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CHARGING SYSTEM
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
CHARGING SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION.........................22
OPERATION...........................22
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - CHARGING
SYSTEM............................22
SPECIFICATIONS
TORQUE - EXCEPT DIESEL.............23
GENERATOR RATINGS - GAS ENGINES . . . 23
SPECIAL TOOLS.......................24
BATTERY TEMPERATURE SENSOR
DESCRIPTION.........................24
OPERATION...........................24
REMOVAL.............................24
INSTALLATION.........................24
GENERATOR
DESCRIPTION.........................25OPERATION...........................25
REMOVAL.............................25
INSTALLATION.........................26
GENERATOR DECOUPLER PULLEY
DESCRIPTION.........................26
OPERATION...........................27
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - GENERATOR
DECOUPLER.........................27
REMOVAL.............................27
INSTALLATION.........................30
VOLTAGE REGULATOR
DESCRIPTION.........................31
OPERATION...........................31
CHARGING SYSTEM
DESCRIPTION
The charging system consists of:
²Generator
²Electronic Voltage Regulator (EVR) circuitry
within the Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
²Ignition switch
²Battery (refer to 8, Battery for information)
²Battery temperature sensor
²Generator Lamp (if equipped)
²Check Gauges Lamp (if equipped)
²Wiring harness and connections (refer to 8, Wir-
ing for information)
OPERATION
The charging system is turned on and off with the
ignition switch. The system is on when the engine is
running and the ASD relay is energized. When the
ASD relay is on, voltage is supplied to the ASD relay
sense circuit at the PCM. This voltage is connected
through the PCM and supplied to one of the genera-
tor field terminals (Gen. Source +) at the back of the
generator.
The amount of DC current produced by the gener-
ator is controlled by the EVR (field control) circuitry
contained within the PCM. This circuitry is con-
nected in series with the second rotor field terminal
and ground.
A battery temperature sensor, located in the bat-
tery tray housing, is used to sense battery tempera-ture. This temperature data, along with data from
monitored line voltage, is used by the PCM to vary
the battery charging rate. This is done by cycling the
ground path to control the strength of the rotor mag-
netic field. The PCM then compensates and regulates
generator current output accordingly.
All vehicles are equipped with On-Board Diagnos-
tics (OBD). All OBD-sensed systems, including EVR
(field control) circuitry, are monitored by the PCM.
Each monitored circuit is assigned a Diagnostic Trou-
ble Code (DTC). The PCM will store a DTC in elec-
tronic memory for certain failures it detects. Refer to
Diagnostic Trouble Codes in; Powertrain Control
Module; Electronic Control Modules for more DTC
information.
The Check Gauges Lamp (if equipped) monitors:
charging system voltage,engine coolant tempera-
ture and engine oil pressure. If an extreme condition
is indicated, the lamp will be illuminated. This is
done as reminder to check the three gauges. The sig-
nal to activate the lamp is sent via the CCD bus cir-
cuits. The lamp is located on the instrument panel.
Refer to 8, Instrument Cluster for additional infor-
mation.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - CHARGING
SYSTEM
The following procedures may be used to diagnose
the charging system if:
²the check gauges lamp (if equipped) is illumi-
nated with the engine running
8F - 22 CHARGING SYSTEMKJ
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²the voltmeter (if equipped) does not register
properly
²an undercharged or overcharged battery condi-
tion occurs.
Remember that an undercharged battery is often
caused by:
²accessories being left on with the engine not
running
²a faulty or improperly adjusted switch that
allows a lamp to stay on. Refer to Ignition-Off Draw
Test in 8, Battery for more information.
INSPECTION
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors
critical input and output circuits of the charging sys-
tem, making sure they are operational. A Diagnostic
Trouble Code (DTC) is assigned to each input and
output circuit monitored by the On-Board Diagnostic
(OBD) system. Some charging system circuits are
checked continuously, and some are checked only
under certain conditions.
Refer to Diagnostic Trouble Codes in; Powertrain
Control Module; Electronic Control Modules for more
DTC information. This will include a complete list of
DTC's including DTC's for the charging system.
