TM 9-2350-247-20-1
THEORY OF OPERATION — Continued
0003 00
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
A 24 volt direct current system supplies electrical current for the carrier. The M548A1 has two 12 volt wet-cell batteries, with
an amperage capability of 100 amps per hour and connected in series. The M548A3 has four 12 volt wet-cell batteries with an
amperage capability of 200 amps per hour and connected in series parallel.
The batteries supply the carrier with electricity. The vehicle compartment heater, cargo compartment heater kit, coolant heater
kit, and engine starter are connected directly to the carrier batteries. See your –10 for location of all heaters. Electrical power
flows from the batteries through the bus bar, cables, and wiring assemblies to the electrical equipment. The hull is a ground
for the electrical system.
Battery drain is replenished and system voltage is maintained by an alternating current generator, which has 100 amps per
hour capability in the M548A1 carrier and 200 amps per hour capability in the M548A3 carrier. The battery recharge current
flow is regulated by the generator-regulator on top of the engine.
There are several electrical subsystems within the hull. Each subsystem contains at least one wiring assembly. A major
electrical subsystem with assemblies is exterior lights, which include blackout lights, stoplight, and headlights, and interior
lights, which include dome lights and panel lights.
GENERATOR
The generator is part of the carrier electrical system. It is driven by the transfer gearcase on the M548A1. On the M548A3,
the generator is driven by a pulley on the crankshaft of the engine. The generator charges the batteries in the carrier when the
engine is running. A regulator mounted on top of the engine keeps the voltage at correct levels.
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