Cougar/XR7 V8-4.6L VIN W (1997)
Voltage Regulator: Description and Operation
The voltage regulator:
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Adjusts the generator field current to increase or decrease generator output current.
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Sets the generator output voltage.
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Turns the generator warning indicator on when a problem 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 indicator on for the following conditions:
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Ignition switch in the RUN position with the engine not running; this is the indicator lamp prove-out (does not indicate a problem with the
charging system)
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Open in the A circuit or S circuit
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Inoperative generator (GEN)
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Generator output voltage too high
If the generator warning indicator stays on with engine running, refer to Charging System/Testing and Inspection. See: Testing and Inspection