Auto mechanics Paper 2 May/June 2015

Question 3

(a) 

(i)         Sketch an insulated return system of a motor vehicle wiring.
(ii)         State two advantages of the earth return system over the insulated return system of a motor vehicle wiring.

 (b)        State one function each of the following:

  1. alternator;
  2. regulator;
  3. solenoid switch;
  4. starter motor.    

Observation

Candidates who attempted this question faired well in parts (a i), (b i) and (b iv) .  Parts (a ii), (b ii) and (b iii) were extremely difficult for them.  The required responses to parts (a ii), (b ii) and (b ii) are:

(a ii)      Advantages of the earth return system over the insulated return system of a motor vehicle wiring are:

  • reduced cable length;
  • cost of wiring is reduced;
  • simplified wiring;
  • faults are easier to trace;
  • neat arrangement.
  •  

     (b ii)     Regulator controls the rate of charge from the generator thus ensuring constant current for the electrical and electronic parts.

    (b iii)     Solenoid switch connects the battery, ignition switch and starter motor together thus causing the engine to start