Alternator

ALTERNATOR

When the engine is running the alternator supplies electric energy to the electronic control units and to the different services that may be activated at all times.

It also supplies the charge to the battery, for dlivering current when the engine is not running.

The electric current is produced by a stator which "cuts" the magnetic field generated by a rotary winding (rotor). The rotor is integral with a pulley operated directly by the crankshaft through a belt. The contact brushes supply the rotor with energising current.

The alternate current generated by the alternator is rectified by the diodes and regulated by the voltage regulator, located on the body of the alternator.

The electronic voltage regulator used, which is compact in size, ensures a constant voltage in all the operating fields of the engine, with the highest number of changes in loadand speed.

A double internal cooling fan turns together with the pulley and allows the alternator to avoid reaching dangerous temperatures that would adversely affect it.

The alternator fitted is of the type with clawed poles with collector rings; it is extremely compact and light weight.

WARNING: The fan cools the alternator correctly if it turns clockwise (seen from the pulley side).

REMOVING/REFITTING

• Set the car on a lift.
• Remove the front wheels and mud flaps.

1. Using a wrench on the belt tensioner pulley screw, overcome the force of the automatic tensioner and lock it in this position (belt slack) inserting the special peg as illustrated.
2. Prise and remove the auxiliary components drive belt.

1. Slacken the fastening screw and remove the auxiliary components drive belt guide pulley.

1. Lower the car and remove the plastic cover protecting the relays, fuses and electrical connections.