Charging System Components: Generator

The generator is a serviceable component. If there is a diagnosed failure of the generator it must be replaced as an assembly. The engine drive belt drives the generator. When the rotor is spun it induces an alternating current (AC) into the stator windings. The AC voltage is then sent through a series of diodes for rectification. The rectified voltage has been converted into a direct current (DC) for use by the vehicles electrical system to maintain electrical loads and the battery charge. The voltage regulator integral to the generator controls the output of the generator. It is not serviceable. The voltage regulator controls the generator's output voltage by controlling the amount of current provided to the rotor. The generator on this vehicle has RVC, which means that the EPM software determines what the regulated voltage should be, not the generator. The output voltage command comes to the generator from the engine control module (ECM) / powertrain control module (PCM) by way of the "L" terminal. If that signal is lost, the generator defaults to an output voltage of 13.8 volts.