Alternator: Description and Operation

The Delco-Remy CS charging system has several models available, including the CS-121 DIF. The number denotes the outer diameter in millimeters of the stator lamination.

CS generators are equipped with internal regulators. A Delta stator, a rectifier bridge, and a rotor with slip rings and brushes are electrically similar to earlier generators. A conventional pulley and fan are used. There is no test hole.

Unlike three-wire generators, the CS-121 DIF may be used with only two connections: battery positive and an "L" terminal to the charge indicator lamp.

As with other charging systems, the charge indicator lamp illuminates when the ignition is turned to RUN, and goes Out when the engine is running. If the charge indicator is on with the engine running, a charging system defect is indicated. This indicator light will glow for several kinds of defects as well as when the system voltage is too high or too low.

The regulator voltage setting varies with temperature and limits the system voltage by controlling rotor field current. At high speeds, the on-time may be 10 percent and the off-time 90 percent. At low speeds, with high electrical loads, the on-time may be 90 percent and the off-time 10 percent.