To perform a complete test of the charging system,
refer to the appropriate Powertrain Diagnostic Proce-
dures service manual and the DRBtscan tool. Per-form the following inspections before attaching the
scan tool.
(1) Inspect the battery condition. Refer to 8, Bat-
tery for procedures.
(2) Inspect condition of battery cable terminals,
battery posts, connections at engine block, starter
solenoid and relay. They should be clean and tight.
Repair as required.
(3) Inspect all fuses in both the fuseblock and
Power Distribution Center (PDC) for tightness in
receptacles. They should be properly installed and
tight. Repair or replace as required.
(4) Inspect generator mounting bolts for tightness.
Replace or tighten bolts if required. Refer to the Gen-
erator Removal/Installation section of this group for
torque specifications.
(5) Inspect generator drive belt condition and ten-
sion. Tighten or replace belt as required. Refer to
Belt Tension Specifications in 7, Cooling System.
(6) Inspect automatic belt tensioner (if equipped).
Refer to 7, Cooling System for information.
(7) Inspect generator electrical connections at gen-
erator field, battery output, and ground terminal (if
equipped). Also check generator ground wire connec-
tion at engine (if equipped). They should all be clean
and tight. Repair as required.
SPECIFICATIONS
TORQUE - EXCEPT DIESEL
DESCRIPTION N-m Ft. Lbs. In. Lbs.
Generator Horizontal Mounting Bolts - 3.7L 57 42 -
Generator Vertical Mounting Bolt - 3.7L 40 29 -
Generator Mounting Bolts - 2.4L 57 42 -
B+ Terminal Nut at Top of Generator 13 - 115
Generator Decoupler 110 81 -
GENERATOR RATINGS - GAS ENGINES
TYPE PART NUMBER RATED SAE AMPS ENGINES MINIMUM TEST AMPS
DENSO 56044530AB 124 2.4L 88
DENSO 56044532AB 136 2.4L 96
DENSO 56041693AA 136 3.7L 96
DENSO 56029914AA 160 3.7L 112
KJCHARGING SYSTEM 8F - 23
CHARGING SYSTEM (Continued)
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SPECIAL TOOLS
BATTERY TEMPERATURE
SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
The Battery Temperature Sensor (BTS) is attached
to the battery tray located under the battery.
OPERATION
The BTS is used to determine the battery temper-
ature and control battery charging rate. This temper-
ature data, along with data from monitored line
voltage, is used by the PCM to vary the battery
charging rate. System voltage will be higher at colder
temperatures and is gradually reduced at warmer
temperatures.
The PCM sends 5 volts to the sensor and is
grounded through the sensor return line. As temper-
ature increases, resistance in the sensor decreases
and the detection voltage at the PCM increases.The BTS is also used for OBD II diagnostics. Cer-
tain faults and OBD II monitors are either enabled
or disabled, depending upon BTS input (for example,
disable purge and enable Leak Detection Pump
(LDP) and O2 sensor heater tests). Most OBD II
monitors are disabled below 20 degrees F.
REMOVAL
The battery temperature sensor is located under
the vehicle battery (Fig. 1) and is attached to a
mounting hole on battery tray.
(1) Remove battery. Refer to 8, Battery for proce-
dures.
(2) Disconnect sensor pigtail harness from engine
wire harness electrical connector.
(3) Pry sensor straight up from battery tray
mounting hole.
INSTALLATION
The battery temperature sensor is located under
vehicle battery and is attached to a mounting hole on
battery tray.
(1) Feed pigtail harness through hole in top of bat-
tery tray and press sensor into top of battery tray.
(2) Connect pigtail harness.
(3) Install battery. Refer to 8, Battery for proce-
dures.
GENERATOR DECOUPLER TOOL #8433
GENERATOR DECOUPLER TOOL #8823
Fig. 1 BATTERY TEMPERATURE SENSOR
1 - BATTERY TEMPERATURE SENSOR
2 - BATTERY TRAY
3 - ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR
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CHARGING SYSTEM (Continued)
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GENERATOR
DESCRIPTION
The generator is belt-driven by the engine using a
serpentine type drive belt. It is serviced only as a
complete assembly. If the generator fails for any rea-
son, the entire assembly must be replaced.
