Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling low engine idle RPM without discharging a vehicle battery by monitoring the vehicle alternator field modulation. The apparatus includes an engine control module, an alternator, electrical loads and a switch module. The engine control module includes a first input and a first output forming a portion of a first feedback loop. The first input and first output enable the engine control module to sense and control the idle RPM of the engine. The alternator includes an armature and a field coil where rotation of the armature and modulation of the field coil controls the amount of current supplied by the alternator. The switch module modulates the field coil upon receipt of a drive signal from the engine control module.

Abstract: A magnetic filter element comprises a rubber bonded barium ferrite permanent magnet strip enclosed in a thin, liquid impervious, non-magnetic envelope and positioned in a low velocity location in a fluid system to capture magnetically attractable contaminants. The disclosure illustrates various arrangements of the magnet with filter cartridges as well as the construction of the magnet element itself.