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DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "A"

A

Abbreviation or symbol for Absorption coefficient, Acceleration, Ampere, Attenuation coefficient, Fine-structure constant, Helmhotz free energy, Magnetic vector potential.

A-2 tire A term used for tire sizes 16.00 and larger in nominal cross section. Also called earthmover, off-road, or off-the-road tire.

A4R70W Acronym for Automatic Overdrive Electronic Wide Ratio Transmission

AA Acronym for Automobile Association a term used in Great Britain.

AAA Acronym for American Automobile Association

AABM Acronym for Association of American Battery Manufacturers, Inc.

AAC Acronym for Auxiliary Air Control Valve

AADT Acronym for Annual Average Daily Traffic -- a measure of traffic flow.

AAE Acronym for Association of Automotive Employers (Poland).

AAIA Acronym for Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association.

AALA Acronym for American Automobile Labeling Act

AAM Acronym for Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers.

AAP Acronym for Auxiliary acceleration pump

A arm SeeA-arm

A-arm

A-arm

A Suspension linkage formed in the shape of an A or V found commonly on the Front suspension. The sides of the two legs of the A-arm are connected to the Chassis by rubber Bushings and the peak of the A-arm is attached to the wheel assembly. In this way, the wheel can freely move up and down. Sometimes there

is an upper A-arm, a lower A-arm, or both upper and lower A-arms. The British call it a wishbone. Also SeeDouble wishboneDouble a-arm

AAS Acronym for Air aspirator system.

AASHTO Acronym for American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials

AAV Acronym for Anti-Afterburning Valve (Mazda)

AAWF Acronym for Annual Average Weekday Flows -- a measure of traffic flow.

AAWT Acronym for Annual Average Weekday Traffic -- a measure of traffic flow.

b 1. Symbol for susceptance in an AC circuit (unit is

the siemens; measured by the negative of the reactive component of the admittance

2. Symbol for magnetic flux density in a magnetic circuit (unit is the tesla; 1T=1 Wbm-2=1 Vsm-2).

B+ An acronym for Battery positive voltage used to designate positive voltage at aor near the battery level.

BA An abbreviation for British Association which is a term used to describe a series of fine, small diameter threads for electrical and precision equipment.

Babbitt An Alloy of tin, copper, and antimony having good antifriction properties. Used as a facing for bearings. Also SeeBabbitt's metal

Babbitt metal SeeBabbittBabbitt's metal

Babbitt's metal A bearing alloy originally patented by Isaac Babbitt, composed of 50 parts tin, five antimony, and one copper. Addition of lead greatly extends range of service. Composition varies widely, with tin 5-90%, copper 1.5-6%, antimony 7-10%, lead 5-48.5%.

Babysitter Colloquial term for a co-signer or co-buyer on an automobile purchase contract.

Babcock and Wilcox boiler A water-tube boiler consisting in its simplest form of a horizontal drum from which is suspended a pair of headers carrying between them an inclined bank of straight tubes.

Babo's law The vapor pressure of a liquid is lowered when a non-volatile substance is dissolved in it, by an amount proportional to the concentration of the solution.

Baby A small incandescent spotlight used in film and television production.

Baby seat

Baby Seat

A specially designed seating device (which is not generally standard equipment) to hold safely very young children (usually under the weight of 10 kilograms).

BAC 1. Acronym for Blood Alcohol Content 2. Acronym for bypass air control system 3. Acronym for Bypass air control valve

Back A large vat used in various industries, such as dyeing, soap-making, and brewing. Also spelled beckAlso SeeBackbone chassisBackbone frameBe BackblowbackFeedbackFrost BackKamm backPopping backSpine-backRoll Back

Back ampere-turns That part of the armature ampere-turns which produces a direct demagnetizing effect on the main poles. Also called demagnetizing ampere-turns

Back annealing Controlling the softening of a fully work hardened metal so as to produce the desired degree of temper by partial recrystallization.Also SeeAnnealingTemper

Back axle The rear axle.

Back axle ratio SeeFinal drive ratio

Back band The outside member of a door or window casing.

Backbone The major long-distance, multi-channel link in a telecommunication network, from which smaller links branch offAlso SeeBackbone frame

Backbone chassis SeeBackbone frame

Backbone frame

Backbone Frame

A vehicle Frame, having the cross-section of a rectangular box, that runs along the center of the vehicle and occupies the space between the seats. This box generally divides at the front, running along each side of the Gearbox and engine up to a crossmember to which the Front suspension pieces are attached. At the rear a similar triangular frame encloses the final-drive housing and provides attaching points for the Rear suspension. Lightness combined with high Torsional rigidity are features of this frame design, made famous by Colin Chapman with the Lotus Elan. Also SeeTubular backbone frame

Backbone network A high-capacity computer network that links together other networks of lower capacity. Fiber optic cables are often used to form these links.

Back coupling

Any form of coupling which permits the transfer of energy from the output circuit of an amplifier to its input circuit. Also SeeFeedback

Back diode SeeBackward diode

Back edging A method of cutting a tile or brick by chipping away the biscuit below the glazed face, the front itself being scribed.

Back EMF The EMF which arises in an inductance (because of rate of change of current), in an electric motor (because of flux cutting) or in a primary cell (because of polarization), or in a secondary cell (when being charged). Also called counter EMF

Back-emf cells Cells connected into an electric circuit in such a way that their emf opposes the flow of current in the circuit.

Back emission Emission of electrons from the anode.

Back end When the dealer sends a vehicle purchase contract to the bank for financing, the dealer is given an extra bonus (the back end) from the bank for choosing this bank.

Backfill Materials used to replace previously excavated material.

Backfire 1. Passage of unburned fuel mixture into the

Exhaust system where it is ignited and causes an Explosion (backfire) prematurely.

2. Sometimes Ignition takes place in the Intake manifold by a flame from a Cylinder because the Intake valve leaks. Burning of the fuel mixture in the Intake manifold may be caused by faulty

Timing, crossed plug wires, leaky Intake valve, etc.

3. A welding term referring to a short pop of the torch flame followed by extinguishing of the flame or continued burning of the gasses.

Backfiring Repeated backfires in the exhaust or the cylinders.

Backfitting Making changes to nuclear (and other) plants already designed or built, e.g., to cater to changes in safety criteria.

Back-flap hinge A hinge in two square leaves, screwed to the face of a door which is too thin to permit the use of a butt hinge.

Backflow scavenging SeeLoop scavenging

Backflushing Pushing fluid in a direction opposite of normal flow. This is done for cleaning the engine's cooling system. SeeFlushing the cooling system

Back focus The distance between the rear surface of a lens and the image of an object at infinity.

Back gear A speed-reducing gear fitted to the headstock of a belt-driven metal-turning lathe. It consists of a simple layshaft, which may be brought into gear with the coned pulley and mandrel when required.

Background Extraneous signals arising from any cause which might be confused with the required measurements, e.g., in electrical measurements of nuclear phenomena and of radioactivity, it would include counts emanating from amplifier noise, cosmic rays and insulator leakage.

Background job

A task having a low priority within a multiprogramming system. Also SeeJob queue

Background noise Extraneous noise contaminating sound measurements and which cannot be separated from wanted signals. For example residual output from microphones, pickups, lines giving a signal-to-noise ratio. Also called ground noise

Background radiation Radiation coming from sources other than that being observed.

Background video (BGV) A technique for overlaying video on previously recorded depth multiplex audio. Also called video on sound (VOS).

Backhand welding Welding in the direction opposite to the direction that the gas flame is pointing. Also called backward welding.Also SeeForehand welding

Backheating Excess heating of a cathode due to bombardment by high-energy electrons returning to the cathode. In magnetrons, it may be sufficient to keep the cathode at operating temperature without external heating.

Backing 1. Some material placed on the root side of a weld to

aid control of penetration. 2. Light-absorbent layer on the rear surface of

photographic film or plate to reduce unwanted exposure

3. A meterological term describing the changing of a wind in a counter-clockwise direction.

Also SeeVeering

Also SeeSteel backing

Backing boards Wedge-shaped wooden boards between which an unbound book is held in the lyingpress, while the joints are being formed for attaching the case.

Backing pad A rubber disc which is secured to a spindle which in turn is attached to a drill or other tool which rotates the spindle. An abrasive disc or polishing disc is secured to the backing pad.

Backing plate

Backing plate

1. The part of a drum brake to which the wheel cylinder(s) and the brake shoes are attached.

2. A pressed steel plate upon which the brake shoes, wheel cylinder, and anchor pin are mounted.

Also SeeBrake backing plate

Backing-up 1. Printing on the second side of a sheet.

2. Backing a letterpress printing plate to required height.

Back-kick The violent reversal of an internal-combustion engine during starting due to a Backfire

Backlash 1. The amount of play or Clearance between two

parts. In the case of gears, it refers to how much one gear can be moved back and forth without moving the gear into which it is meshed.

2. Mechanical deficiency in a tuning control, with a difference in dial reading between clockwise and counterclockwise rotation.

3. Property of most regenerative and oscillator circuits, by which oscillation is maintained with a smaller positive feedback than is required for inception.

Backlight 1. The rear window of a vehicle. Most people call it a

rear window and erroneously think of backlight as the taillight.

2. The light source (often a cold cathode discharge in a flat fluorescent envelope) used in some light-modulating flat panel displays such as those based on LCD

Backlight compensation (BLC) The opening of the iris to correctly expose a backlit subject which would otherwise be a silhouette

Backlight defogging system Heated rear window

Backlight heater Heated rear window

Back lighting Lighting illuminating the subject from behind, opposite the camera, often to provide rim light or halo effects.

Back lobe

Lobe of polar diagram for antenna, microphone, etc. which points in the reverse direction to that required.

Backlocking Holding a signal lever partially restored until completion of a predetermined sequence of operation.

Backmatter The items which follow the main text of a book, i.e., appendices, notes, glossary, bibliography, index. The UK term is end matter

Back observation An observation made with instrument on station just left. Also called back sight

Back panel The panel of the body shell set underneath the trunk lid. It is sometimes referred to as the rear valance if the area below the trunk lid consists of only a single panel that extends down to the bottom of the body; in many designs, however, the rear valance is a separate horizontal panel that extends from the rear bumper area downward. The British term is rear panel Also seeLower Back Panel

Backplate British term for Brake backing plate

Back-porch effect The prolonging of the collector current in a transistor for a brief time after the input signal (particularly if large) has decreased to zero.

Back pressure 1. The Resistance to the flow of Exhaust gases

through the Exhaust system. By rerouting the exhaust gases for noise suppression, a Muffler causes back pressure, but a straight pipe alone causes only minimal back pressure. Some engines require back pressure, so that removing the Exhaust system will cause internal damage.

2. Pressure in low side of refrigerating systems; also called suction pressure or low-side pressure.

3. The pressure opposing the motion of the piston of an engine on its exhaust stroke.

4. The exhaust pressure of a turbine. Increased by clogged or defective exhaust system.

5. Pressure against which a fluid or gas is flowing, resulting from friction in lines, restrictions in pipes, valves, pressure in vessel to which fluid is flowing, hydrostatic head, or other impediment that causes resistance to fluid flow.

Also SeeExhaust back pressureNegative back pressure valveNegative back pressure modulated valve

Back pressure modulated SeeNegative back pressure modulated valve

Back pressure modulated valve SeeNegative back pressure modulated valve

Backpressure Transducer EGR Valve SeeIntegral Backpressure Transducer EGR Valve

Back Pressure Transducer Valve SeeExhaust Back Pressure Transducer Valve

Back-pressure turbine A steam turbine from which the whole of the exhaust steam, at a suitable pressure, is taken for heating purposes.

Back pressure valve SeeNegative back pressure valve

Backpressure variable transducer (BVT) a system combining a ported EGR valve and a backpressure variable Transducer to control emissions of NOx

Back projection

1. Projection of a picture, from film, transparency, or video, on to a translucent screen to be viewed from the opposite side,

2. A form of motion picture composite photography in which the projected picture forms the background to action taking place in front of it, both being photographed together.

Back rake In a lathe tool, the inclination of the top surface or face to a plane parallel to the base of the tool.

Backrest The back (upright) part of the seat against which your back reclines.

Back scatter The deflection of radiation or particles by scattering through angles greater than 90° with reference to the original direction of travel.

Back-seat 1. An air conditioning term which means to rotate a

service valve counterclockwise all the way down until the valve is back-seated. When referring to a stem type service valve, the term has a more specific meaning-in the back-seated position, the valve outlet to the system is open and the service port in the valve is closed (its normal operating position).

2. The seating behind the front passenger and/or driver

Back-seat driver A person who is not physically in control of the vehicle, but who gives driving instruction to the driver, usually in an obnoxious manner.

Back seating Fluid opening or closing such as a gauge opening to seat the joint where the valve stem goes through the valve body.

Back sight

SeeBack observation

Backspacing Process which maintains synchronization when video recording is stopped and started. The tape being rolled back for roughly one second at the end of a recorded segment then switched into play to compare and synchronize the control track pulses with the incoming synchronization pulses before recording begins again.

Back-step welding Welding small sections of a joint in a direction opposite the direction that the weld as a whole is progressing.

Backstop The structure of a relay which limits the travel of the armature away from the pole-piece or core.

Back-to-back Parallel connection of valves, with the anode of one connected to the cathode of the other, or transistors in parallel in opposite directions, to allow control of AC current without rectification.

Back up To go in reverse.

Back up alarm An annoying loud beeping which is repeatedly sounded when a vehicle (usually a large truck) is placed in reverse. It is designed to warn pedestrians behind the vehicle. The British term is reversing warning signal

Back up light A white light which is located at the rear of the vehicle and is illuminated when the transmission is placed in reverse. The British term is reversing light

Back-voltage Voltage which opposes the current when the current in an inductive circuit changes and the magnetic field cuts the conductors.Also SeeSelf-induction back-voltage

Backward busying

Applying busy condition at the incoming end of a trunk or junction (usually during testing or fault-clearance) to indicate at outgoing end that circuit must not be used.

Backward diode One with characteristic of reverse shape to normal. Also called AU diode or back diode

Backward hold A method of interlocking the links of a switching chain by originating a locking condition in the final link and extending it successively backwards to each of the preceding links

Backward lead SeeBackward shift

Backward shift Movement of the brushes of a commutating machine around the commutator, from the neutral position, and in a direction opposite to that of the rotation of the commutator, so that the brushes short-circuit zero emf conductors when the load current, through armature reaction, results in a rotation of the neutral axis of the air-gap flux. Shifting the brushes in this way reduces sparking on the commutator. Also called backward lead

Backward signaling Signaling from the called to the calling end of a circuit.

Backward-wave tube General term for a family of microwave traveling-wave tubes in which energy on a slow-wave circuit or structure, linked closely to the electron beam, flows in the opposite direction to the electrons. They can be used as stable, low-noise amplifiers or as oscillators, as the latter, they can be easily tuned over a wide frequency range by altering he beam voltage.

Backward welding SeeBackhand welding

Backwater

Water, containing fine fibers, loading and other additives, removed in the forming section of a paper or board-making machine. It is generally re-used within the system or clarified in a saveall to recover suspended matter.

Backyard mechanic A person, whether qualified or not, who repairs his own vehicle or those of others and works in his own property.

BAC level Acronym for Blood Alcohol Content level

Badge An emblem with a manufacturer's name and/or logo on a plate to identify a model or component. Also SeeBonnet badgeHood badge

Badge engineering When a manufacturer sells two identical vehicles but the model names are different, he is badge engineering. For example, General Motors may sell a vehicle as a Chevrolet or a Pontiac where the only difference is the model name, logo, and more or less chrome or other minor alterations.

Badging The act of a manufacturer in Badge engineering

Baffle

Baffle

1. An obstruction (e.g., plate or vane) used to slow down or divert the flow of gases, liquids, sound,

etc. They are found in the Fuel tank, Crankcase, Muffler, and Radiator.

2. Extended surface surrounding a diaphragm of a sound source (loudspeaker) so that an acoustic short-circuit is prevented.

3. Any device to impede or divide a fluid flow in a tank to reduce sloshing of liquid.

4. Plates fitted between cylinders of air-cooled engines to assist cooling.

5. Internal structure or electrode, with no external connection, used in gas-filled tubes to control the discharge or its decay.

6. An object placed in an Appliance to change the direction of or retard the flow of gas, air, gas-air mixtures, or flue (exhaust) gases.

7. A wall or partition inside a liquid tank that inhibits the flow of fluids reducing the slosh effect that liquid tankers experience.

Also SeeAir Horn BaffleBox baffleFlue gas baffleLoad-Bearing Flue Gas BaffleNon-Load-Bearing Flue Gas Baffle

Baffle loudspeaker An open-diaphragm loudspeaker, in which the radiation of sound power is enhanced by surrounding it with a large plane baffle, generally of wood.

Baffle plate 1. A metal plate that acts as a Baffle. 2. A plate used to prevent the movement of a fluid in

the direction which it would normally follow, and to direct it into the desired path.

3. Plate inserted into waveguide to produce change in mode of transmission.

SeeDirectional Baffle Plate

Bag SeeAir bagCourier bagCruiser bagDriver air bagHandlebar BagPassenger-side air bagShot bagSide impact air bagTank bag

Bag drop A location where your supplies have been cached. In randonneuring events of 1200 km, you can pre-arrange to have a bag of extra clothes and other supplies waiting for you at a prescribed control (i.e., checkpoint). Also called a drop.

Bagger A motorcycle equipped with saddlebags and other touring amenities.

Bag molding Use of a flexible membrane ( the bag) to exert pressure, usually about one atmosphere, on a thermosetting composite Laminate or sandwich component while it is curing at ambient temperature in an open mold. Pressure can be generated either by evacuating the inside of the bag (vacuum bag molding) or by pressurizing its outer surface (pressure bag molding).

Bag pump A form of bellows pump, in which the valved disk taking the place of the bucket is connected to the base of the barrel by an elastic bag, distended at intervals by rings.

Bail The spring-wire loop used to secure the cover on most Master cylinder reservoirs.

Bailey bridge

A temporary bridge made by assembling portable prefabricated panels. A nose is projected over rollers across the stream, being followed by the bridge proper, with roadway. Also used over pontoons.

Baily furnace An electric-resistance furnace in which the resistance material is crushed coke placed between carbon electrodes; used for heating ingots and bars in rolling mills, for annealing, etc.

Bainite A microstructural product formed in steels when cooled from the austenite state at rates or transformation temperatures intermediate between those which form pearlite martensite, i.e., between about 800 and 500° K. It is an acicular structure of supersaturated ferrite containing particles of carbide, the dispersions of the latter depending on the formation temperature. Its hardness is intermediate between that of pearlite and martensite and exhibits mechanical properties similar to those of tempered martensite in a steel of the same carbon content.

Bait SeeBear bait

Baize A lightweight woollen felt used to cover pool tables and bulletin boards.

Bake A process of drying or curing paint by using heat.

Baked core A dry sand core baked in the oven to render it hard and to fix its shape. Also seeCore sand

Baked images The technique of heating a printing plate (mainly lithographic) to harden the printing image and thus increase the image's resistance to wear, hence lengthening the run expectancy on the press.

Bakelite The trademark for a synthetic thermosetting plastic Resin used in electrical parts because it is a good insulator. The name comes from its inventor, L. H. Baekeland, 1863-1944.

Bake-out Preliminary heating of components of a vacuum device to release absorbed gases.

Baking finish Paint that requires baking in order to dry.

Baking temperature The temperature at which a varnish or paint must be baked to develop desired final properties of strength and hardness.

Balance 1. The state in which weight is evenly distributed. 2. The action of applying weights or drilling holes in

something to establish even weight distribution so that vibration is reduced.

3. Adjustment of sources of sound in studios so that the final transmission adheres to an artistic standard.

4. Said to be obtained in bridge measurements when the various impedances forming the arms of the bridge have been adjusted, so that no current flows through the detector.

Aerodynamic balanceAutomatic White BalanceBalance shaftBrake balanceCounter balanceCrankshaft counter-balanceDynamic balanceElectrical BalanceHarmonic balancerHeat balanceKinetic balance

Off-car balanceOn-car balanceQuartz-fiber BalanceSpool balance valveSpring BalanceStatic balanceSteering wheel balanceTire balanceWheel balancer

Balance bar The heavy beam by which a canal-lock gate may be swung on its Pintle, and which partially balances the outer end of the gate.

Balance box A box, filled with heavy material, used to counterbalance the weight of the jib and load of a crane of the cantilever type.

Balance control A switching device on a stereo radio which adjusts the amount of sound coming from the left and right speakers or from the front and rear speakers.

Balance-crane A crane with two arms, one having counterpoise arrangements to balance the load taken by the other.

Balanced amplifier One in which there are two identical signal-handling branches operating in phase opposition, with input and output connections balanced to ground.

Balanced-armature pick-up A pick-up in which the reproducing needle is held by a screw in a magnetic arm, which is pivoted so that its motion diverts magnetic flux from one arm of a magnetic circuit to another, thereby inducing emf in coils on these arms.

Balanced circuit For AC and DC, a circuit which is balanced to ground potential, i.e., the two conductors are at equal and opposite potentials with reference to ground at every instant.

Balanced crankshaft A crankshaft with extended reinforcements to form counterbalancing or act as a vibration damper.

Balanced current A term used, in connection with polyphase circuits, to denote currents which are equal to all the phases. Also applied to DC three-wire systems.

Balanced draft A system of air-supply to a boiler furnace, in which one fan forces air through the grate, while a second, situated in the uptake, exhausts the flue gases. The pressure in the furnace is thus kept atmospheric, i.e., is balanced.

Balanced draught A system of air-supply to a boiler furnace, in which one fan forces air through the grate, while a second, situated in the uptake, exhausts the flue gases. The pressure in the furnace is thus kept atmospheric, i.e., is balanced.

Balanced engine An engine in which all the reciprocating parts such as pistons and connecting rods are adjusted to exactly the same weight.

Balance disc A disc-shaped device in a centrifugal pump which is attached to the pump shaft. The disc lifts when a force is applied to the underside of the disc allowing pressure to leak past until the axial forces are balanced.

Balanced laminate Symmetrical laminated material in which the sequence of laminae above the center plane is the mirror image of that below it.

Balanced line A line in which the impedances to ground of the two conductors are, or are made to be, equal. Also called balanced system

Balanced load A load connected to a polyphase system, or to a single-phase or DC three-wire system, in such a way that the

currents taken from each phase, or from each side of the system, are equal and at equal power factors.

Balanced mixer A mixer, which may be made of discrete components or formed in stripline or waveguide, in which the local oscillator breakthrough in the output is minimized and certain harmonics suppressed. The contribution of local oscillator noise to the receiver's overall performance is also reduced by such a mixer.

Balanced modulator A modulator in which the carrier and modulating signal are combined in such a way that the output contains the two sidebands but not the carrier. Used in color television to modulate subcarriers, and in suppressed-carrier communication systems.

Balanced network A network arranged for insertion into a Balanced circuit and therefore symmetrical electrically about the mid-points of its input and output pairs of terminals.

Balanced-pair cable A cable with two conductors forming a loop circuit, the wires being electrically balanced to each other and ground (shield), e.g., an open-wire antenna feeder.

Balanced pedal In an organ console, the foot-operated plate, pivoted so that it stays in any position, for remote control of the shutter of the chambers in which ranks of organ pipes are situated; it also serves for bringing in all the stops in a graded series.

Balanced protective system A form of protective system for electric transmission lines and now widely used domestically in which the current entering the line or apparatus is balanced against that leaving it. Any fault, such as a short circuit to ground, upsets this balance and energizes a relay which trips the faulty circuit. Also called differential protective system or colloquially, ground leak relay or ground trip.

Balanced system

SeeBalanced line

Balanced terminator A two-terminal load in which both terminals present the same impedance to ground.

Balanced voltage A term used, in connection with polyphase circuits, to denote voltage which are equal to all the phases. Also applied to DC three-wire systems.

Balanced weave A weave in which the length of free yarn between the intersections is the same as the warp and weft directions and on both sides of the fabric.

Balance gate A flood gate which revolves about a vertical shaft near its center, and which may be made either self-opening or self-closing as the current sets in or out by giving a preponderating area to one leaf of the gate.

Balance patch A factory installed patch used to bring a new tire within quality control balance tolerances before distribution and sale. It is placed inside the Tire casing and looks much like a nail hole repair patch.

Balance pipe A tube which joins two or more carburetors to even out the flow difference.

Balance piston SeeDummy piston

Balancer A device used on polyphase or three-wire systems to equalize the voltages between the phases or the sides of the system, when unbalanced loads are being delivered. Also SeeAC balancerCrankshaft BalancerHarmonic balancerWheel balancer

Balancer transformer An autotransformer connected across the outer conductors of an ac three-wire system, the neutral wire being connected to an intermediate tapping.

Balance shaft An engine will normally vibrate because of the up-and-down motion of the Pistons which turn a Crankshaft in one direction. A balance shaft rotates (often in the opposite direction) so that its vibration cancels some of the vibration of the engine. Sometimes an engine will have two balance shafts turning in opposite directions located on either side of the Crankshaft.

Balance valve SeeSpool balance valve

Balance weight 1. A lead weight attached to the rim of a wheel. 2. Small weights threaded on radial arms on the

movement of an indicating instrument, so adjusted that the pointer gives the same indication whatever the orientation of the instrument.

3. A weight used to counterbalance some part of a machine, e.g., weights applied to a crankshaft to minimize or neutralize the inertia forces due to reciprocating and rotating masses of the engine.

Also SeeWheel weight

Balancing 1. Dismantling engine and reassembling it to exact

Specifications and Tolerances. This process may help to improve engine performance, smoothness, and reliability. Sometimes called Blueprinting.

Also SeeBalanced engine

2. Keeping wheels in balance.

3. In color reproduction, control of the levels of the three color components to achieve a satisfactory picture without obvious color bias, esp. in the representation of neutral grey tones.

4. The process of adjusting a traverse, i.e., applying corrections to the different survey lines and bearings so as to eliminate the closing error.

Also SeeOff-car BalancingOff-the-car balancingOn-the-car balancingOn-car BalancingWheel Balancing

Balancing antenna Auxiliary reception antenna which responds to interfering but not to the wanted signals. The interfering signals thus picked up are balanced against those picked up by the main antenna, leaving signals more free from interference.

Balancing machine A machine for testing the extent to which a revolving part is out of balance, and to determine the weight and position of the masses to be added, or removed, to obtain balance.Also SeeWheel balancer

Balancing speed SeeFree-running speed

Balancing weight SeeWheel weight

Bald tire A tire on which the tread is all worn away. A Slick also has no tread, but this is done deliberately for racing purposes.

Balk

The material between two excavations. Also called baulk.

Balking SeeCrawling

Balk ring

Click image to supersizeBalk Ring

A friction-regulated Pawl or plunger used to make the engagement of gears easier. British spelling is baulk ring

Ball A sphere usually made of metal when used in automotive applications. Also seeBall and springBall bearingBall jointBall joint rocker armCheck ballDetent ball and springDischarge Check BallHitch ball

Impact swivel ball universal jointPump Inlet Check BallRecirculating-ball-and-nut steeringRecirculating ball steeringRecirculating ball worm and nutTowing ball

Ball and nut SeeRecirculating ball and nut steering

Ball-and-nut steering SeeRecirculating ball steering

Ball and socket SeeBall joint

Ball-and-socket head Camera mounting allowing universal movement in rotation and tilt before fixing by clamping usually fitted to the top of tripod.

Ball-and-socket joint A joint between two rods, permitting considerable relative angular movement in any plane. A ball formed on the end of one rod is embraced by a spherical cup on the other. Used in light control systems (e.g., in connecting a pair of bell-cranks which operate in planes at right angles) and in the steering mechanism of motor vehicles, in which both ball and cups are of case-hardened metals. Heavier examples allow a large base plate to be placed under a supporting column in a jack-up pontoon or modified as bridge bearings to allow some articulation.Also SeeBall joint

Ball and spring Also SeeDetent ball and spring

Ballast

1. Any liquid or solid weight (gravel or stone) placed in a ship to change the trim, increase the draft, or to regulate the stability.

2. A layer of broken stone, gravel, or other material deposited above the formation level of road or railway; it serves as foundation for road-metal or permanent-way respectively.

3. Sandy gravel used as a coarse aggregate in making concrete.

Also SeeDry ballastLead ballastLiquid ballast

Ballast ignition system An ignition system which uses a Ballast resistor connected in series with the coil primary winding and which is bypassed when the starter is engaged so that the spark is more efficient under cold weather starting.

Ballasting The addition of Liquid or Dry weight inside the tire to act as a counterbalance, to increase traction, reduce wheel spin, and dampen out bounce.

Ballast lamp Normal incandescent lamp used as a ballast resistor, current limiter, alarm, or to stabilize a discharge lamp.

Ballast resistance A term used in railway signaling to denote the resistance between the two track rails across the Ballast on which the track is laid. If allowed to fall too low, it will have the effect of shunting the signal from a trains's wheels.

Ballast resistor (BAL RES)

1. A resistor inserted into a circuit to swamp or compensate changes, e.g., those arising through temperature fluctuations. One similarly used to swamp the negative resistance of an arc or gas discharge. Also called ballast tube.

2. A Resistor constructed of a special type wire, the properties of which tend to increase or decrease the Voltage in direct proportion to the heat of the wire.

Also SeeBarretter

Ballast tank Tanks at the bottom or sides of a ship which are filled with seawater for ballasting purpose.

Ballast tube SeeBallast resistor

Ball bearing An antifriction bearing consisting of an inner and outer Hardened steel Race (or Cage) separated by a series of hardened steel balls.Also SeeAnnular ball bearingLinear ball bearingLoose Ball Bearings

Ball bearing puller A tool for removing a ball bearing from a shaft or from a housing.

Ball cage A circular frame which holds the balls in place in a ball bearing.

Ball check valve Valve assembly which permits flow of fluid in one direction only.

Ball-ended magnet A permanent magnet, consisting of a steel wire with a steel ball attached to each end; this gives a close approximation to a unit pole.

Ball end hexagon screwdriver A tool that looks like an Allen wrench except it has a small ball at the very end. This arrangement allows it to work at various angles.

Balling

1. A process that occurs in the cementite constituent of steels on prolonged annealing at 650°C - 700°C.

2. The operation of forming balls in a puddling furnace.

Ballistic circuit breaker A very high-speed circuit breaker, in which the pressure produced by the fusing of an enclosed wire causes interruption of the circuit.

Ballistic galvanometer A galvanometer with a long swing period; the deflection measures the electric charge in a current pulse or the time integral of a voltage pulse.

Ballistic method A method of high-grade testing used in electrical engineering, a Ballistic galvanometer being used.

Ballistic pendulum A heavy block suspended by strings so that its swings are restricted to one plane. If a bullet is fired into the block, the velocity of the bullet may be calculated from a measurement of the angle of swing of the pendulum.

Ballistics The study of the dynamics of the path taken by an object moving under the influence of a gravitational field.

Ball joint

Ball Joint

A flexible Joint using a ball and Socket type of construction, used in Steering linkage setups, Steering knuckle pivot supports, etc. Their flexibility helps to compensate for the changes in the wheel and steering when turning or hitting a bump on the road. There are usually upper and lower ball joints attached to the upper and lower A-arms. Some have a grease nipple to allow periodic lubrication. SeeUpper Ball Joint

Ball joint rocker arm

Ball Joint Rocker Arm

A Rocker arm used by GM that is mounted upon a ball-shaped device on the end of a Stud instead of being mounted around a shaft.

Ball joint separator A tool for forcing out ball or tapered joints. One style is shaped like a two-prong fork with a wedge-shaped jaw which is struck with a hammer to separate the joint. Another style uses direct pressure from a screw or screw-activated lever action to split the joint.

Ball joint steering knuckle

Steering Knuckle

A Steering knuckle that pivots on Ball joints instead of on a Kingpin.

Ballonet An air compartment in the envelope of an aerostat, used to adjust changes of volume in the filler gas.

Balloon A general term for aircraft supported by buoyancy and not driven mechanically.Also SeeBarrage balloon Captive Balloon

Balloon barrage An anti-aircraft device consisting of suitably disposed tethered balloons

Balloon former On rotary presses, an additional former mounted above the others, from which folded webs are gathered to make up the sections of multi-sectioned newspapers or magazines.

Ballooning of yarn The shape taken up by yarns on the spinning or doubling machines.

Balloon tire A type of low pressure tire which was first introduced in the 1920s. Its width and height were the same which

gave it a rounded shape. This style was used on bicycles as well as automobiles.

Ballot A vehicle brand of which the 1925-1948 model automobiles with required application are Classic cars.

Ballotini Small, solid glass spheres or beads used as a filler for plastics and to increase reflectivity in paints and printing inks.

Ball-pane hammer A fitter's hammer, the head of which has a flat face at one end, and a smaller hemi-spherical face or pane at the other; used chiefly in riveting. Also called Ball pien hammer

Ball pien hammer

Ball Pein Hammer

A hammer with two ends on the head. One is round and the other is flat. They are best used for hammering and shaping metal. Also spelled ball peen

Ball peen hammer A hammer with two ends on the head. One is round and the other is flat. They are best used for hammering and shaping metal. Also spelled ball pien

Ball race 1. The inner or outer steel ring forming one of the

ball tracks of a ball bearing. 2. Commonly, the complete ball bearing

Ball sizing Forcing a suitable ball through a hole to finish size it, usually part of a Broach with a series of spherical lands of increasing size arranged along it.

Ball socket A recessed spherical well for receiving the ball in a Ball joint

Ball steering SeeRecirculating ball steering

Ball track SeeBall bearing

Ball universal SeeImpact swivel ball universal joint

Ball universal joint SeeImpact swivel ball universal joint

Ball valve A check valve in which a ball in a tube is used to control the flow of liquid.

Ball worm SeeRecirculating ball worm and nut

Ball worm and nut SeeRecirculating ball worm and nut

BALPA Acronym for British Airline Pilots Association

BAL RES Abbreviation for Ballast resistor

Bambi Trucker slang for a deer (dead or alive) as in "There's a Bambi on the side at the 43 yardstick."

Banana plug A single conductor plug which has a spring metal tip, in the shape of a banana. The corresponding socket or jack is termed a banana jack

Banbury mixer Type of machine used for compounding rubber with vulcanizing ingredients and carbon black.

Band Bands are like a metal belt which is in the shape of a circle where the two ends are close, but do not meet. They wrap around parts inside the Transmission called drums. The drums house the gears and Clutches and Freewheel until a certain gear needs to be applied. When first gear needs to be applied, the drum for first gear is locked up by the application of the band. By locking up the drum, the gears now drive the wheels rather than Freewheel inside the drum.Also SeeBack bandBrake bandFrequency bandPower bandSquish band

Band brake A flexible band wrapped partially around the periphery of a wheel or drum. One end is anchored, and the braking force is applied to the other.Also SeeBrake band

Band chain Steel tape. More accurate than ordinary chain.

Band clutch A Friction clutch in which a fabric-lined steel band is contracted on to the periphery of the driving member by engaging gear.

Band conveyor An endless band passing over, and driven by, horizontal pulleys, thus forming a moving track which is used to convey loose material or small articles. Also called belt conveyor or conveyor belt

Band edge energy The energy of the edge of the conduction band or valence band in a solid, measured with respect to

some convenient reference or else used as the reference level for other energy states.Also SeeBand theory of solids

Band gap The range of energies which correspond with those values which are forbidden for delocalized states, according to the Band theory of solids. Localized states such as those associated with ionized dopants, impurity atoms, or crystal imperfections exist in the gap. The generation of pairs of electrons and holes requires quanta of at least the energy of the band gap. Direct recombination likewise furnishes quanta with energies at least equal to the band gap.

Band ignitor tube A valve of mercury pool type in which the control electrode is a metal band outside the glass envelope. Also called capacitron

Banding 1. A structural feature of wrought metallic materials

revealed by etching, resulting from microstructural segregates and constitutional differences within the grain structure becoming drawn out in the direction of working.

2. Defect in videotape recording heads causing visible horizontal bands in the picture.

Band-pass filter Filter which freely passes currents having frequencies within specified nominal limits, and highly attenuates currents with frequencies outside these limits.

Band radio SeeCitizens band radio

Band-rejection filter SeeBand-stop filter

Bands

SeeBand

Bandsaw A narrow endless strip of saw-blading running over and driven by pulleys, as a belt; the strip passes a work table placed normal to the straight part of the blade. The workpiece is forced against the blade and intricate shapes can be cut. Also used for cutting animal carcases in butchery.

Band spectrum Molecular optical spectrum consisting of numerous very closely spaced lines which are spread through a limited band of frequencies.

Band-spreading 1. Use of a relatively small tuning capacitor in

parallel with the main tuning capacitor of a radio receiver, so that fine tuning control can be done with the smaller; useful when the frequency band is crowded.

2. Mechanical means, like reduction gearing, to achieve the same result.

Band-stop filter Filter which attenuates signals having frequencies within a certain range or band, while freely passing those outside this range. Also called band-rejection filter

Band theory of solids For atoms brought together to form a crystalline solid, their outermost electrons are influenced by a periodic potential function, so that their possible energies form bands of allowed values separated by bands of forbidden values (in contrast to the discrete energy states of an isolated atom). These electrons are not localized or associated with any particular atom in the solid. This band structure is of fundamental importance in explaining the properties of metals, semiconductors, and insulators.

Bandwidth

1. The range of audio frequencies that an audio component (radio) can handle.

2. The width, or spread, of the range of frequencies used for a given purpose, e.g., the width of individual channels allotted to speech or to television transmissions.

3. The space occupied in the frequency domain by signals of a specified nature, e.g., telephone quality speech, broadcast-quality stereophonic music, television, radar transmission, etc.

B & S Abbreviation for Bore and Stroke which describes the width of a cylinder hole and the distance that the piston moves each time.

B & S gage Abbreviation for Brown and Sharpe. A standard measure of wire diameter.

B & S gauge Abbreviation for Brown and Sharpe. A standard measure of wire diameter.

Banger 1. A colloquial term used to express the Cylinders in

an engine. Often used with a number such as Six banger.

Also SeeFour banger Six Banger

2. A British colloquial term for Beater (an older, cheaper, well-worn car which is still usable).

3. One who fakes an accident.

Also SeeCar banger

Banger racing A competition of speed on small racing tracks where older cars are driven as fast as they can go and where bumping other racing cars is permitted (encouraged??).

Banging SeeCar banging

Banjo 1. Besides being a musical instrument, this is a

Fitting which is shaped like a banjo. It has round end that is doughnut shaped with a tube coming out from one side. It is usually used to transfer fluid from the center hole of the round end and out the lateral tube.

2. A drum-shaped central part of an axle casing containing the differential.

Banjo axle The commonest form of rear-axle casing in which the provision of the differential casing in the center produces a resemblance to a banjo with two necks.

Banjo fitting A type of hydraulic fitting, shaped like a banjo, through which a hollow bolt passes, allowing fluid transfer from a hydraulic line to a hydraulic component.

Banjo rear axle housing A rear axle housing from which the Differential unit may be removed while the housing remains in place on the vehicle. The housing is solid from side to side. Compare Split rear axle housing

Bank A number of similar pieces of equipment grouped in line and connected, e.g., a bank of engine cylinders, coke ovens, or transformers.Also SeeCylinder bank

Banked boiler A boiler furnace in which the rate of combustion is purposely reduced to a very low rate for a period during which the demand for steam has ceased by e.g., covering the fire with slack or fine coal or banking up. Also called banked fire.

Banked fire

SeeBanked boiler

Banking 1. The slope of a track from the wall to the Apron,

generally measured in the corners. 2. Angular displacement of the wings of an aircraft

about the longitudinal axis, to assist turning. In other words, tipping the plane so that one wing drops while the other rises.

3. Process of suspending operation in a smelter by feeding fuel into the furnace only until as much metal and slag as possible have been removed, after which all air inlets are closed.

