Alternator Regulator: Role, Operation and Change

The alternator regulator is the electrical part of the alternator. Due to this, discharge, overload and overvoltage of the battery are excluded. Indeed, it is used to maintain battery voltage. It is attached to the generator and can be replaced on its own if it fails.

⚙️ What is a generator regulator?

Thealternator your car allows you to charge battery... It generates electricity to power and thus powers your vehicle's electrical equipment.

Le regulator is part of the alternator. The role of the alternator regulator is to maintain the voltage of the battery and thus avoid discharge and possible overvoltage. Finally, the alternator regulator prevents overcharging of the battery.

Indeed, the generator is constantly in operation strap for accessories... When the battery is fully charged, the alternator regulator disconnects the charging circuit. It cuts off the current according to the voltage at the battery terminals.

When, on the contrary, the battery voltage drops too low, below 12 V, it generates a new magnetic field that allows the battery to be charged.

Thus, the operation of the alternator regulator is electrical. To do this, it consists of several elements:

• Connector ;
• Brooms ;
• Electrical module.

Where is the generator regulator located?

The position of the alternator adjuster depends on the age of your vehicle. It is still at the generator, but on older car models it can be secured in the engine compartment. At the very last one fixed in the backalternator.

⚡ How do you know if the generator regulator is out of order?

The regulator can be the cause of generator failure. Then you will experience the following symptoms:

• Battery indicator what lights up ;
• Faulty light elements and electrical equipment of vehicles;
• The smell of burning ;
• Overheating battery.

However, it is difficult to determine the cause of the problem: the generator itself or the regulator, since the regulator is only part of the alternator. The regulator then needs to be checked to see if it is actually the cause of the alternator failure and battery charging problems.

👨‍🔧 How to check the generator regulator?

The easiest way to check the alternator regulator is to troubleshoot it, making sure the other elements of the alternator are working properly. Also check the battery voltage to make sure it hasn't failed.

To do this, use a multimeter connected to the battery terminals. Your multimeter should show a voltage greater than 12 V and less than 14 V.

🔧 How to change the generator regulator?

If the generator regulator is defective, there is no need to replace the entire generator. In fact, the regulator can replace itself. On the other hand, it is impossible to repair it: it will definitely have to be replaced if it is faulty.

Material:

• Tools
• New alternator regulator

Step 1. Locate the alternator regulator.

For safety reasons, disconnect the battery first. On recent cars, the alternator regulator is attached to the back of the alternator. To access it, all you have to do is lift the hood and find the alternator, over which the accessory belt runs.

Step 2: Remove the alternator regulator.

Once you find the alternator regulator, disconnect its electrical wires. Then you can unscrew the screws that hold it and then remove.

Step 3. Install a new generator regulator.

After removing the old alternator regulator, check the compatibility of the replacement part. It should be identical to the old one. Then you just need to reassemble it in the reverse order of disassembly. So, start by screwing in the mounting screws, reconnect the wires, then the battery.

That's all, you know everything about the generator regulator! As you understand, this small part of the generator may be behind your battery problems... In that case, don't hesitate to ask one of our trusted mechanics!