Dakota 4WD V6-239 3.9L Magnum (1996)
Alternator: Description and Operation
The main components of the alternator are the rotor, stator, rectifier, end shields and drive pulley. Direct current is available at the output "B+"
terminal.
Alternator output is controlled by voltage regulator circuitry contained within the power and logic modules of the Engine Controller.
The generator is belt-driven by the engine. It is serviced only as a complete assembly. If the generator fails for any reason, the entire assembly
must be replaced.
As the energized rotor begins to rotate within the generator, the spinning magnetic field induces a current into the windings of the stator coil. Once
the generator begins producing sufficient current, it also provides the current needed to energize the rotor.
The Y type stator winding connections deliver the induced AC current to 3 positive and 3 negative diodes for rectification. From the diodes,
rectified DC current is delivered to the vehicle electrical system through the generator, battery, and ground terminals.
Noise emitting from the generator may be caused by:
-
Worn, loose or defective bearings
-
Loose or defective drive pulley
-
Incorrect, worn, damaged or misadjusted drive belt
-
Loose mounting bolts
-
Misaligned drive pulley
-
Defective stator or diode