Banquette 1. A raised footway inside a bridge parapet. 2. A ledge on the face of a cutting.

Also SeeBerm

Bar 1. A unit of pressure. One bar equals 100 kilopascals

(10 5Pa) or 750.07mm of mercury at 0°C and latitude 45° or about 14.5 psi.

2. A rod. 3. A pivoted bar, parallel to a running rail, which

being depressed by the wheels of a train, is capable of holding points or giving information about a train's position

4. Material of uniform cross-section, which may be cast, rolled, or extruded.

Also seeAngle barAnti-roll barAnti-sway barAntisag barBalance barBoring barBulb bar

Bull barBumper barBus-barCompensating barCompensatorExtension barFreeway barGunwale barHeader barHi-way barHighway barHood barImpact BarLadder barsLandau barsLevering barLocking bar clampMain barNerf barNudge barPort barPush barQuarter-wave BarRoo barSide impact barSissy barSpring barStabilizer barStringer barStrut barSway barT-barTarga barTest barTommy barTorsion barTrack barTraction barTread bar

Wear barsWheelie barWheelie barsWobble extension bar

Barach The author and compiler of this dictionary at Motorera.com

Bar-and-yoke Method of magnetic testing in which the sample is in the form of a bar, clamped into a yoke of relatively large cross-section, which forms a low reluctance return path for the flux.

Barathea Woven fabric used for coats and suits and made from silk, worsted, or man-made fibers. Characteristic surface appearance arising from the twill or broken-rib weave used in its manufacture.

Barba's law Law concerned with the plastic deformation of metal test pieces when strained to fracture in a tensile test; it states that test pieces of identical size deform in a similar manner.

Barbershop Trucker slang for a low overpass where a large truck might clip its top if the truck's clearance is higher than the height of the overpass.

Bar clamp

Bar Clamp

A tool with a stationary head and a sliding foot for clamping purposes.

Also SeeLocking bar clamp

Bare 1. Something slightly smaller than the specified

dimension. 2. A unit without the attaching hardware

Bare conductor A conductor not continuously covered with insulation, but supported intermittently by insulators, e.g., bus-bars and overhead lines.

Bare electrodes Electrodes used in welding that are not coated with a basic slag-forming substance.

Bar ends

Bar Ends

Short handlebar Add-on extensions which are attached to the ends of a Mountain bike handlebar to add another riding position.

Bar end shifter

Bar End Shifter

A bicycle gear shifter that is inserted into each of the ends of a handlebar.

Bare pavement A road condition where the pavement is visible and substantially free of snow and ice following plowing, scraping, or other means

Bare shell The shell of a car body in which all parts have been removed including doors, hood, and trunk lid.

Barge A flat-bottomed boat for carrying cargo or bunker oil, usually pulled by tugs.Also SeeTank-barge

Barge carriers Ships designed to carry barges.

Bar generator Source of pulse signals, giving a bar pattern for testing TV cathode-ray tubes.

Bar keel SeeKeelson

Barkhausen effect The phenomenon of discontinuous changes in the magnetization of a magnetic material while the magnetizing field is smoothly varied. It is the consequence of sudden changes in the domain structure as domain walls overcome various pinning defects and to a lesser extent as domain orientations discontinuously rotate away from preferred crystal areas H. G. Barkhausen (in 1919) detected voltage pulses induced in coils surrounding a magnetic sample as it was magnetized. Analogous ultrasonic emissions are also associated with the magnetization of magnetostrictive materials. The character of

Barkhausen emissions is strongly dependent on microstructure and stress.

Barkhause-Kurz oscillator Oscillator with a triode valve having its grid more positive than the anode. Electrons oscillate about the grid before reaching the anode. Output frequency depends on the transit time of electrons through the tube.

Bar lathe A small lathe of which the bed consists of a single bar of circular, triangular, or rectangular section.

Barlow lens A plano-convex lens between the objective and eye-piece of a telescope to increase the magnification by increasing the effective focal length.

Bar magnet A straight bar-shaped permanent magnet, with a Pole at each end.

Bar mill A rolling mill with grooved rolls, for producing round, square, or other forms of bar iron of small section.

Barn Unit of effective cross-sectional area of nucleus equal to 10 -28 m². So called because it was pointed out that although one barn is a very small unit of area, to an elementary particle the size of an atom which could capture it is "as big as a barn door." Also SeeCross-section

Barn door Pair of adjustable flaps on a studio lamp for controlling the light.

Barney A soft cover to reduce noise from a film camera.

BARO 1. Acronym for Barometric Pressure 2. Acronym for Barometric pressure sensor. 3. Acronym for Barometric absolute pressure

sensor

Barograph A recording Barometer, usually of the aneroid type, in which variations of atmospheric pressure cause movement of a pen which traces a line on a clockwork driven revolving drum.

Barometer An instrument used for the measurement of atmospheric pressure. The Mercury barometer is preferable if the highest accuracy of readings is important, but where compactness has to be considered, the Aneroid barometer is often used.Also SeeAltimeter

Barometric absolute pressure sensor (BARO or BP)

1. A sensor that provides ambient atmospheric pressure information.

2. Sends a variable voltage signal to the computer which varies in accord with atmospheric pressure, allowing adjustment of the spark advance, EGR flow, and air/fuel ratio as a function of altitude.

Also called a Barometric pressure sensor Barometric and manifold absolute pressure sensor

(BMAP) A housing containing both BP and MAP sensors. Barometric corrections

Necessary corrections to the readings of a mercury barometer for index error, temperature, latitude, and height.

Barometric error The error in the time of swing of a pendulum due to change of air pressure. Though small, it is sometimes avoided in clocks by causing the pendulum to swing in an atmosphere of constant (low) pressure.

Barometric pressure (BP) The pressure of the atmosphere as read by a barometer. Expressed in millibars (See Bar), the height of a column of mercury, or (SI) in hectopascals (SI units).

Barometric pressure sensor (BARO or BP) A sensor found in the engine management system which detects the ambient barometric pressure so that precise fuel mixture can be maintained at different altitudes.

Barometric tendency The rate of change of atmospheric pressure with time. The change of pressure during the previous three hours.

Barostat A device which maintains constant atmospheric pressure in a closed volume, e.g., the input and output pressure of fuel metering device of a gas turbine to compensate for atmospheric pressure variation with altitude.

Barrage SeeBalloon barrage

Barrage balloon A small captive kite balloon, the cable of which is intended to destroy low-flying aircraft.

Barred code Any dialed code that automatic exchange apparatus is printed to reject by connecting the caller no further than number unobtainable tone.

Barrel 1. A hollow, usually cylindrical, machine part, often

revolving, sometimes with wall apertures 2. The Air horn in the Carburetor. In particular, it is

that part where the Throttle valve is located. If a Carburetor has four openings with a throttle valve in each, it is called a four-barrel carburetor.

Also SeeCarburetor barrelFour barrel carburetor

3. Another name for the Carburetor barrel, Cylinder, Cylinder barrel, Four barrel, Polishing barrel, and Single barrel.

4. To travel fast as in We barreled down the highway well above the speed limit.

5. The main cylinder in which molten polymer is prepared for extrusion or injection into molds.

Also SeeInjection molding

6. (bbl) A capacity of 42 US gallons (35 imperial gallons or 159.1 liters) frequently used as a unit in the oil industry.

Barrel cam A cylindrical cam with circumferential or end track.

Barrel carburetor SeeFour barrel carburetorSingle barrel carburetorTwin barrel carburetor

Barrel distortion Curvilinear distortion of an optical or electronic image in which horizontal and vertical straight lines appear barrel-shaped, bowed outwards. Also called positive distortion.

Barrel etcher A device usually used to oxidize and thereby strip away hardened photoresist materials during semiconductor processing. In it a batch of wafers is exposed to a low-pressure oxygen plasma.

Barrel hopper A machine for unscrambling, orienting and feeding small components during a manufacturing process, in which a revolving barrel tumbles the components on to a sloping, vibrating feeding blade.

Barrel Nut An internally threaded screw with a slotted head.

Barrel plating

Electroplating of many small items by placing them in a perforated barrel revolving in a vat filled with an appropriate plating solution. The barrel is made the Cathode in the cell and the articles tumble against each other during rotation, continually touching at different places, and so become uniformly coated with the electrodeposit.

Barrel shape A drum defect caused by excessive wear at the center of the friction surface.

Barrel tappet A hollow rocker arm shaped like a barrel.

Barrel temperatures Temperatures at which an extrusion or injection molding barrel is kept, usually rising to a peak at the nozzle. The range is determined by the polymer type and its melt viscosity.Also seeInjection molding

Barrel-type crankcase A gasoline-engine crankcase so constructed that the crankshaft must be removed from one end; in more normal construction the crankcase is split.Also seeSplit crankcase

Barrel wear A type of brake drum wear in which the center of the friction surface is worn more than the edges

Barretter Iron-wire resistor mounted in a glass bulb containing hydrogen, and having a temperature variation so arranged that the change of resistance ensures that the current in the circuit in which it is connected remains substantially constant over a wide range of voltage. Also called ballast tube

Barricade A temporary structure designed to warn vehicles that the road or a portion of the road is no longer usable.

SeeA-frame barricadeBreakaway barricade

Barrier 1. In transformers, the solid insulating material which

provides the main insulation, apart from the oil. 2. The refractory material intended to localize or

direct any arc which may arise on the operation of a circuit breaker.

Also seeBrush barrierCrash barrierJersey barriersRadiant BarrierVapor Barrier

Barrier cream A special cream which is applied to your hands before working on a greasy engine. When the job is over, you can wash your hands and easily remove the grease stains. Also called invisible glove or silicon glove

Barrier effect The effect produced by coating metal to shield it from corrosion.

Barrier layer 1. In semiconductor junctions, the depletion layer 2. In an optical fiber cable, an intermediate layer of

glass between the low refractive index core and the high refractive index cladding.

3. In general a layer placed so as to inhibit interdiffusion of heat, matter, etc.

Barrier paint A primer which is used on bare metal to prevent corrosion.

Barring gear An arrangement for moving heavy electrical plant, using manpower. Rotating machines and transformers are equipped with wheels and movement is possible by

inserting crowbars at suitable points and levering the equipment.

Barring motor A small motor which can be temporarily connected, by a gear or clutch, to a large machine to turn it slowly for adjustment or inspection.

Bar roof SeeT bar roof

Bars SeeBarLadder barsLandau barsRiser BarsWear barsWheelie bars

Bar suspension A method of mounting the motor on an electrically propelled vehicle. One side of the motor is supported on the driving axle and the other side by a spring-suspended bar lying transversely across the truck. Also called yoke suspension.Also seeTorsion bar suspension

Bar-type current transformer A Current transformer in which the primary consists of a single conductor that passes centrally through the iron core upon which the secondary is wound.

Bar winding An armature winding for an electric machine whose conductors are formed of copper bars.

Bar-wound armature An armature with large sectioned conductors which are insulated and fixed in position and connected, in contrast with former-wound conductors which are sufficiently thin to be inserted, after shaping in a suitable jig.

Barye

SeeMicrobar

BAS Acronym for Belt Alternator Starter -- a Hybrid vehicle system from GM

Base 1. The lowest supporting part of an upright member. 2. The bottom layer or coating in a series of paint

coats. 3. The major ingredient, other than pigments and

filler, that make up the non-volatile portion of an adhesive, coating, or sealing compound.

4. The region between the emitter and collector of a transistor, into which minority carriers are injected. It is essentially the control electrode of the transistor.

5. The part of an electron tube which has pins, leads, or terminals through which connections are made to the internal electrodes.

6. The thin flexible support on which a photographic emulsion or magnetic coating is carried.

7. A layer of specified material of specified thickness placed below the road surface.

Also SeeBead baseCarburetor BaseEdison baseFlat base rim taperFlat base rimLithium base greaseLoad baseNegative load baseQuaternary Ammonium BasesRim well base

Base and clear system Paint finish which is made up of a colored base coat (usually a metallic finish) and clear lacquer coat.

Base circle

As applied to the Camshaft the lowest spot on the cam, the area of the cam directly opposite the lobe or nose. No lift is produced by the base circle. Also called Cam heel

Base coat The first coat in a paint system. It is either the undercoat or primer or a colored coat which is covered by clear lacquer.

Base gasket The Gasket directly below the Cylinder and between the Cylinder and Crankcase. Also called cylinder gasket.

Base grease SeeLithium base grease

Base idle The idle speed determined by the throttle lever setting on the carburetor or throttle body while the idle speed control (ISC) motor, or any other computer-controlled idle speed control device, is fully retracted and disconnected.

Base interest rate The interest paid on the usage of the vehicle during a lease. It is the cost of a lease before factoring in discounts, fees, and penalties and is not directly comparable to the APR for a loan. Lowering the base interest rate is one of the methods manufacturers use to subsidize leases. The phrase money factor measures the same cost and can be converted into a base interest rate. For example, to convert a money factor of 0.00276 into an approximate base interest rate would multiply the money factor by 24. The result would be 0.0662 or 6.6%.

Baseline A fore-and-aft reference line at the upper surface of the flat plate keel at the centerline for flush shell plated vessels. Vertical dimensions are measured from a horizontal plane through the baseline, often called the molded baseline.

Base material Any material (metal or plastic) which needs to be coated.

Base metal 1. Metal that is under a coating or that needs to be

coated. 2. Metal to be welded, cut, or brazed.

Base model The least expensive vehicle with the least amount of features as standard equipment. It has the smallest engine and often Manual transmission as well as few power equipment. Base models constitute only a small percentage of the cars sold. Sometimes called a stripper or stripped down unit.

Baseplate A strong metal plate which is the main support for something. Also seeDistributor baseplate

Base rim SeeFlat base rimFlat base rim taper

Base rim taper SeeFlat base rim taper

Base Year SeeAuto Pact Base Year

Basher A small studio lamp placed close to or on the camera mounting.

Basic ignition setting The ignition setting on a non-running engine according to the specifications. After the engine is running, the timing can be set more accurately.

Basic ignition timing

The ignition timing on a non-running engine according to the specifications. After the engine is running, the timing can be set more accurately.

Basic loading The limiting mechanical load, per unit length, on an overhead line conductor.

Basic price The price of a vehicle without including any optional accessories, taxes, delivery charges, etc.

Basic process A steel-making process, either Bessemer, open-hearth, or electric, in which the furnace is lined with a basic refractory, a slag rich in lime being formed, enabling phosphorus to be removed. Also seeAcid process

Basic six The group of instruments essential for the flight handling of an aircraft and consisting of the airspeed indicator, vertical speed indicator, altimeter, heading indicator, gyro horizon, and turn and bank indicator.

Basic slag Furnace slag rich in phosphorus (as calcium phosphate) which, with silicate and lime, is produced in steel making, and ground and sold for agricultural fertilizer.

Basic speed The speed which an electric motor develops at rated voltage with rated load applied

Basic steel Steel which has reacted with a basic lining or additive to produce a phosphorus-rich slag and a low-phosphorus steel.

Basic T A layout of flight instruments standardized for aircraft instrument panels in which four of the essential instrument panels in which four of the essential instruments are arranged in the form of a T. The pitch and roll attitude display is located at the junction of the T flanked by airspeed on the left and attitude on the

right. The vertical bar portion of the T is taken up by directional information.

Basic timing The ignition timing on a non-running engine according to the specifications. After the engine is running, the timing can be set more accurately.

Basic weight The weight of the structure (wing, body, tail unit, and landing gear) of an aircraft, plus the propulsion system and the airframe services and equipment (mechanical systems, avionics, fuel tanks, and pipes). Includes residual oil and undrainable fuel but no operational equipment or payload.

Basin SeeBuilding basinCatch basinCatch PitCatchment Basin

Basket case An old car which probably does not run. Often many engine and transmission parts have been removed and are either missing or stored in the trunk or a basket

Basket coil Coil with criss-cross layers, so designed to minimize self-capacitance.

Bass boost Amplifier circuit adjustment which regulates the attenuation of the lowest frequencies in the audio scale, usually to offset the progressive loss toward low frequencies.

Bass compensation Differential attenuation introduced into a sound-reproducing system when the loudness of the reproduction is reduced below normal, to compensate for the diminishing sensitivity of the ear toward the lowest frequencies reproduced.

Bass frequency

A frequency close to the lower limit in an audio-frequency signal or a channel for such, e.g., below 250 Hz.

Bastard Something that is irregular, in between, or unusual.

Bastard file

Bastard File

A file (a tool) which has a coarse cut (as opposed to a finishing file). It is one cut finer than a coarse file. Files are classed as coarse, second cut, and smooth, from coarsest to finest. Thus, a bastard file is a cut in between a coarse and a second cut. The word bastard functions here in its meaning as irregular or neither coarse nor second cut.

Bastard thread A screw-thread which does not conform to any recognized standard dimensions.

Bastard title The fly page before the full title page of a book. Often wrongly called a half-title

Bat 1. A lump or collection of something. 2. Acronym for Battery

Also SeeFiberglass

Batch 1. A number of things which are produced as a

group. 2. A mixture of natural and synthetic rubber with

other material such as fillers, chemicals, and vulcanizing agents in the production of tires.

3. The mixture of raw materials from which glass is produced in the furnace. A proportion of cullet is either added to the mixture, or placed in the furnace previous to the charge. Also called charge.

Batch box SeeGauge box

Batch furnace A furnace in which the charge is placed and heated to the requisite temperature. The furnace may be maintained at the operating temperature, or heated and cooled with the charge. Distinguished from Continuous furnace

Batch mill Cylindrical grinding mill into which a quantity of material for precise grinding treatment is charged and worked until finished.

Batch number A number which may be added to a serial number to identify when the product was manufactured. In this way, when a problem occurs to some products of the same batch, action can be taken to correct or replace others from the same batch.

Batch process Any process or manufacture in which operations are completely carried out on specific quantities or a limited number of articles, as contrasted to continuous or mass-production. In semiconductor manufacture, one in which several wafers are treated simultaneously as distinct from stages in which wafers are processed singly.

Bath 1. A tub into which something is immersed. 2. A liquid solution used for cleaning, plating, or

maintaining a specified temperature.

Also SeeAnodizing bath

Galvanizing bathOil bath air cleanerOpen BathPrimer bathSealing bathZinc bath

Bath air SeeOil bath air cleaner

Bath air cleaner SeeOil bath air cleaner

Bath lubrication A method of lubrication in which the part to be lubricated, such as a chain or gearwheel, dips into an oil-bath.

BA thread SeeBritish Association screw-thread

Bath Suspension SeeOil Bath Suspension

Bathtub Bodywork resembling an upside-down bathtub used on the rear of some Triumph motorcycles. It was introduced in 1957 and dropped in the early 1960s. It was also used on Nash cars of the 50's.

Bathtub combustion chamber

The volume in the cylinder above the piston that is shaped like an inverted bathtub with the valves in the bottom of the tub. Since all the valves can be arranged in a single row, the valve-operating camshaft and/or rocker gear are simple to design and operate. The long, oval shape of the bathtub controls excessive turbulence, and the flat areas where the piston comes right up to the head surface supply the squish needed to swirl the mixture. The wide cylinders and short piston strokes in modern engines make it possible to use large valves with bathtub heads for efficient gas flow. Also SeeHemispherical combustion chamberWedge combustion chamberSquish combustion chamberPiston-crown combustion chamber

Battens SeeCargo battensHatch battens

Batter level A form of clinometer for finding the slope of cuttings and embankments

Battery

Click image to supersizeBattery

An Electrochemical device for producing electricity by converting chemical energy. The typical automotive lead-acid battery supplies the source of power for Cranking the engine and also provides the necessary electrical energy for the Ignition system. In addition, it can (for a limited time) furnish Current when the electrical demands of the vehicle exceed the Alternator or Generator output. Also called the storage battery. Also seeAccumulator batteryAlkaline batteryB-batteryBooster batteryBuffer batteryCell BatteryCharged batteryCheck the batteryDead batteryDischarged batteryDisconnect the batteryDry batteryDry Cell BatteryDry charged batteryEnergy BatteryFlat batteryGel cell batteryHigh energy battery

Isolate the batteryLead-acid batteryLead Acid Rechargeable BatteryLow-maintenance batteryLow batteryMaintenance-free batteryNi-cad Rechargeable BatteryPrimary batteryRechargeable batterySecondary batterySodium-Sulfur batteryStorage batteryTop up the battery Wet Cell Battery

Battery acid Electrolyte (usually sulfuric acid) in each of the battery cells.

Battery acid tester

Battery Tester

A hydrometer for checking the strength of the acid mixture in each cell of a battery. Fluid is sucked into the instrument by squeezing and releasing the bulb. The scale measures the acid.

Battery booster A motor-generator set used for giving an extra voltage, to enable a battery to be charged from a circuit of a voltage equal to the normal voltage of the battery.

Battery brush

Battery Brush

A specially designed brush set which cleans the outside terminals of the battery post as well as the inside of the battery cable so that good contact is made.

Battery cap Small caps which seal each battery cell.

Battery capacity The amp-hour capacity.

Battery cell Individual compartments in a battery which is filled with electrolyte. Six-volt batteries have three cells, 12-volt batteries have six cells.

Battery case The box made of polypropylene holding several chambers (cells) which have lead plates and filled with electrolyte.

Battery charge

The condition or state of the amount of electricity in a battery.

Battery charge indicator An instrument which shows the state of charge in a battery.

Battery charger

Click image to supersizeBattery Charger

An electric device which is plugged into an electrical outlet (e.g., 110 volt AC) and connected to the two terminals of the battery to restore the state of charge in the battery. One of leads coming from the charger is red and the other is black. The red lead is clamped on the positive post of the battery while the other is clamped on the frame of the vehicle.

Battery charging The process of renewing the Battery by passing an electric Current through the battery in a reverse direction.

Battery charging station With the advent of electric cars, there needs to be places where their batteries can be recharged periodically -- thus is born the battery charging station. Also called a charging point.

Battery clamp

A hold down device which secures the battery from moving around.

Battery coil ignition High-tension supply for spark plugs in automobiles, in which the interruption of a primary current from a battery induces a high secondary emf in another winding on the same magnetic circuit, the high tension being distributed in synchronism with the contact-breaker in the primary circuit.

Battery compartment A place in the vehicle where the battery is located. In cars and trucks it may be found under the hood (usually toward the front), under one of the seats, or in the trunk. In motorcycles it is found in the middle of the bike, under the seat.

Battery condition SeeBattery charge

Battery connector A plug on battery-powered vehicles to connect the batteries to the Charging station

Battery Council International A group which makes decisions related to battery composition and disposal.

Battery cover The top of the Battery case. It has several holes (covered with caps) for access to the battery cells.

Battery cut-out An automatic switch for disconnecting a battery during its charge, if the voltage of the charging circuit falls below that of the battery.

Battery discharge controller A device on a vehicle which is driven by an electrical motor. It triggers a warning indicator when the battery power drops below a certain level.

Battery discharge indicator An instrument on a vehicle which is driven by an electrical motor which indicates the percentage of the maximum charge of the battery.

Battery earth British term for Battery strap or Ground strap

Battery filler A device with a long hollow tube with a rubber bulb at one end. It is used for inserting into a container of Battery acid and sucking up the acid, then inserting into the battery cell to fill it. However, motorcycle batteries arrive from the manufacturer with no electrolyte (battery acid). Battery acid comes in a large plastic container with a rubber hose to which a metering clamp is attached. The container is usually placed on a higher shelf so that it is fed into the battery by gravity and regulated by the metering clamp.

Battery fill line A horizontal line on the side of a translucent battery case which indicates the level to which you fill it with electrolyte. Usually there are two lines indicating a minimum level and maximum level.

Battery fluid SeeBattery acid

Battery hold down clamp SeeBattery clamp

Battery ignition Any system where the battery supplies the initial voltage to power the starter motor and fire the spark plugs.

Battery ignition system SeeBattery ignition

Battery is dead The battery does not have enough electrical power to start the car.

Battery is flat The battery does not have enough electrical power to start the car.

Battery load tester

Battery Load Tester

An instrument which is applied to the terminals of a Battery. When first installed, the battery voltage appears on the dial. By pressing a switch, the voltage is channeled through a series of resistors. While a battery may indicates 12 volts or more without a load, it may not meet the amperage for which it is rated when under load.

Battery Manufacturers SeeAssociation Of American Battery Manufacturers

Battery master switch A control which cuts power from the battery to the other components of the vehicle. Used to disable a vehicle so that thieves have a harder time stealing the vehicle.

Battery positive voltage (B+) A term used to designate positive voltage at or near the battery level.

Battery post The terminal on a battery to which the cable is attached. Older automobile batteries used a round post which stood up from the top of the battery. To avoid confusion, the positive post has a larger diameter than the negative. On newer batteries the post may or may

not be abandoned in favor of a terminal on the side of the battery. On motorcycle batteries, the posts are usually flat with a hole for bolting the cables to them.

Battery regulating switch A switch to regulate the number of cells connected in a series in a battery.

Battery spear A special form of spike used to connect a voltmeter to the plates of the accumulator cells for battery-testing under load. The voltmeter incorporates a low resistance in shunt which simulates a heavy load on the battery, thus testing its work capability. The heavy current passed for this purpose necessitates special heavy duty battery connectors.

Battery state indicator SeeBattery charge indicator

Battery strap 1. A wire cable or braided wire strap to transfer

electricity. It can be found between the engine block and the Chassis because the engine is isolated from the Chassis by rubber mounts. Also called ground strap.

2. A rubber strap with metal hooks at each end and is used to secure a battery in place, especially on motorcycles.

Also seeGround wire

Battery terminal 1. A Battery post on the top of the battery or a lug

with a hole on the side of the battery. 2. The clamp at the end of a battery cable.

Battery tester

Battery Tester

1. A voltage meter or hydrometer for checking the state of charge of a battery.

2. An instrument for checking the condition of the battery cells

Also seeBattery acid tester

Battery traction An electric-traction system in which the current is obtained from batteries (accumulators) on the vehicles.

Battery tray A metal or plastic on which the battery sits.

Battery vehicle SeeBattery traction

Baudelot cooler Heat exchanger in which water flows by gravity over the outside of the tubes or plates.

Baudot code Code in which five equal-length bits represent one character; sometimes used for teleprinters where one

start and one stop element are added to each group of five bits.

Baulk SeeBalk

Baulk ring British spelling for Balk ring

Bay 1. Unit of racks designed to accommodate numbers

of standard-sized panels, e.g., repeaters or logical units.

2. Unit of horizontally extended antenna, e.g., between masts.

Also seeEngine bay

Bayonet bulb SeeBayonet cap

Bayonet cap

Bayonet Cap

(BC) A cylindrical base of an electric bulb, usually with two pins projecting on either side, which engage in J-shaped slots to lock the bulb securely in its socket. Also seeCenter-contact capSmall bayonet cap

Bayonet fitting An engineering fastening similar to a Bayonet cap Also seeBayonet socket

Bayonet holder SeeBayonet cap

Bayonet socket A socket for receiving a Bayonet cap. It has two slots on either side (usually J-shaped) to accommodate the bulb's pins.

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "Ca"

Ca Cb Cc Cd Ce Cf Cg Ch Ci Cj Ck Cl Cm Cn Co Cp Cr

C 1. Abbreviation for Celsius or Centigrade. 2. Abbreviation for Coulomb. 3. Abbreviation for Comfort.

4. Abbreviation for Carbon 5. Symbol for the speed of light in a vacuum.

C-3 Acronym for Computer command control system

C3I Acronym for Computer controlled coil ignition

C4H A mixture of light hydrocarbons that have the general formula C4Hn, where n is the number of hydrogen atoms per molecule. Examples include Butane (C4H10) and Butylene (C4H8).

C-4 system Acronym for computer-controlled catalytic converter

C&C Acronym for Cab and chassis

CA 1. An API classification for Diesel engine oil widely

used in the late 1940s and '50s that operated in mild to moderate duty with high quality fuels; occasionally has included gasoline engines in mild service. Oils designed for this service provide protection from bearing corrosion and ring-belt deposits in some naturally aspirated diesel engines when using fuels of such quality that they impose no unusual requirements for wear and deposits protection. It was replaced by CB designated oil in 1949.

2. Acronym for Cab/Axle describing the distance from the rear of the cab to the rear axle.

CAA 1. Acronym for Clean Air Act 2. Acronym for Civil Aviation Authority

CAAA Acronym for Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990

CAAM

Acronym for China Association of Automobile Manufacturers.

CAB 1. Acronym for Civil Aeronautics Board 2. Acronym for Controller, Anti-lock brake

Cab 1. A taxi or car for hire. 2. The closed part of a truck (or even a car) where

the Driver sits.

Also SeeAccess CabCaboverChassis cabClub CabCrew CabDouble CabEasy Access CabExtended CabKing CabQuad CabRegular Cab

Cab Aside Engine (CAE) A truck where the driver's cab sits to one side of the engine as seen on refuse trucks and some construction equipment.

Cabbage Trucker slang for a long steep incline in Eastern Oregon as in "I jammed the brakes pullin' off of Cabbage"

Cab & chassis The front of a tractor trailer unit

Cab and chassis The front of a tractor trailer unit

Cab-Behind Engine (CB) (CBE) Conventional style of a large truck which has a hood and an engine in front of the cab.

Cab chassis A truck Chassis which includes the driver compartment.

Cab Forward A truck that is similar to a cabover in that the cab is positioned ahead of the engine. Most commonly seen on refuse trucks and some construction equipment.

Cab-forward design A car design in which the front end is short and the footwells extended to the front axle. This design gave more passenger space and pushed the windshield further from the passengers

Cabin A passenger compartment of an enclosed vehicle.

Cabin altitude The normal pressure altitude maintained in the cabin of a pressurized aircraft.

Cabin blower An engine-driven pump, usually of displacement type, for maintaining an aircraft cockpit or cabin above atmospheric pressure. Also called cabin supercharger.

Cabin differential pressure The pressure in excess of that of the surrounding atmosphere which is needed to maintain comfortable conditions at high altitude. For an aircraft flying at 9000m this differential would be about 60 kNm-2.

Cabin forward SeeCab-forward design

Cabin-forward design SeeCab-forward design

Cabin supercharger SeeCabin blower

Cable A cord generally made of strands of thin wire. Electrical cables are covered with a protective non-conducting material. Control cables are housed within an outer sleeve.

Also SeeBalanced-pair CableBowden cableBrake cableClutch cableControl cableDerailleur CableGearchange cablesHeavy cableIgnition cableJumper cablesLight cableParking-brake CableShift cablesSpark plug cableSpeedometer cableStarter switch control cableStirrup cableUniversal Cable

Cable activated A device which is controlled by a cable. As a lever or pedal is engaged, the device is correspondingly moved. The longer the cable the less efficient is the system. Cables tend to stretch and fray with use.

Cable-angle indicator An indicator showing the vertical angle between the longitudinal axis of a glider and its towing cable, also its yaw and roll attitude relative to the towing aircraft.

Cable brake A braking device which is activated by a cable

Cable buoy A buoy attached to an anchor and serving to mark its position.

Cablecar A tram pulled by a moving underground cable, in the same manner as the Cable railway.

Cable clamp 1. A device for securing a cable end to the point

where it connects.

2. A device which secures the outer sheath of a cable

Cable cover strip SeeSpark plug cable cover strip

Cable crimp A small aluminum or plastic cap installed on the ends of bicycle brake and shift inner cables to keep them from fraying; also known as a cable end. The outer cable sheath end is protected from fraying by a Ferrule

Cable cutter

Cable Cutter

A tool for severing a cable.

Cable ducts Earthenware, steel, plastic, or concrete pipes containing cables.

Cable end A small aluminum or plastic cap installed on the ends of bicycle brake and shift inner cables to keep them from fraying; also known as a cable crimp. The outer cable sheath end is protected from fraying by a Ferrule

Cable form The normal scheme of cabling between units of apparatus. The bulk of the cable is made up on a board, using nails at the appropriate corners, each wire of the specified color identification being stretched over its individual route with adequate skinner. When the cable is bound with twine and waxed, it is fitted to the apparatus on the racks and the skinners connected, by soldering, to the tag blocks.

Cable grip

A flexible cone of wire which is put on the end of a cable. When the cone is pulled, it tightens and bites into the sheath of the cable, and can be used to pull the cable into a duct.

Cable guide A tube which is secured in place to channel the cable which runs through it

Cable Housing SeeBrake Cable HousingDerailleur Cable Housing

Cable-laid rope A rope formed of several strands laid together so that the twist of the rope is in the opposite direction to the twist of the strands.

Cable lock A thick cable with a lock at one end and which can be wrapped around a bicycle frame and a post to protect the bike from being stolen.

Cable logging A system of transporting logs from stump to landing by means of steel cables and winch. This method is usually preferred on steep slopes, wet areas, and erodible soils where tractor logging cannot be carried out effectively.

Cable loom SeeSpark plug cable loom

Cable marker SeeSpark plug cable marker

Cable operated An item which is controlled by a cable

Cable railway Means of transport whereby carriages are pulled up an incline by an endless overground or underground cable.

Cables SeeCable

Cable separator

SeeSpark plug cable separator

Cable-stayed bridge A bridge type for medium spans in which the decking is suspended by diagonal cables attached directly to the supporting tower. Can be of fan or harp design. The decking is always in compression and is self-supporting during construction.Also SeeBridge

Cable-way A construction consisting of cables slung over and between two or more towers, so that skips suspended from the cables may be moved often over long distances. It is used for transport of ore etc. Also called blondin.

Cabover

Cabover truck

A truck or tractor design in which the cab sits over the engine on the chassis. The cabover is identified by the windshield being located directly over the front bumper and the driver is directly over the steering axle. Also called flat-faced, butt-nosed, or Cab-over-engine

Cab-Over-Engine (COE) A truck or tractor design in which the cab sits over the engine on the chassis. The cabover is identified by the windshield being located directly over the front bumper and the driver is directly over the steering axle. Also called flat-faced or butt-nosed.

Cab Plus A type of pickup truck (by Mazda) which has a second row of seating; but unlike a Crew cab (which has four full size doors) it has a half-door that can be opened only after the main door is opened. The seating is usually a little more cramped than in a Crew cab. Also called Club Cab, Extended Cab, King Cab, Xtracab, Access Cab, Supercab

Cabriolet Similar to the sport coupé, it has a provision for converting to an open-type body (i.e., Convertible). A Rumble seat is a common on older vehicles, but not mandatory feature. Mercedes-Benz distinguishes the cabriolet from the roadster in that the former has a soft-top which folds up while the roadster has a hard-top which is stored in the trunk. Also called a Drophead coupé.

CAC Acronym for Charge Air Cooler

CACIS Acronym for Continuous AC Ignition System

CAD Acronym for computer aided design

Cadastral survey Land survey, boundary delineation.

Caddy An euphemistic name for CadillacAlso SeePlug caddy

Cadence The speed your bicycle pedals turn. Professional bicycle riders have cadence of over 100 rpm

Cadence braking

A braking method in which the driver rapidly depresses and releases the brake pedal to bring a vehicle to an emergency stop

Cadillac

The following Cadillacs are classic cars All 1925-35 models All 12-cylinder models All 16 cylinder models All 1938-41 60 Special models All 1936-48 series #67, #70, #72, #75, #80, #85,

#90

For a history of Cadillac, see Cadillac History. Models include the following:

Allanté (1987-1993) Brougham (1985-1992) Calais (1965-1976) Castilian Station Wagon (1975-1976) Catera (1997-2001) Cimarron (1982-1988) commercial chassis (1935-83) used for funeral

cars and ambulances Coupe de Ville (1949-93) CTS (2003-current) CTS-V (2004-current) DeVille (1949-2005) DTS (2006-current) Eldorado (1953-2002) Eldorado Biarritz (1956-64, 1976-91) Eldorado Brougham (1957-60)

Eldorado Seville (1956-60) Escalade (1999-current) Escalade ESV (2003-current) Escalade EXT (2002-current) Fleetwood (1927-1996) Fleetwood Eldorado (1965-2003) Seventy-Five (1936-76) Seville (1975-2004) Sixty-one (1939-51) Sixty-Two (1940-64) Sixty Special (1938-1993) SRX (2004-current) STS (2005-current) STS-V (2006-current) XLR (2004-current) XLR-V (2006-current)

Cadmium cell A reference voltage standard, giving 1.0186 V at 20°C. Also called Weston standard cadmium cell.

Cadmium copper A variety of copper containing 0.7 to 1.0% cadmium. Used for trolley, telephone, and telegraph wires because it gives high strength in cold-drawn condition combined with good conductivity.

Cadmium photocell A photoconductive cell using cadmium disulfide or cadmium selenide as the photosensitive semiconductor. Sensitive to longer wavelengths and infrared. It has a rapid response to changes in light intensity.

Cadmium-plated Something that is covered with a coating of cadmium. It is usually used to protect aluminum and steel nuts and bolts

Cadmium red line Spectrum line formerly chosen as a reproducible standard of length, wavelength 643.8496 nm.

CAE 1. Acronym for Computer Aided Engineering 2. Acronym for Cab Aside Engine seen on refuse

trucks and some construction equipment.

Caesium British spelling for Cesium

CAFE Acronym for Corporate Average Fuel Economy. Under CAFE, which was enacted in 1975, a motor vehicle manufacturer must place its U.S. automobile and light truck fleet sales in one of two vehicle fleets, either domestic or import, for fuel economy averaging purposes.

Café chop Converting a stock motorcycle into a café racer is known as doing a café chop on a bike

Café racer 1. Motorcycle modified to resemble racing

motorcycles from the 1950s and 60s. They are called café racers because their owners supposedly raced from café to café in London, where the bikes first appeared in the 1960s

2. An early Sportbike motorcycle which originated in Europe. They had a low Windshield and the rider was bent forward to optimize the flow of air. Its name came from those who raced from one restaurant (café) to another.

Cage 1. Any enclosure. 2. On a front Derailleur of a Bicycle, it is a pair of

parallel plates that push the Chain from side to side; on a rear Derailleur, it is a set of plates in which Pulleys are mounted to hold and guide the Chain from Cog to cog.

3. Any device for holding or securing something, e.g., a bottle cage on a Bicycle.

Also seeBottle Cage

4. When referring to bearings, it is the part which holds the balls or Rollers in place. Usually called Ball cage.

Also SeeNeedle cageRoller cageSquirrel Cage

5. When referring to a vehicle, it is the safety enclosure called a Roll cage.

Also SeeDifferential cageIntegrated roll cageMulti-reed cage

6. The platform on which goods are hoisted up or lowered down a vertical shaft or guides; in mines, the steel box used to raise and lower workers, materials, or tubs. May have two or three decks.

Cage pedal

Cage Pedal

A bicycle pedal that is surrounded by a cage. It is found on all terrain bikes.

Cage rotor A form of rotor, used for induction motors, having on it a Cage winding. Also called squirrel-cage rotor.

Cage winding A type of winding used for rotors of some types of induction motors, and for the starting or damping windings of synchronous machines. It consists of a number of bars of copper or other conducting materials, passing along slots in the core and welded to rings at each end. Also called squirrel-cage winding.

Cailletet's process A method for the liquefaction of gases based on the free expansion of a gas from a higher to a lower pressure.

CAJAD Acronym for Canadian Association of Japanese Automobile Dealers

Cake The rectangular casting of copper or its alloys before rolling into sheet or strip.

Cal Abbreviation for Calorie

CAL Acronym for Computer Aided Lighting

Calandria Closed vessel penetrated by pipes so that liquids in each do not mix. In evaporating plant the tubes carry the heating fluid and in certain types of nuclear reactor, e.g., CANDU reactors, the sealed vessel is called a calandria

Calcination A process in which a material is heated to a high temperature without fusing, so that hydrates, carbonates, or other compounds are decomposed and the volatile material is expelled.

Calcium chloride

1. A chemical (salt) which is added to water in a Liquid ballast.

2. A soluble compound produced from calcium carbonate and hydrogen chloride generally used in cold temperatures (18° - -10°C) to deice roads or to pre-wet salt before applying to roads.

