The generator is driven by a V-belt from the crankshaft of the engine.
The generator is a three-phase synchronous electric machine with electromagnetic excitation. A diode rectifier is built into the generator to convert AC to DC. Voltage regulation is carried out by a built-in microelectronic regulator.
When the generator is running, the electric current flowing through the field winding creates a magnetic flux around the rotor poles. When the rotor rotates, its magnetic poles periodically change under each stator tooth, as a result, the magnetic flux passing through the teeth continuously changes in magnitude and voltage. This variable magnetic flux creates an electromotive force in the stator winding (EMF). The wedge-shaped shape of the pole pieces of the rotor is selected in such a way that it makes it possible to obtain an EMF curve close to sinusoidal.
At a high rotor speed, when its generator output voltage begins to exceed 13.6-14.6 V, the voltage regulator is locked and no current passes through the field winding. When the voltage drops, the regulator opens again, allowing free flow of current through the field winding. The higher the rotor speed, the longer the regulator remains locked and, accordingly, the voltage at the generator output decreases more. The process of locking and unlocking the regulator occurs at a high frequency, so the output fluctuations remain almost imperceptible and the generator voltage can be considered constant, maintained at the level of 13.6-14.6 V.
The charging system does not require periodic maintenance, however, the condition/replacement of the drive belt, battery and its wiring should be checked on a regular basis in accordance with the Maintenance Schedule (see chapter Ongoing care and maintenance).
When the ignition is switched on, the charge indicator lamp in the instrument cluster should briefly come on (see chapter Controls and methods of operation). If the lamp does not turn off a short time after the engine is started or is activated during the operation of the latter, it is necessary to check the condition of the components of the charge system. Failure to activate the lamp when the ignition is turned on indicates its failure, damage to the corresponding electrical wiring, or a malfunction of the generator (including broken drive belt).
Generator Maintenance Safety Precautions
- Never disconnect the battery or voltage regulator while the engine is running;
- Never ground the generator excitation terminal or the cable attached to it;
- Do not confuse the order of connecting the voltage regulator wiring;
- Remember that the inclusion of a voltage regulator closed to ground leads to its instantaneous failure;
- Never remove the generator with the battery connected;
- Do not confuse the polarity of the battery connection;
- Never use voltage meters / test lamps connected to the household network when checking on-board electrical equipment (110/220V);
- When checking the condition of the diodes, do not apply a voltage of more than 12 V to them and do not use mega-ohmmeters that also have a high output voltage - breakdown of the diodes will lead to a short circuit. Remember that when checking the insulation of the electrical wiring using a mega-ohmmeter, it is necessary to disconnect everything from the generator all electrical wiring;
- When charging the battery without removing it from the vehicle, make sure that both wires are disconnected from it. Do not confuse the polarity of the charger connection;
- Before carrying out any electric welding work on the car, do not forget to disconnect the electrical wiring from the generator and battery;
- Any checks of circuits and on-board wiring assemblies should be carried out with the engine off and the battery disconnected;
- Remember that reversing the polarity of any connections carries the risk of permanent damage to the rectifier and generator voltage regulator.