South Central College
AST 1233 Starting and Charging Systems
Common Course Outline
Course Information
Description
This course covers the theory and operation of starting and charging systems. Instruction
in parts identification, circuit operation, component testing, rebuilding procedures, and
circuit diagnosis will be included. Prior knowledge gained by the successful completion of
AST1222 is required for student success in this course.
(1.5 lecture credits, 1.5 lab credits)
Total Credits
3.00
Total Hours
72.00
Types of Instruction
Instruction Type
Lecture
Lab
Credits/Hours
Pre/Corequisites
Admission into the Automotive Service program
Course Competencies
1
Exhibit professionalism and demonstrate proper shop safety procedures.
Learning Objectives
Exhibit professional conduct, act responsibly, and accept responsibility for the successful and timely completion of
assignments.
Identify and follow all shop safety procedures including electrical safety procedures.
2
Describe the operation of the battery, starting system, and charging system.
Learning Objectives
Identify battery components and describe battery operation.
Identify starting system components and explain starting system operation.
Identify charging system components including AC generator output rating and explain charging system principles
of operation.
Common Course Outline
Monday, April 21, 2014
Explain voltage regulator operation and temperature compensation; explain computer controlled charging system
operation.
Describe a "wye and delta" type stator configuration, describe type A and B field circuits.
Identify electronic modules, security systems, radios, and other accessories that require reinitialization or code
entry following battery disconnect.
3
Inspect, test and diagnose the battery, starting system and charging system - determine
necessary action .
Learning Objectives
Inspect the battery, connections, hold down and confirm that it is the proper battery for the vehicle.
Perform a battery OCV test, capacity and state of charge test, load test, and specific gravity test.
Perform starter current draw and voltage drop tests.
Trace, inspect and test starter control circuits, inspect and test switches, connectors, wires, relays and solenoid.
Differentiate between electrical and engine mechanical problems causing a slow or no crank condition.
Remove starter and bench test the starter motor for proper operation.
Inspect, adjust or replace the generator drive belt, pulleys, tensioner and check belt alignment.
Perform charging system output test.
Diagnose the charging system for no charge, under charge and over charge conditions.
Inspect and test the field circuit operation, voltage regulator operation, and perform charging system voltage drop
tests.
Remove the AC generator and bench test the generator.
4
Disassemble, test, repair or replace starting system and charging system components.
Learning Objectives
Maintain or restore electronic memory function.
Inspect, clean, fill, and/or replace battery, battery cables, connectors, clamps, and hold-downs.
Perform battery charge, replace battery if need.
Disassemble, clean, inspect, test and replace starter motor components.
Reassemble, and install starter motor; perform starter motor alignment procedure.
Disassemble, clean, inspect, test and replace AC generator components.
Reassemble and install the AC generator on the engine; check generator operation.
SCC Accessibility Statement
If you have a disability and need accommodations to participate in the course activities, please contact your
instructor as soon as possible. This information will be made available in an alternative format, such as Braille,
Common Course Outline
Monday, April 21, 2014
large print, or cassette tape, upon request. If you wish to contact the college ADA Coordinator, call that office
at 507-389-7222.
Disabilities page http://southcentral.edu/academic-policies/disability-rights.html
Common Course Outline
Monday, April 21, 2014