DESCRIPTION & OPERATION
The charging system consists of a generator/regulator assembly, charge indicator, battery, and required circuitry. Charging system uses a MAIN fuse (100-amp) to prevent system damage. Solid-state regulator, mounted on rear of generator, is factory-calibrated and cannot be adjusted.
When engine is started, the rotation of the generator creates AC current, which passes through the rectifier assembly, where it is converted to DC current. Generator supplies 13-15 volts to vehicle's electrical system.
GENERATOR WARNING LIGHT OPERATION
- Verify that the battery is fully charged.
- Verify that the drive belt deflection/tension is within the specification. See «BELT TENSION»(ref-167276-S04207916302004101200000) under ADJUSTMENTS.
- Turn the ignition switch to ON position and verify that the generator warning light illuminates. If warning light does not illuminate, inspect generator warning light, wiring harnesses between the battery, PCM harness connector terminal 3U and the generator warning light. (Scheme 1)
- Verify that the generator or warning light goes off after the engine is started. If it does not goes out, connect Worldwide Diagnostic System (WDS), or equivalent scan tool, and check if any DTCs in the on-board diagnostic system are displayed. For 2002 models, see «RETRIEVING DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES»(ref-134962-S42431914432002022100000) in SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - MX-5 MIATA article in ENGINE PERFORMANCE. For 2003 models, see «RETRIEVING DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES»(ref-151884-S05028999362003010900000) in SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - MX-5 MIATA article in ENGINE PERFORMANCE. For 2004 models, see RETRIEVING DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES in SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - MX-5 MIATA article in ENGINE PERFORMANCE. On all applications, if no DTCs are present, perform appropriate test under «ON-VEHICLE TESTS»(ref-167276-S27796002692004101200000).
