System Description

Alternator

The Alternator is belt-driven by the engine and generates power to keep the Battery fully charged and to operate electrical systems in the vehicle.

Alternator output is variable and depends on the speed at which the alternator rotor spins, as well as the amount of current passing through the rotor winding. Current flows through the rotor wining is controlled by a Regulator that is built into the Alternator.

The Alternator generates alternating current, which is passed through a series of rectifier diodes and converted to direct current.

Charge Indicator

with the ignition switch in START or RUN, battery voltage is present at the charge indicator through the METER Fuse.

If the alternator is not generating power, the IC Regulator inside the alternator grounds the charge indicator through circuit 20 (W/BK).

Current flows through the METER Fuse, the charge indicator, and the IC Regulator to ground; the charge indicator illuminates.

When the alternator is generating power, the IC Regulator inside the alternator applies battery voltage to the charge indicator through circuit 20 (W/BK). With battery voltage present at both ends of the charge indicator, there is no current flow and the charge indicator does not illuminate.