Battery

2001 FORD ESCORT
132,000 MILES
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KGETZ
  • MEMBER
  • 104 POSTS
Is it true that when a car is running, the battery supplies the power to the car and the alternator recharges the battery as it drains?
Aug 2, 2012 at 10:50 AM
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KHLOW2008
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 41,812 POSTS
Not really that way. The alternator supplies whatever current is required and the battery acts as a backup. It also helps to stabilise the voltage though the voltage regulator is the main controller.
Aug 2, 2012 at 11:02 AM
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WRENCHTECH
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 20,760 POSTS
The alternator feeds directly to the battery and reads battery demand to determine charging rate.
Aug 2, 2012 at 11:22 AM
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