Ford Explorer: Charging System - General Information / Description and Operation - Charging System - Overview

Overview

The generator is driven by the FEAD belt. When the engine is started, the generator begins to generate AC voltage which is internally converted to DC voltage. The DC voltage level is controlled by the voltage regulator (located on the rear of the generator) and is supplied to the battery.

The PCM controls the voltage regulation setpoint and communicates this information to the generator internal voltage regulator over a LIN communication circuit.

This vehicle is equipped with an Electrical engergy management system (load shed strategy). The BCM monitors the battery state of charge using information from the battery monitoring sensor attached to the negative battery post and manages battery charging.

The PCM monitors the generator current using the generator current sensor attached to the generator B+ battery cable. The information supplied to the PCM from the generator current sensor is used by the PCM to adjust the engine idle stability and torque control.