Alternator Regulator
The charging system in your vehicle uses the alternator regulator and the power source for your vehicle, the battery. The alternator is used to charge your cars battery while it is running and run the car separate from the battery. If the vehicle used just battery power to run, you would have to replace your battery several times in a short period of time. However, the alternator regulator is used to continuously provide a charge to your battery and run the vehicle.
This is an important part of your car's functioning and must be kept in good working order. There are alternator belts that must be maintained as well as some important components that will determine whether your vehicle starts the next time you get in the car.
The fluid levels in the battery must be monitored to ensure that it is working at the highest performance level. This is an important part of your overall vehicle maintenance. Cold weather is a difficult time for car batteries and you should make sure that the battery is in good condition before the start of the cold winter season.
The belts on your alternator regulator are a very important part of the system and will not allow the battery to be charged if they are not functioning properly. When an alternator belt becomes worn there is a danger that it could snap while you are driving and cause the vehicle to instantly be powered by the battery. This could cause a significant problem if you are far from home or on the road on your own. The vehicle will still function, but there is a danger of running down the battery and losing all the power in the vehicle before you are able to bring your car home or to a garage.
The tune up should always include a check of the alternator regulator belts to look for signs of wear. Belts are not an expensive item and it is in your best interest to replace them at the slightest sign of wear to ensure that they do not break while the vehicle is being operated. They will also squeal when they are in need of replacement. The squealing sound comes from the belt rubbing while it is in operation. If you hear this sound in your car, have all the belts checked to determine which one is in need of replacement.
When it is time to replace the alternator regulator in your vehicle, you will have to find the model that is designed for your make and model of vehicle along with the year the car was built. You can often find alternator regulator parts that are designed to fit in a number of vehicles, but you should check with your parts store to find out which ones are right for your car.
Online shopping has made it possible to find an alternator regulator, even if your local store does not have the part. You can simply search online in a greater number of parts sellers to find the part that you are looking for to fit your vehicle. This gives you a great opportunity to shop around and find the best price for your car. Of course, shipping costs will apply to the parts that you buy online with these sites. The price may be lower online, but consider the cost to have the part shipped to you to determine the best price for your car.
You will also find some schematics and guides for repairing your alternator regulator on your own. If you are unfamiliar with car repairs, these guides can get you started on your car repair education. It is advisable to have someone who understands car repairs assist you when you are making your first repairs on your car.
