If you were to take part in a pop quiz and ask your audience to name the component that gives your vehicle power, many of them would call out the battery. However, the correct answer would be the alternator, as the battery itself is only responsible for starting the vehicle and does not have enough power within to make it run continuously. Therefore, the humble alternator is one of the most important parts on a modern-day diesel automobile, and it pays to know a little more about it, so you can keep it running effectively.
How It Works
The alternator is quite simple but is nevertheless cleverly engineered to provide the right amount of power to the battery in every situation. It has four primary components, being the stator, rotor, diode and voltage regulator, and all of these elements jump into life as soon as the battery provides that initial spark. When the ignition cranks the starter, a belt begins to spin to activate the pulley attached to the end of the alternator. This will cause the rotor to spin quickly, energising magnets that are situated inside the stator.
Here you will find a network of copper wires that produce the electricity and send it to the diode, which generates the DC current called for by the battery. The voltage regulator will then manage how much of this current is actually sent to the battery and will shut off the power if needed, to avoid any overcharge.
Replacement
The typical alternator is provided as a sealed component, and if something starts to go wrong, you will need to replace it "as is." Often you can get a reconditioned unit in exchange for the old one, and you should replace as soon as possible if there are any signs of an issue. Remember, you won't get very far if your alternator does decide to quit, as the battery simply does not have enough power by itself to take over.
Taking Action
Consequently, if you notice that your headlights start to become dim, or that your wipers may take some time to cover the screen, then pay attention to your alternator. It is best to consult a mechanic as soon as possible, or you may not be able to start the car tomorrow morning. Even if you manage to push start the vehicle or find somebody with jump cables, you will be in the same position later that day.
For more information, contact your local bosch authorised dealers today.
