1. Auto Upkeep Basic Car Care, Maintenance, and Repair (2nd Edition)
Chapter 1 - Introduction and How Cars Wor
Auto Upkeep Basic Car Care, Maintenance, and Repair (2nd Edition)
Chapter 9
Electrical System
Chapter 9
© 2007 Rolling Hills Publishing

2. Chapter 1 - Introduction and How Cars Wor
Fuel for Thought
What is the purpose of an automotive battery?
What is the difference between voltage, current, and resistance?
Why is it important to replace a blown fuse with the correct amperage rating?
Chapter 9
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Objectives
Upon completion of this chapter and activities, you will be able to:
Define electricity in terms of voltage, current, and resistance.
Identify and describe the components in the starting and charging system.
Explain battery performance ratings.
Identify the importance of fuses in the electrical system.
Test the starter and alternator.
Clean and test a battery safely.
Chapter 9
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Electrical Terms
Electricity is the flow of electrons.
Conductors allow electron flow.
Insulators restricts the flow of electrons.
Voltage is the pressure pushing electrons (Electromotive force).
Current is the quantity of electrons (Intensity).
Resistance is the measure of electrical resistance.
Chapter 9
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Battery
12-Volt Systems
Most automotive batteries are 12-volt DC.
Each cell produces 2 to 2.1 volts.
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Battery Ratings
CCA – Cold Cranking Amps tested at ºF (-18ºC)
CA – Cranking Amps tested at 32ºF (0ºC)
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Battery Maintenance
Some batteries are permanently sealed.
Others you can check the specific gravity in each cell.
Chapter 9
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8. Higher Voltage Systems
Chapter 9
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Starting System
Chapter 9
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Starter
Converts electrical energy into mechanical energy to crank the engine.
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Charging System
Chapter 9
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Drive Belt
The routing diagram can help you install a new belt.
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Serpentine and V
Serpentine V
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Alternator
Converts mechanical energy to electrical energy to recharge the battery.
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Fuses
Fuse Junction Block
Fuse Types
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Fuses – Blown Fuse
Never replace with a higher amp rating.
Chapter 9
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17. Flashers, Relays, and Circuit Breakers
Flashers are used to operate turn signals and hazard lights.
Relays allow a small current to control a circuit with a high current.
Circuit breakers reset automatically.
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Lights
Automotive miniature bulbs
Automotive headlights
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PCM - Computer
PCM – Powertrain Control Module
Chapter 9
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Summary
Clean and maintain your vehicle’s battery.
Starting system converts chemical energy to electrical energy to mechanical energy.
Charging system converts mechanical energy to electrical energy to chemical energy.
Replace lights when they burn out for safety.
The PCM stores trouble codes to help you diagnose problems.
Chapter 9
© 2007 Rolling Hills Publishing