Calcium magnesium acetate A compound produced from limestone and acetic acid used for anti-icing and deicing of roads. It is less corrosive than salt, but more expensive.

Calcium sulfate Chemical compound (CaSO4), which is used as a drying agent or desiccant in liquid line driers Also seeAnhydrous calcium sulphate

Calcium tungstate screen A fluorescent screen used in a cathode-ray tube; it gives a blue and ultraviolet luminescence.

Calculation SeeLoad distribution calculation

Calendering A thin layer of rubber inside the Tire casing which covers the carcass cords to protect them from moisture and to protect the tube from chafing by the cord body. In tubeless tires, calendering consists of a layer of air proof Butyl rubber.

Caliber Also spelled calibre

1. The internal diameter or bore of a pipe, esp. the barrel of a fire-arm.

2. The arrangement of the various components of a watch or clock.

Calibrate 1. As applied to test instruments it is the procedure

of adjusting the dial Needle to the correct zero or load setting to determine accurate measurements.

2. Position indicators to determine accurate measurements

Calibrated airspeed (CAS) In automobiles, speed is calculated by the rotation of the driving axle. In an airplane, however, speed is determined by the amount of air rushing past the plane. In a turn, air will rush past faster on one side than the other. Calibrated airspeed makes adjustment for this factor (called position error) and for any error in the instrument. Also called rectified airspeed

Calibration Marking the measuring units on an instrument or checking their accuracy

Calibration assembly A memory module that plugs into an on-board computer and contains instructions for engine operation

Calibration oil Oil which is used in a tester for checking injection nozzles, meeting SAE J967D specifications

Calibration Unit SeeEngine Calibration Unit

Calibre SeeCaliber

California Air Resources Board (CARB) The state agency that regulates the air quality in California. Air quality regulations established by CARB are often stricter than those set by the federal government.

California Low-Emission Vehicle Program State requirement for automakers to produce vehicles with fewer emissions than current EPA standards. The five categories of California Low-Emission Vehicle Program standards from least to most stringent are TLEV, LEV, ULEV, SULEV, and ZEV.

California Pilot Program

Federal program, administered by the EPA under the Clean Air Act, which sets lower emission standards (relative to cars in the general U.S. market) for a set number of new passenger cars and light trucks sold in California. The program specified that at the beginning of 1996, there would be the sale of 150,000 clean vehicles in the state. Beginning in 1999, this was to increase to 300,000 annually. California must mandate availability of any fuel necessary to operate clean fuel vehicles.

California Power Exchange A State-chartered, non-profit corporation which provides day-ahead and hour-ahead markets for energy and ancillary services in accordance with the power exchange tariff. The power exchange is a scheduling coordinator and is independent of both the independent system operator and all other market participants.

California wheel A name given to a spoked wheel produced by particular manufacturer. Although the wheel is popular in the East and Midwest of United States, it is not common in California or other Western states.

Caliper

1.

Caliper

The clamping device on Disc brakes which straddles the rotating disc and by hydraulic action it presses the pads against the disc to stop or slow the vehicle.

Also SeeBrake caliperFloating caliper disc brakeFixed CaliperFour Piston CaliperLow-drag CaliperSingle-piston CaliperSliding CaliperPin slider caliper disc brakeSwinging caliper

2.

Bicycle Caliper

On Bicycles, the brake arms that reach around the sides of a wheel to press Brake pads against the wheel rim.

3.

Caliper

(British spelling is calliper). An adjustable measuring tool that is placed around (Outside caliper) or within (Inside caliper) an object and adjusted until it just makes contact. It is then withdrawn and the distance measured between the contacting points.

Also SeeDial caliperDigital caliperInside CaliperInside spring caliperMachinists' caliperOutside CaliperOutside spring caliperPocket caliperPocket slide caliperVernier caliper

Caliper disc SeeFloating caliper disc brakePin slider caliper disc brake

Caliper disc brake SeeFloating caliper disc brakePin slider caliper disc brake

Caliper gauge A Caliper (definition #3)

Caliper mounting bracket The component that connects a brake caliper to the steering knuckle, hub carrier, or rear axle

Calk To fill seams in a wood deck with oakum or hammer the adjoining edges of metal together to stop leaks. Also spelled caulk

Calking SeeCaulking

Call SeeClose call

Call Distribution

SeeAutomatic Call Distribution

Calliper Alternate spelling for Caliper

Cal-look A style modification of small vehicles which first started in California. Most of the chrome is removed and the vehicle is painted a bright color like yellow, light blue, and red.

Call-out The mobilization of plow operators to initiate snow and ice control activities

Calorescence The absorption of radiation of a certain wavelength by a body, and its re-emission as radiation of shorter wavelength. The effect is familiar in the emission of visible rays by a body which has been heated to redness by focusing infrared heat rays onto it.

Calorie Two different calorie units are used by scientists. The calorie used by medical science is a small heat unit. It equals the heat required to raise the temperature of one gram of water one degree Celsius. The calorie used by engineering science is a large heat unit. It is equal to the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one kilogram of water one degree C. In the SI system it is recommended that the Joule unit of energy be used in place of the calorie

Calorific value A measure of heating value of fuel. Amount of heat produced by the complete combustion of a unit weight of fuel. Usually expressed in calories per gram or BTU's per pound, the latter being numerically 1.8 times the former.

Calorimeter An instrument to measure amount of heat given off by a substance when burned Also seeBomb Calorimeter

CAM Acronym for Computer Aided Manufacturing

Cam 1. A designed bump on a shaft or Disc which causes

a rocking motion in an adjacent part.

Also SeeCamshaft

2. A metal Disc with irregularly shaped lobes used in the Camshaft to activate the opening and closing of the valves and in the Distributor, to force the points to open.

3. A stepped or curved eccentric wheel mounted on a rotating shaft. As a cam is turned, objects in contact with it are raised or lowered.

4. The triangular piece of metal that fits between the rollers on rollercam bicycle brakes and moves the brake arms when the brake lever is squeezed

5. A colloquial name for the Camshaft. 6. A name for the Breaker cam.

Also SeeAdjuster camAdjusting CamsBarrel CamBreaker CamClosing camDistributor camDouble overhead camExhaust camFace CamFast idle camFloating camFull CamInlet camIntake camRace CamSemi-race CamSingle Overhead Cam

Single-overhead camThree-quarter Cam

Cam-and-lever steering A steering system in which a conical peg mounted on a lever engages in a helically cut groove on a cylindrical drum. Also called cam-and-peg steering

Cam-and-peg steering SeeCam-and-lever steering

Cam-and-roller steering A steering system in which a tapered disc or a set of discs or rollers engage with a helically cut, tapered groove on a cylindrical drum

Cam angle SeeDwell

Camaro

Click image for books onCamaro

A series of Pony cars from the Chevrolet division of General Motors produced from 1967 to 2002. It is often misspelled as Camero because of a mispronunciation. It should be pronounced ka-MAH-roh, not ka-MERR-oh. The 1967-69 SS/RS V-8 and Z-28 models are Milestone cars.

Cam belt SeeTiming belt

Camber 1. The rise of a deck of a ship, Athwartship

2.

Camber

A wheel Alignment adjustment of the inward or outward tilt on the top of the wheel when viewed from the front of the vehicle. Tipping the top of the wheel center line outward produces Positive camber. Tipping the wheel center line inward at the top produces Negative camber. When the camber is positive, the tops of the tires are further apart than the bottom. Correct camber improves handling and cuts tire wear. Camber is measured in degrees.

Cambered axle An axle that has a slight arch which curves upward at the center so that the wheels can tilt outward at the top. In this way it is better than an axle which might sag under load.

Camber thrust The side force generated when a tire rolls with Camber. Camber thrust can add to or subtract from the side force a tire generates.

Cam bolt

A bolt fitted with an eccentric that will cause parts to change position when the bolt is turned.

Cam chain A Timing chain which controls the overhead camshaft.

Cam design SeeCam profile

Camel A padded fender to keep a vessel away from a pier or quay to prevent damage to the hull or pier

Camelback Uncured retread rubber in crescent shape, available in various widths and depths according to size and type of tire being retreaded.Also SeeDie size

Camelbak®

Camelbak

A brand name for a hydration pack that fits on the back of a cyclist or hiker. It is filled with water and has a tube placed within reach for supplying water for the user.

Camel Grand Touring Prototype (GTP) An International Motorsports Association's (IMSA) premier racing category until 1993 when it was replaced by the controlled cars World Sports Car Championship. GTP cars were the most powerful and the fastest on most road racing circuits in North America at that time. Over the years, many automakers fielded factory teams in this series including Ford, Toyota, Jaguar, Nissan, and Porsche.

Cam engine SeeOverhead camshaft

Camera Trucker slang for Police radar unit as in "There's a local yokal with a camera just ahead." Also seeBoys CameraAutomatic Camera

Camero SeeCamaro

Cam face The surface of a cam lobe

Cam follower

Cam Follower

The unit that contacts the end of the Valve stem and the Camshaft. The follower rides on the Camshaft and when the Cam lobes move it upward, it opens the valve. Also called Valve lifter or tappet.

Cam grind 1. A type of brake shoe arcing that produces a lining

thinner at its ends than at its center. 2. The intake and exhaust timing of a particular cam

profile.

Cam ground piston SeeCam-ground piston

Cam-ground piston A Piston with a Skirt that is ground slightly egg-shaped or oval-shaped. The widest diameter of the skirt is at right angles to the piston-pin axis. When it is heated, it becomes round. The design allows for a closer fit in the Cylinder so that there is a reduction of Blowby gas, cylinder scuffing, and Piston slap.

Cam heel

The lowest point of a cam opposite the lobe. Also called Base circle

Cam lobe SeeCam lobes

Cam lobes The bumps on a camshaft that contact and activate such devices as the Lifters, which operate the valves, and the Rubbing block, which causes the points to open and close, as the cam spins with the Distributor shaft.

Cam lubricator A device, often in the form of a wick, for lubricating the contact breaker cam in the distributor

Campaigning Racing a particular vehicle for an entire season.

Camper

Camper

A structure which fits into a truck bed for camping purposes. It usually has beds and possibly cooking and washing facilities. Also called a Truck camper or slide-in camper. Also SeeSlide-in CamperTruck Camper

Camping SeeFolding camping trailer

Camping trailer

A trailer containing camping equipment.Also SeeFolding camping trailerSoft-top trailerHard-top trailerTrailer

Cam profile The shape of each lobe on a Camshaft. These shapes determine when the valves open or close.

Cam pulley holder

Click image to supersizeCam Pulley Holder

A tool for securing the camshaft when other adjustments are being made.

Cam/rocker SeeOpening cam/rocker

Cam/rocker SeeOpening cam/rocker

Cam roller

Rotating wheel acting as a cam follower Camry

Click image for books onCamry

A model of automobile manufactured by Toyota

Camshaft

Camshaft

A shaft with Cam lobes (bumps) which is driven by gears, a belt, or a Chain from the Crankshaft. The lobes push on the Valve lifters to cause the valves to open and close. The camshaft turns at half the speed of the Crankshaft.Also SeeDouble-overhead camExhaust camshaftInlet camshaftIntake camshaftOverhead camshaftRace camshaftThree-quarter race camshaftSingle Overhead CamshaftSingle-overhead camshaftTwin camshaft

Camshaft bearing Usually a plain bearing which supports the camshaft

Camshaft drive A connection between the crankshaft and camshaft by means of gears, chain, drive belt, shaft, or eccentric shaft to maintain the ratio of 12.

Camshaft drive belt A Timing belt

Camshaft drive sprocket A sprocket attached to a crankshaft (either at one end or somewhere in the middle) which drives the camshaft with the use of a chain

Camshaft end play The amount of lateral movement of the camshaft once it is installed

Camshaft engine SeeTwin camshaft engine

Camshaft gear A gear that is used to drive the Camshaft.

Camshaft housing

That part of the engine which encloses the camshaft and often other parts of the valve train.

Camshaft journal That part of the camshaft that runs in one of its bearings

Camshaft position sensor (CMP) A sensor that signals to the (ECU) the rotational position of the camshaft. This enables the computer to more precisely time the fuel injection and ignition system for faster starting of the engine.

Camshaft pulley The pulley on the end of the camshaft for the camshaft drive belt

Camshaft sensor 1. A sensor that signals to the (ECU) the rotational

position of the camshaft. This enables the computer to more precisely time the fuel injection and ignition system for faster starting of the engine.

2. A trigger device found on some distributorless ignition systems that synchronizes when the proper ignition coil should be fired.

Camshaft sprocket The sprocket on the camshaft which (through a chain) is driven by the Camshaft drive sprocket

Camshaft timing The relationship between the opening and closing of the valves and the movement of the pistons must be coordinated. The camshaft which operates the valves must therefore turn in relation to the crankshaft by means of a timing belt or timing chain.

Camshaft timing belt The rubber belt that transfers power from the crankshaft to the camshaft to operate it. The belt must be installed so it maintains the relationship between the camshaft and crankshaft so the valves for each cylinder open and close at the right time for proper engine operation, a factor called camshaft timing

Camshaft timing chain The metal chain that transfers power from the crankshaft to the camshaft to operate it. The chain must be installed so it maintains the relationship between the camshaft and crankshaft so the valves for each cylinder open and close at the right time for proper engine operation, a factor called camshaft timing

Can 1. A tube in a canned motor pump which insulates

the motor winding. 2. A muffler. 3. A container for liquid or other substances.

Also SeeSafety CanTin CanOil can

Canada-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Implemented in January 1989 to eliminate all tariffs on U.S. and Canadian goods by January 1998 and to reduce or eliminate many non-tariff barriers.

Canadian Automotive Repair and Service Council (CARS) A not-for-profit organization established to serve the human resource and training needs of the Canadian car and truck repair and service industry.

Canadian cross border shopping Cross border shopping describes the purchasing by Canadian consumers of products in the United States. Of particular interest is the decision by these buyers to obtain their products in the U.S., even though similar products are available in the Canadian market.

Canadian Deuterium Uranium Reactor (CANDU) Uses heavy water or deuterium oxide (D2O), rather than light water (H2O), as the coolant and moderator. Deuterium is an isotope of hydrogen that has a different neutron absorption spectrum from that of ordinary hydrogen. In a deuterium-moderated-

reactor, fuel made from natural uranium (0.71 U-235) can sustain a chain reaction.

Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA) act where the goal is pollution prevention and protection of Canadians from toxic substances.

Canadian Gas Association (CGA) A trade organization representing all segments of the gas industry in Canada. Founded in 1907, it specifically represents distributors, transmission companies, producers, pipeline contractors, manufacturers and allied service organizations. CGA set up a standards writing, inspection and product certification program in the mid 1950's at a time when natural gas was being extended to Eastern Canada and the West Coast. CGA has been accredited by the National Standards Council of Canada to prepare National Standards of Canada in the area of equipment for use with natural gas and propane.

Canadian Standards Association (CSA) The organization that sets safety standards for electric motors and other electrical equipment used in Canada

Canadian Value Added SeeAuto Pact Canadian Value Added

Cancellation SeeNoise cancellation

Candela (cd) A basic unit of luminous intensity. If, in a given direction, a source emits monochromatic radiation of frequency 540 x 1012 Hz, and the radiant intensity in that direction is 1/683 watt per Steradian, then the luminous intensity of the source is 1 candela.

Candle SeeCandle power.

Candle power A measurement of the light producing ability of a light Bulb.

Candlestick barriers Plastic poles used to channel traffic. Normally used in long-term traffic control in lieu of orange drums in tight construction areas.

CANDU Acronym for Canadian Deuterium Uranium Reactor

Candy apple paint A bright color (usually red) paint (often with metal flakes) with a transparent clear coat

Candy paint A bright color (usually red) paint (often with metal flakes) with a transparent clear coat

Candy store An automobile dealership with lots of vehicle inventory.

Canister A small metal box or can. Usually refers to a container in an emission control system that contains charcoal to trap fuel vapors from the fuel systemAlso SeeActivated carbon canisterCharcoal canister

Canister air filter A Centrifugal force air filter

Canister purge shut-off valve (CPSOV) a vacuum-operated valve that shuts off canister purge when the air injection diverter valve dumps air downstream

Canister purge solenoid An electrical solenoid that opens the canister purge valve between the fuel vapor canister line and the intake manifold when energized

Canister purge valve Valve used to regulate the flow of vapors from the evaporative canister to the engine

Canned motor pump A glandless pump with a special type of submersible or canned motor, whose stator winding is insulated from the fluid pumped by a tube, the so-called can

Cannibalize

The action of removing good parts from one vehicle in order to put them into another vehicle.

Canning The insertion of the catalyst element into the converter shell of a catalytic converter

Cannular combustion chamber A gas turbine combustion system with individual flame tubes inside an annular casing.

Canonical assembly Term used in statistical thermodynamics to designate a single assembly of a large number of systems

Canopy 1. The transparent cover of a cockpit. 2. The fabric (nylon, silk, or cotton) body of a

parachute, which provides high air drag. Usually hemispherical, but may be lobed or rectangular in shape.

CANP Acronym for canister purge solenoid that opens the fuel vapor canister to the intake manifold when energized

Cant Slope of rail or road curve whereby outer radius is superelevated, to counteract centrifugal thrust of traffic.

Cant beam Beams supporting the deck plating in the overhanging portion of the stern.

Canted deck The flight deck of an aircraft carrier prolonged diagonally from one side of the ship, so that aircraft may fly off and land on without interference to or from aircraft parked at the bows. The British term is Angled deck

Cant frame A frame connected at the upper end to the cant beams

Cantilever

An arm that projects from a source and supports cables.Also SeeCantilever brake

Cantilever brake 1. A bicycle Rim brake with pivoting arms mounted

on Fork blades or Seatstays at or below rim level. The two brake arms are connected by a straddle cable with the brake cable attached to the midpoint of the straddle cable.

2. A type of ATB brake characterized by having the two brake arms connected by a straddle cable with the brake cable attached to the midpoint of the straddle cable. This type of brake was used on ATB bicycles (as well as tandems, touring, and cyclocross bicycles) before the invention of the V-Brake

Cantilever brakes SeeCantilever brake.

Cantilever bridge A bridge formed of self-supporting projecting arms built outward from the piers and meeting in the middle of the span, where they are connected together.

Cantilever deck A bridge where the deck slab is fixed above the main beams or trusses and is cantilevered beyond the outer beams or trusses.

Cantilever load A load which tends to impose a radial force (perpendicular to the shaft axis) on an electric motor or gearmotor output shaft

Cantilever spring 1. A leaf spring which is mounted upside down and

attached to the vehicle at its mid-point. This system is no longer in use in modern vehicles.

2. A Quarter-elliptic leaf spring

Cantrail

The Roof rail Canvas top

The convertible top. Canyon

A nuclear energy term for a long narrow space often partly underground with heavy shielding for essential processing of wastes from reactors.

Cap 1. A protective round cover which is secured to

something. 2. A covering over the bed of a truck. 3. The base of a light bulb which fits into a socket. 4. Cleaner air package system for reducing the

amount of unburned Hydrocarbons in the automobile Exhaust.

Also SeeBattery capBayonet capBearing capBig-end capCar capCold capDistributor capDouble cap nutDust capEnd capExternal mix air capFiller capFlip-top filler capFuel capFull capGas CapHot capHubcapIdle Limiter CapInner cap nutInsulating capInternal mix air cap

Net cap costOil filler capOrifice CapOuter cap nutPile capsPlug capPressure capPressure-vacuum CapRadiator capRoto capSpark plug capSpindle capTop capValve capValve spring cap

Capable of being fueled A vehicle is capable of being fueled by a particular fuel(s) if that vehicle has the engine components in place to make operation possible on the fuel(s). The vehicle does not necessarily have to run on the fuel(s) in order for that vehicle to be considered capable of being fueled by the fuel(s). For example, a vehicle that is equipped to operate on either gasoline or natural gas but normally operates on gasoline is considered to be capable of being fueled by gasoline and natural gas.

Capacitance (c) 1. The property which opposes any change in

Voltage in an electrical circuit. The property of a nonconductor by which it stores electrical energy when separated surfaces of the nonconductor are maintained at a difference of Potential. Capacitance is measured by the ratio of the charge induced to the potential difference and is proportional to the area of the conducting plates and the dielectric constant of the nonconducting material, and inversely proportional to the separation of the plates (mks unit farad).

2. Property of a nonconductor (condenser or capacitor) that permits storage of electrical energy in an electrostatic field.

3. Of an isolated conductor, the ratio of the total charge on it to its potential; C=Q/V.

Also SeeFarad

Capacitance bridge An ac bridge network for the measurement of capacitance.

Capacitance coupling Interstage coupling through a series capacitance or by a capacitor in a common branch of a circuit.

Capacitance grading Grading of the properties of a dielectric, so that the variation of stress from conductor to sheath is reduced. The inner dielectric has the higher permitivity. Ideally, the grading is continuous and the permittivity varies as the reciprocal of the distance from the center.

Capacitance integrator Resistance-capacitance circuit whose output voltage is approximately equal to the time integral of the input voltage.

Capacitative load Terminating impedance which is markedly capacitative, taking an ac leading in phase on the source emf, e.g., electrostatic loudspeaker.

Capacitative reactance Impedance associated with a capacitor. Has a magnitude in ohms equal to the reciprocal of the product of the capacitance (in farads) and the angular frequency of the supply (in rads s-1). Also introduces a 90° phase angle such that the current through the device leads the applied voltage.

Capacities SeeFluid capacities

Capacitive discharge

(CD) A type of Ignition system. It can be either all-electronic or Breaker point controlled. The primary power is drawn from the engine's Battery and put into the CD power supply, where it is changed from 12 volts Direct current to about 300 volts of pulsating Direct current that is stored in a Capacitor (Condenser). The release of this energy through the Coil is governed by a silicon-controlled Rectifier (SCR). When the SCR switch is closed, the Voltage stored in the Capacitor is supplied to the Coil, which acts as a voltage step-up Transformer boosting firing voltage to around 30,000 volts to fire the plugs.

Capacitive reactance The opposition or resistance to an alternating current as a result of capacitance; expressed in ohms

Capacitor 1. A device which gives Capacitance, usually

consisting of conducting plates or foil separated by layers of a dielectric. A Potential difference applied across the plates induces a separation of charge centers in the dielectric, thus storing electrical energy.

2. Type of electrical storage device used in starting and/or running circuits on many electric motors

3. A device that, when connected in an alternating current circuit, causes the current to lead the voltage in time phase. The peak of the current wave is reached ahead of the voltage wave. This is the result of the successive storage and discharge of electric energy

Also SeeAbsorption capacitorAir CapacitorBlocking CapacitorBy-pass CapacitorCeramic CapacitorCondenser

Ignition capacitorMotor Capacitor

Capacitor Condenser SeeDry Capacitor Condenser

Capacitor controlled electronic ignition SeeElectronic ignition systemCapacitive discharge

Capacitor discharge ignition (CDI) SeeCapacitive discharge

Capacitor modulator Capacitor microphone, or similar Transducer, which, by variation in capacitance, modulates an oscillation either in amplitude or frequency

Capacitor motor Single-phase induction motor with an auxiliary starting winding connected in series with a condenser (capacitor) for better starting characteristics.

Capacitor-resistance law (C-R law) Law relating to exponential rise or decay of charge on capacitor in series with a resistor, and, by extension, to signal distortion on long submarine cables.

Capacitor start Starting unit for electric motor using series capacitance to advance phase of current.

Capacitor-start motor Motor which has a capacitor in the starting circuit

Capacitron SeeBand ignitor tube

Capacity 1. The ability to contain or hold something. 2. Maximum production attainable under normal

conditions. With regard to normal conditions, the company's operating practices are to be followed

with respect to the use of production facilities, overtime, workshifts, holidays, etc.

3. The output of an electric motor or other electrical equipment.

4. The volume of fluid which a pump can handle. 5. A measure of the theoretical maximum amount of

refrigeration-produced output, measured in tons or BTUs per hour

6. Refrigeration rating system. Usually measured in BTU per hour or watts.

7. Sometimes used to mean Capacitance

Also SeeAmpere hour capacityBattery capacityBoiler CapacityBreaking CapacityBreathing capacityBunker CapacityCarrying capacityCharge CapacityEnergyEngine capacityFuseMaximum Regulation CapacityNet capacityNominal capacityOxygen Storage CapacityPassenger capacityPly ratingRated capacityReserve capacitySeating capacitySpecific Heat CapacityTop offWork capacity

Capacity plan

A plan outlining the spaces available for fuel, Cargo, ballast, fresh water, etc, with guides on weight and volume for spaces at various drafts and displacements

Capacity rating SeeRated capacity

Cap-and-pin type insulator A special form of the Suspension insulator

Cap cost SeeCapitalized cost Net cap cost

Cap cost reduction SeeCapitalized cost reduction

Cape chisel A metal cutting chisel shaped to cut or work in channels or grooves

Capillarity A phenomenon associated with surface tension, which occurs in fine bore tubes or channels.

Capillary A tube with a very small bore used for temperature gauges

Capillary action The property of a liquid to move into small spaces if it has the ability to wet these surfaces

Capillary tube A tube usually gas-filled, with a precisely calibrated length and inside diameter, used to connect the remote bulb or coil to the expansion valve or thermostat. A tube with a very small bore used for temperature gauges. Also called Pressure sensing line

Capitalized SeeNet capitalized cost

Capitalized cost

The total price of the vehicle, in effect, its purchase price. In theory, the cap cost should equal the amount you would pay for the vehicle if you were purchasing the vehicle. When a lease is made, the dealer sells that vehicle to the leasing company (for the cap cost), which then leases the vehicle to you. Also SeeNet capitalized cost

Capitalized cost reduction A fancy name for a cash down payment, money you pay up front that is applied to the final purchase price of a lease. A large cap cost reduction will, of course reduce the monthly payments, but it will also negate one of the big advantages of leasing. However, if you own your present car, you may be able to use it, as a trade-in, to satisfy the cap cost reduction to start the lease. Remember, you must pay sales tax on any cap cost reduction you make. Another source of capital cost reduction may be dealer or manufacturer participation. Dealers and manufacturers will sometimes lower the cap cost or offer a rebate that reduces the cap cost. A dealer or manufacturer cap cost reduction does lower your total out-of-pocket dollars, unlike a cap cost reduction that you must pay.

Capital expenditures Expenditures to acquire or add to capital assets that will yield benefits over several accounting periods. Included are cost of procuring, construction, installing new durable plants, machinery and equipment where for replacement, addition or for lease or rent to other companies including subsidies.

Cap nut

Cap Nut

A threaded nut that is closed (blind) at one end often with a dome or acorn-shaped top. It is used to protect the projecting threads or to protect a person from being hurt by the sharp edge of projecting threads. Also called box nut or dome nut. Also SeeDouble cap nutInner cap nutOuter cap nut

Capping 1. Installing a new tread on a tire carcass.

Also SeeRetread.

2. Door molding or capping

Cap screw A screw with a hexagon head, slotted head, square head, or socket head Also seeButton socket head cap screwSocket head cap screw

Capstan 1. A stump with a vertical axis used for handling

mooring and other lines. 2. A vertical drum or spindle on which rope is wound,

it is rotated by manpower or by hydraulic or electric motor.

3. Roller providing the constant speed drive in a magnetic tape recorder.

Capstan-head screw A screw having a cylindrical head provided with radial holes in its circumference. It is tightened by a tommy bar inserted in these holes.

Capstan lathe

A lathe in which the tools required for successive operations are mounted radially in a tool-holder resembling a capstan; by revolving this, each tool in turn may be brought into position in exact location.

Capstan nut A nut which is tightened in the same way as a Capstan-head screw

Capstan screw A screw or bolt with a round head and one or more holes through it into which a bar may be inserted for securing or removing it

Capstan winch A winch, generally mounted on or just behind the front bumper, usually run from an engagable extension to the engine crankshaft. The active component is usually a slowly revolving drum, about 15 cm in diameter, round which a rope may be wound to effect a winching operation. Has the advantage of being powered by the engine at idling speed and being a very low-stress unit that may be used all day without overheating or high electrical load.

Capstat A wax-type thermostat at the base of the jet of a SU carburetor, which expands and reduces fuel flow when the underhood temperature rises. Also SeeTemperature compensator

Capsule SeeAltitude Correction CapsuleVacuum capsule

Captive Something that is permanently located in the desired position

Captive balloon A balloon anchored or towed by a line. Usually the term refers only to spherical balloons. Special shapes (e.g., for stability) are called kite balloons

Captive finance company A Leasing or finance company which is affiliated with an automobile manufacturer or distributor.

Captive import An imported motor vehicle or part manufactured by another automaker usually for sale under the brand name of the importer.

Captive nut A nut which fits into a cage and is welded in place. This is done where the nut is not easily accessible.

Captive refinery MTBE plants MTBE production facilities primarily located within refineries. These integrated refinery units produce MTBE from Fluid Cat Cracker isobutylene with production dedicated to internal gasoline blending requirements.

Captive refinery oxygenate plants Oxygenate production facilities located within or adjacent to a refinery complex.

Captive screw

Captive screw

A screw where the threads are a larger diameter than the shoulder

Capture Any process in which an atomic or nuclear system acquires an additional particle. In a nuclear radiative capture process there is an emission of electromagnetic radiation only, e.g., the emission of gamma rays subsequent to the capture of a neutron by a nucleus.

Cap wrench

Cap wrench

A cup-shaped tool used to fit on one end of an oil filter in order to install or remove the filter.

Car 1. A wheeled vehicle such as an automobile, a

section of a train, or a streetcar. The word is an abbreviation of Carriage -- a device to carry people or goods.

2. In an airship, the part intended for the carrying of the load (crew, passengers, goods, engines, etc.). It may be suspended below, or may be inside the hull of envelope.

Also See49-state carBubble carChamp carCity carClassic carCollector carCompact carCompany carCompetition carConcept carCult carCycle carDonor car

Dream carEdwardian carElectric carEstate carExecutive carFamily carFleet carFormula CarForty-nine state carFull-size carFunny carGhost CarHybrid carIntermediate carKit carLarge Passenger CarLuxury carMass-produced carMid-size carMilestone Car SocietyMilestone carsMotor carMulti-storey car parkNew car dealerOpen carPace carParts carPassenger car wheelPassenger carPony carProduction carProgram carsRecycling carShopping carSolar carSports carStock carStreet carSun car

Super carTouring carTown carVeteran carVintage carVolume car

Car accident A collision between two or more vehicles (or between a vehicle and a stationary object), whether the vehicles are cars or trucks. Some are minor like a Fender bender while others are Totalled. Also SeeWritten off

Car alarm A chime, bell, siren, or horn that sounds when a problem exists (e.g., door ajar, seat belt undone, lights on after engine is off, key left in ignition switch, unauthorized entry)

Caravan 1. A group of vehicles (belonging to one

organization) which follows after one another. 2. A British term for camping trailer or a mobile

home. 3. The name of a minivan produced by Chrysler

(Daimler-Chrysler) from 1983.

Also seeHard-sided CaravanMotor Caravan

Caravanning A British term for traveling with a camping trailer

Carb An abbreviation for Carburetor.

CARB Acronym for California Air Resource Board -- The state agency that regulates the air quality in California. Air quality regulations established by CARB are often stricter than those set by the federal government.

Car banger

A British term for a person or organization which fakes a Car accident in order to defraud an insurance company

Car banging The act of faking a Car accident in order to defraud an insurance company

Carbide A binary compound of metals with carbon. Carbides of group IV to VI metals (e.g., silicon, iron, tungsten) are exceptionally hard and refractory. In group I and II, calcium carbide (ethynide) is the most useful. Also SeeCementiteSilicon carbide

Carbide blade A snowplow blade composed of a carbon compound that generally wears longer and requires less frequent changes than steel blades

Carbide precipitation Carbon that breaks loose from its bond within the stainless solution when material is heated between 427° - 760°C. Under severe corrosive conditions, it can result in extra oxidation and surface corrosion.

Carbide tools Cutting and forming tools used for hard materials or at high temperatures. They are made of carbides of tungsten, tantalium, and other metals held in a matrix of cobalt, nickel, etc., and are very hard with good compressive strength.

Carb kit A collection of gaskets, O-rings, jets, etc. to rebuild a carburetor

Car blind A curtain or pull-down covering for the backlight (i.e., rear window) to obscure the bright headlights of a following vehicle. Some are also used for side windows for privacy. It is generally illegal to use them on the driver's side window or the windshield.

Carbon

1. The hard or soft, black deposits found in the Combustion chamber, on the plugs, under the rings, on and under the Valve heads, etc. Although it is not a metal, it is a good Conductor of electricity.

2. An element which forms various kinds of steel when combined with iron. In steel, it is the changing carbon content which changes the physical properties of the steel. Adds strength to stainless steel, but also lowers corrosion resistance. The more carbon there is, the more chromium must be added, because carbon offsets 17 times its own weight in chromium to form carbides, thus reducing the chromium available for resisting corrosion.

3. Carbon is used in a solid form as an electrode for arc welding, as a mold to hold weld metal, or for motor brushes.

Also SeeActivated carbonDegradable Organic CarbonElemental CarbonHigh carbon steelLow carbon steelMedium carbon steelTotal Carbon

Carbon arc An arc between carbon electrodes, usually limited to pure carbon rather than flame carbon electrodes

Carbon-arc lamp Obsolete light source from the arc between carbon electrodes.

Carbon-arc welding Arc welding carried out by means of an arc between a carbon electrode and the material to be welded.

Carbonate Fuel Cell SeeMolten Carbonate Fuel Cell

Carbon black A by-product of the petroleum industry used as a pigment and to give body in the manufacture of rubber products, both natural and synthetic. Carbon is the black residue from burning petroleum.

Carbon brush A block of carbon to which a copper wire (or braided cable) is attached at one end and the other end rubs against a commutator, collector ring, or slip ring to transmit electricity

Carbon brush spring SeeBrush spring

Carbon build-up A deposit of burned oil which collects in the combustion chamber on the top of the piston and the head. Too much carbon build-up can lead to an inefficient engine and sticky valves.

Carbon button SeeCarbon microphone

Carbon canister SeeActivated carbon canister

Carbon contact In a switch, an auxiliary contact designed to break contact after and to make contact before the main contact to prevent burning of the latter; it is of carbon and designed to be easily removable.

Carbon-core leads High tension wire going from the distributor to the coil or the spark plugs. Each wire has a core of carbon or graphite rather than copper wire to conduct the electricity. Carbon-core wire is not recommended for most small engines such as motorcycle engines.

Carbon dating Dating method which uses the fact that atmospheric carbon dioxide contains a constant proportion of radioactive C14, formed by cosmic radiation. Living

organisms absorb this isotope in the same proportion. After death it decays with a half-life of 5.57x10³ years. The proportion of C12 to the residual C14 indicates the period elapsed since death. Also called radiocarbon dating

Carbon deposits The residue of carbon from burning fuel, which can clog grooves in pistons, combustion chambers, and valves, and cause engine hesitation and other operational problems

Carbon dioxide (CO2) A colorless, odorless, non-toxic gas which is a product of breathing and the combustion process. Sometimes used as refrigerant. (Identified as Refrigerant #R-744)

Carbon dioxide equivalent The amount of carbon dioxide by weight emitted into the atmosphere that would produce the same estimated radiative forcing as a given weight of another radiatively active gas.

Carbon dioxide laser Laser in which the active gaseous medium is a mixture of carbon dioxide and other gases. It is excited by glow-discharge and operates at a wavelength of 10.6 μm. Carbon dioxide lasers are capable of pulsed output with peak power up to 100 MW or continuous output up to 60 kW.

Carbon-dioxide welding Metal arc welding using CO2 as the shielding gas.

Carboned up Covered with a thick deposit of carbon. In Britain it is called coked up

Carbon fiber 1. A high-tech material favored in many motorcycle

and bicycle applications because it is extremely strong, light and expensive. The distinctive look of carbon fiber has become trendy.

2. Threadlike strands of pure Carbon that are strong and flexible. Carbon fiber can be bound in a plastic

Resin matrix to form a strong Composite. It is light-weight and stronger than steel. Can also be spelled carbon fibre.

Carbon fibre A high-tech material favored in many motorcycle applications because it is extremely strong, light and expensive. The distinctive look of carbon fiber has become trendy. Also SeeCarbon fiber.

Carbon filter An air filter using activated carbon as a cleansing agent

Carbon fouling The situation that occurs when the two electrical terminals of the spark plug are coated with carbon causing a reduction in efficiency leading to intermittent firing or complete failure.

Carbon gland A type of gland used to prevent leakage along a shaft. It consists of carbon rings cut into segments and pressed into contact with the shaft by an encircling helical spring or Garter spring

Carbon intensity The amount of carbon by weight emitted per unit of energy consumed. A common measure of carbon intensity is weight of carbon per British thermal unit (Btu) of energy. When there is only one fossil fuel under consideration, the carbon intensity and the emissions coefficient are identical. When there are several fuels, carbon intensity is based on their combined emissions coefficients weighted by their energy consumption levels.

Carbonitriding A process of case hardening

Carbonization The steeping of wool in a dilute solution of sulfuric acid, or its treatment by hydrochloric acid gas (dry process).

This converts any cellulosic impurities into carbon dust and thereby facilitates their removal.

Carbonize Building up of Carbon on objects such as Spark plugs, Pistons, Heads, etc.

Carbonized filament Thoriated tungsten filament coated with tungsten carbide to reduce loss of thorium from the surface.

Carbonizing Another term for Carburizing or reducing

Carbon knock When there is a build-up of carbon in the combustion chamber, uncontrolled ignition will take place causing a knocking noise.

Carbon microphone A microphone in which a normally DC energizing current is modulated by changes in the resistance of a cavity filled by granulated carbon which is compressed by the movement of the diaphragm. The diameter of the cavity is frequently very much less than that of the diaphragm, and it is then known as a carbon button.

Carbon monoxide (CO) A deadly, colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas found in the engine Exhaust. Toxic even in relatively small concentrations. Formed by incomplete burning of Hydrocarbons. Thus at its greatest with a rich mixture.

Carbon pile voltage transformer Variable electrical resistor made from disks or plates of carbon arranged to form a pile.

Carbon pin A thin cylinder of carbon located in the distributor cap to transfer high tension electricity from the coil to the rotor to the high tension leads going to the spark plugs.

Carbon resistor Negative temperature coefficient, non-inductive resistor formed of powdered carbon with ceramic binding material. Used for low-temperature measurements

because of the large increase in resistance as temperature decreases.

Carbon Sequestration 1. The absorption and storage of CO2 from the

atmosphere by the roots and leaves of plants; the carbon builds up as organic matter in the soil.

2. The fixation of atmospheric carbon dioxide in a carbon sink through biological or physical processes.

Carbon steel A steel whose properties are determined principally by the amount of carbon present and contains no other deliberate alloying ingredient except those necessary to ensure deoxidation and physical quality. Also called plain carbon steel. Also SeeHigh carbon steelLow carbon steelMedium Carbon SteelSteel

Carbon tetrachloride A liquid often used in fire extinguishers. The fumes are toxic -- avoid inhaling.

Carbon tracking A trace of carbon found inside the distributor cap which leads away some electricity, thus causing the engine to misfire.

Carbon tracks Fine lines from burned carbon (such as from oil film) that may be found in a distributor cap. Carbon tracks may cause engine misfire

Carbonyl powders Metal powders produced by reacting carbon monoxide with the metal to form the gaseous carbonyl. This is then decomposed by heat to yield powder of high purity.

Carborundum Trade name for Silicon carbide abrasives.

Carborundum wheel SeeGrinding wheel

Carboy Large, narrow-necked container, usually of balloon shape, having a capacity of 201 or more.

