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ROTEX puts its 32 plus years of technical experience in to every unit produced. Each rebuilt unit is individually tested with state of the art computerized testing equipment. ROTEX uses the ALT98 alternator tester which is used for testing all rebuilt alternators to OE specs. The ALT98 is a top of the line computerized alternator tester which examines many different aspects of alternators outputs, from amperage at 3000 rpm’s to voltage at 5000 rpm’s the ALT98 is top of the line equipment in the industry that only a handful of re-builders can say they have.
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ROTEX also offers the same impeccable standards of quality for our line of rebuilt FWD Axles. All of our axles are rebuilt with brand new cages, new balls, and heavy duty boots. Unlike our electrical products which we can test with special computerized testers, we can only test the strength of each individual axle shaft. ROTEX makes sure that the metal of each axle shaft is tested for standard quality. We know that when the quality of an axle is not of the highest standard, lives can be at risk, which is why we make sure every each of our rebuilt axles are examine.
ROTEX also offers the same impeccable standards of quality for our line of rebuilt FWD Axles. All of our axles are rebuilt with brand new cages, new balls, and heavy duty boots. Unlike our electrical products which we can test with special computerized testers, we can only test the strength of each individual axle shaft. ROTEX makes sure that the metal of each axle shaft is tested for standard quality. We know that when the quality of an axle is not of the highest standard, lives can be at risk, which is why we make sure every each of our rebuilt axles are examined.
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Automotive Engine Starting System
The starting system converts electrical energy from the battery into mechanical energy to turn the engine over. A malfunction within the starting system will make it difficult to get the engine started.
- The starting system has five main components
- Ignition switch or start button
- Neutral safety switch (an option on some vehicles)
- Starter solenoid
- Starter motor
- Battery AND CABLES
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When the key is turned to the start position, or the start button is pushed, electricity flows from the battery through the cables to the starter solenoid.
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Some vehicles are equipped with a neutral safety switch. If the vehicle is in gear when the key is turned, the neutral safety switch blocks the signal to the battery, so the engine doesn't crank. Otherwise, the vehicle could jump forward or backward when the key is turned.
The starter solenoid is an electromagnetic switch mounted on the starter motor or on the fenderwell or firewall. When coils inside the solenoid are energized by electricity, they create a magnetic field which attracts and pulls a plunger. Attached to one end of this plunger is a shift lever. The lever is connected to the drive pinion and clutch assembly of the starter motor.
The starter motor is a powerful electric motor that delivers a high degree of power for a short period of time. When the starter motor is energized it engages the flywheel ring gear and produces torque, which turns the flywheel and cranks the engine.
When the driver releases the ignition Switch from the start position to the run position, the solenoid is deactivated. Its internal return springs cause the drive pinion to disengage from the flywheel ring gear as the engine is now running.
Automotive Engine Charging System
The charging system is an important part of the electrical system. It provides electrical current for the lights, the stereo, the engine's electrical systems, and other electrical accessories. It also maintains the battery in a charged state, recharging it as necessary. The charging system has three main components:
- Alternator
- Voltage regulator
- Battery/cables
The alternator generates electrical power to run accessories and to recharge the battery. It is typically driven by a belt located off the crankshaft. Mechanical energy from the crankshaft is converted by the alternator into electrical energy for the battery and accessories.
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The voltage regulator controls alternator output. It senses when the battery needs recharging, or when the vehicle's electrical needs increase, and adjusts the alternator's output accordingly. most modern alternators are internally regulated meaning the voltage regulator is built into the housing of the alternator thus eliminating the need for extra wiring and a separate unit.
The battery is a reservoir of electrical power. It's primary purpose is to crank the engine. It also supplies power to vehicle accessories when the electrical load is too great for the alternator alone.
As you can see from the above information both the starting and charging systems are very complicated especially on post 1997 cars & light trucks and require more diagnostic time than earlier years. This is important because in many cases the average automotive technician doesn't spend the required time to adequately diagnose the problem. So what happens? A starter or alternator is said to be the culprit, when in reality it is simply a voltage drop in the ignition wire, or some other component in the system, and even the battery cables may be either bad, loose or there might be corrosion at the battery posts or a bad ground.
On a lot of newer Chrysler vehicles, the on board computer or PCM controls the charging of the battery by replacing the voltage regulator that otherwise would be located inside the alternator.
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This is the reason we maintain a full time technical help line, if it is this difficult for automotive technicians, imagine how difficult it would be for an average Joe to diagnose his own Starting/Charging system problem.
We suggest that you take your vehicle to a qualified automotive service center you know and trust only, and if by chance you need some technical assistance in diagnosing on your own, contact us and let Rotex help you today!
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