There are three types of alternators used in cars. On early models, CS 130 brand generators were installed (100 A); later models equipped with CS 130 alternators (105 A with rear air conditioning) and CS 144 (140 A, for 3.8 l engines). Generators of all types are equipped with conventional impeller pulleys.
To determine the type of alternator your vehicle has, look at the clips that hold the two halves of the alternator housing together. All CS 130 generator models use rivets instead of screws. Therefore, it is possible to repair such a generator only by drilling out the rivets. However, we do not recommend doing this. In generators type CS 140, the body halves are fastened with two conventional bolts. In the CS 144 generator, a slightly different design solution for placing the bearing in the casting is used. Whatever your goals and intentions, consider CS 144 generators as rewiring units and in case of failure, replace them with new or remanufactured ones.
The voltage regulator is designed to limit the voltage generated by the generator within the specified limits. This prevents the possibility of voltage ripples, electrical circuit overloads, etc. at peak output voltages. In all vehicle models covered by this manual, the voltage regulator is located in the alternator housing.
Normally, the charging system does not require regular maintenance. However, it is necessary to periodically check the technical condition of the drive belts, wiring and electrical contacts at the intervals indicated in chapter 1.
When performing maintenance work on electrical circuits on a vehicle equipped with a generator, the utmost care must be taken and the following must be observed. When connecting the wires coming from the battery to the generator, be careful not to reverse their polarity. Before using electric welding equipment to repair any part of the car, disconnect all wires from the battery terminals and alternator contacts. It is not allowed to turn on the ignition when the charger is connected to the battery. Before connecting the charger to the battery, disconnect both wires from its terminals.
The battery charging warning light on the instrument panel comes on when the ignition is turned on and goes out after the engine has started. If the warning lamp stays on or comes on while the engine is running, there is a problem with the charging circuit. IN section 12 a sequence of procedures for testing generators of all types is presented.