Alternator: Description and Operation

PURPOSE
The Integral Alternator/Regulator (IAR) generates power to keep the battery fully charged and to operate the vehicle's electrical system.

OPERATION
The IAR is operated by current flow through a rotor winding and is controlled by a built-in regulator. The stator generates alternating current, which is passed through a series of rectifier diodes and is converted to direct current. Output is variable and depends on speed at which alternator rotor spins, as well as amount of current passing through rotor winding.