Contents: Charging system ⬇ Launch system ⬇
Charging system
General information
The components of the charging system include the alternator, its built-in voltage regulator, charge indicator lamp, battery, protective fuse and wiring that connects these components. The charging system supplies electrical power to the ignition system, lighting and signaling devices, radio and other electrical consumers. The alternator is driven by a belt drive from the crankshaft pulley and is mounted at the front of the engine. Additional information on the electrical connections of the charging system components can be found in the electrical connection diagrams (see Chapter On-board electrical equipment).
Electronic control unit (ECM, depending on the current values of the input parameters (engine speed, vehicle speed, coolant temperature, number of electrical consumers turned on and intake air temperature), adjusts the value of the voltage generated by the generator. The main task of the system is to minimize the load on the engine.
The task of the voltage regulator is to limit the voltage produced by the generator within specified limits. The regulator prevents circuit overloads and other unpleasant phenomena associated with voltage surges.
The charging system does not require regular maintenance. However, the condition of the alternator drive belt, battery, connecting electrical system should be checked periodically. See Chapter Vehicle settings and routine maintenance).
The charging indicator lamp built into the instrument panel lights up briefly when the ignition key is turned to the ON position. The lamp should go out immediately after the engine is started. If the lamp does not turn off, there is a fault in the charging system. Some models have a voltmeter installed in the instrument panel, which allows the driver to monitor deviations in the on-board voltage from the norm in a timely manner. If the voltmeter readings go beyond the permissible range, the charging system should be checked.
The fuse link is a short section of insulated wire mounted in the main wiring harness of the engine compartment. The total cross-section of the insert conductor core is several times smaller than that of the wiring of the circuit in which it is included, which guarantees reliable protection of the latter from overload.
Precautionary measures
When connecting terminal connections of electrical circuits of vehicles equipped with an alternator, special precautions must be taken:
- When connecting the battery wiring to the generator, do not reverse the polarity under any circumstances;
- Before using electric arc welding for body repair, disconnect the electrical wiring from the generator and battery terminals;
- Never start the engine with the charger connected to the battery;
- Always disconnect both cables from the battery before charging it from an external power source (negative at first);
- Avoid allowing hands, hair and loose clothing to come into contact with the rotating alternator drive belt during checks performed with the engine running;
- Since the generator is connected directly to the battery, its overloads and short circuits can cause ignition of the electrical wiring and cause a fire;
- Before steam cleaning the engine compartment, wrap the generator in a plastic bag, which should then be securely fastened with rubber bands.
Launch system
General information
The system ensures that the engine is turned over in order to start it.
The main components of the system are the starter with a traction relay installed on it, the battery, the ignition switch and the connecting electrical wiring.
The starter assembly with the traction relay is fixed on top of the power unit, near the transmission dome.
When the ignition key is turned to the START position, power from the battery is supplied via the start control circuit to the starter traction relay. The relay switches the battery power directly to the starter motor. The motor begins to rotate, simultaneously turning the flywheel/drive disk ring gear of the engine crankshaft.
The starter on models equipped with a manual transmission is only possible when the clutch pedal is depressed. On models with automatic transmission, the selector lever must be in position "P" or "N".
Precautionary measures
When performing any work on the components of the starting system, the following special precautions must be observed:
- Remember that excessively long cranking of the engine with the starter can cause serious damage to the electric motor of the latter due to overheating. Never use the starter continuously for more than 15 seconds, after which it should be allowed to cool for one to two minutes;
- Remember that the starter is connected directly to the battery, which, if handled carelessly, can result in overloads and short circuits, creating the possibility of arcing, which in turn can cause ignition of the wiring;
- When performing any work on the components of the starting system, be sure to disconnect the negative cable from the battery - remember that if the stereo system installed in the car is equipped with a security code, before disconnecting the battery you should make sure you know the correct combination to activate the audio system!
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