General information and precautions
General information The engine electrical system includes all charging, starting and ignition system components and the engine oil pressure sensor. Because of their engine-related functions, these components are covered separately from the body electrical devices such as the lights, instruments, etc (which are covered in Chapter 12). Refer to Part B of this Chapter for information on the ignition system.
The electrical system is of the 12-volt negative earth type.
The battery is of the low maintenance or maintenance-free type and is charged by the alternator, which is belt-driven from a crankshaft-mounted pulley (see illustration).
1.3 Battery types
A Maintenance-free sealed cell type B Maintenance-free removable cell top type C Low maintenance type
The starter motor is of the pre-engaged type, incorporating an integral solenoid. On starting, the solenoid moves the drive pinion into engagement with the flywheel ring gear before the starter motor is energised. Once the engine has started, a one-way clutch prevents the motor armature being driven by the engine until the pinion disengages from the flywheel.
Further details of the various systems are given in the relevant Sections of this Chapter.
While some repair procedures are given, the usual course of action is to renew the component concerned. The owner whose interest extends beyond mere component renewal should obtain a copy of the “Automobile Electrical & Electronic Systems Manual”, available from the publishers of this manual.
Precautions
It is necessary to take extra care when
working on the electrical system to avoid
damage to semi-conductor devices (diodes
and transistors), and to avoid the risk of
personal injury. In addition to the precautions
given in “Safety First!” at the beginning of this
manual, observe the following items when
working on the system.
Always remove rings watches, etc before working on the electrical system. Even with the battery disconnected, capacitive discharge could occur if a component live terminal is earthed through a metal object.
This could cause a shock or nasty burn.
Do not reverse the battery connections.
Components such as the alternator, or any other having semi-conductor, could be irreparably damaged.
If the engine is being started using jump leads and a slave battery, connect the batteries positive to positive and negative to negative. This also applies when connecting a battery charger.
Never disconnect the battery terminals, or alternator multi-plug connector, when the engine is running.
The battery leads and alternator multi-plug must be disconnected before carrying out any electric welding on the car.
Never use an ohmmeter of the type incorporating a hand cranked generator for circuit or continuity testing.
See also:
Crankcase emission control filter renewal - CVH engines (Every
24 000 miles or 2 Years)
Carburettor and Central Fuel
Injection (CFI) engines
1 Where fitted, the crankcase ventilation filter
is located in the base of the air cleaner.
2 The filter can be renewed by pulling it out of
t ...
Brake fluid renewal (Every 36 000 miles or 3 years)
Warning: Brake hydraulic fluid
can harm your eyes and damage
painted surfaces, so use extreme
caution when handling and
pouring it. Do not use fluid that has been
standing open for some time, as ...
Carburettor (Ford VV type) - removal and refitting
Caution: Refer to the
precautions in Section 1 before
proceeding.
Note: A new gasket must be used when
refitting the carburettor. A tachometer and an
exhaust gas analyser will be required to chec ...