Computer Controlled Generator

DESCRIPTION
The generator provides a voltage to operate the vehicle's electrical system and to charge the vehicle's battery. A magnetic field is created when current flows through the rotor. This field rotates as the rotor is driven by the engine, creating an AC voltage in the stator windings. The AC voltage is converted to DC by the rectifier bridge and is supplied to the electrical system at the battery terminal.

The two main parts of the charging system are the generator and the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).

OPERATION
The operation of the charging system is monitored by the PCM. The PCM monitors the charging system loads and adjusts the idle speed accordingly. The PCM also reports to the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) when the charging system is inoperative and tells the IPC to illuminate the volts telltale lamp.

The Computers and Control Systems / Chart C-19 PCM Controlled Generator (Functional Check) will diagnose the generator "F" and "L" circuits. Testing and Inspection
Diagnosis of the remaining circuit(s) are covered in Testing and Inspection.

The PCM supplies 5V through the "L" circuit of the generator. If the generator becomes inoperative, the PCM detects the fault through the "L" circuit and tells the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) to illuminate the volts telltale lamp.

The PCM monitors the duty cycle of the generator through the "F," circuit. As the generator load increases, the PCM will adjust the idle speed accordingly. If the IPC does not see any activity on the "F" circuit, the PC will illuminate the volts telltale lamp.

GENERATOR ASSEMBLY
The generator assembly is mounted to the front of the engine on the passenger side of the vehicle. The CS-type generator uses an internal regulator which features a built-in fault detection. The Model CS-130 generator used on this vehicle is not to be disassembled for service.