Electrical (Generator): Description and operation

ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT Do not disconnect battery cables while the engine is running or damage to the semi-conductor devices Description may occur. It is also inadvisable to break or make any connections in the generator charging and control The electrical system is Negative ground, and it is circuits while the engine is running. most important to ensure correct polarity of the electrical connections at all times. Any incorrect The electronic voltage regulator employs micro-circuit connections made when reconnecting cables may techniques resulting in improved performance under cause irreparable damage to the semi-conductor difficult service conditions. The whole assembly is devices used in the generator and regulator. Incorrect encapsulated in silicone rubber and housed in an polarity would also seriously damage any aluminium heat sink, ensuring complete protection transistorized equipment such as a radio. against the adverse effects of temperature, dust, and moisture etc. WARNING: During battery removal or before carrying out any repairs or The regulating voltage is set during manufacture to maintenance to electrical components give the required regulating voltage range of 14.2 ± always disconnect the battery negative ’-’ lead 0.2 volts, and no adjustment is necessary. The only first. If the positive ’+’ lead is disconnected with maintenance needed is the occasional check on the negative ’-’ lead in place, accidental contact of terminal connections and wiping with a clean dry the wrench to any grounded metal part could cloth. cause a severe spark, possibly resulting in personal injury. Upon installation of the battery The generator system provides for direct connection the positive ’+’ lead must be connected first. of a charge (ignition) indicator warning light, and eliminates the need for a field switching relay or warning light control unit. The lamp should be checked regularly. In the event of bulb failure, an ’exciter’ voltage is supplied through a resistor, wired in

GENERATOR

parallel to the bulb, ensuring that generator output is maintained.

The generator is a 3 phase, field sensed unit. The rotor and stator windings produce three phase

When using rapid charge equipment to re-charge the

alternating current, AC, which is rectified to direct

battery, the battery MUST be disconnected from the

current, DC. The electronic voltage regulator unit

vehicle.

controls the generator output voltage by high frequency switching of the rotor field circuit. Use only the correct auxiliary drivebelt. Occasionally check that the engine and generator pulleys are accurately aligned.

It is essential that good electrical connections are maintained at all times. Of particular importance are those in the charging circuit (including those at the battery) which should be occasionally inspected to see that they are clean and tight. In this way any significant increase in circuit resistance can be prevented.