Figure 1-11. Electrical System -726280048

TM 9-2320-364-20-1

1-12. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (CONT).

Figure 1-11. Electrical System

In the electrical system (Figure 1-11) a heavy duty starting motor (1) is mounted on the engine flywheel housing and

provides the cranking power necessary for starting the engine. The DUVAC maintains both a 14- and 28-volt level for

proper battery charging. The alternator (2) provides sufficient amperage to operate all electrical components and

charge the batteries during engine idling. Truck exterior lights are mounted in protective locations or are protected to

prevent damage. Protection is provided for lights during cross country travel. Polycarbonate lenses are provided for

all lights except the sealed beam headlights and service lights. The PLS electrical system supplies all of the electrical

power needed to operate the truck and trailer. The complete electrical system is made up of the following

sub-systems:

Power Storage and Generating

Accessory Lighting

Engine Starting and Stopping

Instruments

Service Lighting

Warning Lights and Buzzers

Blackout Lighting

a. Power Storage and Generating. Power storage for the truck consists of four 12-volt batteries. The

four batteries are divided into two sets. Two batteries in each set are wired in parallel to produce higher

amperage. The two sets are then wired in series to produce 24 volts. While the batteries can power all of the

systems for a limited time, their primary purpose is to supply power to the engine's starting system. Once the

engine is running, the generating system provides the electrical power for all of the systems. The engine driven

alternator generates alternating current (AC) which is passed through a set of rectifiers that change it into direct

current (DC). This direct current is used to charge the batteries and is distributed to the other systems of the PLS.

The DUVAC adjusts alternator output to fit the needs of the electrical system.

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