OPERATION
As the energized rotor begins to rotate within the
generator, the spinning magnetic field induces a cur-
rent into the windings of the stator coil. Once the
generator begins producing sufficient current, it also
provides the current needed to energize the rotor.
The stator winding connections deliver the induced
AC current to 3 positive and 3 negative diodes for
rectification. From the diodes, rectified DC current is
delivered to the vehicle electrical system through the
generator battery terminal.
Although the generators appear the same exter-
nally, different generators with different output rat-
ings are used on this vehicle. Be certain that the
replacement generator has the same output rating
and part number as the original unit. Refer to Spec-
ifications and see Generator Ratings for amperage
ratings and part numbers.
Noise emitting from the generator may be caused
by: worn, loose or defective bearings; a loose or defec-
tive drive pulley; incorrect, worn, damaged or misad-
justed fan drive belt; loose mounting bolts; a
misaligned drive pulley or a defective stator or diode.
REMOVAL
Gasoline Powered Engines
CAUTION: DISCONNECT NEGATIVE CABLE FROM
BATTERY BEFORE REMOVING BATTERY OUTPUT
WIRE FROM GENERATOR. FAILURE TO DO SO
CAN RESULT IN INJURY.
(1) Disconnect and isolate negative battery cable
at battery.
CAUTION: Never force a belt over a pulley rim
using a screwdriver. The synthetic fiber of the belt
can be damaged.CAUTION: When installing a serpentine accessory
drive belt, the belt MUST be routed correctly. The
water pump will be rotating in the wrong direction if
the belt is installed incorrectly, causing the engine
to overheat. Refer to belt routing label in engine
compartment, or refer to Belt Schematics in Cooling
System.
(2) Remove generator drive belt. Refer to 7, Cool-
ing System for procedures.
(3) Unsnap plastic protective cover (Fig. 2) from
B+ mounting stud.
(4) Remove B+ terminal mounting nut (Fig. 2) at
top of generator.
(5) Disconnect field wire electrical connector at
rear of generator (Fig. 2) by pushing on connector
tab.
(6) 2.4L Engine: Remove 2 generator mounting
bolts (Fig. 3).
(7) 3.7L Engine: Remove 1 vertical generator
mounting bolt and 2 horizontal mounting bolts (Fig.
4).
(8) Remove generator from vehicle.
Fig. 2 GENERATOR ELECTRICAL CONNECTORS -
TYPICAL
1 - PROTECTIVE CAP
2-B+NUT
3 - B+ TERMINAL
4 - FIELD ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR
KJCHARGING SYSTEM 8F - 25
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INSTALLATION
Gasoline Powered Engines
(1) 2.4L Engine: Position generator to engine and
install 2 mounting bolts. Refer to torque specifica-
tions.
(2) 3.7L Engine: Position generator to engine and
install 3 mounting bolts. Tighten 2 horizontal mount-
ing bolts to specified torque. Tighten 1 verticle
mounting bolt to specified torque. Refer to torque
specifications.
(3) Snap field wire connector into rear of genera-
tor.
(4) Install B+ terminal and nut to generator
mounting stud. Refer to torque specifications.
(5) Snap plastic protective cover to B+ terminal.
CAUTION: Never force a belt over a pulley rim
using a screwdriver. The synthetic fiber of the belt
can be damaged.
CAUTION: When installing a serpentine accessory
drive belt, the belt MUST be routed correctly. The
water pump will be rotating in the wrong direction if
the belt is installed incorrectly, causing the engine
to overheat. Refer to belt routing label in engine
compartment, or refer to Belt Schematics in 7, Cool-
ing System.
(6) Install drive belt Refer to 7, Cooling System for
belt routing, belt adjustment and bolt tightening pro-
cedures.
(7) Install negative battery cable to battery.
GENERATOR DECOUPLER
PULLEY
DESCRIPTION
The generator decoupler is used only with
certain engines.The decoupler is used in place of
the standard generator drive pulley (Fig. 5).
