If you are having a lot of trouble starting your car each morning, but tests indicate that the battery is okay, then you may turn your attention to the alternator. This is effectively a generator that is supposed to charge the battery while the vehicle is in use, so you always have enough power in the morning. Yet, issues can certainly arise linked to a specific part of the alternator, known as the diode. What is this, and what can go wrong?
How the Alternator Works
The alternator is a typically cylindrical device placed close to the engine crankshaft, which receives its initial power from that shaft. Within the alternator is a motor that is driven by a pulley which is, in turn, connected to the crankshaft via a belt or chain.
Locating the Diodes
Towards the rear of the alternator is the rectifier assembly, which can be removed from the rest of the alternator. Inside, you will find up to half a dozen diodes. When the alternator receives power, electricity will flow through those diodes and convert AC output to DC instead. This is an essential part of the operation as the battery can only accept DC current and will not charge otherwise. So, if the diodes are not working as they should, the alternator will not be able to function, and the battery will not receive any charge. This is why you may be stranded outside your home each morning.
Heating Issues
Alternator diodes are built to last, but they can often develop problems if subjected to much heat. This may cause them to fail, or it may also cause the solder joints that keep the diode in place to dry out. They can expand and contract as the alternator heats up and cools down and, over time, may simply crack or fail. Should this happen, the alternator diode may move and break the connection, leading to failure.
Preventing Feedback
The diodes may also protect the rest of the alternator from a surge. Sometimes, another component within the electrical system will malfunction, which could deliver a burst of energy back through the rest of the system to the alternator. In this case, the diodes will act as a form of fuse or surge protector. As they only allow electrical current to flow one way, any energy feedback will be stopped in its tracks.
Taking Action
If you suspect that your issues may be linked to those alternator diodes, get in touch with an auto electrician. They will test the components and replace or repair them as necessary.
Contact a local auto shop for more information about auto electrical components.
Share14 July 2022
Hello, my name is Brian and if there is one thing I like to do, it is to go driving in my car. There is no better way to relax and unwind than heading out on the open road. I am not an auto mechanic or a car dealer, but over the years I have spent many years working with people such people and they have been kind enough to teach me a thing or two about buying and maintain automobiles. I have decided to start this blog so I can share everything I have learnt with the rest of the world.