Electrical System Intro to Automotives

Basics of Electricity Definition: The movement of electrons in a conductor.

Terms Voltage: Is the electrical pressure that causes current to flow. Current: The quantity of electrons moving through a conductor. Resistance: Is measured in ohms, usually the load, such as a light. OHMS LAW: Voltage = Current X Resistance

Starting System

Battery Stores Chemical Energy Supply electrical energy to the starter Supplement the alternator Lights Radio Etc.

Key Switch Connects or disconnects electrical current from flowing. Completes the circuit to the solenoid starter

Solenoid Electrical Switch Changes low current to high current

Starter Converts electrical energy into mechanical energy Connected to the flywheel gears, which is connected to the crankshaft, which moves the pistons

Neutral Safety Switch Keeps vehicle from starting while in gear Allows current to flow in starting system when in “PARK”

Common Starting System Problems Bad/Worn out starter or solenoid Dead Battery Short circuited or broken wire

Charging System

Charging System The reverse of the starting system Recharges the battery Energy Conversion Consists of four (4) main components Mechanical Electrical Chemical

Drive Belt Connects crankshaft to Alternator Sometimes connected to… Power steering pump Water pump Air conditioning 2 types of belts… Serpentine “V”- belts

Serpentine Belt Multi-ribbed Grooves run parallel Replace every 50,000 miles

V-belts Usually narrow Cross-section looks like a “V” Replace every 25,000 miles

Alternator Converts mechanical energy to electric energy Does both AC & DC

Battery Stores Chemical Energy 12-volt DC Converts electrical energy to chemical energy Supplements the alternator Lights Radio Etc.

Voltage Regulator Located in or near the alternator Regulates the Voltage Should be about 14.5 volts while the engine is running

Other Component Information

Fuses Located in the junction block Rated in Amps 5,10, 15, etc… 2 types of fuzzes Glass Cylinder Blade

Headlights Headlights Sealed Beam Composite Halogen Filled with gas

Questions/Discussion… Electrical System Questions/Discussion…