TM 10-3930-669-34 c. Power Storage and Generating.  The forklift’s 12-volt batteries (1) have the capability of storing electrical power. The batteries can power all of the systems for a limited time while the engine is not running, but its primary purpose is to supply voltage to the engine’s starting system.  Once the engine is running, the generating system provides the electrical power for all systems.  The engine-driven alternator (2) generates alternating current (AC) which is passed through a set of rectifiers that change it into direct current (DC).  This direct current is used to charge the battery (1) and is distributed t o the other systems of the forklift. 1-13