Fig. 3 GENERATOR - 2.4L
1 - UPPER MOUNTING BOLT
2 - GENERTOR
3 - LOWER MOUNTING BOLT
Fig. 4 GENERATOR - 3.7L
1 - GENERATOR
2 - VERTICAL MOUNTING BOLT
3 - HORIZONTAL MOUNTING BOLTS
8F - 26 CHARGING SYSTEMKJ
GENERATOR (Continued)
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OPERATION
The generator decoupler is used only with
certain engines.The decoupler (Fig. 5). is a one-
way clutch designed to help reduce belt tension fluc-
tuation, vibration, reduce fatigue loads, improve belt
life, reduce hubloads on components, and reduce
noise. Dry operation is used (no grease or lubricants).
The decoupler is not temperature sensitive and also
has a low sensitivity to electrical load. The decoupler
is a non-serviceable item and is to be replaced as an
assembly.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - GENERATOR DECOUPLER
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
Does not drive generator (generator not charging) Internal failure Replace decoupler
Noise coming from decoupler Internal failure Replace decoupler
REMOVAL
The generator decoupler is used only with
certain engines.
Two different type generator decoupler pulleys are
used. One can be identified by the use of machined
splines (Fig. 6). The other can be identified by a hex
opening (Fig. 7) and will not use splines.
Different special tools are required to service each
different decoupler. Refer to following procedure.
INA Decoupler
(1) Disconnect negative battery cable.
(2) Remove generator and accessory drive belt.
Refer to Generator Removal.
(3) Position Special Tool #8823 (VM.1048) into
decoupler (Fig. 8).
(4) Determine if end of generator shaft is hex
shaped (Fig. 9) or is splined (Fig. 10). If hex is used,
insert a 10MM deep socket into tool #8823 (VM.1048)
(Fig. 11). If splined, insert a 5/16º 6-point hex driver,
or a 10MM 12-point triple square driver into tool
#8823 (VM.1048) (Fig. 12).
(5) The generator shaft uses conventional right-
hand threads to attach decoupler. To break decoupler
loose from generator threads, rotate end of tool clock-
wise (Fig. 11) or, (Fig. 12).(6) After breaking loose with tool, unthread decou-
pler by hand from generator.
Fig. 5 GENERATOR DECOUPLER PULLEY
(TYPICAL)
Fig. 6 GENERATOR DECOUPLER PULLEY (INA)
1 - GENERATOR
2 - DECOUPLER (INA)
3 - MACHINED SPLINES
KJCHARGING SYSTEM 8F - 27
GENERATOR DECOUPLER PULLEY (Continued)
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Fig. 7 GENERATOR DECOUPLER PULLEY (LITENS)
1 - DECOUPLER (LITENS)
2 - HEX OPENING
Fig. 8 #8823 (VM.1048) TOOL AND INA DECOUPLER
1 - INA DECOUPLER
2 - TOOL #8823 (VM.1048)
Fig. 9 END OF GENERATOR SHAFT (HEX)
1 - GENERATOR SHAFT
2 - HEX
Fig. 10 END OF GENERATOR SHAFT (SPLINED)
1 - GENERATOR SHAFT
2 - SPLINES
8F - 28 CHARGING SYSTEMKJ
GENERATOR DECOUPLER PULLEY (Continued)
Page 352 of 1803
Litens Decoupler
(1) Disconnect negative battery cable.(2) Remove generator and accessory drive belt.
Refer to Generator Removal.
(3) Position Special Tool #8433 (Fig. 13) into
decoupler. Align to hex end of generator shaft.
(4) The generator shaft uses conventional right-
hand threads to attach decoupler. To break decoupler
loose from generator threads, rotate end of tool clock-
wise (Fig. 14).
(5) After breaking loose with tool, unthread decou-
pler by hand from generator.
Fig. 11 DECOUPLER REMOVAL (INA-HEX)
1 - DEEP 10 MM SOCKET
2 - TOOL #8823 (VM.1048)
Fig. 12 DECOUPLER REMOVAL (INA-SPLINED)
1 - DRIVER
2 - TOOL #8823 (VM.1048)
3 - 17 MM WRENCH
Fig. 13 # 8433 TOOL AND LITENS DECOUPLER
Fig. 14 DECOUPLER REMOVAL (LITENS)
KJCHARGING SYSTEM 8F - 29
GENERATOR DECOUPLER PULLEY (Continued)