Carbs Abbreviation for Carburetors. Also SeeDual carbs

Carburation British term for Carburetion

Carburetion The mixture of vaporized fuel and air in the proper proportions for combustion in an engine Also seeClosed-Loop Carburetion

Carburetor

Click image to supersizeCarburetor

(Carb) Optionally spelled carburetter or carburettor. A device that Vaporizes fuel and mixes it with air in proper quantities and proportions to suit the varying needs of the engine. A Filter screens the air which is drawn into the carburetor. Here the Gasoline mixes with the air and this fuel vapor enters the Combustion chamber through the Intake valve where it is compressed and burned. Also SeeAir valve carburetor

Compound carburetorDouble-barrel carburetorDowndraft carburetorDowndraught CarburetorDual carbsDual carburetorsFeedback carburetorFixed-choke carburetorFixed-jet carburetorFlood the carburetorFour-barrel carburetorHIF carburetorNon-staged CarburetorSidedraft carburetorSidedraught CarburetorSingle-barrel carburetorSlide carburetorStaged CarburetorsStarting carburetorStromberg carburetorSU carburetorTamperproof carburetorTwin-choke carburetorTwin barrel carburetorTwin carburetorsTwo-stage carburetorUpdraft carburetorVariable-venturi carburetorWeber Carburetor

Carburetor Actuator SeeFeedback Carburetor Actuator

Carburetor adapter An adapter that is used to fit or place one type of Carburetor on an Intake manifold that may not be originally designed for it. Also used to adapt four-barrel Carburetors to two-barrel manifolds.

Carburetor air horn SeeAir horn

Carburetor barrel The tube-like part of the vehicle through which air flows and is mixed with Vaporized fuel. The Choke butterfly valve is located at the top of the Carburetor barrel, and the Throttle valve is located at the bottom. Midway through, the barrel narrows, and this part is called the Venturi. Carburetors can have one, two, or four barrels.

Carburetor base The lower part of the carburetor in which the throttle plate is located

Carburetor circuit A series of passageways and units designed to perform a specific function Idle circuit, full power circuit, etc.

Carburetor circuits SeeCarburetor circuit

Carburetor cleaner A petroleum solvent for cleaning the carburetor

Carburetor engine A combustion engine which uses a carburetor instead of fuel injection.

Carburetor fuel bowl A small fuel storage area in the carburetor, located at the carburetor fuel inlet. Also called the Float bowl because it contains the carburetor float

Carburetor fuel bowl vent A vent on the Float bowl. It typically is connected to an Carbon canister, which absorbs vapors when the engine is off, and it also may be vented to the atmosphere when the engine is running.

Carburetor fuel filter

Carburetor Fuel Filter

A filter made of pleated paper or sintered bronze that is mounted into the body of the carburetor at the float bowl fuel inlet. It is held in place by the fuel hose/pipe fittings. On some cars, a small In-line filter is screwed directly into the carburetor's fuel inlet. Also called an integral fuel filter.

Carburetor fuel inlet A threaded fitting on the side of the carburetor to which tubing from the Fuel pump is connected. Fuel enters the carburetor at this point.

Carburetor icing The formation of ice on the Throttle plate or valve during certain atmospheric conditions. As the fuel Nozzles feed fuel into the Air horn it turns to a vapor. This robs heat from the air and when weather conditions are just right (fairly cool and quite humid) ice may form. Also SeeIcing

Carburetor kit A collection of gaskets, O-rings, jets, etc. to rebuild a carburetor. Also called a carb kit.

Carburetor throat SeeVenturi

Carburetor venturi SeeVenturi

Carburetter British spelling for Carburetor.

Carburettor SeeCarburetor

Car burglar A person who steals object from a car, but does not steal the car itself. Also SeeCar thief

Carburization The process of creating carbon steel by increasing the carbon content of steel to reach the desired degree of hardness

Carburizing 1. A carburizing flame in welding terms is an oxygen-

fuel gas flame with a slight excess of the fuel gas. 2. A method of Case-hardening low carbon steel in

which the metal component is heated above its ferrite-austenite transition in a suitable carbonaceous atmosphere. Carbon diffuses into the surface and establishes a concentration gradient. The steel can subsequently be hardened by quenching either directly or after re-heating to refine the grain structure. It is usually lightly tempered afterwards, producing a hard case over a tough core.

Car cap

A waterproof cover which encloses just the Greenhouse (i.e., the roof, windshield, side glass, and Backlight)

Car care product One of several items for taking care of the outward finish of the car (i.e., cleaners, polish, wax, preservers) as well as the interior pieces (e.g., dash cleaners, upholstery cleaners and sealers)

Carcass The primary structure of a tire body with its cords, plies, rim wires, etc. apart from the tread itself. Structurally the carcass should hold air and provide strength to the tire, but would not wear well without the tread.

Carcinogens Chemicals and other substances known to cause cancer.

Car Club of America SeeClassic Car Club of America

Car cover A cover which encloses the entire vehicle to protect the finish from the elements.

Car crash A Car accident

Card The graduated dial or face of a magnetic compass to which the card and needle are firmly connected. SeeFile card brush

Cardan SeeCardan joint.

Cardan joint

Cardan Joint

A type of Universal joint named after the Italian Cardan who developed the concept in the 16th century. In the 17th century, Robert Hooke of England developed and patented the conventional universal joint. Sometimes it is called the Cardan universal or the Hooke universal. It has two Yokes at right angles to each other.

Cardan mount Type of gimbal mount used for compasses and gyroscopes.

Cardan shaft A shaft with universal joints at each end

Cardan universal SeeCardan joint

Card brush SeeFile card brush

Car dealer

SeeNew car dealerUsed Car Dealer

Cardinal planes In a lens, planes perpendicular to the principal axis, and passing through the cardinal points of the lens.

Cardioid A heart-shaped curve with polar equation r=2a(1+cosθ). An epicycloid in which the rolling circle equals the fixed circle.

Cardioid directivity Special shape of a directivity. It is produced by superimposing the fields of a monopole and a dipole, and has the shape of a cardioid.

Care product SeeCar care product

Car-floor contact A contact attached to the false floor of an electrically controlled lift; it is usually arranged to prevent operation of the lift by anyone outside the car while a passenger is in the lift.

Cargo SeeBulk cargoGeneral cargo

Cargo area The space within a station wagon or van for carrying goods or the bed of a pickup truck for carrying goods

Cargo battens Strips of wood fitted inside the frames to keep cargo away from hull steelwork. Also called sparring

Cargo Body Style Auto Carrier A truck cargo body typified by the multi-decked auto carrier trailer and/or power unit.

Cargo Body Style Bottom Dump Dry bulk truck bodies which empty by means of gravity alone through the bottom.

Cargo Body Style Dump

A truck body with a hydraulic, electric, or mechanical lifting mechanism that tilts to unload cargo. Dump includes side dumps, walking dumps, flatbed dumps, and dump trucks with snow plows or blades.

Cargo Body Style Flatbed A cargo truck body style typified by a flat cargo area. Includes angle beds, rollback beds, and ramp hoists, which are flatbeds that tilt down to the ground so vehicles can be driven onto the bed.

Cargo Body Style Flatbed with Sides A cargo truck body style typified by flatbeds with sides to hold and protect cargo. Also seestake body

Cargo Body Style Flatbed with Equipment This cargo truck body style is typified by flatbeds with permanent cranes, loaders, pumps, winches, or other significantly heavy and large apurtenances.

Cargo Body Style Garbage A cargo body style typified by garbage trucks that often have hydraulic packing mechanisms or hydraulic arms for lifting dumpsters. Included are roll-offs, vehicles used for transporting refuse containers. Roll-offs have rails or a flat bed and a hoist for loading and unloading the refuse container.

Cargo Body Style Livestock Carrier A cargo truck body style typically with slotted or slatted sides. Trailers may have a double deck. Livestock trailers sometimes have "possum belly" compartments in the bottom for holding smaller animals.

Cargo Body Style Low Boy Gooseneck flatbed trucks slung very low to the ground. Often the gooseneck is detachable so that equipment can be loaded from the front. Sometimes ramps are at the rear. Typically about 12" off the ground.

Cargo Body Style Open Top Van A totally enclosed cargo area but without a permanent, fixed, solid top.

Cargo Body Style Pole Logging

Pole trailers with a set of axles with a cradle to hold logs and a long, sometimes adjustable pole attached to the rear of a power unit. Others are framed with support stakes. Some have double decks. Most will have cradle-like features called bunks to hold the logs in place.

Cargo Body Style Refrigerated Van A cargo body style with a totally enclosed box with a refrigeration unit.

Cargo Body Style Tank Dry A truck used exclusively for hauling dry bulk material. Cargo is emptied pneumatically. Also called air can trailer

Cargo Body Style Tank Liquid or Gas A cargo body truck style characterized by tankers which can carry only liquids or gases in bulk.

Cargo Body Style Van A totally enclosed cargo area truck. Included are beverage vans, or bay vans, and sealed shipping containers mounted on a special bodiless chassis.

Cargo box

Cargo Box

A type of container mounted on the roof of a vehicle

Cargo net

Cargo Net

A type of Bungee net usually found in the Trunk of a car to secure packages from moving around; but also found behind or beside a seat.

Cargo port Opening in a ship's side for loading and unloading cargo.

Cargo shifting Movements or changing positions of cargo from one place to another which can easily endanger the seaworthiness of the ship

Cargo ship SeeDry cargo ship

Cargo trailer

Cargo Trailer

A trailer with sides.

Cargo Weight The combined weight of all loads, gear, and supplies on a vehicle.

Car Guide SeeNADA Used Car Guide

Carina

Click image for books onToyota Carina

A model of automobile manufactured by Toyota

Car insurance An insurance policy (mandatory in most states and all of Canada) to cover possible damage to the vehicle or property or passengers, etc. Sometimes basic insurance is abbreviated PL&PD (public liability and property damage). Also called motor insurance

Car jacker A person who steals a car at gunpoint.

Car jacking A process of stealing a car while the driver is still in it. The car may be stopped at a traffic light when a car jacker appears with a gun and demands that the driver get out, then he drives away with the car. If it happens to you, give him the car -- your life is worth more than the vehicle.

Car key An unlocking device for the ignition switch, doors, trunk, gas cap, etc.

Car lot A place where vehicles are sold by an independent dealer

Car mechanic

SeeMechanic

Carnot cycle An ideal heat engine cycle of maximum thermal efficiency. It consists of isothermal expansion, adiabatic expansion, isothermal compression, and adiabatic compression to the initial state.

Carnot's theorem Theorem stating that no heat engine can be more efficient than a reversible engine working between the same temperatures. It follows that the efficiency of a reversible engine is independent of the working substance and depends only on the temperatures between which it is working.

Car park A parking area usually located within a building. Also SeeMulti-storey car park

Carpeting The action of covering the passenger compartment floor (and sometimes the trunk floor) with a form-fitting rug or carpet.

Car phone A telephone that is installed in a vehicle, but has recently been replaced by personal cell phones.Also SeeCellular phone

Car polish A product which enhances the shine of the paintwork of a vehicle

Car radio A radio receiver which is installed (usually in the dash) in a vehicle

Carrene Refrigerant in Group One (R-11). Chemical combination of carbon, chlorine, and fluorine

Carriage 1. A horse-drawn vehicle for people to ride in.

2. A railroad vehicle for passengers.

Also seeHackney CarriageInvalid-carriages

Carriage bolt

Carriage Bolt

A bolt that has a smooth dome head (like a mushroom) so that no Screwdriver or wrench can remove it from the dome-side, a square neck under the head, and a unified thread pitch. The square neck is designed to keep the bolt from turning as a nut is tightened. Also seeFin neck carriage boltSquare Neck Carriage Bolt

Carriage spring SeeLaminated spring

Carriage-type switchgear SeeTruck-type switchgear

Carriageway A British term for that part of the road on which vehicles travel in one direction. Also seeDual carriageway

Carrier 1. A thin substance that helps another substance to

reach its goal. For example, a spray grease may

have a carrier which transports the grease to its destination. Then the carrier dries up leaving the grease behind.

2. A real or imaginary particle responsible for the transport of electric charge in a material. In oxide ceramics, electrons hopping between ions, diffusing oxygen ions and mobile cations can also transport charge.

Also SeeCarriers

3. A device for conveying the drive of a face-plate of a lathe to a piece of work which is being turned between centers. It is clamped to the work and driven by a pin projecting from the face-plate.

4. A frame for holding a negative in an enlarger or slides in a projector.

5. Non-active material mixed with, and chemically identical to, a radioactive compound. Carrier is sometimes added to carrier-free material.

6. A vehicle for communicating in formation, when the chosen medium itself cannot convey the information but can convey a carrier, on to which the information is impressed by Modulation.

7. In radio transmission, the output of the transmitter before it is modulated.

Also SeeFrequency modulation

8. The frequencies chosen for sending many signals simultaneously along a single communication channel

Also SeeAuto CarrierBarge carriersBent-tail CarrierBicycle carrier

Bulk carrierCarrier bearingCommon CarrierContract carrierDifferential carrierExempt CarrierFor-Hire CarrierFront Wheel CarrierHub carrierJet carrierLivestock CarrierLNG carrierLTL CarrierLuggage carrierMinority CarrierMotor CarrierOre-bulk-oil carrierOre carrierPinion carrierPlanet carrierPrivate CarrierProduct carrierSpare tire carrierTL CarrierTop Carriers

Carrier bearing The bearings upon which the Differential case is mounted.

Carrier bearings SeeCarrier bearing.

Carrier mobility The mean drift velocity of the charge carriers in a material per unit electric field.

Carrier noise Noise which has been introduced into the carrier of a transmitter before modulation.

Carrier, pinion

SeePinion carrier.

Carrier, planet SeePlanet carrier.

Carrier power Power radiated by a transmitter in absence of modulation.

Carriers In a crystal of semiconductor material thermal agitation will cause a number of electrons to dissociate from their parent atoms; in moving about the crystal they act as carriers of negative charge. Other electrons will move from neighboring atoms to fill the space left behind, thus causing the holes where no electrons exist in the lattice to be transferred from one atom to another. As these holes move around they can be considered as carriers of positive charge. Also SeeBarge carriersTop carriers

Carrier Transmission SeeQuiescent Carrier Transmission

Carrier wave An unmodulated radio wave produced by a transmitter on which information is carried by amplitude or frequency modulation.

Carrosserie French term for Coachwork.

Carrozzeria Italian term for Coachwork.

Carrying capacity The maximum load that a tire is allowed to carry with a particular wheel and rim. Also called load capacity.

CARS Acronym for Canadian Automotive Repair and Service Council

Car society

SeeMilestone Car Society

Car sponge A large sponge for washing the exterior of a vehicle

Car stands Pedestal-type supports for holding up a car once the car has been raised.

Car stereo A listening device in an automobile which usually has an AM/FM radio and often a cassette player, CD player, and/or CD changer. It also includes at least a pair of speakers.

Cart SeeTool cart

Cartage company A company that provides local pick-up and delivery within a town, city, or municipality.

Car tax A government imposed tax which is added to the price of a new car. Some governments charge a road-use tax and call it a car tax.

Car test A test of a vehicle's roadworthiness, reliability, and performance.

Car theft Unauthorized removal (i.e., stealing) of a car or the items in or on a car. Also SeeCar jacking

Car thief A person who steals a car. If someone steals just the objects from a car, he is a Car burglar. Also SeeCar jacker

Car tire An automotive tire which is used exclusively on a passenger car, not a light truck, etc.

Cartography

The preparation and drawing of maps which show, generally, a considerable extent of the Earth's surface.

Cartridge SeeBurst CartridgeCanFilter cartridgeOil filter cartridgeQuarter-inch Cartridge

Cartridge bottom bracket A Bottom bracket with protective seals to keep water and grime from penetrating to the bearings. Also called sealed bottom bracket

Cartridge brass Copper-zinc alloy containing approximately 30% zinc. Possesses high ductility; capable of being heavily cold-worked. Widely used for cold pressings, cartridges, tubes, etc. Also seeCopper alloy.

Cartridge starter A device for starting aero-engines in which a slow-burning cartridge is used to operate a piston or turbine unit which is geared to the engine shaft.

Cart spring A leaf spring used in small trailers.

Carvac A small, hand-held vacuum cleaner which is either battery-operated or which is plugged into the accessory outlet or cigarette lighter socket.

Car wash 1. A place where you can get your car cleaned. Some

are automatic (you drive through and large brushes clean the car) while others provide a bay with spray wands and brushes for you to do the labor.

Also SeeAutomatic car wash

2. A product like soap which is added to water for the purpose of cleaning a vehicle.

Car wax A polish which may be in a paste or a cream and used in protecting the finish of a car.

Car wheel SeePassenger car wheel

CAS 1. Acronym for cleaner air system 2. Acronym for crank angle sensor

Cascade The arrangement of stages in an enrichment or reprocessing plant in which the products of one stage are fed either forward to the next closely similar or identical stage or backward to a previous stage, eventually resulting in two more or less pure products at each end of the cascade. The classic examples are gaseous or centrifugal enrichment plants. An ideal cascade is the arrangement of stages in series and in parallel which gives the highest yield for a given number of units (e.g., centrifuges) and a given separation factor.

Cascade generator High-voltage generator using a series of voltage-multiplying stages, esp. when designed for X-ray tubes or low-energy accelerators.

cascade particle Particle formed by a cosmic ray in a Cascade shower

Cascades Fixed airfoil blades which turn the airflow around a bend in a duct, e.g., in wind tunnels or engine intakes.

Cascade shower Manifestations of cosmic rays in which high-energy mesons, protons, and electrons create high-energy photons, which produce further electrons and positrons, thus increasing the number of particles until the energy is dissipated. Also called air shower.

Cascade systems Arrangement in which two or more refrigerating systems are used in series; uses evaporator of one machine to cool condenser of other machine. Produces ultra-low temps

Cascading of insulators Flashover of a string of suspension insulators; initiated by the voltage across one unit exceeding its safe value and flashing over, thereby imposing additional stress across the other units, and resulting in a complete flashover of the string.

Case 1. That part near the surface of a ferrous alloy which

as been so altered as to allow case-hardening. 2. One of the two clam-shell-like halves in the bottom

end of the engine surrounded by a metal shell

Also SeeBasket caseBattery caseChaincaseConverter caseDifferential caseOpen Display CaseSplitting The CasesTop caseTransfer case

CASE Acronym for Cranking Angle Sensing Error

Case harden The action of hardening the surface of iron or steel so that the outer portion or case is made substantially harder than the inner portion or core. Typical processes used for case hardening are carburizing, cyaniding, carbonitriding, nitriding, induction hardening, and flame hardening.

Casehardened

A piece of steel that has had the outer surface hardened while the inner portion remains relatively soft.

Casehardening The action of adding carbon to the surface of a mild steel object and heat treating to produce a hard surface.

Cases The two clam-shell-like halves in the bottom end of the engine surrounded by a metal shell

Cash register Trucker slang for Toll booth as in "I'm comin' up on a cash register at highway 88"

Cash and carry Kerosene, fuel oil, or bottled gas (tank or Propane) purchased with cash, by check, or by credit card and taken home by the purchaser. The purchaser provides the container or pays extra for the container.

Cash value SeeActual cash value

Casing 1. The Tire casing. 2. The outside shell of something such as the shell of

an alternator or starter motor.

Also SeeAxle casingDifferential casingTire CasingTurbine casingVolute casing

Casing factor That portion of the load supported by Tire casing stiffness instead of air pressure.

Casing head gasoline A term used to describe the lighter parts of petroleum products, which were obtained from natural gasoline by condensing natural gas from an oil well

Cask SeeFlask

Casket SeeFlask

Cassette 1. A type of bicycle gear cluster that slides on a

freehub rather than threads on it. The freehub body is attached to the rear hub.

2. A cartridge containing magnetic tape that can be inserted into a player for listening or viewing (e.g., an audio cassette or video cassette).

Cassette cogs The individual cogs that make up a bicycle cassette.

Cassette compartment A storage place for audio cassettes

Cassette Deck SeeRadio cassette Deck

Cassette hub More recent type of rear hub designed to accept the cassette type of gear cluster. The cassette hub has the rotating, ratcheting freehub body attached to the hub for the cassette to slide onto and be secured by a lockring.

Cassette player A unit which plays (but does not record) audio cassettes and is often linked with a stereo unit in an automobile

Cassette size The size of a bicycle cassette is described by the number of teeth on the smallest cog and the number of teeth on the largest cog. An example of a common size for road racing would be 12 x 21.

Cast 1. To shape molten metal by pouring it into a mold. 2. A model or result made by pouring metal into a

mold.

Also SeeCast ironCastingDie cast

Cast Aluminum wheel

Cast Aluminum Wheel

SeeAlloy wheel

Castellate Formed to resemble a castle battlement e.g., a Castellated nut

Castellated SeeCastellated nut.

Castellated nut

Castellated Nut

A nut with several lugs protruding from one end making it look like the turrets on the top of the wall of a castle. This nut is used on a shaft with a hole drilled in it. It is

secured to the shaft by passing a Cotter pin through an opening in the nut and through the shaft hole.

Caster 1. A small wheel at the front of a wheelchair or

shopping cart that swivels and is tilted at an angle.

Also SeeSwivel caster

2.

Caster

A wheel Alignment adjustment that positions the wheels like the casters on a chair or shopping cart, so the tires follow naturally in a forward straight line. In a truck or older car, the top of the Kingpin is either forward (Negative) or toward the rear of the vehicle (Positive). On a turn, the wheels will tend to straighten out when the Steering wheel is released. If the car has independent front suspension, the upper ball joint is set forward or rearward in relation to the lower ball joint. Caster is measured in degrees.

Also SeeNegative CasterPositive CasterTrail distance

Caster action

The self-centering action which causes a caster wheel to move into a straight-ahead position.

Caster angle The inclination or angle that a wheel makes when measuring the distance between the vertical post and the offset of the wheel placement.

Caster offset The distance on the ground between where the vertical post would touch the ground if it were extended and the point where the wheel touches the ground. Also called caster trail

Caster trail The distance on the ground between where the vertical post would touch the ground if it were extended and the point where the wheel touches the ground. Also called caster offset

Caster wobble A condition generally produced in the front wheels when they are attached to the ends of a Beam axle. It is particularly noticeable on rough roads and the Shimmy at the Steering wheel makes it difficult to control the vehicle. You have probably seen this condition in a shopping cart that has caster wheels that wiggle or fluctuate back and forth and will not roll in a straight line.

Cast holes Holes made in cast objects by the use of cores, in order to reduce the time necessary for machining, and to avoid metal wastage.

Casting

Click image to supersizeCasting

1. A process technology that delivers a liquid molten metal into a purpose-built mold. After cooling, the solid metal surface has the shape of the mold cavity.

2. Pouring metal into a Mold to form an object. 3. A metallic article cast in the shape required, as

distinct from one shaped by working.

Also SeeBlown CastingDie castingLost-foam casting processMalleable castingsMonobloc castingSand castingSteel CastingThin-wall casting

Casting copper

Metal of lower purity than Best selected copper. Generally contains about 99.4% of copper.

Casting ladle A steel ladle, lined with refractory material, in which molten metal is carried from the furnace to the mold in which the casting is to be made.

Casting number The number cast into a block, head, or other component when the part is cast. Casting numbers can be helpful when identifying an engine or its parts, but they are not completely accurate, because castings are sometimes machined differently

Casting process SeeLost-foam casting process

Castings Metallic forms which are produced by pouring molten metal into a shaped container or mold. Also SeeMalleable castings

Casting wheel Large wheel on which ingot molds are arranged peripherally and filled from stream of molten metal issuing from furnace or pouring ladle.

Cast-in-situ concrete piles A type of pile formed by driving a steel pipe into the ground and filling it with concrete, using the pipe as a mold, or by a similar method.

Cast iron 1. An Alloy of iron and more than 2% Carbon. It is

used for engine Blocks and Transmission and Differential cases because it is relatively cheap and easy to Mold into complex shapes.

2. Any iron-carbon alloy in which the carbon content exceeds the solubility of carbon in austenite at the eutectic temperature. Widely used in engineering on account of their high fluidity and excellent casting characteristics. Carbon content usually in

the range of 2-2.3%. Some kinds are brittle and others difficult to machine.

Also seeAlloy Cast-ironDuctile cast-ironGrey ironSpherulitic graphite cast-iron

Cast-iron SeeCast iron

Castle SeeCastellated nut.

Castle nut

Castle nut

A Castellated nut -- a six-sided nut in the top of which six radial slots are cut. Two of these line up with a hole drilled in the bolt or screw, a split pin can be inserted to prevent turning. Also called hex slotted nut

Castle section A panel with humps or ribs which strengthen the panel. They are called castle because from the end they look like the turrets of a castle

Castor British spelling of Caster.

Cast silicon Crystalline silicon obtained by pouring pure molten silicon into a vertical mold and adjusting the temperature gradient along the mold volume during cooling to obtain slow, vertically advancing crystallization of the silicon. The polycrystalline ingot

thus formed is composed of large, relatively parallel, interlocking crystals. The cast ingots are sawed into wafers for further fabrication into photovoltaic cells. Cast silicon wafers and ribbon silicon sheets fabricated into cells are usually referred to as polycrystalline photovoltaic cells.

Cast spoke assembly That part of the vehicle consisting of the brake drum and wheel spider, having 3, 5 or 6 spokes.

Cast spoke wheel 1. A type of dual mounting wheels where two

demountable rims are mounted directly on the spoke wheel and drum assembly held apart by a spacer band and locked in place by clamps and nuts which attach to studs in the spoke face.

2. A wheel with five or six spokes originating from a center hub. The spoked portion, usually made of cast steel, is bolted to a multiple-piece steel rim

Also seeDemountable RimDisc Wheel

Cast steel Shapes that have been formed directly from liquid by casting into a mold. Formerly applied to wrought objects produced by working steel made by the crucible process to distinguish from that made by cementation of wrought-iron, but both of these methods are long obsolete.

Cast welded rail joint A joint between the ends of two adjacent rails made in position using the thermite process in which aluminum powder and sodium peroxide are ignited causing the rails to weld together.

Cat An abbreviation for Catalytic converter

Catadioptric

An optical system using a combination of refracting and reflecting surfaces designed to reduce aberrations in a telescope.

Catalan process Reduction of haematite to wrought-iron by smelting with charcoal.

Catalog SeeParts catalog

Catalyst 1. A substance that changes the rate of a chemical

reaction without itself being used up. Catalysts are used in many processes in the chemical and petroleum industries. Emission control catalysts are used to promote reactions that change exhaust pollutants from internal combustion engines into harmless substances. After the reaction it can potentially be recovered from the reaction mixture chemically unchanged.

2. A special agent which is added to a plastic body filler or resin or paint to speed up the hardening process.

Also SeeDiesel Oxidation CatalystLean NOx CatalystMetal catalystOxidizing catalystParticulate catalystPellet-type catalytic converterReducing catalystThree-way catalyst

Catalyst bed A layer of catalyst-coated material such as pellets or ceramic in a catalytic converter through which the gases pass.

Catalyst charge A catalyst-coated material such as pellets or ceramic in a catalytic converter.

Catalyst coated membrane (CCM) Term used to describe a membrane (in a PEM fuel cell) whose surfaces are coated with a catalyst layer to form the reaction zone of the electrode. See alsoMembrane Electrode Assembly

Catalyst coating A Catalytic layer

Catalyst container A housing of a catalytic converter. Also called a converter shell

Catalyst contamination A reduction of efficiency because of impurity deposits

Catalyst degradation A reduction of efficiency because of impurities or overheating. Also called catalyst deterioration

Catalyst deterioration A reduction of efficiency because of impurities or overheating. Also called catalyst degradation

Catalyst efficiency SeeCatalytic efficiency

Catalyst indicator A light on the instrument panel which glows when a prescribed distance has passed in order to remind the driver to have the catalytic converter replaced.

Catalyst loading The amount of catalyst incorporated in the fuel cell per unit area.

Catalyst substrate A base material which carries the Catalytic layer or coating. Also called catalyst support

Catalyst support A base material which carries the Catalytic layer or coating. Also called catalyst substrate

Catalytic SeeCatalytic converterDual-bed catalytic converter

Mini catalytic converterOpen-loop catalytic converterPellet-type catalytic converterPrimary catalytic converterThree-way catalytic converter

Catalytic activity The rate a catalytic converter purifies the exhaust system

Catalytic converter

Catalytic converter

1. A pollution-control device found on the Exhaust system of all cars since its introduction in 1974 which acts like an Afterburner to reburn unburned gas in the Tail pipe. It looks like a small Muffler and is usually made of stainless steel. It contains Platinum, rhodium, or palladium which is a catalyst for the chemical reaction needed to burn off any unburned Hydrocarbons and Carbon monoxide by turning them into water vapor, carbon dioxide and other less toxic gases.

2. A device containing a Catalyst for converting automobile exhaust into mostly harmless products.

Also SeeDual-bed catalytic converterLean burn engineMini catalytic converterOpen-loop catalytic converterPellet-type catalytic converterPrimary catalytic converter

Single-bed 3-way catalytic converterThree-way catalytic converter

Catalytic cracking The refining process of breaking down the larger, heavier, and more complex hydrocarbon molecules into simpler and lighter molecules. Catalytic cracking is accomplished by the use of a catalytic agent and is an effective process for increasing the yield of gasoline from crude oil. Catalytic cracking processes fresh feeds and recycled feeds.

Catalytic efficiency The effectiveness of a catalyst in purifying exhaust gases

Catalytic Fines Hard, abrasive crystalline particles of alumina, silica, and/or alumina silica that can be carried over from the fluidic catalytic cracking process of residual fuel stocks. Particle size can range from sub-micron to greater than sixty (60) microns in size. These particles become more common in the higher viscosity marine bunker fuels.

Catalytic hydrocracking A refining process that uses hydrogen and Catalysts with relatively low temperatures and high pressures for converting middle boiling or residual material to high octane gasoline, reformer charge stock, jet fuel, and /or high grade fuel oil. The process uses one or more Catalysts, depending on product output, and can handle high sulfur feedstocks without prior desulfurization.

Catalytic hydrotreating A refining process for treating petroleum fractions from atmospheric or vacuum distillation units (e.g., naphthas, middle distillates, reformer feeds, residual fuel oil, and heavy gas oil) and other petroleum (e.g., cat cracked naphtha, coker naphtha, gas oil, etc.) in the presence of Catalysts and substantial quantities of hydrogen. Hydrotreating includes desulfurization,

removal of substances (e.g., nitrogen compounds) that deactivate Catalysts, conversion of Olefins to paraffins to reduce gum formation in gasoline, and other processes to upgrade the quality of the fractions.

Catalytic layer A thin layer of catalyst such as platinum and supported by a ceramic or metal carrier material

Catalytic Reduction SeeSelective Catalytic Reduction

Catalytic reforming A refining process using controlled heat and pressure with Catalysts to rearrange certain hydrocarbon molecules, thereby converting paraffinic and naphthenic type hydrocarbons (e.g., low octane gasoline boiling range fractions) into petrochemical feedstocks and higher octane stocks suitable for blending into finished gasoline. Catalytic reforming is reported in two categories. They are:

Low Pressure. A processing unit operating at less than 225 PSIG measured at the outlet separator.

High pressure. A processing unit operating at either equal to or greater than 225 PSIG measured at the outlet separator.

Catamaran A double hulled vessel

Cataphoretic painting A process of applying the first coat of paint to the body of a vehicle by positively charging the paint particles and then dunking the metal into the paint. A current is turned on so that the positively charged paint is attracted to the negative metal panel. Also called cathodic electropainting

Catapult an accelerating device for launching an aircraft in a short distance. It may be fixed or rotatable to face the wind. It is usually used on ships which have no landing deck, having been superseded on aircraft carriers by

the Accelerator. During World War II, fighters were carried on (catapult armed merchant ships) for defense against long-range bombers. Land catapults have been tried but have been superseded by RATOG and STOL aircraft.

Catback A performance exhaust system upgrade which consists of new pipes from the catalytic converter to the Tail pipe which increases horsepower. These new pipes are larger, thus, more exhaust can exit the system. The faster the exhaust can exit, the more horsepower you gain.

Catch SeeSafety catch

Catch basin An opening in the road surface with grated lid to allow water into a storm drainage system. SeeCatch pit

Catcher The element in a velocity-modulated ultrahigh frequency or microwave beam tube which abstracts, or catches, the energy in a bunched electron stream as it passes through it. Also seeBuncher

Catcher foil Aluminum sheet used for measuring power levels in nuclear reactor by absorption of fission fragments.

Catching diode Diode used to clamp a voltage or current at a predetermined value. When it becomes forward-biased it prevents the applied potential from increasing any further.

Catchment area The area from which water runs off to any given river valley or collecting reservoir. Also called Catchment basin

Catchment basin The area from which water runs off to any given river valley or collecting reservoir. Also called Catchment area

Catch net A mesh construction that is electricaly grounded and placed below high-voltage transmission lines that cross over a road or railway. In the event that the lines break, they will fall into the net. Also called a cradle

Catch pit A small pit constructed at the entrance to a length of sewer or drain pipe to catch and retain matter which would not easily pass through the pipes. Also called catch basin. Also seeSump

Catch plate A disk on the spindle nose of a lathe, driving a carrier locked to the work.

Catch points A section of a railroad track which is activated when a train is supposed to be going uphill, but starts to slide back. The catch points prevent the train from rolling back any farther.

Catch-water drain A drain to catch water on a hillside, with open joints or multiple perforations to take in water in as many places as possible.

Cat Cracker A large refinery vessel for processing reduced crudes or other feed-stocks in the presence of a Catalyst, as opposed to the older method of thermal cracking, which employs heat and pressure only. Catalytic cracking is generally preferred since it produces less gas and other highly volatile byproducts. It produces a motor fuel of higher octane than the thermal process.

Cat E Category E damage to an aircraft; equivalent to a total loss or write off.

Catenary construction A method of construction used for overhead contact wires of traction systems. A\ wire is suspended, in the form of catenary, between two supports, and the contact wire is supported from this by droppers of different lengths, arranged so that the contact wire is horizontal.

Cathead 1. The sheave assembly on the top of crane jib. 2. A lathe accessory consisting of a turned sleeve

having four or more radial screws at each end; used for clamping on to rough work of small diameter and running in the Steady while centering. Also called spider

Cathetometer An optical instrument for measuring vertical distances not exceeding a few decimeters. A small telescope, held horizontally can move up and down a vertical pillar. The difference in position of the telescope when the images of the two points whose separation is being measured are lined up with the cross-wires of the telescope, is obtained from the difference in vernier readings on a scale marked on the pillar. Also called reading microscope and reading telescope

Cathode 1. In an electric circuit, the Negative terminal.

Electrons leave from this terminal. 2. In an electronic tube or valve, an electrode

through which a primary stream of electrons enters the inter-electrode space. During conduction, the cathode is negative with respect to the anode. Such a cathode may be cold, electron emission being due to electric fields, photo-emission, or impact by other particles, or thermionic, where the cathode is heated by some means.

3. In a semiconductor diode, the electrode to which the forward current flows.

4. In a thyristor, the electrode by which current leaves the thyristor when it is in the ON state.

5. In a light-emitting diode, the electrode to which forward current flows within the device.

6. In electrolytic applications, the electrode at which positive ions are discharged, or negative ions formed.

7. The electrode at which reduction occurs. In an electrochemical cell, oxidation occurs at the Anode and reduction at the cathode.

Cathode coating A low-work function surface layer applied to a thermionic or photocathode in order to enhance electron emission or to control spectral characteristics. The cathode coating impedance is between the base metal and this layer.

Cathode copper The product of electrolytic refining, after which the cathodes are melted, oxidized, poled, and cast into wire-bars, cakes, billets, etc.

Cathode efficiency Ratio of emission current to energy supplied to cathode. Also called emission efficiency

Cathode follower A valve circuit in which the input is connected between the grid and ground, and the output is taken from between the cathode and ground, the anode being grounded to signal frequencies. It has a high input impedance, low output impedance, and unity voltage gain.

Cathode glow Glow near the surface of a cathode, its color depends on the gas or vapor in the tube.

Cathode luminous sensitivity Ratio of cathode current of photoelectric cell to luminous intensity.

Cathode modulation

Modulation produced by signal applied to cathode of valve through which carrier wave passes.

Cathode poisoning Reduction of thermionic emission from a cathode as a result of minute traces of adsorbed impurities.

Cathode ray A stream of negatively charged particles (electrons) emitted normally from the surface of a cathode in a vacuum or low-pressure gas. The velocity of the electrons is proportional to the square root of the accelerating potential, being 6x105ms-1 for one volt. They can be deflected and formed into beams by the application of electric or magnetic fields, or a combination of both, and are widely used in oscilloscopes and TV (in cathode-ray tubes), electron microscopes and electron-beam welding, and electron-beam tubes for high frequency amplifiers and oscillators.

Cathode-ray oscillograph An oscillograph in which a permanent (photographic or other) record of a transient or time-varying phenomenon is produced by means of an electron beam in a cathode-ray tube. Deprecated term for Cathode-ray oscilloscope

Cathode-ray oscilloscope (CRT) Device for displaying electronic signals by modulating a beam of electrons before it impinges on a Fluorescent screen

Cathode ray tube A sealed tube on which graphs or pictures are displayed like a TV screen

Cathodic electropainting A process of applying the first coat of paint to the body of a car by positively charging the paint particles and then dunking the metal into the paint. A current is turned on so that the positively charged paint is attracted to the negative metal panel. Also called cataphoretic painting

Cathode spot

Area on a cathode where electrons are emitted into an arc, the current density being much higher than with simple thermionic emission

Cathodic chalk A coating of magnesium and calcium compounds formed on a steel surface during Cathodic protection in sea water

Cathodic etching Erosion of a cathode by a glow discharge through positive-ion bombardment, in order to show microstructure

Cathodic protection 1. The action of protecting metal from

electrochemical corrosion by using it as the cathode of a cell with a Sacrificial anode.

2. In ships and offshore structures, corrosion can be prevented by passing sufficient direct current through the sea water to make the metal hull a cathode.

3. The method of preventing corrosion in metal structures that involves using electric voltage to slow or prevent corrosion. It is used along natural gas pipelines, as well as in certain bridges or other large metal structures that need to resist corrosion over an extended period of time. It is also used in some devices for a vehicle to prevent rusting.

Cathodoluminescence The emission of light, with a possible afterglow, from a material when irradiated by an electron beam, such as occurs in the phosphor of a cathode-ray tube

Cathodophone Microphone utilizing the silent discharge between a heated oxide-coated filament in air and another electrode. The discharge is modulated directly by the motion of the air particles in a passing sound wave. Also called ionophone

Catholyte

SeeCatolyte

Cation Ion in an electrolyte which carries a positive charge and which migrates toward the cathode under the influence of a potential gradient in electrolysis. It is the deposition of the cation in a primary cell which determines the positive terminal.

Catolyte That portion of the electrolyte of an electrolytic cell which is in the immediate neighborhood of the cathode. Also called catholyte

Catoptric element A component of an optical system that uses reflection, not refraction, in the formation of an image

Cauchy's dispersion formula μ= A + (B/λ2) + (C/λ21) + ... An empirical expression for the relation between the refractive index μ of a medium and the wavelength λ of light; A, B, and C are the constants for a given medium.

Cattle guard A series of pipes or bars spaced a few inches apart and placed across the road to discourage animals from entering or leaving a particular area. Similar to a Texas gate except a Texas gate always uses round pipes not flat bars.

Catwalk 1. A raised walkway running fore and aft from the

midship.

2.

Catwalk

An obsolete term for the section between the fender and the hood. On modern cars, this section does not exist at all. But on older cars (like the 1937 Cadillac), the fender was spaced a little way apart from the hood. The headlights were mounted toward the front of the catwalk or above it.

