Starting System Description

When the engine is started, the magnetized rotor turns within the stator windings generating 3 phase alternating current (ac) and voltage that rises rapidly with rotor speed. The field diodes in the rectifier pack convert the ac current into direct current (dc) current. Output current from the field diodes supplements the initial current flowing through the field windings. This causes an increase in the magnetic influence of the rotor resulting in self-excitation of the alternator. The field current increases with rotor speed and thus increases the generated current and voltage until the alternator is fully excited. When the voltage applied to the alternator side of the warning lamp, exceeds the battery voltage applied to the warning lamp, the lamp is extinguished. This shows that the alternator is producing battery charging current.

When the battery is at a low state of charge or the current draw from the electrical functions of the vehicle causes a voltage drop, the alternator automatically charges at its maximum rate (dependant on rotor speed) until 14 Volts is reached. When the demand on the alternator falls, the current output is reduced.

Battery charging is accomplished on a red wire from the alternator (C183-1) to the engine compartment fuse box (C574-1). The charging current passes through fuse link 6 (C632-1) on a red wire to the battery positive terminal (C192-2).

Starting System Description

When the starter switch is turned to the crank position III, battery voltage energizes the starter relay. This, in turn, energizes the starter motor solenoid which connects a feed direct from the battery to operate the starter motor.