SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED UNIT STANDARD THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Diagnose, test and repair conventional automobile charging systems 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
376601  Diagnose, test and repair conventional automobile charging systems 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Manufacturing and Assembly Processes 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology Fabrication and Extraction 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 3  NQF Level 03  16 
REGISTRATION STATUS REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE SAQA DECISION NUMBER
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 2018-07-01  2023-06-30  SAQA 06120/18 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2024-06-30   2027-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This unit standard replaces: 
US ID Unit Standard Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Credits Replacement Status
12222  Diagnose, test and repair conventional automobile charging systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03  16   

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
Learners accredited with this standard will have knowledge of:
  • Interpreting diagrams of charging systems.
  • Finding faults and diagnosing system problems, using appropriate tools and equipment.
  • Removing, dismantling and repairing alternators.
  • Fitting and testing charging systems.
  • The unit standard involves the application of both the theory and skills to achieve these autotronics-specific outcomes.

    Learners credited with this standard will be able to:
  • Interpret diagrams of charging systems.
  • Explain the theoretical aspects of a charging system.
  • Find faults and diagnose system problems.
  • Repair an alternator.
  • Fit and test charging system. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
  • Communication at NQF Level 2.
  • Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 2. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
  • All tasks are performed bearing in mind health and safety requirements. Safety includes work area safety, electrical safety and electro-static safety.
  • All tasks carried out are documented as per company procedure. 
    		•

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Interpret diagrams of charging systems. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The components of the charging system are identified and discussed according to their roles in the system. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Electrical components include the battery, alternator (internal and external types), relay, rectifier, indicator, ignition switch, fuses, fusible links, brushes, field control.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The various electrical consumers are discussed in terms of their load requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    A charging system circuit diagram is read and interpreted using its key features and basic electrical symbols. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Symbols include alternators (internal and external types), regulators, rectifiers, charging lamp, fuse and fuse holders, brushes, ignition switch, stators, rotors.
     

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Explain the theoretical aspects of a charging system. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Charging system theory is explained in terms of the purpose of the alternator on the vehicle. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Electromagnetic induction is explained in terms of its importance to the vehicle's charging systems. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Single-phase and three phase AC output are discussed in relation to their differences. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The concepts 'rectification' and 'voltage regulation' are discussed in terms of the roles they play in the electrical system of the motor vehicle. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Find faults and diagnose system problems. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The balance between the alternator output and the vehicle electrical consumption draw is discussed to the charging system. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The construction of a charging system is discussed in terms of its elements. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Elements include various kinds of belts (V-belt, ribbed V-belt), battery cables, mountings, fusible links, circuit protection devises, warning lights, drive ratio.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The alternator drive is discussed in terms of its purpose. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Aspects pertaining to operation are discussed to prevent damage to, and incorrect diagnosis of, the system. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Aspects include but are not limited to breakdown situations, voltage peaks, battery connected with incorrect polarity, role of the charge indicator lamp and the limitations of the lamp.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Visual inspection is conducted to identify problems. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Visual inspection includes checking the battery, the fuses and fusible links, the drive belt, the alternator and associated components.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Belts are replaced using appropriate tools and techniques. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    A range of electrical tests is discussed and applied to diagnose problems. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Tests include an alternator output test, output waveform, charging circuit voltage drop tests, voltage regulator test, charging circuit relay warning lamp tests.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    The implications for misdiagnosing faults are discussed to prevent damage to vehicles. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Repair an alternator. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The construction of an alternator is described and the function of the main components is explained. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Components include but are not limited to the stator, rectifier, rotor, regulator, drive end, commutator end bracket, pulley.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The alternator is removed as per standard procedure. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    A bench test is performed to confirm diagnosis. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Alternator bench tests include a rotor test, stator test, diode test.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The alternator is dismantled according to standard operating procedure and manufacturer's specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The implications of incorrectly dismantling an alternator are discussed to prevent damage and costs. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Components are cleaned and inspected as per procedure to determine cause and effect. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Components are inspected to determine cause and effect of malfunction or wear. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Procedure includes visual inspection, mechanical inspection.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    Different types of test equipment are identified for different components of an alternator. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Tests equipment for the following tests: stator testing, rotor testing, diode testing (short circuit, open circuit), bench test, brush holder, visual (brush, wear), regulator testing.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 9 
    Electrical and mechanical tests are performed on components using appropriate equipment and according to manufacturer's specifications. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
  • Electrical tests are performed on stators, rotors, rectifiers, regulators, diodes.
  • Mechanical tests are performed on rotors, stators, brackets, bearings.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 10 
    Replacement parts/components are fitted and alternator is assembled, bench-tested and mounted according to standard operating procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 11 
    All work is performed using the appropriate tools and equipment and applying the correct safety standards. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Fit and test a charging system. 
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    This applies to all the components of the charging system.