Caulk To fill seams in a wood deck with oakum or hammer the adjoining edges of metal together to stop leaks. Also spelled calk

Caulking The process of closing the spaces between overlapping riveted plates or other joints by hammering the exposed edge of one plate into intimate contact with the other. A filler material is also used esp. for closing (e.g., deck planking). Also called calking Also seeWeather Caulking

Caulking tool A tool, similar in form to a cold chisel but having a blunt edge, for deforming the metal rather than cutting it.

Causality The principle that an event cannot precede its cause.

Caustic curve A curve to which rays of light are tangential after reflection or refraction at another curve

Caustic embrittlement The intergranular corrosion of steel in hot alkaline solutions, e.g., in boilers

Caustic etching The removal of metal by dipping aluminum parts in caustic soda

Caution A period in racing in which track conditions are too hazardous for racing due to an accident or debris on the

racing surface. The cars remain in their racing positions behind the pace car until it is determined that it is safe to resume the race.

Caved Dented inward as in When the car hit me, it caved in the door.

Cavitation A condition in which a partial Vacuum forms around the blades or Impeller wheels of a Pump, reducing the pump's output because part of the pump blades lose contact with the liquid. It can be a problem in fuel and water pumps, fluid couplings, and torque converters. When severe, it can result in the erosion of the pump blades and other internal surfaces.

Cavity 1. An empty space in a body structure, either in a

box section or a double-skinned area. 2. A holder and contact for fuses

Cavity sealant A product made of oil, wax, and rust inhibitors which is painted or sprayed into a cavity to prevent rust and corrosion.

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "Da"

Da Db Dc Dd De Df Dg Dh Di Dj Dk Dl Dm Dn

Do Dp Dr Ds Dt Du Dv Dw Dy

D 1. Abbreviation for diesel. 2. Abbreviation for drive. 3. A mark on the output (live) terminal on a

generator (contrasts with F)

Dab A bicycle maneuver in which the rider puts a foot down in order to catch his balance on a difficult section of trail as in, "You will be disqualified if you dab on this course."

DAB 1. Acronym for Digital Audio Broadcast. 2. Acronym for Delayed Accessory Bus

Daewoo

Daewoo

A South Korean automobile manufacturer which produced Lanos (1999-2002), Nubira (1999-2002), Leganza (1999-2002).

Dagmar

Virginia Ruth Egnor"Dagmar"

1955 Cadillac "Dagmar" bumper

1. Large bullet-shaped protrusion on Bumpers of cars in the 1950s. It was named after the nickname of a buxom television star, Virginia Ruth Egnor (1921-2001).

2. Dagmar is an automobile of which only the 25-70 models of 1925-1948 are Classic cars.

Daihatsu

Daihatsu

A brand of automobile from the Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. which began in 1951 and included the following models Rocky (1987-98), Charade (1977-2000)

Daimler Also called Austro-Daimler. A vehicle brand of which the 1925-1948 models with required application are Classic cars. The 1949-53 DE-36 Custom Built models are Milestone cars. The 1949-53 2.5 Special Sport Convertible models are Milestone cars.

Dalton's law Vapor pressure created in a container by a mixture of gases is equal to sum of individual vapor pressures of the gases contained in mixture.

Dam SeeAir damHeat dam

Damage SeeAccident damageCenter section damageDirect damageEcological damageEngine damageFrame damageImpact damage

Indirect damageInternal damageStone chip damage

Damp 1. To reduce the oscillations of spring, carburetor

piston, etc. 2. To reduce the vibration in a crankshaft

Dampening belt A rubber belt wound around the outside of a brake drum or rotor prior to machining the drum or rotor. The belt dampens out vibrations that might affect the quality of the finished surface.

Damper

Damper

1. A Friction device sometimes called a Shock absorber. Used for controlling and damping spring Oscillations. The springs actually absorb road shocks; the dampers convert the energy imparted to the springs into thermal energy (by friction), which is dissipated to the atmosphere or the vehicle's Chassis. Dampers are distinguishable by the type of friction involved, mechanical or Hydraulic but most modern cars

used tubular-shaped Hydraulic shock absorbers. Because they affect up and down wheel motions, dampers are an important link in tuning a vehicle's ride and handling.

2. A movable plate which permits or restricts the flow of liquids or gasses.

Also SeeGas damperHarmonic balancerMass damperPiston damperPulsation damperSteering damperTorsional vibration damperVibration damper

Damper piston A piston in a cylinder whose movement is restricted by a liquid or gas, which thus also restricts the movement of another member to which it is connected.

Damper settings SeeSpring and damper settings

Damper springs Springs in a clutch plate providing a cushion against sudden loads due to abrupt engagement

Damper strut A suspension strut whose hub carrier is attached to the spring element rather than to the damper tube. Compare Macpherson strut

Damping 1. Cushioning of force. 2. The action of suspension to control the speed of

movement through its travel, usually by a piston running through oil and thus gives a smoother ride. It vastly improves that smoothness of ride offered.

Also SeeCompression dampingRebound Damping

Damping force The amount of cushioning applied by a shock absorber

Damping rate The amount of cushioning applied by a shock absorber

Damping restriction The bore of a small cross section in the fuel distributor of the K-Jetronic type system. It dampens sensor plate movement in the air flow sensor during high load and low rpm conditions

Dark 30 Trucker slang for nighttime as in "I am shutting this rig down right at dark 30."

Darktime Trucker slang for nighttime as in "I am shutting this rig down right at darktime."

Darracq A vehicle manufacturer in which only the 8-cyl. cars and 4-liter, 6-cyl. cars of 1925-1948 are Classic cars.

Dash SeeDashboard

Dash board SeeDashboard

Dashboard That part of the body containing the driving instruments, switches, etc. Also called the Instrument panel or dash panel or just dash.

Dashboard gearchange British term for Dash shifter

Dashboard plaque 1. A metal or plastic plate which is mounted to the

dash to indicate the brand, model, or series of vehicle.

2. A metal plate which is mounted to the dash to indicate an award for attending or winning a rally or other automotive event.

Dash design SeeWrapround dash designWraparound Dash Design

Dash panel 1. A structural panel with bracing across the width of

the car on the inside of the bulkhead below the windshield that provides the mounting locations of the dashboard. Also called the fire wall because it is the partition between the passenger compartment and the engine compartment.

2. The Bulkhead

Dash plaque 1. A metal or plastic plate which is mounted to the

dash to indicate the brand, model, or series of vehicle.

2. A metal plate which is mounted to the dash to indicate an award for attending or winning a rally or other automotive event.

Dashpot A unit using a Cylinder and Piston or a Cylinder and Diaphragm with a small vent hole, to Retard or slow down the movement of some part. Also seeAnti-stall Dashpot

Dash-pot (DP) a diaphragm that controls the rate at which the throttle closes

Dash shifter A shift lever and indicator which is located on the instrument panel either as a short lever or push buttons

Data SeeRadio Data System

Data Center SeeAlternative Fuels Data Center

Data Interchange SeeElectronic DataInterchange

Data link connector Connector(s) providing access and/or control of the vehicle information, operating conditions, and diagnostic information.

Data Sheet SeeMaterial Safety Data Sheets

Data System SeeRadio Data System

Date Code SeeBuild Date Code

Datsun

A model of automobile manufactured by Nissan

Datsun Truck

A model of truck manufactured by Nissan

Datsun Z

A model of automobile manufactured by Nissan

Davit A crane arm for handling lifeboats, stores, etc.

Day Cab A truck or tractor without a sleeper birth. Typically used for day trips or local routes.

Daylighting controls A system of sensors that assesses the amount of daylight and controls lighting or shading devices to maintain a specified lighting level. The sensors are sometimes referred to as photocells.

Day-night mirror A mirror which adjusts to prevent the glare from the headlights of following cars. The British term is dipping mirror.

Days' supply Number of days needed to sell all vehicles in inventory, based on the previous month's sales rate.

Daytime running lights (DRLs) A safety-oriented lighting system in which the headlights or other front lights are constantly on even during the day. They help to prevent possible accidents because oncoming traffic can be seen. December 1, 1989, Canada became the second country after Norway to require daytime running lights on all new passenger vehicles. In other countries the implementation of DRLs has had mixed response.

Dazzle The glare from the headlights of oncoming traffic which can momentarily blind a driver.

Dazzle mirror

SeeDimming mirror

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "Ea"

Ea Eb Ec Ed Ee Ef Eg Eh Ei Ej El Em En Eo Ep Eq Er Es Et Eu Ev Ew Ex Ey Ez

E Abbreviation for Economy Gear

E10 (Gasohol) Ethanol/gasoline mixture containing 10% denatured Ethanol and 90% gasoline, by volume.

E4OD

Acronym for Electronic 4-Speed Overdrive E85

A fuel containing a mixture of 85 percent Ethanol and 15 percent gasoline

E93 A fuel mixture containing 93% Ethanol, 5% Methanol and 2% Kerosene, by volume.

E95 A fuel containing a mixture of 95 percent Ethanol and 5 percent gasoline

EAC Acronym for Electronic Air Control -- replaced by AIR

EACV Acronym for Electronic air control valve. A valve used in fuel-injection system, usually computer controlled, that controls the amount of air bypassing the throttle during idle. The more air that bypasses the throttle, the higher the idle speed

EAC Valve An acronym for Electric air control valve. This is the GM version of a diverter air gulp valve, providing three functions in a single valve

the normal diverter valve function, i.e., it diverts air on rapid increase in manifold vacuum;

it relieves pressure by diverting air to the air cleaner when the air injection system pressure exceeds a certain set level;

being solenoid-controlled, it allows air to be diverted under any desired operating mode

Also SeeEAS valve

Eagle

Click image for books onEagle

A brand of automobile which was a carry-over from the AMC Eagle and later produced by Chrysler. It included the following models:

Wagon (1988) Medallion (1988-1989) Premier (1988-1992) Vista (1988-1992) Summit (1989-1996) Talon (1990-1998) 2000GTX (1991-1992) Vision (1993-1997)

EAIR Acronym for Electronic Secondary Air Injection

EAMA Acronym for Egyptian Automobile Manufacturers Association.

Ear A projection in the shape of an ear, usually as a lug or support for other components such as the brackets which are part of the fork cover and to which the headlight is mounted on a motorcycle. It is also a spoiler behind the rear windows to improve stability in side winds.Also SeeFork ear

EAR Acronym for estimated additional resources

Earles forks Long leading-link motorcycle forks, i.e., front suspension has a pivoting fork controlled by twin shock absorbers. Designed by Ernie Earles, they were used by many manufactures of motorcycles in the 1950s

Early fuel evaporation system (EFE) A system that heats the inlet manifold to provide a warm air/fuel mixture, reducing condensation and improving fuel evaporation, thus improving cold engine operation and reducing exhaust emissions. An EFE system operated by engine exhaust gas responds quicker to engine heat-up than systems heated by engine coolant; some EFE systems use an electric heater in the intake duct

Early termination A vehicle's depreciation is highest in the first few months after it leaves the dealer's lot. Since a lessee pays for depreciation in equal monthly payments, lessees who end a lease early have almost always used up more of a car's value than they've paid for. Therefore, lease contracts generally include penalties for early termination. Be aware of these penalties before you sign the lease contract and consider your ability to fulfill the contract.

Earnings SeeAverage weekly earnings

Ears on Trucker slang for CB is turned on as in "Any smokeys out there with their ears on?"

Earth British term for Ground

Earth connection British term for ground connection

Earth electrode British term for ground electrode

Earthmover SeeA-2 tire

Earth return British term for Ground return

Earth strap British term for Ground strap

Earth wire British term for Ground wire.

Earthwork Excavating, ditching, trenching, backfilling, embankment construction, grading, leveling, borrow, and other earth-moving work required in the construction of the project.

EAS Acronym for Electronic air suspension. Introduced in the 1993 model year on certain Range Rover models further to enhance standards of road noise insulation, ride and handling, the system substitutes air bags and a live-line pneumatic system, (i.e., an electrically driven compressor, air pressure reservoir and associated controls) for the steel coil springs used on the rest of the Land Rover model range. Logic- controlled by an electronic control unit, height sensors and driver controls, the system maintains front and rear self-leveling in the five height modes listed below. These notes show the versatility of the system and the purpose for which it was designed. However, for the casual driver, new to the vehicle, no prior knowledge or expertise is required; FAS will cycle automatically through appropriate modes according to prior programming. The driver need not even know EAS is fitted. On engine start-up EAS assumes the last selected ride height.

Easement Allows another person the right to use private land for a specific purpose. The most usual easements are those granted to public utility companies to run lines on or under private property. Other common easements are for storm drainage pipes and ditches, for walkways, and for access roads.

Ease up on the accelerator

The action of releasing the accelerator partially or completely in order to reduce the amount of fuel entering the engine and thus slow down the speed of the vehicle. Opposite of Depress the accelerator or Step on the accelerator.

Ease up on the gas pedal The action of releasing the gas pedal partially or completely in order to reduce the amount of fuel entering the engine and thus slow down the speed of the vehicle. Opposite of Depress the gas pedal or Step on the gas pedal..

Ease up on the throttle The action of releasing the twist-grip or throttle lever partially or completely in order to reduce the amount of fuel entering the engine and thus slow down the speed of the vehicle. Opposite of Engaging the throttle or Cranking on the throttle..

Ease up on the throttle pedal The action of releasing the throttle pedal partially or completely in order to reduce the amount of fuel entering the engine and thus slow down the speed of the vehicle. Opposite of Depress the throttle pedal or Step on the throttle pedal..

Easing fluid Penetrating oil

Easton American developer of high quality aluminum and carbon fiber Bicycle products.

East-west layout Transverse positioning of the engine across the car from left to right, found in many front-wheel drive designs. Also called Transverse engine. The opposite is North-south layout.

EAS Valve The valve in an emission control system governing the airflow from the air pump in connection with the EAC valve. When its solenoid is energized, air is directed into the exhaust ports to increase oxidation and accelerate catalytic converter heat-up to operating

temperature, and when its solenoid is de-energized, it switches airflow between the converter beds to help the oxidizing catalyst to decrease the CO and HC levels

Easy access cab

Easy access cab

A regular cab pickup with an extra fold-out section behind the door to allow you to have access to the things behind the front seat. Unlike an Extended cab, there is no seating behind the front seat.

Easy out A brand name for a Screw extractor.

Easy-out A brand name for a Screw extractor.

Eat To corrode and remove the metal from a body panel which has been subject to excessive rust

Eat away The effect of excessive rust which has seriously corroded a body panel so that there is almost no original metal left

Eat-em-up Trucker slang for Truck stop Cafe as in "It's been so long since I stopped at the eat-em-up that my stomach thinks my throat's been slashed."

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "Fa"

Fa Fb Fc Fd Fe Ff Fg Fh Fi Fl Fm Fn

F 1. Abbreviation for Fahrenheit. 2. Acronym for Field 3. Acronym for Field terminal

F4WD Acronym for Full Time Four Wheel Drive

Fabric Material made from textile or man-made fibers

Fabricate To make, usually by a relatively complex process or from several parts

Fabric body A simple form of lightweight bodywork in which a waterproof, cloth-backed material is stretched over a wooden framework popular around 1930 and still used later by DKW and even after WWII by Lloyd.

Fabric fatigue A term used with tires where the fabric degrades and results in tire cord breakdown due to repeated flexing and heat.

Fabric hood A British term for the fabric top of a convertible.

Fabric top

A soft top for a convertible made from a textile (such as canvas) as opposed to vinyl

Face 1. To shave the outer edges of a Bottom bracket

shell or the upper and lower ends of a Head tube to make them parallel with one another and square to the tube's centerline.

2. To machine a flat surface perpendicular to the axis at rotation on a lathe.

3. To remove metal from the end of a shaft or the face of a larger part, e.g., flywheel.

4. The front, visible, or working surface of a part (such as a valve) or a tool (such as a hammer).

Also SeeBearing faceCam faceConcave weld faceDoor faceFull face helmetGrille face panelInner attachment faceMechanical face sealMixer FaceOpen face helmetValve faceValve seat faceWeld face

Face cam A cam system in which the eccentrics are situated on the face of a rotating disc

Faced SeeSpot Faced

Face hammer SeeSoft face hammer

Face helmet

SeeFull face helmetOpen face helmet

Facelift Minor styling modifications made by the manufacturer to a car model which may be approaching the end of its useful life, intended to improve the appearance and thus boost sales with minimum cost, including such features as restyled Headlights, larger tail lights, added trim, altered grille, and spoilers

Facel Vega A vehicle brand of which the 1954-64 V-8 models are Milestone cars.

Face of weld The exposed surface of the Weld.

Face panel SeeGrille face panel

Face seal SeeMechanical face seal

Facia A front protective panel. Also spelled fascia.

Facing SeeClutch facingHinge facingLock facing

Fact Abbreviation for factory.

Factor SeeBlade Activity FactorBulking FactorCasing factorChill FactorConsumer factorsDead freight factorForm Factor

Horsepower-weight factorLagging Power FactorLeading Power FactorMoney factorPitting factorPower FactorQuality FactorReactivity Adjustment FactorSafety factorService Factor

Factory adjusted Something that is set by the manufacturer when the vehicle was built and is not intended to be changed

Factory options Optional features which may be installed by the manufacturer upon request. Aftermarket options are those which are installed by a garage or consumer after the vehicle has been built and delivered to the selling dealership.

Factory primer A Primer coat applied to new body panels in the factory for protection during storage, which in some cases has to be removed prior to painting because of paint compatibility problems

Factory racers Racing machines built and operated by the manufacturer

Fade A gradual reduction in efficiency. Also SeeBrake fadeGas fadeHeat fadeLining fadeMechanical fadeWater fade

Fader A device which adjusts the sound balance of front and rear speakers in a four-speaker layout

Fading 1. A loss of brightness or color in a paint finish. 2. Brake fade

Fahrenheit Thermometer on which the Boiling point of water is 212 degrees and the freezing point is 32 degrees above zero. To convert from Fahrenheit to Celsius, subtract 32 then multiply the result by 5 and divide by 9. To convert from Celsius to Fahrenheit, multiply by 9, then divide by 5. Now add 32 to the result.

Fahrenheit scale On a Fahrenheit thermometer, under standard atmospheric pressure, boiling point of water is 212 degrees and freezing point is 32 degrees above zero.

Fail-safe control Device which opens a circuit when the sensing element loses its pressure.

Failsafe system A system which remains safe even when part of it fails, such as a Dual-circuit brake system.

Failure SeeBrake failureIntercoat adhesion failureSecondary failure

Fair 1. To add a Fairing to a body. 2. A vehicle in restorable condition needing only

minor work to get all components working

Fairing 1. A protective shell or enclosure at the front of a

motorcycle which may house the Headlights and signal lights. It is designed to improve the aerodynamic performance of the machine and/or provide rider comfort and protection from the elements. These range from simple Plexiglas® shields to complex, encompassing body panels.

2. The plastic shield mounted on the front of a roof rack of a vehicle which is designed to reduce wind noise and improve fuel economy.

Fairlane

Click image for books onFord Fairlane

A model of automobile manufactured by Ford

Fairmont

A model of automobile manufactured by Ford

FAK Acronym for Freight of All Kinds describing mixed general freight in the back of a truck or trailer. Also seeLTL

Falcon

A model of automobile manufactured by Ford

False air

Any air leak that introduces unmeasured air into the intake system between the airflow meter and the intake valves is false

False neutral When you fail to engage gears and the transmission behaves as though it is in neutral, even though it is not

False flat An illusion where the operator or passengers in a motor vehicle or on a bicycle or motorcycle suppose that the road is flat, but in reality there is a slight climb.

Falsework A temporary supporting framework for a structure during construction or demolition.

Family car A car suitable for transporting a family, usually a four-door sedan, Hatchback, or Station wagon. It is becoming more popular for families to obtain a Minivan instead of a station wagon.

Fan

Fan

1. A fan is a rotating device with curved blades like a propeller. The primary fan in a vehicle is generally located behind the Radiator. Some electric fans may be placed in front of the radiator. It draws air through the radiator so that the Coolant loses its heat through the fins of the radiator. It is especially needed when the vehicle is idling or moving slowly. When the vehicle moves quickly, there may be no need for the fan. In some cases, the fan is automatically disengaged under those circumstances. Non-electric fans may be activated by a Fan belt driven by the engine, while electric fans are powered by the electrical system independent of the engine itself.

2. Other fans are located throughout the vehicle to push air from one location to another, especially for heating and Ventilation.

3. Radial or axial flow device used for moving or producing flow of gases.

4. The pattern emitted by a paint spray gun.

Also SeeBlower FanBooster FanCooling fanEvaporator FanHeater fanRadiator fanRadiator fan motor

Fan belt A flexible rubber belt that connects various Components in the engine compartment, i.e., Alternator, Water pump, Emission controls, Power steering pump, and Air conditioner Compressor. Also called Drive belt or Serpentine belt

Fan blade

A part of the fan projecting at an angle from the central hub, which draws the air through the radiator

Fan clutch A Viscous (fluid) drive coupling device connected to the center of the fan to permit variable engine fan speeds in relation to engine speeds. The Clutch engages and disengages the fan according to the engine temperature through a thermostat

Fan-cooled enclosure An electric motor housing that includes an integral fan to blow cooling air over the motor. It may be Totally enclosed or Explosion-proof

Fan cooling A type of air cooling where a blower is responsible for transporting the amount of air required for the cooling of the engine past the cooling fins, which in turn dissipate the heat stored in them to the current of air flowing past them

Fangled Nut SeeHeadset Star Fangled Nut

Fan motor SeeRadiator fan motor

Fanning The use of air pressure through a spray gun to speed up the drying of Primer or paint -- this is not recommended

Fan pulley A pulley on the hub of the radiator fan on which its driving belt runs

Farad Unit of electrical capacity; capacity of a condenser which, when charged with one coulomb of electricity, gives difference of potential of one volt.

Faraday experiment Silver chloride absorbs ammonia when cool and releases it when heated. This is basis on which some absorption refrigerators operate.

Farewell tour A year-long tribute or celebration for a retiring driver and his racing fans.

Farman A vehicle brand of which the 1925-1948 models with required application are Classic car.

Farm gasoline Gasoline that has been mixed with an identifying dye (usually purple) and sold for less in order to help farmers. In most places where this is practiced, it is illegal to use farm gasoline in non-farm vehicles. Also called purple gas

Farm out An action by a repair shop to send some repair work to a specialty shop. For instance you might bring your car to the shop for an engine tune-up and to replace a broken windshield. The shop can handle the tune-up, but will farm out the windshield repair to a glass shop.

Farm Products cargo Truck content of unprocessed items which were grown in or produced from agricultural activity on a farm or in a garden, nursery, or orchard. Articles manufactured or processed from these commodities are not included in this category.

Farm Tractor A low-speed high-torque vehicle used in farming. Typically with two small front wheels and two large rear wheels. Designed to pull other components in farming. In contrast with a Truck tractor

Farm use Petroleum products sales for use on the farm including use in tractors, irrigation pumps, other agricultural machinery, etc.)

FARS Acronym for Fatality Analysis Reporting System operated by the NHTSA

Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) operated by the NHTSA

Farthing

SeePenny-farthing

FAS Acronym for free alongside ship

Fascia Also spelled facia.

1. A front protective panel usually located below the Bumper.

2. In Britain it is the instrument panel.

Fast SeeLight-fast

Fastback

Fastback

A design of car where the roof gently slopes to the rear end of the car. Any automobile with a long, moderately curving, downward slope to the rear of the roof. This body style relates to an interest in streamlining and aerodynamics and has gone in and out of fashion at various times. Some (Mustangs for one) have grown quite popular. Others have tended to turn customers off. Certain fastbacks are, technically, two-door sedans or pillared coupes. Four-door fastbacks have also been produced. Many of these (such as Buick's late 1970s four-door Century sedan) lacked sales appeal. Fastbacks may or may not have a rear-opening hatch. Also SeeTwo-door fastback

Fast charger A battery charger which can charge a battery at a rate of 40 amps or more, used by garages and battery suppliers

Fastener

Also SeeLift-the-dot fastenerNylon fastenerSnap fastener

Fastener length SeeLength of Fastener

Fast food freezing Method that uses liquid nitrogen or carbon dioxide to turn fresh food into long lasting frozen food. It is often referred to as cryogenic food freezing and freeze drying.

Fast idle When the engine is cold, it needs to run faster to keep it from stalling. A cam on the Carburetor forces the Throttle open a little more when the Choke is engaged.

Fast idle cam A cam in a Carburetor which opens the throttle slightly when the choke is brought into operation, either automatically or mechanically

Fast idle screw A screw on a Carburetor for adjusting the speed of the fast idle

Fast idle solenoid A Solenoid operating in conjunction with an automatic choke to open the throttle slightly when the choke is in operation

Fast lane The outside lane (far left lane in North America, etc. or the far right lane in Britain, Australia, etc.). Also called the passing lane

FAS value Acronym for Free alongside ship value. The value of a commodity at the port of exportation, generally including the purchase price plus all charges incurred in

placing the commodity alongside the carrier at the port of exportation in the country of exportation.

Fathom A measure of length, equivalent to 6 linear feet, used for depths of water and lengths of anchor chain

Fatigue A condition of a material, especially a metal, causing loss of elasticity and tendency to fracture after long or repeated stress, even though the stress may be less than that which would cause failure under static conditions.Also SeeFabric fatigueMetal fatigue

Fatigue corrosion A condition caused by repeated stress in a corrosive atmosphere.

Fatigue life When a metal component is subjected to repeated bending or service action it will eventually break. The number of bends is its fatigue life.

Fatigue limit The maximum stress that a material can endure for an infinite number of stress cycles without breaking

Fatigue resistance The maximum stress that a material can endure for a given time without breaking

Fatigue strength 1. The maximum stress that a material can endure

for a given time without breaking 2. The stress to which a metal can be subjected for a

specified number of cyclic changes of stress. 3. The endurance of a fastener showing the load it

can accept without breaking under repeated load cycles.

Fatigue test

A test on a material to determine the range of stress it will stand without failing, by subjecting it to rapidly varying stresses to establish its fatigue limit

Fat load Trucker slang for overload, carrying more weight than local state law allows as in "Better not be running at fat load, cause the coops are open and checking ground pressure this morning."

Fault A defect which is either inherent in the vehicle as built (manufacturing fault) or which occurs during running.Also SeeIntermittent faultNo fault insurance

Fault codes SeeTrouble code

Fault diagnosis The tracing of faults or error codes which can be determined by the in-built diagnostic system and an engine analyzer

Fault insurance SeeNo fault insurance

Fault memory A part of the electronic control unit and of the diagnostic system that stores error codes to assist the mechanic in diagnosing problems.

Fault reader A device used in conjunction with the vehicle's diagnostic system, providing a read-out of status of the various components

Faying surface The inner mating or contacting surfaces of a joint; common area of two surfaces that are bonded together with an Adhesive

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "Ga"

Ga Gc Gd Ge Gh Gi Gl Gm Gn Go Gp Gr Gs Gt Gu Gv Gw Gy

g A unit of measurement for Lateral acceleration, or road-holding. One g is equivalent to 981 cm (32.2 feet) per second every second, the rate at which any object accelerates when dropped at sea level. If a car were cornering at 1.0 g -- a figure that very few production cars are able to approach -- the driver's body would be pushing equally hard against the side of the seat as against the bottom of it. Most fast sedans accelerate about 0.8 g.

G7 Seven industrial countries consisting of the United States, Japan, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy and Canada, whose leaders have met at annual economic summits since 1975 to coordinate economic policies.

GA Acronym for Gage or Gauge

Gage A standard SAE designation of wire sizes, expressed in AWG (American Wire Gage). The larger the gage

number, the smaller the wire. Metric wire sizes are expressed in cross-sectional area, which is expressed in square millimeters. Sometimes the spelling gauge is also used to designate wire size. However, it is becoming standard to use gage for wire size and gauge for instruments. Americans often use gage for instruments.

Gage tubing SeePlain gauge tubing

Gain SeeAvailable Power GainProcessing GainSteering gain

Gain Control SeeAutomatic Gain ControlAutomatic Quiet Gain Control

Gaiter A dust boot

Gal. Abbreviation for gallon. A US gallon (3.78543 liters) (231 cubic inches) is 20% smaller than an Imperial gallon (4.54609 liters).

Galaxie

GALFAN® A trademark for a special type of hot-dip galvanized steel sheet with a coating consisting of a zinc alloy containing 5% aluminum and rare earths

Gallery

A Channel or tube usually found within the engine block for the transfer of fluid or gas. Also seeEngine Oil GalleryOil Gallery

Galling A condition that takes place when two metals or fasteners stick together and cannot be easily loosened. In tightening fasteners, for example, pressure builds on threads as metals rub against each other, and the passive film preventing corrosion on stainless may not form due to lack of oxygen. Also called Seizing

Gallon A US gallon (3.785 liters) is 20% smaller than an Imperial gallon (4.546 liters). Also seeImperial GallonMiles Per GallonStandard U.S. GallonU.S. Petroleum Gallon

Galvalume® Trademark for a special type of hot-dip galvanized steel sheet with a coating consisting of 55% aluminum, 43.4% zinc and 1.6% silicon

Galvanic Concerned with an electrical current

Galvanic action Wasting away of two unlike metals due to electrical current passing between them. The action is increased in the presence of moisture.

Galvanic cell Cell which converts chemical energy into electrical energy by irreversible chemical reactions

Galvanic corrosion 1. Corrosion due to the action of a galvanic cell. 2. An accelerated degree of corrosion occurring when

two different metals are in contact with moisture, particularly sea water. All metals have what is termed a specific electric potential, so that low

level electric current flows from one metal to another. A metal with a higher position in the galvanic series will corrode sacrificially rather than one with a lower position, meaning stainless, for example, will corrode before gold. The further apart the metals on the chart, the more electric current will flow and the more corrosion will occur. No serious galvanic action will occur by combining the same metals, only dissimilar ones. To prevent galvanic corrosion, use insulation, paint, or coatings when separating dissimilar metals; or put the metal to be protected next to a metal which is not important in the assembly, so it can corrode sacrificially. Metals listed first will corrode due to galvanic reaction before those at end of paragraph: magnesium, zinc, aluminum 1100, cadmium, aluminum 2024, steel and iron, lead, tin brass, copper, bronze, monel, 304 and 316 stainless (passive), silver, titanium, graphite, gold.

Also seeBimetallic corrosion

Galvanize The action of plating with zinc and/or lead by hot dipping or Electrodeposition to protect from rust.Also SeeHot-dip galvanize

Galvanized body SeeFully galvanized body

Galvanized coating Zinc or zinc based coating applied by galvanizing

Galvanize differentially The action of obtaining different coating thicknesses on the two sides of the sheet of iron.

Galvanizing The application of zinc coatings on the surface of a metal, by hot dipping or Electrodeposition.

Also SeeCold galvanizingDry galvanizingElectrolytic galvanizingHigh-build galvanizingMechanical platingRack galvanizingSpin galvanizingWet galvanizing

Galvanizing bath A bath for hot-dip galvanizing or Electrogalvanizing

Galvannealing A thermal process which gives improved adhesion to hot-dip galvanized steel sheets

Galvanometer An instrument used to measure the pressure, amount of, and direction of an electric Current. Also seeBallistic Galvanometer

Gamma layer Part of the zinc-iron alloy layer on hot-dip galvanized iron and steel containing 21-28% iron

Gangway A narrow hanging staircase used by persons entering or leaving a vessel from the pier or boat

Gantry

Gantry

1. A structure with an overhead beam, used for lifting out an engine. Compare Engine hoist.

2. Overhead steel structures across the highway to hold up a traffic sign

Gap 1. The distance between the center terminal

(Electrode) and the outer terminal (Electrode) through which the Spark must travel in a Spark plug.

Also SeeSpark plug gapAir gap.

2. The distance between the points in contact Breaker points.

Also SeePoint gap.

3. The distance between two vehicles traveling down the road as they go in the same direction. Generally a safe distance is a minimum of two seconds behind the vehicle in front.

4. The distance between the two ends of Piston rings.

Also SeeAir gapAlignment GapAnnular gapBand GapBuncher GapContact breaker gapDoor gapElectrode gapPiston ring end gapPoint gapPoints gap

Ring gapSpark air gapSpark gapSpark plug gapSurface gap

Gap bridging A formation of carbon or other deposits across the Spark plug gap which shorts out the plug

Gap coil tester SeeSpark gap coil tester

Gap insurance This covers you against additional losses not covered by your auto insurance in the case of an accident in which the vehicle is totaled. Most auto insurance will cover the actual cash value of the vehicle and what is owed on the lease contract, including early termination fees. Gap insurance is most important in the early years of a lease when the difference between the value of the car and what is owed are greatest. Some manufacturers now include Gap insurance in their leases.

Gapper A device for determining the distance between two metal contacts.Also SeeFeeler gauge.

Gapping Adjusting the distance between the Electrodes of a Spark plug or the points of contact Breaker points.Also SeePlug gapping.

Gap spark plug SeeSurface gap spark plug

Gap style The arrangement or shape of the spark plug electrodes

Garage 1. A building in which a motor vehicle is kept.

2. The premises on which motor vehicles are repaired or serviced and/or where fuel is sold.

3. To keep in a garage

Garaged A reference to a vehicle which is kept in a garage, as in My car is always garaged. The abbreviation in advertisements is gar'd.

Garage jack A powerful hydraulic jack used in garages

Garages SeeMorris Garages

Garbage Trucker slang for produce (bananas, lettuce etc.) as in "I sure am glad I'm not takin' this load of garbage to Hunt's Point."

Garbage truck A cargo body style often with hydraulic packing mechanisms or hydraulic arms for lifting dumpsters. Included are roll-offs, vehicles used for transporting refuse containers. Roll-offs have rails or a flat bed and a hoist for loading and unloading the refuse container. Also called refuse truck

Garbage wagon A scornful term used by some outlaw bikers to describe a Touring motorcycle

Garboard strake The strake of bottom shell plating adjacent to the keel plate.

Gar'd An abbreviation used in classified advertisements for garaged

Garden gate A nickname for the plunger-sprung frames used on Norton motorcycles from the late 1930s

Garnish molding The upper molding on a door panel used to retain the door trim panel to the door assembly

Also seeDoor Garnish Molding

Garter spring A long, thin coil spring with ends joined to form a ring.

Gas 1. A vapor having no particles or droplets of liquid. In

physics, a gas is a substance which possesses perfect molecular mobility and, unlike a liquid or a solid, the ability to expand indefinitely

2. A non-solid material. It can be compressed. When heated, it will expand; and when cooled, it will contract (such as air.)

Also SeeHot gas weldingInert gas system

3. A common term for Gasoline. The British term is petrol.

Also SeeUnleaded gas

4. A term for LPG or Propane.

Also SeeBottled gasCompressed natural gasOxygen-LP gas flameOxyhydrogen gas

5. A term referring to the Exhaust gases.

Also SeeExhaust emissions.End gasExhaust gas recirculationExhaust gas analyzerExhaust gas purification systemExhaust gas

Raw exhaust gasSpent gas

6. A non-solid, non-liquid combustible energy source that includes natural gas, coke-oven gas, blast-furnace gas, and refinery gas.

7. Fuel gas, such as natural gas, undiluted liquefied petroleum gases (vapor phase only), liquefied petroleum gas-air mixtures, or mixtures of these gases.

8. To apply the throttle.

Also SeeDepress the gas pedalEase up on the gas pedalPumping the gas pedal

Also seeAssociated-Dissolved Natural GasBiomass GasDelivered GasDry Natural GasExhaust GasesFlash GasGreenhouse GasesHot GasLandfill GasLiquefied Natural GasLiquefied Petroleum GasLiquefied Refinery GasesLow BTU GasManufactured GasNative GasNatural GasNonassociated Natural GasNoncondensable GasNonhydrocarbon GasesNon-Methane Organic GasesProcessed GasRadiatively Active Gases

Refinery GasReformate GasResidual Exhaust GasesResidue GasSalable Natural GasSour GasStill GasSweet GasSynthetic Natural GasUnprocessed GasVent GasesWet Natural Gas

Gas Act SeeNatural Gas Act

Gasahol SeeGasohol

Gas-Air Mixture SeeLp Gas-Air Mixture

Gas analyzer SeeExhaust gas analyzer

Gas-arc SeeInert gas-arc welding

Gas-arc welding SeeInert gas-arc welding

Gas Association SeeCanadian Gas Association

Gas Baffle SeeLoad-Bearing Flue Gas BaffleNon-Load-Bearing Flue Gas Baffle

Gas burner

Competition vehicle with engine set up to operate on standard pump gasoline instead of an Alcohol, nitro, etc., mixture. Also called gasser.

Gas-burner System SeeAtmospheric Gas-burner System

Gas Bypass SeeHot Gas Bypass

Gas cap

Gas cap

A vented covering on the top of the tube leading to the fuel tank. Also called fuel cap.

Gas chamber A pressure chamber of a single-tube shock absorber

Gas Check Valve SeeExhaust Gas Check Valve

Gas cleanup Removal of a contaminant from gaseous feed streams by a mechanical or chemical process.

Gas damper A gas shock absorber

Gas Defrost

SeeHot Gas Defrost

Gas discharge headlight A motor vehicle Headlight with a gas discharge lamp

Gas discharge lamp A discharge lamp in which light is generated by gas discharge

Gas discharge light A discharge light in which light is generated by gas discharge

Gas-driven generator A generator which turned by a gas engine.

Gaseous Referring to gas

Gaseous discharge lamp A gas discharge lamp

Gaseous discharge headlight A Gas discharge light

Gases SeeCFC gasesExhaust gasesGreenhouse gasesResidual exhaust gases

Gases in Bulk cargo Pressurized tanker item. Examples: Aerosol propellant, butane, CO2, LPG, nitrogen, and propane.

Gas fade Brake fade caused by hot gases and dust particles that reduce friction between the brake linings and drum or rotor under hard, prolonged braking

Gas filter A device for screening the Gasoline to remove the impurities.Also SeeFuel filter.

Gas flame SeeOxygen-LP gas flame

Gas flow The flow of the air/fuel mixture or the exhaust gases in an engine

Gas Forced-air SeeHeat Pipe Gas Forced-air

Gas forced-air heat pipe High efficiency gas furnace that uses vertical liquid filled pipes. The pipes are heated by a burner at their base, and the liquid boils and vaporizes within the pipe. The furnace blower circulates air over the pipes for heating.

Gas Furnace SeeHigh Efficiency Gas Furnace

Gas gage SeeGas gauge.

Gas gauge An instrument, usually located on the Dashboard or center console, which indicates the amount of fuel in the Fuel tank. Most gauges have a Needle which fluctuates between E (empty) and F (full). Others show a digital readout of how many gallons or liters left in the tank. Also called fuel gauge.

Gas guzzler A vehicle which uses a lot of gasoline per distance traveled.

Gas Hydrates SeeNatural Gas Hydrates

Gasification A method for converting coal, petroleum, biomass, wastes, or other carbon-containing materials into a gas that can be burned to generate power or processed into chemicals and fuels.

Gasket

Gasket

A material made of Asbestos, cardboard, cork, paper, rubber, or soft metal placed between two metal parts to insure proper sealing. Also SeeBase gasketBlown head gasketFoam GasketHead gasketHollow-tube GasketLiquid gasketMagnetic GasketOil pan gasketReservoir Diaphragm GasketRocker cover gasketShim-type Head GasketsValve cover gasket

Gasket, foam Joint sealing material made of rubber or plastic foam strips.

Gasket kit A collection of gaskets required to overhaul an engine or part of an engine.Also SeeBottom end gasket kit

Carburetor kitTop end gasket kit

Gasket punch A tool used to cut out holes in a sheet of gasket material to shape a gasket to size.

Gasket scraper

Gasket scraper

A scraper with a sharp chisel edge for removing old gasket material from a surface before installing a new gasket\

Gas Liquids SeeNatural Gas Liquids

Gas metal-arc welding Welding using a continuously fed consumable electrode and a shielding gas. Also called sigma welding.

Gas, noncondensable Gas which will not form into a liquid under the operating pressure-temperature conditions.

