Is it true that a break away clutch allows the starter motor to spin faster than the flywheel?

The assertion that a breakaway clutch allows the starter motor to spin faster than the flywheel is false. A breakaway clutch is a crucial component in the starter motor system that engages when starting the engine. Its main function is to enable the starter motor to turn the flywheel (or the engine's flexplate) to crank the engine.

When the starter motor is engaged, it is designed to spin the flywheel at a specific speed necessary for starting the engine. If the clutch were to allow the starter motor to exceed this speed significantly, it could lead to excessive wear and potential failure of both the starter and the engine components. The system is designed to prevent the starter from outpacing the flywheel once the engine starts and runs, thus ensuring a smooth transition without damaging the starter or the engine itself.

In summary, the design of the breakaway clutch effectively limits the starter motor's engagement to the flywheel's spinning speed during starting operations.