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(302) 475-4567
1801 Foulk Road

Wilmington, DE 19810
 
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Automotive Q & A

Alternator Replacement

Question: What is an alternator?

Answer: Alternators are a part of your vehicle’s charging system. Your charging system has three main components: the battery, voltage regulator, and the alternator. The alternator works in conjunction with the battery and generates the electrical currents to power everything electrical in the car, such as the headlights, dashboard lights, and even the cigarette lighter. Alternators are located towards the front of your engine and are powered by the engine’s serpentine belt. Alternators use the power from the crankshaft and serpentine belt to move magnets over a special surface of wires and cables called the conductor. This movement creates the necessary electrical current to power everything in your vehicle. Alternators are built out of a lightweight aluminum, which helps dissipate the large amounts of heat it produces. They also contain vents on both sides and an interior-cooling fan that help with heat dissipation. As you can see, keeping the alternator cool is very important for it to run efficiently. Another part of the alternator is the voltage regulator. The voltage regulator distributes and controls the voltage of the electrical currents the alternator creates.

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Foulk Road Automotive/Exxon in Wilmington, DE

Foulk Road Automotive/Exxon is the leading auto repair shop serving the Wilmington, DE, Greenville, DE, and Talleyville, DE region. We're a AAA-Approved Repair Facility and NAPA AutoCare Center. All of our auto repairs are performed by ASE-certified technicians with a great attention to detail and quality. You can trust that your repair will be done well and affordable. In addition to servicing your automotive repair and maintenance needs, we also offer a huge selection of tires from leading name brands. Call us or schedule your appointment online with us today!

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Phone: (302) 475-4567
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Address: 1801 Foulk Rd
Wilmington, DE 19810

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