Gasohol A blend of Gasoline and ethanol Alcohol or methanol that usually is 90 to 94.3% Gasoline and 5.7 to 10% ethanol. This term was used in the late 1970s and early 1980s but has been largely replaced by terms such as E10, Super Unleaded Plus Ethanol or Unleaded Plus Ethanol. Ethanol is the Alcohol found in intoxicating beverages. It may attack rubber and plastic parts of Fuel systems not designed to handle alcohol-blended fuels, but it is not poisonous to human beings like wood alcohol or Methanol.

Gas oil European and Asian designation for No. 2 heating oil and No. 2 diesel fuel.

Also seeAutomotive Gas OilLight Gas Oils

Gasoil Designation for No.2 heating oils and diesel fuels. A clean distillate fuel oil.

Gasoline A Hydrocarbon fuel used in an Internal combustion engine. Gasoline is refined from crude oil which is made up of fossilized plant and animal remains. In Britain it is called petrol.Also SeeAviation GasolineCasing Head GasolineEthyl gasolineLead-free gasolineLeaded gasolineLeaded Premium GasolineMidgrade GasolineMotor GasolineNatural GasolineOxygenated gasolinePremium gasolinePump gasolinePurple GasolineReformulated gasolineRegular gasolineRegular Grade GasolineUnleaded gasolineUnleaded Midgrade GasolineUnleaded Premium GasolineUnleaded Regular Gasoline

Gasoline And Isopentane SeeNatural Gasoline And Isopentane

Gasoline Blending SeeMotor Gasoline Blending

Gasoline blending components

Naphthas which will be used for blending or compounding into finished aviation or motor gasoline (e.g., straight-run gasoline, Alkylate, Reformate, Benzene, Toluene, and Xylene). Excludes oxygenates (alcohols, ethers), Butane, and Pentanes plus Also seeMotor Gasoline Blending Components

Gasoline grades The classification of gasoline by octane ratings. Each type of gasoline (conventional, oxygenated, and reformulated) is classified by three grades - Regular, Midgrade, and Premium. Note: Gasoline sales are reported by grade in accordance with their classification at the time of sale. In general, automotive octane requirements are lower at high altitudes. Therefore, in some areas of the United States, such as the Rocky Mountain States, the octane ratings for the gasoline grades may be 2 or more octane points lower.

1. Regular gasoline: Gasoline having an antiknock index, i.e., octane rating, greater than or equal to 85 and less than 88. Note: Octane requirements may vary by altitude.

2. Midgrade gasoline: Gasoline having an antiknock index, i.e., octane rating, greater than or equal to 88 and less than or equal to 90. Note: Octane requirements may vary by altitude.

3. Premium gasoline: Gasoline having an antiknock index, i.e., octane rating, greater than 90. Note: Octane requirements may vary by altitude.

Gasoline Injection SeeElectronic Gasoline Injection

Gasoline Prices SeeRetail Motor Gasoline Prices

Gasoline pump A device which pulls fuel from an underground storage tank into a vehicle's Gas tank.

Gas Oxygen Sensor SeeExhaust Gas Oxygen SensorHeated Exhaust Gas Oxygen Sensor

Gas pedal The device actuated by the operator's foot for increasing or decreasing the amount of fuel entering the Combustion chamber. Also called throttle pedal or accelerator.Also SeeAcceleratorDepress the gas pedalEase up on the gas pedalPumping the gas pedalStep on the gas pedalTake foot off the gas pedal

Gas pockets Cavities in weld metal caused by trapped gas.

Gas Policy Act Of 1978 SeeNatural Gas Policy Act Of 1978

Gas pressure regulator A device for controlling a selected outlet gas pressure.

Gas prop A gas-assisted strut like a hatch strut, hood strut, or tailgate strut

Gas pump

Gas pump

A device at a Service station which pulls gasoline from a storage tank (usually located underground) into the vehicle's Gas tank. Commercial units also record the amount of fuel dispensed as well as the cost.

Gas purification SeeExhaust gas purification system

Gas Purification System SeeExhaust Gas Purification System

Gas recirculation SeeExhaust gas recirculation

Gas Recirculation System SeeExhaust Gas Recirculation System

Gas Recirculation Valve SeeExhaust Gas Recirculation Valve

Gasser A vehicle which burns normal Gasoline instead of racing fuel. Also SeeGas burner.

Gas shock A gas-assisted shock absorber

Gas shock absorber A gas-assisted shock absorber

Gassing The small hydrogen bubbles rising to the top of the Battery Electrolyte during Battery charging.

Gas spring A pressurized, nitrogen-filled sphere, used in Hydragas and hydropneumatic suspension systems

Gas station

A place where gasoline is dispensed. Gas system

SeeInert gas system

Gas tank

Gas tank

The container for holding or storing fuel. Also called Fuel tank.

Gas-tight Sealed to prevent the passage of gas

Gas to liquid (GTL) A process that combines the carbon and hydrogen elements in natural gas molecules to make synthetic liquid petroleum products, such as diesel fuel.

Gas Tube System SeePerimeter Hot Gas Tube System

Gas tungsten-arc welding Welding using a tungsten electrode and a shielding gas.

Gas turbine

Gas Turbine

An internal-combustion rotating engine with one main moving part the Rotor with pinwheel-like blades attached. Air is compressed by the first rows of blades and delivered to the combustion chambers, from which the exhaust is directed to pass the remaining blades and to generate the power. Power is extremely smooth due to the absence of explosions and Reciprocating parts.

Gas turbine Engine SeeGas turbine

Gas valve Device in a pipeline for starting, stopping, or regulating flow of gas.

Gas Vehicle SeeNatural Gas Vehicle

Gas vent A passageway, composed of listed factory-built components assembled in accordance with the terms of listing, for conveying flue gases from gas utilization equipment or their vent connectors to the outside atmosphere.

Gas welding A welding process widely used in body repair shops (now being gradually replaced by MIG welding). Also called oxyacetylene welding.Also SeeHot gas weldingMetal Inert Gas Welding

Gate 1. The slotted guide for the Gearshift of an Internal

combustion engine. 2. The slotted guides in a shift drum. 3. A Tailgate.

Also SeeAnchor GateBalance GateGarden GateJ gate transmission shifterShift gateTexas gateWaste gate

Gate transmission SeeJ gate transmission shifter

Gate transmission shifter SeeJ gate transmission shifter

Gating A device that permits a wave to pass another wave in a circuit in specific intervals

GATT Acronym for General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade.

Gauge This is the British and Canadian spelling while in the United States it is sometimes spelled without the u (gage). It is becoming standard to use gage for wire size and gauge for an instrument.

1. An instrument or meter that registers the quantity of a substance

Also SeeAmmeterAuxiliary GaugeBoost gaugeBowden GaugeFuel gaugeGas gaugeHydrostatic GaugeIn-dash gaugeLow-pressure GaugeLow Side Gauge

Oil gaugeOil level gaugeOil pressure gaugeOil temperature gaugeOutdoor Temperature GaugeOutside temperature gaugePounds Per Square Inch GaugeTemperature gaugeTurbo gaugeVacuum gaugeVoltmeterWater temperature gauge

2. A tool for measuring Clearances, pressures, sizes, etc.

Also SeeAdjusting gaugeB & S gaugeBeta Thickness GaugeBirmingham GaugeBirmingham Wire GaugeBridge GaugeStandard Wire GaugeBroad GaugeBrown and Sharpe Wire GaugeBuckley GaugeCaliper gaugeCompression gaugeCompression testerDepth gaugeDial gaugeDisc brake gaugeDraft GaugeFeeler gaugeFrame gaugeHigh-pressure GaugeIgnition gaugeMicron GaugePressure Gauge

Screw pitch gaugeSighting point gaugeSpark plug gaugeStep Feeler GaugeThrottle gaugeTire gaugeTire pressure gaugeTram gaugeTread depth gaugeVernier gaugeWheel alignment gauge

3. A measurement of tubing.

Also SeePlain gauge tubing

Gauge box A container which measures a known quantity of material such as cement, sand, or rocks for testing or making mixtures

Gauge, compound Instrument for measuring pressures both above and below atmospheric pressure.

Gauge, high-pressure Instrument for measuring pressures in range of 0 psia to 500 psia (101.3 kPa to 3600 kPa).

Gauge, low-pressure Instrument for measuring pressures in range of 0 psia to 50 psia 10 kPa to 350 kPa.

Gauge, manifold 1. Chamber device constructed to hold both

compound and high-pressure gauges. Valves control flow of fluids through it.

2. The one essential diagnostic tool required for every air conditioner service procedure. A typical gauge set includes high and low side gauges and valves for checking, measuring and controlling pressure and vacuum, and a third valve for

controlling discharging, evacuation and charging procedures. Also called gauge set

Gauge port Opening or connection provided for a service technician to install a gauge.

Gauge, pressure Reading in pounds per square inch (psi) above atmospheric pressure.

Gauge set SeeGauge, manifold

Gauge tubing SeePlain gauge tubing

Gauge, vacuum Instrument used to measure pressures below atmospheric pressure.

Gauntlet A long-sleeved leather glove used by motorcyclists to prevent wasps from flying up the sleeve, as one did to me.

GAWR Acronym for Gross Axle Weight Rating -- Maximum weight an axle is rated to carry by the manufacturer. Includes both the weight of the axle and the portion of a vehicle's weight carried by the axle.

Gaylord A vehicle brand of which the 1955-57 models are Milestone cars.

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "Ha"

HzH

1. A letter rating for tires to indicate that they are theoretically rated for Speeds up to 210 kph (130 mph), as in P185HR13. The next higher rating is V and the one lower rating is T.

2. Système International (SI) symbol for Henry 3. Symbol for Hydrogen

H2O Acronym for Water

Habits SeeDriving habits

HAC Acronym for High Altitude Compensator

Hackney Carriage Black taxis in London.

Hacksaw

Hacksaw

A tool for cutting metal, with a narrow blade attached to a frame

HAI 1. Acronym for Heated air inlet system 2. Acronym for hot air intake

Hair SeeHelmet hair

Hairline crack A tiny stress crack which forms due to strains in the material or extreme temperature differences; as

opposed to crazing, a single crack of this type will often occur alone

Hair pin

Hair pin

A roadway with several sharp turns usually on an hill.

Hair pin cotter

Hair pin cotter

A securing device shaped somewhat like a U in which the legs have a series of waves or bends. Insert one leg into the hole of a rod so that the bent leg will encircle the rod.

Also SeeHitch pin clip where one leg is straight

Hairpin valve spring A valve spring formed from a wire or metal strip bent to form two levers emanating from a half-loop or coil; used on some classic cars and motorcycles

HAIS Acronym for Heated Air Intake System (Chrysler)

Half SeeCrankcase half

Half dog point The same as a dog point but half as long; used on short screws for the same purposes as the dog point, but in a shallower hole or slot.

Half dog point socket set screw A headless socket set screw threaded the entire length. It has a hexagonal drive at one end and a protruding tip with a flat surface at the other end.

Half-life SeeBiological Half-life

Half link

Half link

Every Chain has Rollers which are connected by side plates or Keepers. When counting the number of links in a length of Chain, it is easiest to count the number of side plates on one side of the Chain and multiplying the number by two. When a Chain needs to be an odd number, a half link is included. The term half link is a misnomer. It should be called a single link. The side

plate on a half link is not flat but has a step down shape. For this reason, it is called an offset link.

Half moon key SeeHalf-moon key.

Half-moon key

Half-moon key

A driving key serving the same purpose as the regular key but it is shaped somewhat like a half circle. Also called a Woodruff key.

Half-moon slip joint pliers A multiple-slip joint pliers with groove joint

Half-round body file A body file with domed file surface for working reverse-crowned panels

Half-round file A special file that's flat on one side and convex on the other

Half shaft A rotating shaft that transmits power from the final drive unit to one side of the drive wheels, but usually refers to the two shafts that connect the road wheels to the final drive with Independent rear suspension or Front-wheel drive as opposed to the axle shafts of a live rear axle. Also called an Axleshaft

Half step gearing SeeHalf-step gearing.

Half-step gearing

A Gearing system of a Bicycle in which a shift between Chainrings in a double chainring set is equivalent to half a gear step on the Freewheel.

Halftrack

Halftrack

Vehicle with caterpillar tracks over the rear wheels to provide motive power but steered by normal front wheels

Half wave rectifier SeeRectifier.

Half-wave rectifier SeeRectifier.

Halide Lamp SeeMetal Halide Lamp

Halide refrigerants Family of refrigerants containing halogen chemicals.

Halide torch Type of torch used to safely detect halogen refrigerant leaks in system.

Hall effect In electrical conductors where electric current flows perpendicular to a magnetic field, a so-called Hall voltage is produced perpendicular to the direction of current flow and to the magnetic field

Also seeQuantum Hall Effect

Hall-effect ignition system Transistorized ignition with Hall generator

Hall-effect sensor A Hall generator

Hall-effect switch A Hall vane switch

Hall element A pulse generator that makes use of the Hall effect and consists of a rotor with vanes, a conductive element with a permanent magnet and the Hall IC. Also called Hall generator. When the air gap is unobstructed, a Hall voltage is generated; when a vane stands in the air gap, the magnetic flux cannot reach the Hall IC. Hall generators used as ignition pulse generators have as many vanes and Hall windows as the engine has cylinders, dwell being determined by the width of the vanes. Hall generators used in electronic-map ignition systems to provide the engine starting signal have only one Hall window

Hall generator A pulse generator that makes use of the Hall effect and consists of a rotor with vanes, a conductive element with a permanent magnet and the Hall IC. Also called Hall element.Also SeeTransistorized ignition with Hall generator

Hall IC A solid state device with the actual Hall generator and integrated circuits for voltage amplification and potential reversal, producing the pulses for the control unit

Hall module A Hall IC

Hall sensor A Hall generator.Also SeeTransistorized coil ignition with Hall sensor

Hall vane switch A switch that makes use of the Hall effect. When the air gap is free, a magnetic field acts on the Hall IC and the Hall voltage reaches its maximum (high). When a rotor vane obstructs the air gap, shielding the Hall IC from the magnetic flux, the Hall voltage reaches its minimum (low). The signal produced is a square wave

Hall voltage SeeHall effect

Halogen One of the chemical elements fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, or astatine.Also SeeQuartz halogen bulb

Halogenated substances A volatile compound containing halogens, such as chlorine, fluorine or bromine.

Halogen bulb A bulb containing a trace of a halogen, such as iodine. A halogen bulb gives off a brighter light.Also SeeQuartz halogen bulb

Halogen headlamps Tungsten-halogen bulb used in sealed beam unit or as separate bulb in composite headlamp

Halogen headlight High intensity reflector with inner halogen bulb, precision lens, and 3-prong attachment. Don't touch the glass of a halogen bulb with your fingers. The oil left on the glass will cause the glass to break or reduce the life of the bulb. If the glass is accidentally touched, it may be cleaned with methylated spirits or rubbing alcohol on a soft cloth

Halogen lamp A type of Incandescent lamp that lasts much longer and is more efficient than the common incandescent lamp. The lamp uses a halogen gas, usually iodine or

bromine, that causes the evaporating tungsten to be redeposited on the filament, thus prolonging its life.

Halogens Substance containing fluorine, chlorine, bromine, and iodine.

Hamlin switch A suspended-mass-type sensor used in new air bag systems; avoids the ecological problems associated with the earlier mercury-type switches

Hammer 1. To hit with a hammer. 2. To ride hard and fast. 3. Someone who rides hard and fast. 4. Trucker slang for the accelerator pedal as in

"When we get past this parking lot we can really hit the hammer."

5. A hand tool with a head (usually metal) and a handle. It is used to force one item against or through another. Several types of hammers are available

Also SeeAir hammerBall-pane HammerBall peen hammerBall pien hammerBlacksmith hammerBody hammerBoilermakers HammerBrass hammerBricklayer hammerBumping hammerChipping hammerClaw hammerClub hammerCopper-faced hammerCurved pein and finishing hammerFender bumping hammerFinish hammer

Grooving hammerMachinists' hammerNail hammerNylon hammerPanel hammerPeen hammerPein hammerPick and finishing hammerPick hammerPlanishing hammerProspector's pickReverse curve panel hammerRipping hammerRiveting hammerRotary hammerRubber malletShingler's hammerShrinking hammerSledge hammerSlide hammerSoft face hammerTack hammerTile setter hammerTinner's hammerTwo-way hammerWater HammerWelding hammerWide-nose peen hammerWing bumping hammerWood mallet

Hammer down Trucker slang for driving fast as in "We got a southbound smokey with the hammer down".

Hammer drill Electric hand drill that hammers as well as rotates

Hammerform A shaped wooden block used in panel beating, on which a desired form is produced by hammering

Hammer welding Metalworking technique that includes gas welding, preferably without the use of filler rod, followed by hammer and Dolly work on the welded joint to smooth out any remaining imperfections

Hand SeeLeft hand gear leverLeft hand monkey wrenchLeft hand threadRight hand threadRight hand turn signalThird hand

Handbook A manual which gives instructions or information.Also SeeOwner's handbookOwner's manual

Handbrake A brake operated by a hand lever. It may also refer to the Parking brake.

Handbrake turn 180° turn achieved by applying the handbrake (acting on the rear wheels) hard when the vehicle is starting to turn

Handbrake warning light A light on the instrument panel that illuminates when the handbrake is applied; on most new cars it has been superseded by a multifunction brake warning light

Hand controls An auxiliary set of components to allow disabled people to operate a vehicle.

Hand Crafted Something that is built by hand rather than in an assembly line (i.e., mass produced).

Hand crank Before Cadillac invented and first produced electric Starters, engines were started by means of a handle

which was inserted into the front of the engine and rotated manually. After 1930 it became obsolete.

Hand cycle

Hand cycle

A human powered cycle that is propelled by rotating the crank with your hands rather than your feet. Usually there is one wheel up front and two (often smaller) in the back. It is designed for people who are unable to use their legs.

Hand drill

Hand drill

A power-driven device for boring holes or (with the correct attachment) removing or securing screws and bolts

Handed Something that is made for a specific side of a unit. For example, left hand arm rests are not interchangeable with right hand arm rests.

Hand file A flat File for shaping metal, with a rectangular cross section, constant blade width and one smooth edge

Hand gear SeeLeft hand gear lever

Hand gear lever SeeLeft hand gear lever

Hand lapped valves A process of grinding valves by hand so that there is a perfect match between the valve and its seat.

Handle 1. The reaction of a vehicle under a particular

circumstance, especially regarding cornering, roadholding, and maneuvering.

2. To deal with or to cope with (e.g., "the tires can handle 50 psi" means the tires can withstand pressure up to 50 psi).

3. A CB user's code name.

Also SeeBoot handleBrake HandleDoor handleDrive handleFile handleFlexible drive handleGrab handleOffset handlePull-out door handleRatchet handleSpinner handle

Starting handleTrunk handle

Handlebar A steering device found on Bicycles and Motorcycles. Grips, brake levers, and shifters, etc. are attached to the handlebar. Also seeBullhorn handlebar

Handlebar bag

Handlebar bag

A container, usually leather and nylon, which mounts on the front of a bicycle's handlebars.

Handlebar riser A bracket which lifts the base of the handlebar up higher.

Handler SeeAir Handler

Handling The relative ability of a vehicle to negotiate curves and respond to road conditions. It is a factor of the weight of the vehicle, the suspension, tires, air flow, etc.

Also SeeNeutral handlingPerformance handling system

Handling system SeePerformance handling system

Hands SeeGlad hands

Hands-free A car cell phone that allows the driver to dial and talk on the phone without handling the phone.

Handshaker A colloquial term for a passenger car with a manual transmission

Hand shield An eye and face protector held in the hand. It enables a person to look directly at the electric arc through a special lens without being harmed.

Hand thread SeeLeft hand threadRight hand thread

Hand turn SeeRight hand turn signal

Hand turn signal SeeRight hand turn signal

Hang a left To make a left-turn

Hang a right To make a right-hand turn

Hang a U-ey To make a U-turn

Hanger 1. A flexible ring or strap to hold a pipe, e.g., an

exhaust pipe.

2. A mounting bracket, e.g., a Spring hanger for a Leaf spring.

3. A component of sighting point gauges, used to install the gauge at the vehicle chassis.

4. Device attached to walls or other structure for support of pipe lines.

Also SeeApe HangersBridge HangerDerailleur HangerDropout hangerReplaceable Derailleur HangerSpring Hanger

Hanger Bolt

Hanger bolt

A fastener where one end is gimlet pointed and has a wood screw thread. The other end consists of a coarse machine screw thread. The center section is unthreaded.

Hangover A modification of custom cars with separate chassis, e.g., pick-ups, which raises the floorpan and lowers the body, to give the impression that the body has been pulled down over the chassis right down to street level

Hard aground A ship which has gone aground and is not able to move under her own power.

Hard anodic coating Hard, wear-resistant, oxide layer produced in an anodic oxidation process

Hard anodizing A special type of anodizing adapted to the production of thick, hard, abrasion-resistant films

Hardboard A board-like building material made of compressed wood chip fibers and sawdust

Hard chromium plating An electrolytic deposition of a hard, wear-resistant, chromium layer

Hard code A type of trouble code that causes the ECU to disengage the ABS and not re-engage it until the problem is repaired

Hard-dry The condition of paint when it is hard enough to polish

Harden 1. The action of turning from a liquid to a solid. 2. To set or to cure. 3. The action of making the surface a metal tougher.

Also SeeCase harden.

Hardenability In a ferrous alloy, the property that determines the depth and distribution of hardness induced by quenching.

Hardened SeeCase-hardenedChrome-hardenedStrain hardenedWork hardened

Hardened pushrods Specially treated pushrods designed for use with pushrod-guided rocker arms

Hardener Chemical added to plastic filler to induce hardening as used in auto body repair.

Hardening 1. The process of paint, epoxy, or glue becoming

hard. The drying or hardening of paint film goes through several stages. The first stage is called dust-free; at this stage, the paint has hardened sufficiently to prevent dust from becoming embedded in the paint film. The second stage is called touch-dry; at this point, the paint film can actually be touched with light finger pressure. The third and final stage is referred to as hard-dry; at this point, the paint film is hard enough to polish.

2. A method of heat treating metals by heating to a temperature within, or above, the critical range, holding at that temperature for a given time, and then cooling rapidly, usually by quenching in oil or water.

Also SeeAge-hardeningFlame hardeningInduction Hardening

Hardening media A liquid into which steel is immersed in order to harden the steel. Usually involves cold water, brine, oil, and special polymers.

Hardness 1. The toughness of the surface of a metal. Normally

stated in terms of Rockwell or Brinell scale of measurement, hardness shows resistance of a fastener to rough marks and abrasions, can indicate yield strength and brittleness, and has a direct relationship to tensile strength in alloy steel fasteners. However, for stainless, brass, and silicon bronze, the correlation between hardness and tensile or yield is tenuous with no definite relationship. Case-hardening uses surface heat treatment on ferrous material to cause a harder outside surface than the center. Through-hardening hardens the entire fastener. Bright

hardening calls for heat treatment without oxygen, so no oxides are formed on the material surface.

2. Resistance to plastic deformation by indentation, penetration, scratching or bending.

Also SeeAbrasion hardnessBrinell hardnessIndentation hardnessRockwell hardnessShore hardnessWork Hardness

Hard pedal A loss in braking efficiency so that an excessive amount of pressure is need to actuate brakes

Hard rubber SeeEbonite

Hard-sided caravan A British term for a trailer with foldable, hard wall panels

Hard-sided trailer A trailer with foldable, hard wall panels

Hard shoulder A part of the road that is divided by broken or continuous yellow lines from the rest of the road and should be used only by certain road users in certain situations

Hard solder Uniting two pieces of metal with a material having a melting point higher than soft solder e.g., silver soldering

Hard spots Shiny bluish/brown glazed areas on a brake drum or disc friction surface, caused by extreme heat. Excessive heat has changed their molecular structure. Hard spots can usually be removed by resurfacing

Hard stop Hard braking, but not necessarily with locked wheels

Hardtail A term for a bike (motorcycle or bicycle) which has no rear suspension

Hardtop

Hardtop

A two-door or four-door vehicle without a center door post, i.e., no B-post. It gives the impression of uninterrupted glass along the side of the car. The term is derived from Hardtop convertible. Other generic names have included sports coupe, hardtop coupe, or pillarless coupe. In the face of proposed rollover standards, nearly all automakers turned away from the pillarless design to a pillared version by 1976-77. Also SeeColonnade HardtopFormal HardtopFour-door HardtopFour-door Pillared HardtopTwo-door hardtop

Hardtop convertible An automobile with a fixed roof that does not retract into the Trunk, but gives the appearance of being a Convertible

Hardtop stand A foldable stand that holds a detached hardtop in a vertical position when stored

Hard-top trailer

Hard-top trailer

A vacation trailer with a hard top and (most often) canvas sides.

Hard trim Instrument panel moldings, center consoles and similar plastic trim

Hardy disc A disc-style flexible coupling

Hardy-Spicer joint A type of universal joint commonly used with prop shafts

Hardy-Spicer universal joint A type of universal joint commonly used with prop shafts

Harley-Davidson

A motorcycle manufacturer

Harm SeeBodily harm

Harmful SeeEcologically harmful

Harmonic balancer Also called Vibration damper. It usually is a solid Crankshaft Fan belt Pulley that has a weight ring bonded by rubber to the inner crankshaft-mounted ring. The outer ring absorbs and cancels out Crankshaft vibrations that otherwise might cause the Crankshaft

to break. Formerly, two gearwheels carrying an unbalanced weight, mounted in bearings below the middle main crankshaft bearing, driven at twice engine speed and rotating in opposite directions to counterbalance the secondary vibrations in a four-cylinder reciprocating engine.Also SeeCrankshaft pulleyDamper

Harmonic balance wheel A grooved wheel attached to the front end of the crankshaft which is connected by accessory belts to the fan, alternator, power steering pump, water pump, air conditioning compressor, and other devices so that the rotating crankshaft can drive these other parts as well. The crankshaft pulley usually has timing marks located on it, and these are necessary for checking and adjusting timing with a timing light.

Harmonic Distortion SeeTotal Harmonic Distortion

Harmonic voltage A voltage whose frequency is a multiple of the fundamental frequency.

Harness 1. A belt system used with child seats and in cars,

consisting of two shoulder belts and two lap belt portions fastened by a central buckle.

2. A bundle of electrical wires. For convenience in handling and for neatness, all wires going to certain part of the vehicle are bundled together into a harness. A Wiring harness.

Also SeeFour-point Racing HarnessBrinell hardnessWiring harness

Harness Connector

SeeWiring Harness Connector

Harness ties Self-tightening nylon straps used to bundle wires into harnesses. Once tightened, they can't be removed unless they are cut

Harness wrap One of several materials used to bundle wires into manageable harnessesAlso SeeLoomSplit loomLoom tapeHarness ties

Harvey wallbanger Trucker slang for a reckless driver as in "That 4-wheeler is a real harvey wallbanger."

Hat The portion of a detachable brake disc that comes in contact with the wheel hub Also seeRotor Hat

Hatch 1. The rear opening of a vehicle which allows

passage into its cab. 2. A Hatchback. 3. A Tailgate. 4. An opening in a deck through which cargo and

stores are loaded or unloaded.

Also SeeCross-hatchHot hatch

Hatchback

Hatchback

A car design in which the rear Trunk and lid are replaced by a rear hatch that includes the Backlight (i.e., rear window). Usually the rear seat folds down to accommodate more luggage. Originally a hatch was a small opening in the deck of a sailing ship. The term hatch was later applied to airplane doors and to passenger cars with rear liftgates. Various models appeared in the early 1950s, but weather-tightness was a problem. The concept emerged again in the early 1970s, when fuel economy factors began to signal the trend toward compact cars. Technology had remedied the sealing difficulties. By the 1980s, most manufacturers produced one or more hatchback models, though the question of whether to call them two-door or three-door never was resolved. Their main common feature was the lack of a separate trunk. Liftback coupes may have had a different rear-end shape, but the two terms often described essentially the same vehicle. Also SeeFive-door hatchbackFour-door hatchbackLiftback station wagon

Hatchback coupe

Hatchback coupe

Originally a small opening in the deck of a sailing ship, the term hatch was later applied to airplane doors and to passenger cars with rear liftgates. Various models appeared in the early 1950s, but weather-tightness was a problem. The concept emerged again in the early 1970s, when fuel economy factors began to signal the trend toward compact cars. Technology had remedied the sealing difficulties. By the 1980s, most

manufacturers produced one or more hatchback models, though the question of whether to call them two-door or three-door never was resolved. Their main common feature was the lack of a separate trunk. Liftback coupes may have had a different rear-end shape, but the two terms often described essentially the same vehicle. Also SeeThree-door hatchback coupeTwo-door hatchback coupe

Hatch battens Flat bars which are wedged against hatch coamings to secure tarpaulin

Hatch beam Portable beam across a hatch to support hatch covers

Hatch coaming The vertical plating bounding a hatch for the purpose of stiffening the edges of the opening and resisting water entry

Hatched marking Chevron markings on the road which help separate traffic lanes

Hatchway An opening in a deck through which cargo and stores are loaded or unloaded

Hat section SeeTop hat section

Haul SeeLong-haul

Haul Distance SeeAverage Haul Distance

Hauling

SeeCompensated Intracorporate HaulingIntracorporate Hauling

Hauling snow The loading, removing, and disposing of snow piles after snowplowing operations

Haul road Seeaccess road

Hawse pipe Tube through which anchor chain is led overboard from the windlass on the deck

Hawser Strong rope or steel cable used for securing or mooring ships

Hazard Anything that could be a source of danger on the road SeeRoad hazard

Hazard flasher switch A switch (usually located on the steering column below the steering wheel) which makes all the signal lights flash simultaneously, to warn other vehicles that your car is disabled or going very slowly down the road. Also called 4-way warning light switch.

Hazardous location Any area or space where combustible dust, ignitable fibers, or flammable, volatile liquids, gases, vapors or mixtures are or may be present in the air in quantities sufficient to produce explosive or ignitable mixtures.

Hazardous wastes Automotive wastes that are on the EPA's list of hazardous materials or that have one or more hazardous characteristics

Hazard warning flasher Actuates warning system of flashing front and rear turn signal lamps

Hazard warning switch

A switch (usually located on the steering column below the steering wheel) which makes all the signal lights flash simultaneously, to warn other vehicles that your car is disabled or going very slowly down the road. Also called 4-way warning light switch.

Hazmat Hazardous materials, as classified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Transport of hazardous materials is strictly regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "Ia"

Ia Ib Ic Id Ie If Ig Ih Ii Il Im In Io Ip Ir Is It Iu Iv Iz

i Short form for injection indicating that the engine is fuel-injected, e.g., GTi, EFi, 1.6i, SSEi

I2R Loss Power loss due to the current (I) flow through the resistance (R) of a conductor.

IA Acronym for Intake Air

IAC Acronym for Idle air control valve

IACV Acronym for Idle Air Control Valve

I & C systems Acronym for instrumentation and control systems

IAR Acronym for Integral alternator/Regulator

IAS Acronym for Inlet Air Solenoid (Ford)

IASCA Acronym for International Auto Sound Challenge Association.

IAT Acronym for Intake Air Temperature

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "Ja"

Ja Jb

Jack 1. To lift a vehicle off the ground in order to effect

repairs 2. To steal a vehicle 3. A characteristic of swing-axle Rear suspensions.

Cornering forces can act on these suspensions to lift the body of the vehicle so that the outer wheel tucks or jacks under the vehicle. When carried to the extreme, jacking forces could tip the vehicle over.

4. A device for lifting the vehicle, or part of the vehicle, off the ground to facilitate repairs.

Also SeeBody jackBottle jackBumper jackFloor jack

Garage jackHi-lift jackHydraulic jackJib-jackScissors jackTire jackTower jackTripod jackTrolley jack

Jacker SeeCar jacker

Jacket The enclosure on a water heater, furnace, or boiler. SeeJapanese lantern-type jacket tubeWater jacket

Jacket tube SeeJapanese lantern-type jacket tubeShaft Jacking

Jacking SeeCar jackingshaft jacking

Jack knife 1. The action of a vehicle (tractor) with a trailer in

which the trailer and the vehicle form a V instead of normally being pulled in a straight line. Usually this is the result of a Skid in which the trailer swings around dangerously and tries to overtake the cab.

2. Skidding of an articulated vehicle sometimes results in rotation at the articulation (hitch) point so that the tractor is rotated against the trailer in a manner similar to the closing of a jackknife.

3. To place the trailer at a very sharp angle to the tractor.

Jackshaft SeeIntermediate shaft

Jackson Head A machine screw with a small oval head.

Jack stand

Jack stand

A safety device that keeps the vehicle from falling to the ground if the lifting jack is removed or faulty. Most jobs require two jack stands for safety. Also called an Axle stand or Safety stand

Jack up To raise using a Jack

Jacking point A strengthened place on the underbody to put the jack. Small cars have one point on each side but larger cars may have two

Jaguar

A vehicle brand produced by Jaguar Cars Limited of which the 1932-1940 SS models except 4-cyl. are Classic cars. The 1957-64 3.4/3.8 Sedans are Milestone cars. Includes 1½ Litre saloon (1935-1949), 2½ Litre saloon (1935-1948), 3½ Litre saloon (1937-1948), 240 (1966-1968), 340 (1966-1968), 420 (1966-1968), 420G (1966-1970), E-Type (1961-1974), Mark 1 (1955-1959), Mark 2 (1959-1967), Mark V (1948-1951), Mark VII (& VIIM) (1951-1957), Mark VIII (1957-1959), Mark IX (1959-1961), Mark X (1961-1970), S-type (1963-1968, 1999-2008), Vanden Plas (2002-05), X-type (2001-current), XF (2008-current), XJ (X350) (2003-current), XJ6 Series 1, 2 & 3 (1968-1987), XJ6 (XJ40) (1986-1994), XJ6 (X300 & X301) (1995-1997), XJ8 (X308) (1997-2002), XJ8 (1998-2007), XJ12 (1972-1992), XJ12 (XJ81) (1993-1994), XJ12 (X300 & X301) (1995-1997), XJR (1995-2007), XJR-S (1993), XJ-S (1975-1996), XJ Sport (2002-03), XJ Super (2002-07), XK8 (1997-2006), XK (X100) (1997-2005), XK (X150) (2006-current), XK120 (1948-1954), XK140 (1954-1957), XK150 (1957-1961), and XKR (2000-06)

Jaguar Drophead A vehicle brand of which the 1951 Mark V Drophead is a Milestone car.

Jaguar E-type

A model of automobile manufactured by Jaguar in England. The 1961-67 E-Type models are Milestone cars.

Jaguar Mark

A model of automobile manufactured by Jaguar in England. The 1946-48 models with 2.5 Litre, 3.5 Litre Mark IV (not 4-cyl.) are Classic cars. The 1951-54 Mark VII and '54 Mark VII M models are Milestone cars. The 1956-57 Mark VIII models are Milestone cars. The 1958-61 Mark IX models are Milestone cars. The 1962-64 Mark X models are Milestone cars.

Jaguar XJ

A model of automobile manufactured by Jaguar in England

Jaguar XK

A model of automobile manufactured by Jaguar in England. The 1945-54 XK 110 models are Milestone cars. The 1954-57 KX 140 models are Milestone cars. The 1958-61 XK 150 models are Milestone cars.

Jake brake A device which shuts off the Exhaust valves manually so that in the Exhaust stroke, the burned gasses cannot escape through the Exhaust valves. Instead they press against the Head of the piston and causes the Piston to slow down. When the Intake valve opens, some of the exhaust escapes out the intake

valve and gives a distinctive loud rapping noise. Jake brakes are used in large truck engines to assist in slowing the vehicle. Many municipal bylaws prohibit the use of jake brakes because of the excessive noise. The most common type is called a Jake Brake because the predominant manufacturer is Jacobs Vehicle Equipment Co. Other types of retarders include exhaust retarders, transmission-mounted hydraulic retarders and axle-mounted electromagnetic retarders. Also called a retarder.

Jalopy A worn-out old car

Jam SeeTraffic jam

JAMA Acronym for Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association

Jamb switch A push-button light switch located in a door jamb (e.g., for courtesy lights, trunk light)

Jam nut 1. A second nut (usually thinner) on a screw or bolt

which locks against the first nut (i.e., jams against it) so that the nut won't come loose.

2. A self-locking nut

Jam on the brakes The action of quickly depressing the brake pedal (pulling the brake lever on a motorcycle or bicycle) especially in an emergency situation.

Jam the brakes The action of quickly depressing the brake pedal (pulling the brake lever on a motorcycle or bicycle) especially in an emergency situation.

JAP English engine manufacturer. Founded in 1903 by John A. Prestwich, the company was bought by Villiers in 1957

Japanese lantern-type jacket tube A web-type jacket tube of a steering column which, on impact, folds like a Japanese lantern

Japanese Motorcycle SeeUniversal Japanese Motorcycle

JAS Acronym for Jet Air System: (Mitsubishi)

Javelin

An automobile manufactured by AMC

Jaws SeeRatchet JawTowing jaws

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "Ka"

Kadenacy effect When a port of a two-stroke engine opens abruptly, as is the case with a rectangular exhaust port, the cylinder pressure gives rise to a positive pressure wave transmitted down the exhaust pipe at the speed of sound

KAIDA Acronym for Korea Automobile Importers and Distributors Association.

Kaiser

A vehicle brand of which the 1954 Darrin 161 is a Milestone car. The 1951-52 Deluxe and Deluxe Virginian are Milestone cars. The 1951-53 Dragon models are Milestone cars. The 1954-55 Manhattan models are Milestone cars. The 1949-50 Vagabond models are Milestone car. The 1949-50 Virginian (Hardtop) models are Milestone cars.

Kaizen Activities Activity through which continuous improvement is sought.

KAM SeeKeep alive memory

KAMA Acronym for Korean Automotive Manufacturers Association

Kamm back It was once thought that a long tapered end in the shape of a vehicle would give it the most aerodynamic configuration. W. Kamm discovered that the length of the end would have to be so long as to make the vehicle impractical. There would also be an increase in surface area which would also create its own FrictionDrag. He found that if he cut the theoretically long tail in half he would have both good Aerodynamics and minimal surface Drag. This sharply cut off rear end is named after him.

Kamm tail It was once thought that a long tapered end in the shape of a vehicle would give it the most aerodynamic configuration. W. Kamm discovered that the length of the end would have to be so long as to make the

vehicle unpractical. There would also be an increase in surface area which would also create its own FrictionDrag. He found that if he cut the theoretically long tail in half he would have both good Aerodynamics and minimal surface Drag. This sharply cut off rear end is named after him.

Kangarooing A colloquial term for moving forward in a succession of sudden jerks as a result of improper use of the clutch, (a characteristic of beginner drivers or those not used to standard shifting)

Kaplan turbine A type of turbine that that has two blades whose pitch is adjustable. The turbine may have gates to control the angle of the fluid flow into the blades.

KAPWR Acronym for Direct Battery Power

Karosserie German term for Coachwork.

Kata thermometer Large-bulb alcohol thermometer used to measure air speed or atmospheric conditions by means of cooling effect.

Kawasaki

A motorcycle manufacturer

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "La"

La Lb Lc Ld Le Lf Lh

Li Lj Ln Lo Lp Lr Ls Lt Lu Lv Lw Ly

L 1. Low gear in an automatic transmission. 2. Designation for luxury or Luxe 3. The symbol for Inductance 4. Acronym for Liters

l/100 km This is the metric measurement of fuel consumption or Fuel economy. The lower the number the more economical the vehicle. Thus a vehicle that gives 7 l/100 km is better than one that gives 8 l/100 km. A vehicle that gives 7.3 l/100 km is giving 32.2 mpg US and 38.7 mpg Imperial.

L4 Acronym for Four Cylinder Inline Engine

LAADA Acronym for Latvian Authorized Automobile Dealers Association.

