What are the brushes within the alternator?
The brushes within the alternator ride on the slip rings. This critical component within the alternator enables the ability to generate essential electrical signals necessary to power most vehicles on the road today.
Where are the slip rings on a brushless alternator?
The slip rings are connected to each end of the rotor coil. Brushes pass the electrical current to the spinning rotor. Brushless-type alternators use a stationary rotor coil that sits inside the spinning rotor housing. Since there are no brushes, there are no brushes to wear out or create poor contact.
What is a collector ring on an alternator?
Collector rings, commonly known as slip rings, are part of an alternator rotor that allows electrical field currents to pass through while rotating. The brushes within the alternator ride on the slip rings.
How does a brush-regulator work?
The brush-regulator assembly bolts to the rear of the alternator housing. B—With the brush-regulator assembly removed, you can see the slip rings on the rotor assembly. The brushes slide on the slip rings to make a rotating electrical connection with the rotor windings. Small brush springs push the brushes out and into contact with the slip rings.