Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Description & Operation
All Metro, Firefly (Canadian) and Prizm models are equipped with a Mitsubishi 55-amp generator with internal voltage regulator. The Integrated Circuit (IC) voltage regulator is a solid state unit mounted to rectifier end frame. Brushes carry current through 2 slip rings to field coil mounted on rotor. A rectifier bridge containing 4 active diodes is connected to stator windings. Two neutral diodes are used to smooth out voltagefluctuations caused by varying generator speeds. A capacitor (condenser), mounted in regulator, protects the rectifier bridge and neutral diodes. This capacitor also suppresses radio interference noise.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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