This seven-part series uses cutaways, animated component builds, diagrams, close-ups of parts, and footage of auto techs doing tests and making repairs to illustrate the operation and servicing of automotive electrical systems. Includes information on both late-model and older-style vehicles.

Charging System Operation

This video provides an overview of the charging system, with its battery, alternator, voltage regulator, and starter solenoid; a detailed examination of the alternator and its construction; a close-up look at the function of the alternator’s rectifier; and a comparison of the internal voltage-type voltage regulator with its predecessors, the remote solid state and contact point voltage regulators.

Charging System Service

In this video, an automotive technician shows how to diagnose charging system malfunctions: first, by visual inspection of battery terminals, wires, belts, and fuses/fusible links, and then by gathering data with an amp meter, a volt meter, a noise detector, and a load tester. The video also demonstrates how to remove an alternator (both swivel mount and spring-loaded idler pulley types) and install and then test a new or rebuilt replacement.

Ignition System Operation

After thoroughly reviewing the fundamentals of the ignition system, this video focuses in on five components: spark plugs, secondary wires, ignition coils, distributors, and electronic control units. Distributorless ignition systems are discussed as well.

Ignition System Service

In this video, an automotive technician demonstrates how to inspect, maintain, and replace secondary wires, spark plugs, distributors, ignition coils, electronic control units, and power train control modules. Ignition timing is also covered, and common problems involving all components are illustrated, with an emphasis on spark plugs (flashover, insulator cracks, fouling, incorrect gap, and incorrect spark duration) and distributors (carbon traces, burnt cap tower, pickup coil damage, and incorrect air gap in the crankshaft sensor).

Starting System Operation

This video explains the functions of the starting system and the construction of its components in detail: the battery, starter motor, starter drive, solenoid, in-dash or in-column ignition switch, and neutral safety switch or clutch switch.

Starting System Service

In this video, an automotive technician troubleshoots the most common problems involving the starting system. Difficulties with the battery, solenoid, starter, flywheel, pinion gear, and secondary wiring are considered, with special attention given to testing, removing, and replacing the starter motor and solenoid. Problems with the neutral safety switch and column-mounted ignition switch are also covered.

Using a Load Tester

Although the specific procedures for using load testers vary by car make and model, the general procedures are similar for all testers and vehicles. This video explains how to use a load tester to analyze the state of the battery, starting system, and charging system. Footage of an auto tech in action shows viewers how to check for a poor connection at the battery cables, measure battery voltage, check the amount of current drawn through the starter when cranking the engine, and measure the amperage output of the alternator and voltage regulator.