Mustang Cobra V8-281 4.6L DOHC VIN V MFI (1997)
Voltage Regulator: Description and Operation
With Integral Regulator - Internal Fan and Regulator Type
The voltage regulator:
^
Adjusts the generator field current to increase or decrease generator output current.
^
Sets the generator output voltage.
^
Turns the generator warning lamp on when a concern is detected in the charging system or associated wiring.
The generator output voltage will vary with temperature. The output voltage is typically higher in the winter (cold) and lower in the summer (hot).
The voltage regulator will turn the generator warning lamp on for the following conditions:
^
Ignition switch in the RUN position with the engine not running. This is the lamp prove-out (does not indicate a concern with the charging system).
^
Open in the A circuit or S circuit.
^
Inoperative generator (GEN).
^
Generator output voltage too high.
Refer to diagnostic procedures if the charging system indicator lamp stays on with engine running.
With the system functioning normally:
^
The generator output current is determined by the voltage of the A circuit (battery-sense voltage).
^
The A circuit voltage is compared to a set voltage internal to the voltage regulator. The voltage regulator controls the generator field current to
maintain proper generator output.
^
The set voltage varies with temperature and is typically higher in the winter than summer, allowing for better battery charging.
The charging system warning indicator comes on when a concern is detected in the:
^
Generator.
^
Voltage regulator.
^
Associated wiring.
^
Is protected by a fuse link.
