surge of fluid to the starting motor, facilitating the engine's start.

This setup allows for the efficient use of hydraulic power by ensuring that the starting motor receives a ready supply of pressurized fluid, enabling it to overcome initial inertia and crank the engine effectively. The accumulator also helps to maintain system pressure and reduces the load on the hydraulic pump, which can lead to improved system longevity and reliability.

The other locations mentioned are less optimal because they either do not allow for the effective transfer of hydraulic energy directly to the starting motor or serve a different function in the hydraulic circuit. For instance, placing the accumulator between the filter and the pump would disrupt the flow of filtered fluid to the pump, while positioning it between the pump and the reservoir would not utilize the pressure from the accumulator for starting. Similarly, locating the accumulator between the starting motor and the engine itself would mean the hydraulic energy would not be available when needed to initiate the starting process.