Alternator: Description and Operation

GENERATOR

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

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

All 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 deceleration rates on the engine, which may increase belt life and decrease belt chirp. A new OWC pulley and generator/voltage regulator must be installed as an assembly.

The generator is belt-driven by the FEAD system. Refer to Drive Belts, Mounts, Brackets and Accessories. When the engine is started, the generator begins to generate AC which is internally converted to 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.