TPS as a Variable Resistor

The throttle position sensor (TPS) is a tiny gadget on the carburetor throttle linkage or fuel injection body. It is actually a variable resistor that changes resistance as the throttle opens wider. The throttle opening is the one that informs the engine control computer in order to change air/ fuel mixture.

 

The TPS is designed to provide throttle angle input to the ECU on fuel-injected engines, thus contributing to vehicle’s efficiency, performance, and emission control. Aside from that, it also helps engine to maintain stable idle speed. Just like any other vehicle components, TPS should also be in good shape and working condition to avoid vehicle problems.

 

The TPS is another “behind the wheels” feature. Knowing it is another step in knowing your vehicle and its functions.

 

Voltage Regulator in Action

Inside your vehicle’s alternator is the voltage regulator. What is a voltage regulator? What are its functions? What are some of maintenance tips/suggestions to make alternator lasts long? Answers to these questions will be delivered in this article.

 

Voltage regulator is an electronic device housed inside the alternator. It is a component that maintains consistent voltage output, within the range that the electronic component can safely accept. It specifically manages alternator’s output. It is the one that provides balance needed by fully charged battery, long battery life, accessory loads, and long light bulb life. On most new vehicles, voltage regulator is located inside the alternator. However, the power control module (PCM) regulates the alternator on some cars. Defective voltage regulator may bring harm to your vehicle.

 

Once the voltage regulator malfunctions, it may cause several unnecessary things to your vehicle. One is it can produce too much voltage, which will eventually damage the battery, lights, and other electronic components. It may also be the other way around, wherein it produces less voltage, which is not enough to keep the battery fully charged. Thus, it is tough to determine whether the alternator or the voltage regulator gets damaged. By using the so-called “full fielding the alternator,” you can reveal which component is malfunctioning.

 

Full fielding the alternator means to activate the field with full battery voltage. By doing so, you can check for high alternator output. However, it should only be done momentarily because overcharge may occur. Since the hottest rated alternators are P-type, you can full field it by disconnecting the field terminal to the regulator. Then, connect the alternator field wire to battery voltage. After that, expect to get a spark or two. As the alternator starts charging, you should hear the engine load down. To avoid great damage to your alternator, maintenance tips are important.

 

Some alternator maintenance tips are essential for longer lasting alternator. But before that, you should first know some symptoms of malfunctioning voltage regulator. Symptoms may include discharged battery, short battery life, poor accessory and lighting operations, frequent bulb replacement, lower than normal dashboard voltmeter readings, illuminated charging system warning light, frequent battery’s electrolyte topping off, and diagnostic trouble codes stores in the vehicle’s PCM. If you don’t want to experience those problems, then prevention is really better than cure. It is still wise to have your vehicle’s charging system be tested regularly as part of complete starting, charging, and battery test. Also, keep in mind that bad alternator may cause repeat failures of voltage regulator. Therefore, keeping alternator in good shape and good working condition may lead to good voltage regulator functions.

 

As a whole, knowing the auto part/component, knowing how it works, and knowing how to maintain it are essential things an owner must be aware of. With these, it is easy to have good vehicle that performs at its best.