Chapter 8
Charging, Electrical, and Starting Systems
It’s the first major snowfall of the year. As you head out for work, you open the
front door with anticipation, inhale the fresh and invigorating smell of new snow,
and hesitate for a few moments on the steps, lost in the beauty of the glistening
branches of the mountain ash in the front yard. Then you look toward the
driveway and wonder, “Where’s my car?”
You head for a heap of snow that vaguely resembles the shape of your chariot.
After finding an entrance, you put the key in the ignition, turn it, and nothing
happens. You check the headlights, the horn, and the radio—nothing. Talk about
a bad start to your day. Now you have to call a tow truck and you’re late for
work. How could this have been avoided? By maintaining the starting and
charging system.
The charging and starting system consists of the battery, battery cables,
alternator, starter motor, and ignition switch.