    Test equipment includes multi-meter, continuity tester, LED test lamp, volt/amp tester, load tester, oscilloscope. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The fitting/re-fitting procedures for each component of the charging system are listed and discussed to ensure efficiency and safety. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Procedures include but are not limited to checking bolts, mounting, belt tension. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The charging system is retested as per standard procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    A report on the condition of the alternator is prepared for the customer according to company procedure. 


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner against this unit standard must be registered as an assessor with the relevant ETQA.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable the achievement of this unit standard must be accredited as a provider with the relevant ETQA.
  • Assessment and moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant ETQA according to the ETQA policies and guidelines for assessment and moderation.
  • Moderation must include both internal and external moderation of assessments at exit points of the qualification, unless ETQA policies specify otherwise. Moderation should also encompass achievement of the competence described both in individual unit standards as well as the integrated competence described in the qualification. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
    Names and functions of:
  • Charging system components.
  • Bench testing.

    Purpose of:
  • Cleaning.
  • Using removal and fitting procedures.
  • Using product specific disassembling and assembling procedures.
  • The regulator(s).
  • Charging systems.
  • Purpose of relevant documentation.

    Attributes, descriptions, characteristics and properties:
  • Characteristics of an alternator.

    Sensory cues:
  • Use of sight to check wear on alternator components.

    Causes and effects, implications of:
  • Implications of not using personal protection.
  • Implications of not following procedures.
  • Implications of a faulty charging system.

    Procedures and techniques:
  • Safety procedures.
  • Testing procedures.
  • Removal and fitting procedures.
  • Diagnosing and testing.
  • Repair procedures.

    Regulations, legislation, agreements, policies, standards:
  • Related manufacturer`s specifications.
  • Applicable safety, health and environmental legislation.

    Theory: rules, principles, laws:
  • Electromagnetic induction.
  • Alternator principles.
  • Rectification/regulation.
  • Regulators (variants: electronic external/internal, vibrating).

    Relationships, systems:
  • Relationship of the battery as the store of energy to the charging system. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
    Identify and solve problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made when:
  • Testing charging systems and diagnosing faults.
  • Interpreting test results. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organise and manage oneself and one's activities responsively and effectively when:
  • Interpreting circuit diagrams of charging systems.
  • Performing a variety of tests using different testing equipment.
  • Servicing charging systems using appropriate equipment.
  • Removing, bench-testing, dismantling, reassembling and refitting alternators.
  • Repairing alternators. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information to:
  • Interpret test results and solve problems/faults. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Communicate effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentation to:
  • Prepare report for customer on condition of alternator.
  • Prepare job-card for notifying the customer. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and the health of others by:
  • Using tools and equipment according to manufacturer's instructions and workplace procedure. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING 
    Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that the problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation when engaging with faults on the alternators and charging system. 

    UNIT STANDARD ASSESSOR CRITERIA 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this unit standard was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    UNIT STANDARD NOTES 
    This unit standard replaces unit standard 12222, "Diagnose, test and repair conventional automobile charging systems", Level 3, 16 credits. 

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Core  78923   National Certificate: Autotronics  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  MERSETA 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.