Generator Communication
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 32 other vehicles, including the 2002 Mercury Sable, 2002 Mercury Mountaineer, 2002 Mercury Grand Marquis, 2002 Mercury Cougar, and 2002 Lincoln Town Car. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
PCM controlled charging system provides improved battery life and improved engine performance. PCM controlled generator regulator voltage set point is determined by PCM and communicated to the regulator by the Generator Communication (GEN COM) circuit. PCM will use a calibratable algorithm to estimate battery temperature, reducing damage to battery by overcharging or undercharging. At Wide Open Throttle (WOT), PCM will momentarily lower the regulator voltage set point, reducing torque load on engine and improving acceleration. PCM has a calibratable time limit on the reduced voltage feature to prevent decreased generator output for an extended WOT period, which may cause battery discharge.