Sunbeam ALPINE I SERIES: APLINE II SERIES, Workshop Manual, Page: 316 / 413

4th
re-issue
Page 2
WSM. 114
Section N (Elec. Equip.)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Years of experience have proved Lucas electrical
equipment to be very realiable and efficient.
Periodical maintenance, however, must not be
neglected if the best results are to be obtained from
the system.
If trouble Is experienced with any of the electrical
equipment It Is Important that the exact source is
quickly located by following an orderly course of
Investigation. Random probing among units of the
system Is useless and often Incurs much unwarranted
expense without locating the true source of trouble.
Trouble In the system can generally be Immediately
localised to a particular unit of the system by its very
nature. Further localisation, In order to trace Its
exact source within the faulty unit, should then be
carried out by following the series of testing opera­
tions laid down under the appropriate section.
It Is Important to note, however, that these tests
cannot be satisfactorily carried out unless the
equipment recommended is available. Further,
It will be seen that special equipment Is needed for
dismantling and reassembling some units of the
system and should this equipment not be avail­
able dismantling must not be attempted.
It Is recommended that the fullest use Is made of the
very extensive Lucas Service System. New units
and reconditioned exchange units are always
available at these Service Depots.
The electrical system Is a 12 volt earth return type.
It can be broken down Into the following unlts:-
1. Battery.
2. Generator, control box and fuse unit.
3. Starter and starter switch.
4. Ignition system (coll, distributor and plugs).
5. Lamps, switches, direction indicators,
windscreen wipers, etc.
BATTERY
GENERAL
The battery Is of the "clean-top" pattern, having
submerged lntercell connectors to minimise the
risk of corrosion. Dlecast cable connectors are
fitted, retained with screws.
The battery fitted to the Alpine Is positioned In a
well under the floor behind the right-hand seat,
and Is accessible for topping up and testing after the
cover plate has been removed.
The battery fitted to the Rapier Is positioned In
the engine compartment.
Batteries are supplied either filled and
charged,
unfilled and uncharged, or
"dry-charged",
that is
with the cells In a charged condition but sealed and
without electrolyte. Details of preparing unfilled,
uncharged and "dry-charged" batteries are given
in later paragraphs.
MAINTENANCE
Battery maintenance consists mainly of regular
inspection and servicing.
1. Keep the battery and its surroundings clean
and dry. Give particular attention to the top
of the battery to prevent electrical leakage
between the cell terminals.
2. Remove the vent plugs, and see that the vent
holes are clear.
3. Check the electrolyte level and top up,
when necessary. The correct level Is Just to the
perforated splash guard. Do not over-fill or acid
will escape through the vent holes with detri­
mental effect to the connections and adjacent
parts of the car.
The use of a Lucas Battery FIiier will be found
helpful In this topping-up process, as It ensures
that the correct electrolyte level Is auto­
matically obtained and also prevents distilled