CHARGING SYSTEM
The charging system consists of a generator/regulator assembly, charging system warning indicator, battery, and required circuitry. The generator maximum output provides 110 amps. The generator is belt-driven by the engine accessory drive system. Charging system uses a MAIN (120-amp) and fuse No. 11 (15-amp), located in the Battery Junction Box (BJB), 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.
Functionality (3.0L Only)
Note. The following operation is for 3.0L models only. Information for the 2.0L models was not provided by the manufacturer.
With the ignition switch in the ON position, voltage is applied through the warning indicator "I" circuit to the voltage regulator. This turns the regulator on, allowing current to flow from battery sense "A" circuit to the generator field coil. When the engine is started, the generator begins to generate Alternating Current (AC) which is internally converted to Direct Current (DC). This current is then supplied to the vehicle's electrical system through the output (B+) terminal of the generator.
Once the generator begins generating current, a voltage signal is taken from the generator stator and fed back to the regulator internally. This voltage feedback signal (typically half the battery voltage) is used to turn off the warning indicator. With the system functioning normally, the generator output current is determined by the voltage of the "A" circuit. The A circuit voltage is compared to a set voltage internal to the regulator, and the regulator controls the generator field current to maintain the correct generator output.
The set voltage will vary with temperature and is typically higher in cold temperatures and lower in warm temperatures. This allows for better battery recharge in the winter and reduces the chance of overcharging in the summer.
Battery Positive Output Circuit (3.0L Only)
The generator output is supplied through the battery positive output (B+) terminal on the back of the generator to the battery and electrical system.
Ignition Circuit (3.0L Only)
The "I" (Ignition) circuit is used to turn on the voltage regulator. This circuit is powered up with the ignition key in the RUN position. This circuit is also used to turn the charging system warning indicator on if there is a fault in the charging system operation.
"A" Circuit (3.0L Only)
The "A" circuit or battery sense circuit is used to sense battery voltage. This voltage is used by the regulator to determine generator output. This circuit is used to supply current to the generator field (rotor). The amount of current supplied to the rotor will determine generator output.
SYSTEM TESTS
| Symptom | Perform Test |
|---|---|
| Charging System Warning Indicator Is ON With Engine Running (3.0L) | A |
| Charging System Warning Indicator is ON With Engine Running (2.0L) | B |
| Charging System Overcharges Battery - Battery Voltage Is Greater Than 15.5 Volts (3.0L) | C |
| Charging System Overcharges Battery - Battery Voltage Greater Than 15.5 Volts (2.0L) | D |
| Charging System Warning Indicator Is On With Engine Running & The Battery Increases Voltage (3.0L) | E |
| Charging System Warning Indicator Is On With Engine Running & The System Increases Voltage (2.0L) | F |
| Charging System Warning Indicator Is OFF & Ignition Switch Is In RUN Position With Engine OFF. (3.0L) | G |
| Charging System Warning Indicator Is Off With Ignition Switch In Run Position With Engine Off (2.0L) | H |
| Charging System Warning Indicator Flickers (3.0L) | I |
| Charging System Warning Indicator Flickers (2.0L) | J |
| Generator Is Noisy | K |
| Radio Interference | L |
SYMPTOM INDEX
Scheme 7
Scheme 8
BATTERY DISCONNECT
| WARNING | Batteries normally produce explosive gasses which can cause personal injury. Therefore, do not allow flames, sparks or lighted substances to come near the battery, always shield your face and protect your eyes. Always provide ventilation. Failure to follow these instructions may result in personal injury. To avoid accidental deployment and possible injury, the backup power supply must be depleted before repairing or installing any front or side air bag supplemental restraint system (SRS) components and before repairing, installing, adjusting or striking components near the front or side air bag sensors, such as doors, instrument panel, console, latches, strikers, seats and hood latches. |
Please refer to the AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS article to determine location of the front air bag sensors.
To deplete the backup power supply energy, disconnect the battery ground cable and wait at least one minute. Be sure to disconnect auxiliary batteries and power supplies (if equipped). Failure to follow these instructions may result in personal injury.
| WARNING | When lifting a battery, excessive pressure on the end walls could cause acid to spew through the vent caps, resulting in personal injury. Lift with a battery carrier or with your hands on opposite corners. Failure to follow these instructions may result in personal injury. Keep out of the reach of children. Batteries contain sulfuric acid. Avoid contact with skin, eyes or clothing. Also, shield your eyes when working near the battery to protect against possible splashing of the acid solution. In case of acid contact with the skin or eyes, flush immediately with water for a minimum of 15 minutes and get prompt medical attention. If acid is swallowed, call a physician immediately. Failure to follow these instructions may result in personal injury. |
Note. When the battery is disconnected and reconnected, some abnormal drive symptoms may occur while the vehicle relearns it's adaptive strategy. The vehicle may need to be driven to relearn it's strategy.
- Disconnect negative battery cable.
- Disconnect positive battery cable.
- To install, reverse removal procedure.
2002
For charging system wiring diagrams, see STARTING/CHARGING in SYSTEM WIRING DIAGRAMS in ELECTRICAL.
2003
For charging system wiring diagrams, see STARTING/CHARGING in SYSTEM WIRING DIAGRAMS in ELECTRICAL.
2004
For charging system wiring diagrams, see STARTING/CHARGING in SYSTEM WIRING DIAGRAMS in ELECTRICAL.