Alternator & Regulator: Description

These alternators are used in conjunction with a Body Control Module (BCM). The alternator and related charging system circuitry have self-diagnostic capability. When a malfunction develops within the system, the BCM will set and store a trouble code relating to the fault. This code may be accessed at a later time by the technician. Also, the malfunction may be indicated by a message on the warning light cluster.

The procedure to access the self-diagnostic system depends on the type of Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) installed in the vehicle. See Figure . Vehicles equipped with a digital IPC are described as color Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) equipped. Those with an analog gauge (floating needle) IPC are described as non-CRT equipped.

Vehicles without heated windshields are equipped with 124-amp alternators. Vehicles with heated windshields are equipped with 140-amp alternators, which include 3 additional terminals to supply current to the windshield heater.