Detailed Explanation of Letters on Vehicle Ignition Switch
2 Answers
Different letters on vehicles represent distinct meanings. Here is a detailed explanation of the letter designations on vehicles: 1. B+ or B or +: Generator positive output terminal, the positive terminal after rectification of the generator stator output. Connects to the battery positive terminal, voltage regulator, and vehicle electrical loads (no battery motor). B+ directly connects to the air conditioning system. 2. F+ or F or D: Field terminal, connected to the "field" terminal of the voltage regulator, used for generator rotor excitation. 3. B- or E: Generator negative output terminal after rectification of the stator output, connected to the battery negative terminal and regulator negative terminal, usually directly grounded. 4. N or P or W or R or L: Generator neutral point output terminal, output voltage is half of B+, connected to the tachometer, charging indicator light, relays, etc.
I've been driving for several years, and these ignition switch letters are quite interesting. LOCK is where you turn to after parking to lock the steering wheel and remove the key, crucial for anti-theft. ACC, on the other hand, is used to power the radio or cigarette lighter. It's great for listening to music while parked, but don't leave it on too long to avoid draining the battery. The ON position activates all the vehicle's electronic systems like dashboard lights, which is good for pre-start warming up. A quick turn to START fires up the engine—make sure to do it decisively without hesitation. It's okay to try a few more times when starting a cold engine in winter. Just remember not to switch randomly while driving. Once, I forgot to turn it back to ON, and the car stalled midway, which was quite scary. It cost me a few hundred to fix the electrical issue later, so daily operations require careful attention.