Label SeeSafety Compliance Certification Label

Labeling Act SeeAmerican Automobile Labeling Act

Labor

An engine which is struggling to keep turning due to lack of revs or the use of too high a gear

Laboratories SeeUnderwriters Laboratories

Laboratory Horsepower SeeGross Laboratory Horsepower

Laboring An engine that is Lugging because it has difficulty in turning over.

Lack of parallelism A measurement of brake rotor thickness variation at various points around a rotor.

Lacquer 1. A fast drying automotive body pyroxylin paint. 2. A glossy coating made by dissolving cellulose

derivatives in a rapidly evaporating solvent. 3. Protective coating or finish which dries to form a

film by evaporation of a volatile (easily goes from liquid to gas) constituent.

Also SeeClear lacquerGeneral purpose lacquer thinner

Lacquer thinner SeeGeneral purpose lacquer thinner

Ladder SeeSand ladders

Ladder bars A rigid triangular suspension devices used to locate an axle front to rear. These are used almost exclusively in drag race cars due to the fact that they bind when cornering. A panhard rod or a watts link is used to locate the axle side to side.

Ladder chassis

SeeLadder frame

Ladder diagram Electrical diagram that indicates order of electrical devices in a specific electrical circuit.

Ladder Form Electrical Diagram SeeSchematic Ladder Form Electrical Diagram

Ladder frame

Ladder Frame

A type of Frame design which has two long parallel sections which run from the front to the rear of the vehicle. In various places there are shorter sections which connect the long sections. The result looks like a ladder. The connecting pieces hold various Components such as the engine. This design is not used today because it is too heavy and lacks rigidity. Also called ladder chassis

Laden Vehicle carrying some or full payload.

Laden weight SeeGross vehicle weight.

Lading The load or freight that a vehicle carries.Also SeeBill of lading

Ladies' frame The type of Frame in which the Top tube is replaced by a second Down tube to make mounting and dismounting the bike easier.

Ladle

SeeCasting Ladle

Lag Delay in response.Also SeeHeat LagIgnition lagInjection LagLead and lagTurbo lag

Lag bolt

Lag bolt

A full-bodied fastener with hex head or a square head, spaced coarse-pitch threads and gimlet or cone point. Designed for insertion in wood or other resilient materials and producing its own mating thread. Also called lag screw.

Lagging The process of covering hot fluid lines with a non-conducting material in order to maintain its temperature.

Lagging power factor A designation of the relative instantaneous direction of the currents to the voltages: (angle is 0 to +90°)

Lago SeeTalbot Lago

Lagonda A vehicle brand of which all 1925-48 models except Rapier are Classic cars. The 1948-49 V-12 models are Milestone cars. Also seeLagonda club

Lagonda Drophead A vehicle brand of which the 1949-53 2.5 Liter Drophead Coupes are Milestone cars.

Lag screw SeeLag bolt

Lake pipes Nonfunctional side pipes attached along the lower sides of a vehicle for decorative purposes only. Also called Lakes pipes or lakers

Laker A type of ship which trades only in the Great Lakes of North America. The cargo is usually grain and ore.

Lakers

Lakers

Nonfunctional side pipes attached along the lower sides of a vehicle for decorative purposes only. Also called lake pipes or Lakes pipes

Lakes pipes

Nonfunctional side pipes attached along the lower sides of a vehicle for decorative purposes only. Also called lake pipes or lakers

Lakes ship SeeGreat Lakes ship

Lambda 1. Eleventh letter of the Greek alphabet. Upper

case=Λ (looks like A without the cross bar), lower case=λ (looks like an up-side-down y).

2. Bosch's term for oxygen

Also seeK-jetronic with Lambda

Lambda control Bosch's term for a closed loop system that adjusts the air-fuel ratio to lambda-1, based on sensing the amount of excess oxygen in the exhaust

Lambda control valve SeeFrequency valve

Lambda probe SeeOxygen sensor

Lambda sensor SeeOxygen sensor

Lambda-sond A device that senses if the fuel mixture is rich or lean and adjust the control units Lambda regulator accordingly so that the catalytic converter can operate most effectively

Lambda valve In Bosch CIS, a device that regulates pressure in the lower chamber of the differential-pressure valve, in response to a signal from the lambda (oxygen) sensor. Also called Frequency valve or a Timing valve

Lambda window

A narrow range (where lambda = 1), which yields the lowest emission values for CO, NOx, and HC

Lamborghini

A model of automobile manufactured in Italy

LAMBSE Acronym for Short Term Fuel Trim

Laminate 1. To build up or construct out of a number of thin

sheets which are bonded together. The MagnetoCoil has a laminated Core.

2. A sheet of material made of several different bonded layers.

Also SeeBalanced LaminateSandwich construction

Laminated Something made up of many layers.

Laminated spring

Laminated spring

A series of curved or flat spring steel used to support suspension. Also called leaf spring

Laminated contact The contacts of a switch with several layers so that as you apply more and more pressure the resistance is reduced and more voltage is permitted.

Laminated glass A sandwich-type construction of two or more panes of glass laminated together with an extremely tough, crystal-clear plastic film; on severe impact, laminated glass will crack, but not shatter like ordinary glass, nor craze over like toughened glass

Laminated iron core The core of an ignition coil consisting of pieces of soft iron laminations, insulated from one another

Laminated windshield Older safety Windshields were made of Tempered glass which is heat treated so that the surface is very tough. When a vehicle with tempered glass is involved in an accident, the windshield shatters into a spider web of little crystals. Its adhesive property is greatly diminished so that an object (your body) can easily be ejected through the windshield. Laminated windshields, however, are made with two sheets of glass with a thin layer of rubbery plastic in between. When your head hits the windshield, the windshield bows out without being punctured. The plastic sandwich prevents the glass from splintering. The plastic sandwich can also contain a tint to reduce heat in the passenger compartment and protect the eyes from glare (like sunglasses). Compare Toughened windshield

Laminated windshield glass SeeLaminated windshield.

Laminating Covering sheets with a particular layer or covering molded parts with a specific plastic film

Lamination

1. The act of laminating. The process of bonding two or more layers or plies of material together with an adhesive

2. A thin layer. 3. A structure made up of thin layers

Lamp 1. A device for giving off light without being

consumed itself. 2. Artificial light. The term is often used when

referring to a bulb or tube.

Also SeeAutomatic Arc LampAuxiliary driving lampBallast LampBlowlampCarbon-arc LampClearance lampDome lampDriving lampGas discharge lampGaseous discharge lampHeadlightHeadlight retractor indicator lampInfrared LampInspection lampLow-Pressure Sodium LampMarker lampMercury Vapor LampMetal Halide LampNumberplate lampParking lampPuddle lampQuartz-iodine LampRear fog lampRear lamp clusterRear license plate lampRepeater lampRetractor Indicator Lamp

Side marker lampStrobe lampTail lampTest lampWarning lamp

Lamp aperture An opening in a sheet metal panel for mounting the headlight or taillight

Lamp blackening The blackening of a light bulb; gradual blackening of conventional, i.e., non-halogen light bulbs, occurs as a result of metal vapor deposition on the glass envelope which reduces light emission; severe blackening indicates imminent bulb failure

Lamp cluster A group of lights behind a cover; the rear lights of most cars are grouped together in clusters.Also SeeRear lamp cluster

Lamp panel A panel that encloses part or all of the headlight or taillight cutout and may extend across the width of the car to include both cutouts; in the latter case, it forms an additional panel to be joined to the smaller front or rear valances

Lamp socket A device which holds a light bulb and provides electricity to the bulb. The British term is Bulb holder

Lamp unit A sealed light unit with reflector and lens all-in-one

Lanchester A vehicle brand of which the 1925-1948 models with required application are Classic cars.

Lancia

A vehicle brand of which the 1925-1948 models with required application are Classic cars. The 1959-64 Flaminia Zagato models are Milestone cars. The 1961-63 Flaminia GT Two Passenger Coupe or Convertible are Milestone cars. The 1962-66 Flavia Coupe are Milestone cars. The 1951-59 Aurelia B.20 and B.2O Coupe are Milestone cars. The 1953-59 Aurelia B.24 Spyder and Convertible are Milestone cars.

Lancing SeeWax lancing

Land The smooth, open area of a grooved surface, such as the bands of metal between the grooves in a piston which carry the piston rings. The metal separating a series of Grooves.Also SeeHead landPiston LandPiston lands

Landau A closed-type body on the sides, it has provision for opening or folding the fabric top over the rear quarter. This precludes the use of rear quarter windows. Landau irons are fairly common but not a mandatory feature.

Landau bar SeeLandau bars.

Landau bars

S-shaped bars or irons on the C-post. On Convertibles, they are functional; but decorative on other body styles.

Landaulet A classic car style characterized by the fact that only the rear seats were protected by a hard or convertible top, whereas the driver was exposed to the open air in order to be more aware of road and weather conditions; an imitation landaulet style is still found on some American sedans. Also called Landau

Landaulet sedan This body style is similar to the landau Sedan in appearance, but with a stationary rear quarter. Landau irons are mounted on the rear quarter but are non-functional.

Landfill gas Gas that is generated by decomposition of organic material at landfill disposal sites. The average composition of landfill gas is approximately 50 percent methane and 50 percent carbon dioxide and water vapor by volume. The methane percentage, however, can vary from 40 to 60 percent, depending on several factors including waste composition: (e.g. carbohydrate and cellulose content). The methane in landfill gas may be vented, flared, combusted to generate electricity or useful thermal energy on-site, or injected into a pipeline for combustion off-site.

Landing SeeHood landing panelLog deck landingQuarter-space Landing

Landing Gear The retracting legs which support the front of a semitrailer when it is not coupled to a tractor. Also seeBogie Landing Gear

Landing panel

SeeBonnet landing panelHood landing panel

Landing section SeeFender landing sectionWing Landing Section

Landline Slang for telephone as in "It is hard to find a landline when you need one."

Land management SeeBureau of land management

Land Rover

An SUV built in England including Defender 90 (1994-97), Defender 110 (1993), Discovery (1994-2004), Discovery Series II (1999-2002), Freelander (2002-05), LR3 (2005-07), Range Rover (1970-2007), and Range Rover Sport (2006-07)

Lands The Piston metal between the Ring grooves. Also seePiston lands

Land tractor Commonly called "an agricultural tractor," or "farm tractor" -- these vehicles are designed to work on land in connection with agricultural, forestry or land drainage-type operations and are driven on a public road only when proceeding to or from the site of such work

Lane 1. A narrow road, often in the country. 2. A track on a road, defining lines of traffic.

Also SeeAuxiliary laneBike laneCrawler laneFast laneHigh Occupancy Vehicle laneNon-Car laneOuter lanePassing laneRunaway LaneSingle laneSplitting lanesTraffic lane

Lane mile A measure of road length that reflects the number of miles in each driving lane. For example: Three miles of a four-lane highway equals twelve lane miles.

Lane splitting Riding between lanes of traffic on a freeway (i.e., straddling the white line)

Langley A unit or measure of solar radiation; 1 calorie per square centimeter or 3.69 Btu per square foot.

Language SeeQuery Language

Lantern-type jacket tube SeeJapanese lantern-type jacket tube

Lanyard

Lanyard

A line (made of rope, nylon, etc.) which is attached at one end to a frame or large item while the other end is attached to a smaller piece that might get lost. The picture shows a lanyard attached to a hitch pin.

Lap 1. One complete trip around a race track or route laid

out for racing. 2. To fit two surfaces together by Coating them with

Abrasive and then rubbing them together (e.g., to lap valves into valve seats).

3. The upper surface of the human body from waist to knees when seated.

4. A rotating disc covered with fine abrasive for polishing.

Also SeePace lapTurn a lap

Lap belt A 2-point belt pulled across the hips, or lap belt portion of a combined lap/shoulder belt; mostly only on the rear center seat, on some models on all rear seats. Also seeSubmarining

Lap joint 1. A piston ring gap in which the two ends of the ring

are shaped like the letter L. 2. A welding term describing a union in which the

edges of the two metals to be joined overlap one another.

Lapped Valves SeeHand Lapped Valves

Lapper SeeValve lapper

Lapping Smoothing a metal surface to high degree of refinement or accuracy using a fine abrasive.

Lapping compound SeeValve grinding compound

Large passenger car A passenger car with more than 120 cubic feet of interior passenger and luggage volume.

Large pickup truck A pickup truck weighing between 4,500-8,500 lbs gross vehicle weight: (GVW).

Large SUV Long wheelbase sport utility vehicle based on a pickup truck chassis. Some examples are the Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition, GMC Yukon, Nissan Armada, and Toyota Sequoia. Also seePremium large SUV

LaSalle A vehicle brand of which the 1927-1933 models are Classic cars.

Laser SeeCarbon Dioxide Laser

Lash 1. The amount of free motion between two

components (e.g., two gears). The British term is free play.

2. Acronym for Lighter Aboard Ship a ship designed to carry floating containers or Lighters.

Also SeeBacklashHot LashValve lashWhiplash

Last station memory

An audio and video term describing the circuit which ensures that when the unit is turned on, the tuner automatically tunes to the station that was received before the unit was turned off

Latch A fastening device for a door or panel. It consists of a small metal bar, either mounted on the movable part (always on doors and on some tailgates), or on the car body (always on hoods and trunks), which engages with a striker on the opposite part.Also SeeDoor latch

Latching pillar SeeB-pillar

Latching Type valve A manual gas valve which requires at least two separate actions or movements to turn on the valve, as for example, pushing in on the valve handle to unlatch the valve before the valve handle can be rotated to turn on the fuel.

Latch pillar SeeB-pillar

Late braking Braking later into the turn, thus moving the entry point and axis of the vehicle

Latent heat The heat absorbed or radiated during a change of state (i.e., melting, vaporization, fusion) at constant temperature and pressure. Called latent cause it is hidden -- cannot be felt or measured with a thermometer

Latent heat of condensation The amount of heat given off when a substance changes from a vapor to the liquid without changing temperature

Latent heat of evaporation

The amount of heat required to change a liquid into a vapor without raising the temperature of the vapor above that of the original liquid

Latent heat of vaporization Amount of heat required, per pound of substance, to change its state from a liquid to a vapor (gas).

Lateral Relating to the side.

Lateral acceleration The acceleration created when a vehicle corners that tends to push a vehicle sideways. Because of Centrifugal force, the vehicle is pushed outward. For this reason, you need to accelerate a little as you reach the Apex of the curve to pull you through the curve. An inexperienced Driver may panic in a curve as the lateral acceleration pushes his vehicle into the left lane. He might hit the brakes to slow the motion only to find that the problem actually increases. The proper way to take a sharp corner is to slow down before the curve, then accelerate at the Apex of it to bring the vehicle around. To increase your frustration, try following an inexperience Driver as he drives on mountain roads. He maintains his Speed to the corner and brakes at the Apex.Also SeeAcceleration

Lateral acceleration sensor A device that signals the ECU when the vehicle is being subjected to high g-force from a turn; the signal voltage varies according to the amount of g-force

Lateral acceleration switch Similar to a lateral acceleration sensor, but the switch provides a simple on-off signal, rather than the variable voltage signal provided by the sensor

Lateral air passage A passage at the nozzle of a spray gun for shaping the spray pattern to a long or elongated oval

Lateral arm

A suspension member connecting the upright to the chassis. Also seeTransverse arm.

Lateral atomization orifice An additional passages at the nozzle of a spray gun for supplying additional air to break up the paint into smaller droplets

Lateral clearance The smallest distance laterally between the tire and the nearest fixed point of the vehicle.

Lateral grip The ability of a tire to maintain its course, or remain under normal steering control, while being subjected to directionally disturbing influences

Lateral impact A side crash

Lateral link A Suspension link that is aligned to resist sideways motions in a wheel.

Lateral run-out 1. Amount of side (i.e., side-to-side) movement of a

rotating wheel, tire, or the rotor from the vertical. 2. A tire assembly that does not run true to its plane;

i.e., a damaged wheel moving in a wobbling, side to side manner.

3. A measurement of the lateral change in position of the disk-brake-rotor surface during one revolution.

Lateral runout SeeLateral run-out

Lateral stability Limiting side movement. (1) Tread grooves running circumferentially around the tire resist side forces for maximum traction on sums. (2) Stabilizing tread plies limit side to side movement of the tread ribs caused by

the expansion and contraction of tread areas as sidewalls flex. Also called Lateral grip

Lateral stiffness The resistance of a vehicle body structure to lateral impact

Lateral tire clearance The distance between the tire sidewall and the nearest point on the vehicle, reduced by any increase in rim offset and 1/2 any increase in tire section from the existing tire.

Latex An artificial rubber compound used in tires, tubes, etc.

Latex tube An bicycle inner tube for tires because of its lighter weight. Can be hard to repair, must be reinflated for each ride.

Lathe A device for shaving the metal from the outside or inside of a Cylinder.Also SeeBar LatheBrake drum latheBrake LatheCapstan Lathe

Lathe-cut A process of cutting rubber seals to a precise shape on a rotating drum.

Law SeeAmpere's LawBabos LawBarbas LawBiot-Savart LawBoyle's LawCapacitor-resistance LawCharles's LawDalton's LawJoule's LawNewton's law

Ohm's LawPascal's law

Law Of Absorption SeeBouguer Law Of Absorption

Law Of Thermodynamics SeeFirst Law Of ThermodynamicsSecond Law Of Thermodynamics

Lay-by A British term for a rest stop, i.e., a place at the side of a road where drivers can stop (to rest)

Layer A certain weld metal thickness made of one or more passes.Also SeeBarrier LayerBoundary LayerCatalytic layerGamma layerZinc-iron alloy layer

Layer Control SeeBoundary Layer Control

Layering This occurs in tanks when a high density fuel is mixed with a low density fuel.

Layer Noise SeeBoundary Layer Noise

Layer of pure zinc The top layer on hot-dip galvanized steel which, in contrast to zinc-iron alloy layers, almost completely consists of zinc

Layer thickness A coating thickness (indicated in micrometers or millimeters)

Laying the bike down A crash where you slide down on one side of the bike

Laying up The process of adding several layers of fibreglass mat and resin to form a GRP shell

Layout SeeDrive layoutEast-west layoutEngine layoutNorth-south layout

Layrub coupling A universal joint using four molded rubber inserts mounted on a round steel plate

Layshaft A British term for a Countershaft -- the intermediate shaft between and parallel to the input and output shafts, carrying the two pairs of gearwheels which provide the required changes in gear ratio

Lay-up resin The resin substance used to laminate GRP parts. The resin available on the do-it-yourself market for fibreglass mat repairs also belongs to this category

Lazy tongs 1. Any device with extensible arms (often in the form

of a series of crossed, hinged bars) for handling objects at a distance.

2. A specific type of pop rivet gun with such arms

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "Ma"

M100 100% (neat) Methanol

M85 85% Methanol and 15% unleaded Gasoline by volume, used as a motor fuel in FFVs.

M+S Acronym for mud and snow, as in M+S tire. A tire with a tread design (usually large lugs with wide spaces

between them) which gives the maximum traction in mud and snow.

M+S tire

Mud and snow tire

Acronym for mud and snow tire, as in M+S tire. A tire with a tread design which gives the maximum traction in mud and snow.

MAC Acronym for motor assisted bicycle -- usually an electric motor

Machine SeeAir-cooled MachineAutomatic Screw MachineAutomatic Screw MachineBalancing MachineBolt-making MachineBoring MachineInjection molding machineMilling machinePerpetual motion machinePicture MachineWheeling machine

Machineability 1. Relative ease or difficulty in forming.

2. The malleable characteristics of metal when cutting or forming on screw machines. Same as free machining

Machine drive The direct process end use in which thermal or electric energy is converted into mechanical energy. Motors are found in almost every process in manufacturing. Therefore, when motors are found in equipment that is wholly contained in another end use: (such as process cooling and refrigeration), the energy is classified there rather than in machine drive.

Machined surface A smooth surface of metal such as the top of a cylinder block.

Machine patch A new layer of asphalt is placed on sections of the road, perhaps leaving some gaps depending on condition. First a layer of liquid asphalt or tack coat is sprayed on the road. Next, fabric may be placed on any badly broken areas for added strength. Finally hot asphaltic concrete is applied, raked and rolled to a prescribed density. Work moves quickly and you can drive on the new asphalt as soon as the rolling is complete. The work must be done when the ground is dry and reasonably warm.

Machine room Area where commercial and industrial refrigeration machinery -- except evaporators -- is located.

Machinery cargo SeeHeavy Machinery cargo

Machinery spaces SeeUnmanned machinery spaces

Machine screw 1. A screw with thread running the length of the

shank and available with a variety of different heads

2. A straight shank fastener for binding metal to metal by going through a pre-tapped hole or nut. Its head may be one of four common shapes:

o flathead o ovalhead o roundhead machine screw o fillister-head machine screw

Also seeSems screwStructure Machine Screws

Machining An operation which shapes metal parts by carving away excess material as chips produced in a sequential process of turning, milling and grinding operations.

Machinists' caliper A measuring tool with two curved arms for inside or outside measurement; the reading taken with the arms is transferred to a steel rule or micrometer to attain the exact value

Machinists' hammer A Ball pien hammer

MacPherson strut

Click image to supersize

A Suspension piece which employs a Coil spring and Shock absorber attached to the lower A-arms and the top of the front body structure. Originally it had a Lateral link with an Anti-roll bar instead of the lower A-arm. It was first invented by a Ford of England engineer, Earle S. MacPherson.

MacPherson strut tower A sheet metal panel surrounding the upper mount of the MacPherson strut at the side panels of the engine compartment; it may be a separate panel fitted by spot-welding or a deep-drawn section of the side panel shaped to take the upper strut end. Also called suspension leg turret

MacPherson suspension A suspension layout incorporating Macpherson struts

Macromolecule Any very large molecule, such as a synthetic polymer used in the manufacture of plastic

Macromolecular With very large molecules

Made available A vehicle is considered Made available if it is available for delivery to dealers or users, whether or not it was actually delivered to them. To be Made available, the vehicle must be completed and available for delivery; thus, any conversion to be performed by an OEM Vehicle Converter or Aftermarket Vehicle Converter must have been completed.

MAF Acronym for Mass airflow meter. A sensor used to measure the amount of intake air entering the engine on some fuel injection systems

MAF RTN Acronym for Mass Airflow Sensor Ground

MAFTS Acronym for manifold air/fuel temperature sensor

MAG

Swiss engine makers, the initials stand for Motosacoche Acacias Geneva. The company also produced complete Motosacoche motorcycles

Mag 1. Abbreviation for Magneto. 2. Abbreviation for magnesium wheel, or Mag

wheels

Mag alloy Magnesium alloy, a strong lightweight metal used for many components, particularly wheels

Magnaflux 1. A special chemical process, used to check parts for

cracks. 2. A magnetic method of determining surface and

subsurface defects in metals.

Magnesium acetate SeeCalcium magnesium acetate

Magnesium chloride A soluble compound in liquid form produced from magnesium carbonate and hydrogen chloride used to deice road or pre-wet salt before applying it to roads. It works like anti-freeze by lowering the freezing temperature of water, preventing ice from forming a strong bond to the road.

Magnesium wheel An alloy wheel. Also seeMag wheel

Magnet 1. A piece of magnetized steel that will attract all

ferrous material. The Permanent magnet does not need electricity to function and will retain its magnetism over a period of years. Often shaped into the letter U.

2. The part of the electric actuating mechanism, which when energized is attracted to the

armature, creating a controlled force to apply the brake(s).

Also SeeAlnico® magnetBall-ended MagnetBar magnetBlowout MagnetBrake MagnetPermanent magnet

Magnetic SeeClutch MagneticFlux MagneticNorth Pole MagneticSouth Pole Magnetic

Magnetically controlled electronic ignition SeeElectronic ignition system.

Magnetic blowout A device which extinguishes an electric arc. A magnetized coil moves one terminal to a cool surface or stretches out the arc.

Magnetic clutch 1. A coupling device used to turn the compressor off

and on electrically. 2. Clutch built into automobile air conditioning

compressor flywheel and is operated magnetically which allows the pulley to revolve without driving compressor when the refrigerating effect is not required.

Also SeeElectromagnetic clutch

Magnetic core Magnetic center of a magnetic field.

Magnetic drain plug A plug or bolt fitted in the sump or oil pan to collect metal filings

Magnetic Electric Brake

SeeSpot Magnetic Electric Brake

Magnetic field The area encompassed by the magnetic lines of force surrounding either a bar Magnet or electromagnet. The flow of magnetic force between the opposite poles of a magnet.Also SeeFieldPrimary magnetic field

Magnetic flux Lines of force of a magnet.

Magnetic gasket Door-sealing material which keeps door tightly closed with small magnets inserted in gasket.

Magnetic materials An object made of certain pure metals (esp. iron and nickel) or an alloy of them such that when it encounters a magnetic field it is demonstrates an attraction or repulsion.

Magnetic north pole End of magnet Out of which magnetic lines of force flow.

Magnetic permeability A test that determines the level of magnetism.

Magnetic pick-up 1. A pulse generator consisting of a stator with a

permanent magnet and a rotor, which induces an AC voltage in the inductive winding by the periodic change of the air gap between stator and rotor. Magnetic pick-ups attached to the distributor for ignition triggering have as many teeth on the pole piece (stator) and on the trigger wheel (rotor) as the engine has cylinders. Some magnetic pick-ups have a bowl-like rotor with ferrite rods inserted in the walls. Magnetic pick-ups on the crankshaft flywheel act as reference mark sensors.

2. A tool with flexible or rigid shaft and magnetic tip used to retrieve dropped nuts, bolts, and other metal parts from hard-to-reach places.

Also SeePick-up toolTransistorized ignition with magnetic pick-up

Magnetic pick-up assembly A pulse generator consisting of a stator with a permanent magnet and a rotor, which induces an AC voltage in the inductive winding by the periodic change of the air gap between stator and rotor. Magnetic pick-ups attached to the distributor for ignition triggering have as many teeth on the pole piece (stator) and on the trigger wheel (rotor) as the engine has cylinders. Some magnetic pick-ups have a bowl-like rotor with ferrite rods inserted in the walls. Magnetic pick-ups on the crankshaft flywheel act as reference mark sensors

Magnetic pick-up tool A tool with flexible or rigid shaft and magnetic tip used to retrieve dropped nuts, bolts, and other metal parts from hard-to-reach places.Also SeePick-up tool

Magnetic plug A plug or bolt fitted in the sump or oil pan to collect metal filings

Magnetic screwdriver 1. A Screwdriver with a magnetized shank. 2. A screwdriver tool with hexagon socket end to

accept and operate hex bits and hold them securely by magnetism. Some also have a hollow handle for storing the bits

Magnetic south pole The part of a magnet into which magnetic flux lines flow.

Magnetism

1. A field of force which causes a magnet to attract materials made of iron, nickel-cobalt or other ferrous material.

2. As related to stainless fasteners, 300 series stainless is non-magnetic in its raw material condition. Cold working can sometimes induce traces of magnetism in 300 series, depending on the severity of cold working and chemical composition of the stainless. A rise in magnetism is related to an increase in tensile strength and work hardening caused by the heat and friction of cold forming and does not reduce corrosion resistance or cause any molecular change in austentic raw material. A higher portion of nickel can increase stability in stainless, thus decreasing work hardening and any possibilities of magnetism. Brass and silicon bronze are non-magnetic.

Also seeInduced Magnetism

Magnetization SeeAmperes Theory Of Magnetization

Magnetized Made magnetic

Magneto An electrical device which generates electrical Current when it is rotated by an outside source of power. It needs no outside source of power such as a Battery. It may produce either low or high tension Current.Also SeeFlywheel magneto

Magneto file A tool for filing ignition points and other small objects

Magneto ignition A compact assembly of a magneto generator, an ignition coil, and a distributor. Ignition voltage is induced within the magneto by the movement of a coil

relative to the poles of a permanent magnet. Because it needs no battery, the system is particularly suited for small engines, e.g., motorcycles, outboard engines, etc.

Magnetomotive force (mmf) The magnetic energy supplied with the establishment of flux between the poles of a magnet

Magneto puller A tool which screws into the center of the magneto to force the magneto away from the shaft on which it rides.

Magnet sensor SeeHall vane switch

Mags SeeMag wheel.

Mag wheel

Mag wheel

Lightweight, sporty wheels made of magnesium. The term mag is often applied to Aluminum and aluminum and steel combination wheels. Also SeeAlloy wheels

Main British term for household AC voltage. SeeBlast MainFour Bolt MainTwo Bolt Main

Main bar

The bar on a convertible top which carries the main load when the top is raised and taut, and defines the hinge point for the folding motion. Also called main bow

Main beam British term for High beam

Main beam indicator British term for High beam indicator

Main bearings The bearings in the engine block that support the Crankshaft.

Main bearings SeeMain bearing

Main bearing support A steel plate that is installed over the main bearing caps to increase their strength for racing purposes.

Main bearing supports SeeMain bearing support.

Main bow The bar on a convertible top which carries the main load when the top is raised and taut, and defines the hinge point for the folding motion. Also called main bar

Main burner A device or group of devices essentially forming an integral unit for the final conveyance of fuel or a mixture of fuel and air to the combustion zone, and on which combustion takes place to accomplish the function for which the equipment is designed. Also seeIndividual Valve Main Burner

Main combustion chamber With diesel engines, the fuel may be injected in three different locations in the prechamber, the swirl chamber, or the main combustion chamber (for direct injection engines), depending on the process used

Main deck

The continuous deck of a ship running from fore to aft. The freeboard is measured from this deck.

Main jet The primary, large fuel orifice in a carburetor through which most of the fuel flows.

Mainline pressure SeeLine pressure

Main member The primary chassis rail

Main metering circuit The cruising circuit or the high speed circuit. It supplies the correct air/fuel mixture to the engine during cruising and high-speed conditions. Also called Main metering system

Main mixing well Main well main nozzle Main delivery tube

Main mixture discharge nozzle The jet through which the gasoline and air is fed into the carburetor barrel where it becomes the air/fuel mixture

Main petal The primary petal of a dual-stage reed valve. The opposite is Subsidiary petal. In dual-stage reed valves, the subsidiary petal opens first

Main pressure SeeLine pressure

Main regulating system The carburetor components are divided into the fuel intake control, the main regulating system, the idle system, and the staring aids. The main regulating system includes the main jet, jet needle, needle jet, and throttle valve, whose purpose it is to provide an appropriate amount of fuel and air to the carburetor

Mains The caps which secure the crankshaft.

SeeBolt MainsFour bolt mains

Main Seal Bearing SeeSplit-lit-type Rear Main Seal Bearing

Main shaft The transmission Output shaft

Main sun visor In dual visor systems, the main visor is moved sideways and the secondary visor is flipped down, thus shielding the driver from the sun from both the front and side

Maintenance The work undertaken by a car owner to keep his vehicle in good working order; typically checking the tires, lights, oil and coolant levels, windscreen wipers, and seat belts. Compare Service

Maintenance-free Something that requiring no work in order to be kept operational

Maintenance-free battery A battery with a permanently sealed top, thus requiring no topping-up

Maintenance manual A book of instructions detailing routine maintenance

Maintenance Reporting Standards SeeVehicle Maintenance Reporting Standards

Main triangle SeeFront triangle.

Main Valve Shutoff SeeManual Main Valve Shutoff

Main venturi Large venturi cast into the carburetor main body

Main well The reservoir in which fuel for the main system is stored. The main well is located in the main body

casting. It is connected to the venturi area by the discharge nozzle

Main-well tube A perforated tube which extends from an air bleed in the top of the air horn down into the main well. Admits air from the air bleed into the main well to emulsify the fuel in the main well. Improves idle response and stability when the engine is hot and prevents fuel percolation and general hot-starting problems. Also improves response in the main metering circuit during part throttle conditions. Also called Emulsion tube

Major diameter 1. On a bolt or screw, the diameter measured from

the crest of a thread to the corresponding crest on the opposite side of the bolt or screw

2. Largest or outside diameter of the screw threads. 3. On a straight thread, the diameter of the coaxial

cylinder which would pass through the crests of an external thread or the roots of an internal thread.

Make Brand name of a car or truck (i.e., Chevrolet, Ford, Dodge, Honda).

Make-and-break Switch SeeQuick Make-and-break Switch

Maker SeeAutomatic Ice Cube MakerSolid-state Controlled Ice Maker

Male end A plug, pin, or protrusion which fits into a receptacle (female end).

Make the trip? Trucker slang for cb signal reception as in "Did my signal make the trip?"

Male thread Something with external threads like a bolt or screw. Female threads are found in nuts.

Malfunction Problem in system that affects normal operation

Malfunction indicator light (MIL) an electric circuit between the computer and the check engine or service engine soon light on the dash panel of a computer equipped vehicle

Malibu Hybrid A Chevrolet midsize Hybrid sedan similar to the Saturn Aura Green Line that uses a Belt Alternator Starter hybrid system.

Malleable castings 1. Cast forms of metal which have been heat-treated

to reduce their brittleness. 2. A casting which has been toughened by annealing

Mallet SeeBossing malletRubber malletWood mallet

Man Short form for Manual transmission

Management SeeBureau Of Land ManagementThermal ManagementTotal Energy ManagementTotal Quality Management

Management Control System SeeEnergy Management Control System

Management District SeeAir Quality Management District

Management system SeeEngine management system

Mandrel

A round shaft used to mount a stone, cutter, saw, etc. Maneuver

To drive or steer a vehicle around obstacles, change direction, or moving in a confined space.

Maneuverability The ease with which a vehicle can be steered around objects

Manganese A non-magnetic metal which improves strength and hardness to steel and bronze SeeMethylcyclopentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl

Manganese bronze An alloy of copper, zinc, and manganese

Manganese phosphate coating A phosphate coating with added manganese to increase resistance to wear and fatigue

Manganese Tricarbonyl SeeMethylcyclopentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl

Manhattan SeeFrazer.

Manhole A hole or opening in a street, with a removable cover, through which an underground structure, such as a sewer or conduit, can be entered for repair or inspection.

Manifold 1. A pipe or number of pipes connecting a series of

holes or outlets to a common opening. 2. A device which controls refrigerant flow for system

test purposes by means of hand valves which can open or close various passageways connected together inside the manifold. Used in conjunction with manifold gauges and service hoses

3. The conduit of an Appliance that supplies gas to the individual burner.

Also SeeAir injection manifoldDry ManifoldExhaust manifoldGauge ManifoldHigh-rise manifoldInlet manifoldIntake manifoldLog manifoldRam intake manifoldService ManifoldSplit manifoldVariable intake manifoldWet Manifold

Manifold absolute pressure (MAP) manifold pressure measured on the absolute pressure scale, an indication of engine load. At sea level, MAP = 1 bar (14.5 psi)

Manifold absolute pressure sensor (MAP) 1. A sensor which monitors the engine's intake

manifold pressure and transmits the data to the engine controller. A pressure-sensitive disk capacitor used to measure air pressure inside the intake manifold. The Map sensor sends a signal to the computer which uses this information to determine load conditions so it can adjust spark timing and fuel mixture. Also called Manifold pressure sensor or Pressure differential sensor

2. A sensor that measures absolute air pressure in the intake manifold.

Also seeBarometric And Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor

Manifold air temperature sensor (MAT sensor) sensor that monitors the temperature of the air entering the intake manifold

Manifold charge temperature sensor

(MCT) same as the air charge temperature sensor (ACT) Manifold control valve

(MCV) a thermostatically operated valve in the exhaust manifold for varying heat to the intake manifold with respect to the engine temp. Also called exhaust heat control valve

Manifold gauge set A complete, testing assembly consisting of a high side gauge, a low side gauge and a high side gauge, a test manifold, and a set of service or charging hoses. Also, can be used to discharge refrigerant, evacuate air and moisture, and charge air conditioning system with refrigerant

Manifold heat control valve A valve placed in the Exhaust manifold, or in the Exhaust pipe, that deflects a certain amount of hot gas around the base of the Carburetor to aid in warmup.

Manifold heater A system used to improve the cold start behavior of an engine, consisting of heating ducts incorporated into the intake manifold that are connected to the water cooling system of the engine; alternatively, an electric heater may be used.Also SeeIntake manifold heater

Manifold pressure controlled (MPC) a fuel injection system which determines engine load based on intake man pressure

Manifold pressure sensor A sensor that reads pressure changes in the intake manifold in relation to barometric pressure. Also known as Manifold vacuum sensor, Manifold absolute pressure sensor, Pressure differential sensor, or Vacuum sensor

Manifold runners Single passage in a manifold from one cylinder to the major manifold opening

Manifold, service

Chamber equipped with gauges and manual valves, used by service technicians to service refrigerating systems.

Manifold surface temperature sensor A sensor that provides information on the surface temperature of the intake manifold

Manifold vacuum As the Pistons move down on the Intake stroke, they create a suction or Vacuum in the Intake manifold. This vacuum reading can be used to determine how well the engine is running.

Manifold vacuum sensor (MVS) A sensor that reads pressure changes in the intake manifold in relation to barometric pressure. Also known as Manifold pressure sensor, Pressure differential sensor, or Vacuum sensor

Manifold vacuum zone switch A type of manifold vacuum sensor (MVS) that dramatically changes the sensor output signal level upon reaching a preselected level or zone of manifold vacuum.

Manoeuvrability British spelling of Maneuverability

Manoeuvre British spelling of Maneuver

Manometer 1. A device for measuring a vacuum, consisting of a

U shaped tube partially filled with fluid. One end of tube is open to air, the other is connected to a chamber in which vacuum is to be measured. A column of mercury 30 in. high equals 14.7 psi, which is atmospheric pressure at sea level. Readings are given in inches of mercury (Hg)

2. Instrument for measuring pressure of gases and vapors. Gas pressure is balanced against column of liquid, such as mercury, in U-shaped tube.

Manual

1. Originally something done by hand, but later has come to mean something that is done without power assistance. For instance, manual brakes on a car are operated by the driver's foot, not hand; but if the brakes are power assisted, they are no longer manual brakes.

2. A colloquial term for a vehicle with manual transmission.

3. A book of instruction.

Also SeeFlat rate manualMaintenance manualManual chokeManual steeringManual transmissionOwner's manualRepair manualService manual

Manual adjuster A type of brake adjuster that must be adjusted from time-to-time, with the use of a hand tool

Manual bleeding A technique for bleeding hydraulic brakes that requires two people. One pumps the brakes, and the other opens and closes the bleeder screw.

Manual choke A Linkage system which begins with a knob on the Dash which can be pulled to activate and pushed to de-activate. The knob is attached to a cable and the other end of the cable is attached to a the Butterfly valve on the Carburetor. Because many Drivers had difficulty knowing when to use the choke knob, manufacturers developed the Automatic choke system which decides this information for the Driver.

Manual-crank window SeeManually operated window

Manual frost control

Manual control used to change operation of refrigerating system to produce defrosting conditions.

Manual gearbox SeeManual transmission

Manual hydraulic brake system A hydraulic-type brake system that uses unassisted driver effort.

Manual Main valve shutoff A manually operated valve in the fuel line for the purpose of completely turning on or shutting off the fuel supply to fuel utilization equipment, except to a pilot provided with independent shutoff valves.

Manually operated window A window (usually a side windo) operated by turning a lever by hand. Compare Electric window

Manual panel cutter Cutting tool drawn manually across a panel surface to cut to the desired shape

Manual steering A Steering system that does not have a Power booster to reduce the effort of steering changes especially during slow movements such as parallel parking.

Manual transmission

(MT or M/T) A Transmission system in which gears are selected by the Driver by means of a hand-

operated Gearshift and a foot-operated Clutch. In a Motorcycle the Clutch is hand-operated and the gearshift is foot-operated. Contrasts with an Automatic transmission. Also called a standard transmission.

