Alternator: Description and Operation

GENERATOR

The charging system is a negative ground system consisting of the following:
- generator
- internal voltage regulator
- charging system warning indicator
- battery
- circuitry and cables

The generator has an internal voltage regulator that is not repairable separately. The generator and the voltage regulator must be replaced as an assembly.

All PZEV manual transaxle applications are equipped with a one-way clutch (OWC) in the generator pulley. The OWC pulley temporarily disengages the generator rotor from the front engine accessory drive (FEAD) system during high acceleration/deceleration rates on the engine, which may increase belt life and decrease belt chirp. The generator/voltage regulator must be replaced as an assembly.

The generator is belt-driven by the engine accessory drive system. When the engine is started, the generator begins to generate alternating current (AC) which is internally converted to direct current (DC). This current is then supplied to the vehicle electrical system through the output (B+) terminal of the generator.

The generator and voltage regulator:
- supply current to the electrical system
- charge the battery
- adjust the generator field current to increase or decrease the generator output