General information
The components of the charging system include the alternator, its built-in voltage regulator, charge level indicator, battery, protective fuse and the wiring that connects these components. The charging system supplies electrical power to the ignition system, lighting and signaling devices, radio and other electrical consumers. The alternator is driven by a belt drive from the crankshaft pulley and is mounted at the front of the engine. Additional information on the electrical connections of the charging system components can be found in the electrical connection diagrams (see Chapter On-board electrical equipment).
Electronic control unit (ECU), depending on the current values of the input parameters (engine speed, vehicle speed, coolant temperature, number of electrical consumers turned on and intake air temperature), issues a command to adjust the value of the voltage produced by the generator. The main task of the system is to minimize the load on the vehicle engine.
The task of the voltage regulator is to limit the voltage produced by the generator within specified limits. The regulator prevents circuit overloads and other unpleasant phenomena associated with voltage surges.
The charging system does not require regular maintenance. However, the condition of the alternator drive belt, battery, electrical wiring and its terminal connections should be checked periodically (see Chapter Routine maintenance).
The control lamp built into the instrument panel turns on briefly when the ignition key is turned to the ON position. The lamp should go out immediately after the engine is started. If the lamp does not turn off, this indicates a fault in the charging system. Some models have a voltmeter installed in the instrument panel, which allows the driver to monitor deviations in the on-board voltage from the norm. If the voltmeter readings go beyond the permissible range, the charging system should be checked.
The fuse link is a short section of insulated wire mounted in the main wiring harness of the engine compartment. The total cross-section of the insert conductor core is several times smaller than that of the wiring of the circuit in which it is included, which guarantees reliable protection of the latter from overload.
Precautionary measures
When connecting terminal connections of electrical circuits of vehicles equipped with an alternator, special precautions must be taken:
- a) When connecting the battery wiring to the generator, do not reverse the polarity under any circumstances;
- b) Before using electric arc welding for body repair, disconnect the electrical wiring from the generator and battery terminals;
- c) Never start the engine with the charger connected to the battery;
- d) Always disconnect the battery cables before charging it from an external power source (negative at first);
- e) Avoid allowing hands, hair and loose clothing to come into contact with the rotating alternator drive belt during checks performed with the engine running;
- f) Since the generator is connected directly to the battery, its overloads and short circuits can cause ignition of the electrical wiring and cause a fire;
- g) Before steam cleaning the engine compartment, wrap the generator in a plastic bag, which should then be securely fastened with rubber bands.