| Description and Operation The charging system comprises an alternator which generates current to supply the vehicle electrical system and maintain the battery in a charged condition. The alternators used on the Ford Transit range are manufactured by Magneti Marrelli, with a variety of power outputs dependent on engine size and vehicle variant. - Petrol engines 90 amp
- Diesel engines 70 amp (up to '97½ MY)
- Diesel engines 95 amp ('97¾ MY onwards)
All types of alternator are solidly mounted towards the front of the engine cylinder block and are driven at approximately twice engine speed. Drive belt tension is maintained by an adjustable tensioner or a separately mounted automatic tensioner. All makes are machine sensed which means that a voltage regulator senses the output voltage at the alternator and regulates this to a maximum of approximately 14 volts at all times. When the alternator is not generating power, with the ignition turned on, a warning lamp will illuminate in the vehicle instrument cluster. If, however, there is an open circuit in the regulator or rotor circuit, the warning lamp will not illuminate. Apart from the regulator and pulley, units should be serviced as an assembly and not dismantled for overhaul. In certain instances, some alternators may be interchangeable depending upon engine type and territory. Consult the Parts Microfiche for further information. The alternator fitted to diesel engine variants has a vacuum pressure pump mounted to it. This pump is driven by the alternator main shaft. Service procedures for this pump can be found in Section 12 - Braking System. |  | NOTE: For information on disconnecting/ reconnecting the battery and connecting a slave battery using jump leads refer to Section 00-03 - Standard Working Practices. | | 
