Elements and Performance Criteria
- Assess generator/alternator operation
- Magnetism, induced voltage and electromagnetism principles are understood.
- Alternating and direct current generating principles, voltage/current regulation methods, and diode/condenser types and action are understood.
- Charging system performance is checked and variances from system specifications are accurately recorded.
- Test and rectify generators/alternators
- Generators/alternators are dismantled and assembled correctly.
- Charging faults are determined to component level.
- Testing is performed to determine shorts to ground, turn shorts and winding continuity etc.
- Alternator/generator is tested for normal and maximum output.
- Voltage and/or current regulators and cut-outs and relays are correctly tested and adjusted to specification.
- Condition of power/exciter diodes is correctly determined.
- All faulty components are replaced according to manufacturers' recommendations i.e.: brush gear, bearings, diodes, contacts, relays, etc.
- Charging system is free of excessive voltage drops and connections are correctly soldered, tightened and insulated.