Charging System: Description and Operation

When the ignition switch is turned to ON or START, battery voltage is applied to the charge indicator and terminals B and S of the generator. After the engine has started and is running, the generator produces alternating current. The alternating current flows through a series of rectifier diodes and is converted to direct current. The direct current and voltage keeps the battery fully charged and provides power to operate the vehicle's electrical systems.

The amount of direct current and voltage the generator outputs is controlled by the voltage regulator. If the voltage regulator senses that the output of the generator is not sufficient for charging the battery, it will ground terminal L of the generator and the charge indicator will come on.