Alternators & Regulators - MOTORCRAFT With Separate Regulator: Description

Alternator is belt driven from engine. Current is supplied from Alternator-Regulator system, to rotating field of alternator through two brushes to two slip rings. Power is produced in form of alternating current which is rectified to direct current by six diodes. Alternator regulator automatically adjusts alternator field current to maintain alternator output voltage within prescribed limits to correctly charge battery. A fuse link is incorporated into the wiring harness between the starter relay and alternator to prevent damage should the harness become grounded or a booster battery be used with incorrect polarity.

Regulator is electronic (100% solid state) and consists of transistors, diodes and resistors. The electronic regulator is used on all charging systems. Two regulators, similar in appearance but not interchangeable, are used. One, color coded black, is used in systems with alternator warning lamps; another, color coded blue, is used in systems with ammeters. No adjustment is required or possible.