General information and precautions

Starting and charging systems / General information and precautions

General information
The starting and charging system is of a 12 volt negative earth type. The battery is charged by a belt-driven alternator which incorporates a voltage regulator. The starter motor is of pre-engaged type, incorporating a solenoid which moves the drive pinion into engagement with the flywheel/driveplate ring gear before the motor is energised.

An automatic stop-start system is fitted as optional equipment to some models and is a fuel economy device. Activated by a control switch, the system automatically switches off the engine when the vehicle is stationary during traffic delays.

The system is switched on and off by means of a switch on the dash insert between the instrument panel and the heater/fresh air control panel. A warning light in the switch advises when the system is switched on.

The system should only be used when the vehicle has reached its normal operating temperature. When activated, the system will automatically stop the engine when the vehicle speed drops below 3.1 mph (5 kph) and has run at its normal idle speed for a period of at least 2 seconds. In addition the vehicle must previously have been driven at a speed in excess of 3.1 mph (5 kph).

When traffic conditions permit, the engine can be restarted by depressing the clutch pedal and moving the gear lever fully to the left in neutral. Once the engine has restarted, gear engagement can be made in the normal manner. If for any reason the engine stalls or stops after restarting, the restart procedure should be repeated but the gear lever must be moved back into neutral within 6 seconds.

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 the “Safety first!” Section at the beginning of this Manual, take note of the following:
a) Before disconnecting any wiring or removing components, always ensure that the ignition is switched off.

b) Disconnect the battery leads before using a mains charger.

c) Do not reverse the battery connections.

Components such as the alternator or any other having semi-conductor circuitry could be irreparably damaged.

d) 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.

e) Never disconnect the battery terminals or alternator multi-plug connector when the engine is running.

f) The battery leads and alternator multiplug must be disconnected before carrying out any electric welding on the vehicle.

g) Never use an ohmmeter of the type incorporating a hand cranked generator for circuit or continuity testing.

h) When carrying out welding operations on the vehicle using electric welding equipment, disconnect the battery and alternator.

The following precautions should be taken when using the automatic stop-start system: a) Do not use the system when the engine temperature is below 55°C or when the ambient temperature is very low as the engine will take longer to warm up b) Do not allow the vehicle to roll when the engine is switched off, check that the handbrake is fully applied c) During extended delays, switch the engine off in the normal manner with the ignition key as electrical accessories will otherwise be left on and the battery run down
d) If leaving the vehicle for any length of time, switch off the system and always take the ignition key with you