Charging System Operation

GENERAL INFORMATION
The power source of the charging system is the alternator. Current is transmitted from the field terminal of the regulator through a slip ring to the field coil and back to ground through another slip ring. The strength of the field regulates the output of the alternating current. This alternating current is then transmitted from the alternator to the rectifier where it is converted to direct current.

These alternators employ a three-phase stator winding in which the phase windings are electrically 120° apart. The rotor consists of a field coil encased between interleaved sections producing a magnetic field with alternate north and south poles. By rotating the rotor inside the stator, the alternating current is induced in the stator windings. This alternating current is rectified (changed to DC) by silicon diodes and brought out to the output terminal of the alternator.

SPECIFIC INFORMATION
When engine is stopped
When the ignition switch is switched to the "ON" position, electricity flows from the "L" terminal of the generator to the field coil and at the same time the charging warning light illuminates.

When engine is being started/has started
When the engine is started, charging voltage is applied to the "L" terminal of the generator, with the result that the charging warning light is extinguished. In addition, because battery voltage is applied to the "S" terminal of the generator, this battery voltage is monitored at the IC voltage regulator, thus switching ON and OFF the current to the field coil and thereby controlling the output voltage of the generator.

Power is supplied to each load from the "B" terminal of the generator.

NOTE: The generator relay functions as a back-up for the flow of electricity to the field coil if there is a disconnection or damaged wiring of the charging warning light.