Manual valve (MV) A control in an automatic transmission which distributes Line pressure to the various control valves and pistons which operate the multi-plate or band brakes or the clutches; operated by the driver via the selector lever

Manual valve shutoff A manually operated valve in a fuel line for the purpose of completely turning on or shutting off the fuel supply to fuel utilization equipment.

Manual version A passenger car with a manual transmission

Manufactured gas A gas obtained by destructive distillation of coal or by the thermal decomposition of oil, or by the reaction of steam passing through a bed of heated coal or coke. Examples are coal gases, coke oven gases, producer gas, blast furnace gas, blue: (water) gas, carbureted water gas. Btu content varies widely.

Manufacturer SeeAutomobile manufacturerOriginal Equipment Manufacturer

Manufacturers And Traders SeeSociety Of Motor Manufacturers And Traders

Manufacturers Association SeeNational Electrical Manufacturers Association

Manufacturer discounts In some leases, particularly subvented leases, the manufacturer reduces the MSRP which lowers the

purchase price of the vehicle, which the lease is based on. This is a form of capitalized cost reduction.

Manufacturer's performance ratings The performance data as specified by the car manufacturer

Manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) The suggested retail price the dealer is asking. Generally the same as the sticker price. Dealers typically sell at a discount to this price.

Manufacturer Vehicle SeeOriginal Equipment Manufacturer Vehicle

Manufacturing 1. Process technology (i.e., metal forming,

machining, injection molding, blow molding, die casting, forgings, electronics/electrical, assembly, coating/plating); capacity utilization (in percent); production volumes; strategic alliances (e.g., joint ventures, technology agreements).

2. An energy-consuming subsector of the industrial sector that consists of all facilities and equipment engaged in the mechanical, physical, chemical, or electronic transformation of materials, substances, or components into new products. Assembly of component parts of products is included, except for that which is included in construction.

Manufacturing division One of ten fields of economic activity defined by the Standard Industrial Classification Manual. The manufacturing division includes all establishments engaged in the mechanical or chemical transformation of materials or substances into new products. The other divisions of the U.S. economy are agriculture, forestry, fishing, hunting, and trapping; mining; construction; transportation, communications, electric, gas, and sanitary services; wholesale trade; retail trade; finance, insurance, and real estate; personal, business, professional, repair, recreation, and other services; and

public administration. The establishments in the manufacturing division constitute the universe for the MECS: (an EIA survey).

Manufacturing establishment An economic unit at a single physical location where mechanical or chemical transformation of materials or substances into new products are performed.

MAP 1. Acronym for Manifold absolute pressure 2. Acronym for manifold air pressure sensor

Map A pictorial representation of a series of data points stored in the memory of the control unit of system with complete engine management. The control unit refers to the map to control variables such as fuel injection pulse width and ignition timingAlso SeeCharacteristic mapDwell-angle mapEngine mapIgnition map

Map-controlled ignition A microprocessor-controlled ignition system with electronic ignition timing by means of an ignition map stored in the control unit memory. The engine speed is sensed by Hall generators at the distributor or magnetic pick-ups on the crankshaft, the load signal being given by pressure sensors which measure the air mass or air per unit of time

Map light An interior light to facilitate, for example, map reading.Also SeeGooseneck map light

MAPP A stabilized methyl acetylene-propadiene fuel gas. It is a Dow Chemical Co. product.

Mapped ignition

A microprocessor-controlled ignition system with electronic ignition timing by means of an ignition map stored in the control unit memory. The engine speed is sensed by Hall generators at the distributor or magnetic pick-ups on the crankshaft, the load signal being given by pressure sensors which measure the air mass or air per unit of time

Mapping SeeCharacteristic map

MAP sensor Manifold absolute pressure system sensor tells computer how much pressure is in the intake manifold

Maquila Mexican assembly plant located near the U.S.-Mexican border where most production is exported to the United States.

Maquiladora Mexican assembly plant located near the U.S.-Mexican border where most production is exported to the United States.

Marbling A special decorative painting effect with rotating brushes

Margin The return an intermediary achieves on the selling price of the article. That is, if the intermediary buys a product for $1 and sells it for $1.50, the margin is calculated. For example, .50 (i.e., $1.50 - $1) divided by $1.50, or 33%. Also SeeGross marginValve margin

Margin bracket A bracket connecting a side frame to the margin plate at the bilge

Margin line A line, not less than 3 inches below the top of the bulkhead deck at side, defining the highest permissible

waterplane in the final condition of sinkage, trim and heel

Marine Diesel Oil (MDO) Marine Diesel oil is a middle distillate fuel oil which can contain traces often percent: (10%) or more residual fuel oil from transportation contamination and/or heavy fuel oil blending. The MDO does not require heated storage.

Marine freight Freight transported over rivers, canals, the Great Lakes, and domestic ocean waterways.

Mark SeeBeach MarksBurn MarkDraft marksJaguar MarkReference mark sensorSkid markSwirl marksTiming markTracking markWitness mark

Marker SeeMile MarkersPavement markersSpark Plug Cable MarkerSpark Plug Wire Marker

Marker lamp A light which is mounted on the extreme edges of the roof of a truck to show the maximum height and width of a vehicle. Also called clearance lamp. Also seeSide marker light

Marker light A Side marker light

Market

SeeAftermarketDo-it-yourself marketGrey marketMechanic installed marketReplacement marketGray Market Vehicles

Market share The percentage of total sales represented by an individual manufacturer/importer, make or nameplate.

Market Vehicles SeeGray Market Vehicles

Marking SeeHatched markingPavement markingsSize markingTire Size MarkingsWater markingWheel marking

Mark sensor SeeReference mark sensor

Mark-up The return an intermediary achieves on the cost price of an article. Using the same example described above, mark-up is .50 divided by $1, or 50%.

Marles steering A form of cam-and-roller steering

Marmon A vehicle brand of which all 16-cyl.; 1925 74; 1926 74; 1927 75; 1928 E75; 1930 Big 8; 1931 88 and Big 8 models are Classic cars.

Marque A particular brand name of a vehicle. Also spelled marquee

Marquee

A particular brand name of a vehicle. Also spelled marque

Martensitic Named for Robert Martens, a German metallurgist, martensitic grades of stainless steel (types 410, 416, and 420) have a high carbon content which reduces corrosion resistance, but allows a sharp increase in tensile strength after heat treatment. Because of its high tensile strength, martensitic stainless is used for highly stressed parts such as control rod mechanisms, valves, shafts, pump parts under high stress. Martensitic stainless is magnetic, contains no nickel, loses toughness in very cold temperatures, and may have tendency to become brittle. Used in approximately 5% of stainless fasteners. Its corrosion resistance is not as good as austentic or ferritic stainless, so martensitic fasteners are used in mild atmospheres.

Martin SeeAston Martin.

MAS Acronym for mixture adjust screw

Mascot SeeEmily

Maserati

Click image for books onMaserati

A vehicle brand of which the 1925-1948 models with required application are Classic cars. The 1957-64 3500/3700 GT models are Milestone cars.

Masher A cyclist who habitually pedals hard in a high gear, at a slow cadence. The opposite of a spinner.

Mask To cover the surrounding area when paint spraying to protect it from splashes

Masking SeeAural Masking

Masking tape An adhesive tape used to cover surfaces that border an area to be painted, so as to protect them

Mass The quantity of matter a body contains. Mass is measured in kilograms (and often incorrectly called weight). The mass of a body does not change if, for example, it is moved to the Moon where the force of gravity is less.Also SeeRelative Atomic MassSprung weightUnsprung weightWeight

Mass airflow meter (MAF) device for measuring the mass flow of air into an engine.Also SeeAir flow sensorHot-wire airflow meter

Mass damper

A device which reduces or prevents vibrations or oscillations, usually a weight which counteracts (balances) undesirable motions; used on drive shafts of some FWD cars

Mass Flow SeeAir Mass Flow

Mass Meter SeeAir Mass Meter

Mass-produced car A car which is manufactured in great numbers to a standard pattern and with extensive mechanization

Mass Sensor SeeAir Mass Sensor

Mass tone The tone of a paint as it appears from the color of the paint in the can; this is required for formulating the ingredients of a paint tone.Also SeeTint tone

Mass transit system A system designed to transport large numbers of people or goods

Mast A tall vertical or raked structure, usually of circular section, located on the centerline of a ship and used to carry navigation lights, radio antennas and cargo booms

Master The primary or controlling device. A secondary or dependent device is called a slave.Also SeeBrake master cylinderTandem master cylinderMaster link

Master brake cylinder

SeeBrake master cylinder.

Master con rod In a two-stroke dual piston engines, the connecting rod that is articulated directly on the crankshaft.Also SeeSlave con rod

Master cylinder 1. The primary component for pressurizing fluid in a

hydraulic system. Used in the braking system, it supports a reservoir for holding brake fluid and is activated each time the driver depresses the brake pedal.

2. The device that converts mechanical pressure from the brake pedal into hydraulic pressure that is routed to the wheels to operate the friction assemblies.

Also SeeBrake master cylinderDual Master CylinderSingle Master CylinderSlave cylinderTandem master cylinderVacuum-powered Master Cylinder

Master cylinder pushrod The rod that transmits the movement and force of the driver from the brake pedal lever to the master cylinder piston.

Master Gauge A thread-plug gauge which represents the physical dimensions of the nominal or basic size of the part. It clearly establishes the minimum size of the threaded hole and the maximum size of the screw at the point at which interference between mating parts begin.

Master link A special link on a Chain that can be opened by flexing a plate, removing a screw, or some other means besides driving out a Rivet. The retaining spring clip is

shaped like a fish with a round head and twin tails. This illustration helps to determine the position of the clip because the fish moves in the direction of Chain movement. When installed in reverse, the clip may come off.

Master model The first precision model of an automobile based on a clay model or CAD-data; essential for the manufacture of prototypes

Master pattern The first precision model of an automobile based on a clay model or CAD-data; essential for the manufacture of prototypes

Master switch SeeBattery master switch

Master vac SeeVacuum brake booster

Master vac servo unit SeeVacuum brake booster

Masthead light A white light situated on the fore and aft centerline of a ship

Mastic Any heavy-bodied adhesive of such a consistency that it must be applied by notched trowel, gob, or by buttering methods

Mastication The reduction of rubber to a pulp preparatory to making tires

Mastic seam sealant Soft waterproof sealant for joints

Mat 1. A dull, not shiny, paint finish. Also spelled matt. 2. A covering. 3. Acronym for Manifold Air Temperature

Also SeeBead seat matFiberglass matFloormat

Matador

Click image for books onMatador

An automobile manufactured by AMC

Matching SeePaint color matching

Mate To fit together

Material SeeActive MaterialAmerican Society For Testing MaterialsBase materialBearing materialBridges And MaterialsFriction MaterialMetallic Friction MaterialMolding materialMoulding MaterialNoncombustible MaterialsOrganic Friction MaterialPerformance characteristics of materialsPiston materialSoundproofing material

Viscoelastic materialsWaste Materials

Material safety data sheets Sheets that contain information on the handling of hazardous wastes, the use of protective equipment and the procedures to follow in case of an accident

Mating Fitting together; matching

Mating gears Gears which mesh together

Mating surface A surface which interacts perfectly with another

Mating thread A thread which engages with a corresponding thread, such as the male and female threads of a nut and bolt

MAT sensor Acronym for Manifold air temperature sensor

Matter SeeParticulate matterPolycyclic Organic MatterTotal Particulate MatterVolatile Matter

Matrix That portion of the mold which surrounds the tire transferring heat to the uncured rubber and forming the tread pattern.

Matt A dull, not shiny, paint finish. Also spelled mat

Maxima

A model of automobile manufactured by Nissan in Japan

Maximum brake power The maximum power of an engine as measured by a dynamometer

Maximum diameter brake drum The largest diameter to which a brake drum can be machined or worn before it becomes unsafe. This dimension is usually stamped or cast into the drum near the hub. Typically, this is 0.060" over original diameter.

Maximum ignition Time The maximum allowable time for the specified function of any device.

Maximum Material Limit The maximum limit of size of an external dimension or the minimum limit of size of an internal dimension.

Maximum operating pressure (MOP) The steady-state or transient gauge pressure at which a part or system operates. It shall not exceed the allowable working pressure, and it is usually kept at a suitable level below the setting of pressure-limiting/relieving devices to prevent their frequent functioning.

Maximum power The maximum power of an engine as measured by a dynamometer

Maximum regulation capacity The high limit of flow below which is found acceptable regulating characteristics.

Maximum trailer weight Also known as towing capacity; the heaviest trailer the vehicle is rated to tow. Towing capacity is typically based on the vehicle plus a driver of 150 pounds. The weight of additional passengers and/or cargo should be deducted from the maximum trailer weight.

Maybach A vehicle brand of which the 1925-1948 models are Classic cars.

Mays

SeeRaymond-Mays

Mazda

Click image for books onMazda

A model of automobile manufactured in Japan by the Mazda Motor Corporation. It includes 323 (1980-94), 626 (1983-2002), 929 (1981-95), B2200 (19__-93), B2300 (1994-2007), B2500 (1998-2001), B2600 (19__-93), B3000 (1994-2007), B4000 (1994-2007), CX-7 (2007), CX-9 (2007), MAZDA3 (2004-08), MAZDA5 (2006-07), MAZDA6 (2003-08), Mazdaspeed3 (2007), MAZDASPEED6 (2006-07), Miata MX-5 (1990-2008), Millenia (1995-2002), MPV (1989-2006), MX-3 (1992-95), MX-6 (1988-97), Navajo (1991-94), Protege (1990-2003), Protege5 (2002-03), RX-7 (1993-95), RX-8 (2004-07), and Tribute (2001-06)

Mazda RX

A model of automobile with a Rotary engine manufactured in Japan by the Mazda Motor Corporation.

It began with the R100 and included the RX2, RX3, RX4, RX5, RX7, and RX8.

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "Na"

Na Nc Nd Ne Ng Nh Ni Nl Nm No Np

N 1. A gear selection indication for Neutral 2. Symbol for Nitrogen

N2O Short for nitrous oxide

NAAMSA Acronym for National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa

NAAQS Acronym for National Ambient Air Quality Standards

NACA duct This is an air opening which was named after the National Advisory Committee for Aerodynamics. It was the American organization which developed the kinds of designs for low Drag air ducts for jet engines. NACA ducts are used on cars to force air for engine Breathing and cooling, for forcing air through the Radiators, and for providing fresh air for the passenger compartment.

Nacelle

A plastic or metal covering. A headlight nacelle on a Motorcycle is the bucket surrounding the Headlight.

NADA Acronym for National Automobile Dealers Association

NADA Used Car Guide A listing of current car prices, based on age, condition, and optional equipment; published by National Automobile Dealers Association

NAFTA Acronym for North American Free Trade Agreementon http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/SSG/am00635e.html.

N.A.G. A vehicle brand of which these models, with required application, are Classic cars.

NAICS Acronym for North American Industrial Classification System. A coding system developed jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico to classify businesses and industries according to the type of economic activity in which they are engaged. NAICS replaces the Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes.

Nail hammer A hammer designed to hit the head of nails and usually has a claw device which allows for the removal of nails.

Nail Point A sharp pyramidal point of approximately 30 degrees or 45 degrees included angle.

Nail punch SeeDrift punch

Naked bike A motorcycle without any type of fairing

Nameplate A metal tag attached to a machine or appliance that contains information such as brand name, serial

number, voltage, power ratings under specified conditions, and other manufacturer supplied data. Also seeImport nameplate

NAPA Acronym for National Automotive Parts Association

Naphtha An artificially produced petroleum or coal tar fraction with a volatility between Gasoline and Kerosene. It is colorless and has an approximate boiling range between 50°C and 204°C. Used primarily as paint solvent, cleaning fluid, and blendstock in Gasoline production, to produce motor gasoline by blending with straight-run gasoline. Also seePetrochemical feedstockSpecial Naphthas

Naphtha-type jet fuel A fuel in the heavy naphtha boiling range having an average gravity of 52.8 degrees API, 20 to 90 percent distillation temperatures of 143°C to 243°C, and meeting Military Specification MIL-T-5624L (Grade JP-4). It is used primarily for military turbojet and turboprop aircraft engines because it has a lower freeze point than other aviation fuels and meets engine requirements at high altitudes and speeds. Note: Beginning with January 2004 data, naphtha-type jet fuel is included in Miscellaneous Products.

Naphthenes One of three basic hydrocarbon classifications found naturally in crude oil. Naphthenes are widely used as Petrochemical feedstock.

NAQS Acronym for National Air Quality Strategy in the UK

Narrow width chain A chain used on multi-speed bicycles with a cassette of 8 or more sprockets. Also seeDerailleur Chain Narrow Width

NAS Acronym for National Aerospace Standards

NASCAR Acronym for National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing or North America Stock Car Auto Racing or

NAS Drawings and Specifications Dimensional and material standards for aircraft fasteners developed by the National Aerospace Standards Committee. All drawings and specifications are prefixed by NAS.

Nash

A vehicle brand of which the 1930 Twin Ignition 8; 1931 Series 900; 1932 Series 990, Advanced 8, and Ambassador 8 with required application are Classic cars. The 1951-54 Healey models are Milestone cars.Also SeeFrazer Nash.

National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) Ambient standards for criteria air pollutants specifically regulated under the CAA. These pollutants include ozone, CO, NO2>, lead, particulate matter, and SOx. Urban areas are required to achieve attainment in regard to ambient concentrations of these criteria pollutants.

National Automotive Technical Education Foundation A consortium of automotive education experts which has established a steering committee to administer the CHAMP certification process at educational institutions.

National coarse thread (NC) A standard for the threads of nuts and bolts in which the number of threads per inch is much fewer

than a fine (NF) nut or bolt. Observe the difference in the number of threads per inch (TPI) of the NF and NC in the following chart. Also called Unified National Coarse thread (UNC) WIDTH NF TPI NC TPI

#10 32 24#12 28 241/4 28 205/16 24 183/8 24 167/16 20 141/2 20 139/16 18 125/8 18 113/4 16 107/8 14 91 14 8

1-1/8 12 71-1/4 12 61-3/8 12 61-1/2 12 51-3/4 n/a 4

2 n/a 4.52-1/4 n/a 4.52-1/2 n/a 42-3/4 n/a 4

3 n/a 4National electrical code (NEC)

A code for the purpose of practical safeguarding of persons and property from the hazards arising from the use of electricity. It is sponsored by the National Fire Protection Institute. It is used to serve as a guide for governmental bodies whose duty is to regulate building codes

National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA)

An organization which establishes certain voluntary industry standards relating to electric motors. These standards refer to the operating characteristics, terminology, basic dimension, ratings, and testing

National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) The National Environmental Policy Act requires federal agencies to integrate environmental values into their decision-making processes by considering the environmental impacts of their proposed actions and reasonable alternatives to those actions.

National fine thread (NF) A standard for the threads of nuts and bolts in which the number of threads per inch is much greater than a coarse (NC) nut or bolt. Also called Unified National Fine thread (UNF). Observe the difference in the number of threads per inch (TPI) of the NF and NC in the following chart WIDTH NF TPI NC TPI

#10 32 24#12 28 241/4 28 205/16 24 183/8 24 167/16 20 141/2 20 139/16 18 125/8 18 113/4 16 107/8 14 91 14 8

1-1/8 12 71-1/4 12 61-3/8 12 61-1/2 12 51-3/4 n/a 4

2 n/a 4.52-1/4 n/a 4.5

2-1/2 n/a 42-3/4 n/a 4

3 n/a 4National flag

The flag flown by a ship to show her nationality. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

(NHTSA) A US regulatory body which determines the regulations for vehicles.

National Low-Emission Vehicle A light-duty passenger car or truck up to 6,000 lb GVWR that meets the National Low-Emission Vehicle Program standards.

National Low-Emission Vehicle Program (NLEV) Still under development, this program creates voluntary requirements which automakers can adopt in lieu of compliance with other vehicle emission control measures. The program applies to the manufacture of new light-duty vehicles and new light-duty trucks up to 6,000 lb GVWR. Vehicle exhaust emission standards have been established for the 13 northeastern states of the Ozone Transport Commission, applicable on and after the 1997 model year. Standards are extended to the rest of the U.S., except California, on and after the 2001 model year. In general, the standards lie between levels established for the federal Tier I Program and the California LEV Program. Automakers can use a manufacturer's effective average standard to meet the non-methane organic gas standard. Vehicles are certified with California test procedures.

National Off-Road Bicycle Association (NORBA) The US governing body for off-road racing

National Petroleum Council (NPC) An advisory body of appointed members whose purpose is to advise the Secretary of Energy.

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) The part of the U.S. federal Clean Water Act, which requires point source discharges to obtain permits.

National priorities list

The Environmental Protection Agency's list of the most serious uncontrolled or abandoned hazardous waste sites identified for possible long-term remedial action under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). The list is based primarily on the score a site receives from the Environmental Protection Agency Hazard Ranking System. The Environmental Protection Agency is required to update the National Priorities List at least once a year.

National Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Under the U.S. Department of Transportation, NHTSA is responsible for reducing deaths, injuries and economic losses resulting from motor vehicle crashes. NHTSA investigates safety defects in motor vehicles, sets and enforces fuel economy standards, helps states and local communities reduce the threat of drunk drivers, promotes the use of safety belts, child safety seats and air bags, investigates odometer fraud, establishes and enforces vehicle anti-theft regulations and provides consumer information on motor vehicle safety topics.

National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) An independent Federal agency charged by Congress with investigating every civil aviation accident in the United States and significant accidents in the other modes of transportation -- railroad, highway, marine and pipeline -- and issuing safety recommendations aimed at preventing future accidents.

Native gas Gas in place at the time that a reservoir was converted to use as an underground storage reservoir in contrast to injected gas volumes.

NATO towing hook Large, robust, four-bolt attachment towing pintle with top-closure and, usually, 360° rotational capability about the longitudinal axis originally specified for NATO 7.5 tonne military vehicles. Suitable for off-road towing.

Natural convection 1. Movement of a fluid caused only by temperature

differences (density changes). 2. Circulation of a gas or liquid due to difference in

density resulting from temperature differences.

Natural frequency The frequency at which an object, circuit, or system oscillates or vibrates when set in free vibration. Large heavy objects have low natural frequencies and small light objects have high natural frequencies.

Natural gas (NG) A gaseous mixture of hydrocarbon compounds, the primary one being Methane and occurs naturally in the earth. The Energy Information Administration measures wet natural gas and its two sources of production, Associated-dissolved natural gas and Nonassociated natural gas, and Dry natural gas, which is produced from Wet natural gas. As an alternative, environmentally friendly fuel, it can be stored under pressure in the trunk of a vehicle as Compressed natural gas (CNG). Also SeeAssociated-Dissolved Natural GasDry Natural GasLiquefied natural gasNonassociated Natural GasSalable Natural GasSynthetic Natural GasWet Natural Gas

Natural Gas Act The Natural Gas Act was passed in 1938, giving the Federal Power Commission (now the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission or FERC) jurisdiction over companies engaged in interstate sale or transportation of natural gas. The act instituted federal oversight of rates charged by interstate gas-transmission companies, and also limited certification authority. Nobody was allowed to build an interstate pipeline to

deliver gas into a market already served by another gas pipeline without first obtaining a Federal Power Commission certificate. The principle aims of the Natural Gas Act were to: 1) provide a stable financial and regulatory environment for the financing and construction of interstate gas pipelines; and 2) prevent the "naturally monopolistic" pipelines from engaging in undue discrimination and other feared abuses, including those attendant on their control by utility holding companies or major oil and gas producers.

Natural gas hydrates Solid, crystalline, wax-like substances composed of water, methane, and usually a small amount of other gases, with the gases being trapped in the interstices of a water-ice lattice. They form beneath permafrost and on the ocean floor under conditions of moderately high pressure and at temperatures near the freezing point of water.

Natural gas liquids (NGL) Those hydrocarbons in natural gas that are separated from the gas as liquids through the process of absorption, condensation, adsorption, or other methods in gas processing or cycling plants. Generally such liquids consist of Propane and heavier hydrocarbons and are commonly referred to as lease condensate, natural gasoline, and liquefied petroleum gases. Natural gas liquids include natural gas plant liquids (primarily ethane, Propane, Butane, and Isobutane; see Natural Gas Plant Liquids) and lease condensate (primarily pentanes produced from natural gas at lease separators and field facilities; see Lease Condensate).

Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 (NGPA) Signed into law on November 9, 1978, the NGPA is a framework for the regulation of most facets of the natural gas industry. The gas market before 1978 was drastically different than the one currently existing in the United States. The changes in the market since the 1970's have come partially from increasing technology,

but also largely from changes in natural gas regulation. The Natural Gas Policy Act was one of the first efforts to deregulate the gas industry. Congress intended to allow the supply, demand, and thus the price of natural gas to be dictated by market forces, rather than regulation. Other deregulation bills include Order 636.

Natural Gas Vehicle (NGV) A natural gas vehicle is a new breed of car, bus or truck that is powered by a natural gas, either in compressed or liquefied form, rather than the traditional gasoline or diesel fuel. These vehicles offer an extremely clean, safe and efficient alternative to traditional transportation. With the passage of the Clean Air Act Amendments and the Energy Policy Act of 1992, these alternative fuel vehicles are expected to proliferate in the later 1990's. Already, major car manufacturers are offering natural gas vehicles, and there are over 700 fueling stations nationwide.

Natural gasoline A term used in the gas processing industry to refer to a mixture of liquid hydrocarbons (mostly pentanes and heavier hydrocarbons) extracted from natural gas. It includes isopentane.

Natural Gasoline and Isopentane A mixture of hydrocarbons, mostly pentanes and heavier, extracted from natural gas, that meets vapor pressure, end-point, and other specifications for natural gasoline set by the Gas Processors Association. Includes isopentane which is a saturated branch-chain hydrocarbon, (C5H12), obtained by fractionation of natural gasoline or isomerization of normal pentane.

Naturally aspirated engine A conventional engine that takes in air at normal pressure, i.e. not turbocharged or supercharged. The opposite is forced-induction engine

Natural oxide film A transparent film which forms naturally on an aluminum surface due to oxidation

Natural oxide skin

A transparent film which forms naturally on an aluminum surface due to oxidation

Natural rubber (NR) An elastomer produced from latex, a milky sap, obtained from the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis) and other plants. An elastic and porous form of rubber.Also SeeSynthetic rubber

Natural weathering A corrosion test by means of which the corrosion resistance of a material is tested in the open air

Nautical Mile The Knot is the unit of measurement for water speed. It is nearly equivalent to miles per hour for land. It is also used to measure wind speeds over water.

Naval brass A corrosion resistant metal containing 60 per cent copper, 39 1/4 per cent zinc and 3/4 per cent tin. SeeTobin bronze

Naval bronze Basic brass with a small addition of tin for added corrosion resistance against salt water. Also called naval brass

Nave A wheel hub

Nave plate A hub cap

Navigating bridge The command post of a ship.

Navigator SeeElectronic navigator

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "Oa"

O2 Acronym for Oxygen

O2S-11

Acronym for Oxygen Sensor Signal (Bank 1) O2S-21

Acronym for Oxygen Sensor Signal (Bank 2) O2 sensor

A device that detects the amount of oxygen in the exhaust stream and sends that information the ECM. Also called an Oxygen sensor or an Exhaust oxygen sensor

O3 SeeOzone

OAC Acronym used by car dealers to indicate on approval of credit.

OASIS Acronym for Ford Motor Company Online Automotive Service Information System

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "Pa"

p 1. A tire designation for Passenger, as used in

rating tires such as P185R13. 2. A tire designation for speeds up to 150 kph (95

mph) as in P195PR78 (the first P is passenger, but the second P is the Speed rating.

3. The designation for park on the gear selector of an automatic transmission.

Also seePRNDL

PA 1. Acronym for Pressure Air (Honda) 2. Acronym for Power antenna.

P/a An abbreviation for Power-assisted

P&D Acronym for Pickup and delivery

Pace car

A vehicle which leads the pack of racers during the first part of the race (usually one lap) so that the racers can warm up their engines, etc. The pace car never runs the actual race. They also lead during parade, pace lap, caution periods, and restarts.

Pace lap The warm-up part of the race before the actual race begins.

Pacer

Click image for books onPacer

An automobile manufactured by AMC

Pack SeeBlister PackGlass pack mufflerHydration PackRectifier pack

Package SeeAccessory packageEquipment packageTrailer-towing package

Package units Complete refrigerating system including compressor, condenser, and evaporator located in refrigerated space.

Packard

Click image for books onPackard

A vehicle brand of which all sixes and eights 1925-34; all 12-cyl. models; 1935 Models 1200-1208; 1936 Models 1400-1408; 1937 Models 1500-1508; 1938 Models 1603-1608; 1939 Models 1703-1708; 1940 Models 1803-1808; 1941 Models 1903-1908; 1942 Models 2004-2008 plus 2023; 1946-47 Models 2106 and 2126; all Darrin-bodied with required application are Classic cars. The 1953-56 Caribbean models are Milestone cars. The 1946-50 Clipper and Custom Eight are Milestone cars. The Pacific sedan and convertible for 1954 are Milestone cars. The 1954 Panther Daytona is a Milestone car. The Patrician 400 for 1951 to 56 are Milestone cars.

Packed gland A cylindrical recess that accommodates a number of rings of packing around the shaft or shaft sleeve of a Pump. Pumps used for high-temperature fluids are provided with jacketed, water-cooled packed glands. Also called stuffing box.

Packing Sealing device consisting of soft material or one or more mating soft elements. Reshaped by manually adjustable compression to obtain or maintain a leak-proof seal. Also SeeStuffing-box packing

Pack muffler

SeeGlass pack mufflerSteel pack muffler

PAD Acronym for Program Associated Data.

Pad A common term for a brake shoe used in disc brakesAlso SeeBacking padBrake padCeramic brake padDisc Brake PadDoor PadDoor Trim PadPillion padSintered metal brake padSkid pad

PADD Acronym for Petroleum Administration for Defense Districts

Padding disc An insert in the crankcase area designed to reduce the internal volume of the crankcase and thus to increase the precompression ratio; this helps to increase the output of a two-stroke engine

Paddle SeeSolder paddleStirring paddle

Paddling SeeFoot Paddling

Paddling the lead The act of filling repair areas by smoothing the body lead layer until a smooth surface is achieved

Pad retainer A pin which locates the brake pad in a disc brake

Pad retainer pin A pin which locates the brake pad in a disc brake

Pad Sets SeeHybrid Pad Sets

Pad wear indicator Mechanical or electrical devices which warn the driver when the lining material on the brake pads has worn to the point that they should be replaced. Also SeeBrake pad wear indicator

PAFS Acronym for Pulse Air Feeder System (Chrysler)

Pagoda roof An unusual roof design, introduced on the Mercedes-Benz SL Hardtop, which was slightly lower in the center than at the sides

Pagoda-style roof An unusual roof design, introduced on the Mercedes-Benz SL Hardtop, which was slightly lower in the center than at the sides

PAH 1. Acronym for Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons 2. Acronym for polyaluminum hydroxide 3. Acronym for Polynuclear Aromatic

Hydrocarbons

Paid value SeeDuty paid value

Paige SeeGraham-Paige

Paint 1. A liquid or paste consisting of a suspension of a

Pigment in oil or water, etc. When spread over a surface, it dries to form a hard, thin covering colored by the pigment. The primary purpose of paint is to help in the preventing of rusting. A secondary purpose is to provide a variety of color.

2. The act of spray painting a surface.

Also SeeAcrylic paintBarrier paintBituminous paintCandy apple paintCandy paintCoach paintDust-free paintFinishing paintFlame paintHeavy paintLight paintLiquid paintLow-bake paintMetallic paintNitrocellulose paintOverlay paintPolyurethane paintPyroxylin paintRefinishing paintSoft paintSolder paintSolid paintTire paintTwo-pack paintTwo-tone paintZinc-rich paint

Paint booth A closed area where coats of paint are applied

Paint chip book A Color chart

Paint color matching The process of determining the correct paint shade with the aid of color charts and special mixing devices and through spectral analysis

Paint film The actual thickness of the paint on a surface.

Paint gun

SeeSpray gun

Painting SeeCataphoretic paintingElectrophoretic paintingElectrostatic paintingOff-line paintingOn-line painting

Painting line The route taken by the bodywork of a newly manufactured vehicle on its way through the paint shop

Painting robot A robot used for paint application

Paint refinishing The various steps involved in repainting a secondhand car

Paint shop 1. The production stage in an automobile

manufacturing plant during which the bodywork is treated with paint.

2. A separate paint repair shop, usually near a body repair shop (i.e., for damaged vehicles)

Paint stripper A liquid paint remover

Paint system The sum of all coats of paint on a work

Paintwork The overall result of painting; the paint coating or finish

PAIR Acronym for Pulsed Secondary Air Injection

PAIR system SeePulse air system

Palladium A white, ductile, malleable, noble metal of the platinum family; atomic number 46, atomic weight 106.4; resembles platinum and together with other platinum

metals is used as a catalyst in automotive exhaust converters. Compare Platinum metals

Palletized construction The process of building a vehicle where the workers assemble a complete Chassis at a comfortable workbench height, in a well-lighted area, away from the main line -- not underneath a moving body. Working conditions and product quality are vastly improved.

Palm spinner

Palm spinner

A device which is attached to a steering wheel to allow disabled people to insert a hand into its bracket in order to steer a vehicle.

Pan A thin stamped Cover that is bolted to the bottom of the Crankcase, it forms a Sump for the engine oil and keeps dirt, etc. from entering the engine. Also SeeFloor panOil pan

Panamax A water-borne vessel (i.e., ship) designed small enough for passage through the Panama Canal

Pancake engine An engine in which the Cylinders are on a horizontal plane, this reduces the overall height and enables them to be used in spots where vertical height is restricted.

Also seeFlat engine.

Pan drain plug SeeOil pan drain plug

Pane A sheet of window glass

Panel 1. A flat piece of metal that is stamped to create a

body Component such as a door panel. 2. A plastic molding; e.g., interior trim of doors.

Also SeeA-panelAccess panelAperture panelBack panelBody panelBonnet landing panelClosing panelCluster panelCorner panelCowl panelCowl side panelDashboardDash panelDeck panelDoor panelFront panelFull panelGrille face panelGrille panelHeader panelHeadlight mounting panelHigh crown panelHinge panelHood landing panelInner fender panelsInstrument panel

Kick panelLamp panelLow crown panelLower Back PanelManual panel cutterOff-the-dolly panel beatingOn-the-dolly panel beatingParent panelPatch panelPattern panelPressed panelQuarter light filler panelQuarter panelQuarter window filler panelRadiator support panelRear corner panelRear deck panelRear panelRear Quarter PanelReplacement panelRocker panelRoof panelScuttle panelScuttle side panelSeat wellShelf panelSide bumper panelsSide panelSolar Thermal PanelsSplash panelSquab panelStraightened panelSunroof aperture panelTrim panelUnder sill panelWheel house panelWheel panelWindshield corner panel

Windshield header panelWindshield panel

Panel beater 1. A person who beats out the dented bodywork of a

damaged vehicle. 2. A Panel hammer

Panel beating Beating out the dents in damaged bodywork. Also SeeOff-the-dolly panel beatingOn-the-dolly panel beating

Panel bonding A new repair process using a special adhesive to glue body panels in place instead of spot-welding them

Panel contour The normal shape of a new, undented body panel as produced by the factory

Panel cutter An air-operated tool used to cut out old panels. It is a relatively coarse tool and is thus suited mainly for cutting sheet metal in areas where minor distortion along the cutting lines does not matter. Also seeManual panel cutter

Panel file SeeBody file

Panel flanger SeeJoggler

Panel hammer A special hammer for metalworking that has two different fly-shaped heads for different purposes, e.g., cross-pein and shrinking hammer. Also seeCurved pein and finishing hammerPick and finishing hammerPlanishing hammer

Reverse curve panel hammerShrinking hammer

Paneling 1. A combination of separate sheet metal panels to

form a complete assembly, e.g., the outer panels of the body or even the panels surrounding the engine

2. A plastic molding; e.g., interior trim of doors.

Also SeeCladdingUnderside paneling

Panel picking The act of straightening very fine indentations or marks of very small diameter on a panel surface with a pick hammer

Panel puller

Slide Hammer Dent Puller

A tool with a slide hammer and hook or self-threading screw tip to pull dented doors, fenders, and other sheet metal panels back into place. After drilling a hole in the

deepest part of the dent, the hook or screw tip is inserted to pull out the dent by means of slide hammer impact. Also called Knocker

Panel release tool SeeTrim panel release tool

Panel repair A type of repainting job involving an entire panel but not the entire vehicle

Pan gasket SeeOil pan gasket

Pan guard SeeOil pan guard

Panhard A vehicle brand of which the Dyna for 1946-67 models are Milestone cars.

Panhard rod A rod or Linkage on the axle which runs from side to side. Usually one end is attached to the body and the other end is connected to the axle. Also called a track bar.

Panhard rod mounting box Box section used to mount the Panhard rod of the rear axle

Panhead Harley-Davidson's second generation overhead-valve Big Twin, introduced in 1948.

Pan head A type of screw with a dome shaped head. Flat top surface rounded into cylindrical sides, and a flat bearing surface. The recessed pan head has a rounded top surface blending into cylindrical sides and a flat bearing surface.

Pannier

A luggage bag used in pairs and fastened alongside one or both wheels of a motorcycle or bicycle. Also seeSaddlebag.

Panniers Luggage bags used in pairs and fastened alongside one or both wheels of a motorcycle or bicycle. Also seeSaddlebags.

Panoramic windshield A windshield style popular in the 1950s and '60s that featured recessed screen pillars, giving a wide, unobstructed view of the road; entry for the front passengers was awkward, since the screen pillar comers projected into the door opening

P. ant Abbreviation for Power antenna.

Pantechnicon A British term for a large van or truck, especially one for moving furniture

Pantera

Click image for books onPantera

A model of automobile manufactured in Italy

Panting

The pulsation in and out of the bow and stern plating as the ship alternately rises and plunges deep into the water

Panting frame The frames in the forward and after portions of the hull framing to strengthen against shell Panting

Paper SeeAbrasive paper

Paper air cleaner An Air cleaner that makes use of special paper through which the air to the Carburetor is drawn.

PAR Acronym for a parabolic aluminized reflector lamp

Parabolic dish A high-temperature (above 82°C) solar thermal concentrator, generally bowl-shaped, with two-axis tracking. Also seeSolar Thermal Parabolic Dishes

Parabolic reflector An old headlight reflector in the shape of a parabola, now replaced by ellipsoidal reflectors

Parabolic spring A leaf spring tapered in the shape of a parabola. Also called tapered leaf spring

Parabolic trough A high-temperature (above 82°C) solar thermal concentrator with the capacity for tracking the sun using one axis of rotation. Also seeSolar Parabolic Trough

Parachute SeeAutomatic ParachuteBrake Parachute

Paraffin 1. A British term for Kerosene a solvent for

removing grease

2. A light-colored, wax-free oil obtained by pressing paraffin distillate.

3. The wax removed from paraffin distillates by chilling and pressing. When separating from solutions, it is a colorless, more or less translucent, crystalline mass, without odor and taste, slightly greasy to touch, and consisting of a mixture of solid hydrocarbons in which the paraffin series predominates.

Paraffinic hydrocarbons Straight-chain hydrocarbon compounds with the general formula CnH2n+2.

Paraffins Group of saturated aliphatic hydrocarbons, including Methane, ethane, Propane and Butane and noted by the suffix -ane.

Parallel 1. The same distance apart at every point. 2. Two or more electrical components each receiving

the same voltage resistors connected in parallel. Opposite to Series.

3. To connect in parallel

Also seeCircuit Parallel

Parallel action locking pliers A locking pliers with parallel action jaws, e.g., for pinching off hoses when servicing cooling systems

Parallel circuit 1. An electrical circuit with two or more Resistance

units so wired as to permit Current to flow through both units at the same time. Unlike the Series circuit, the Current in the parallel circuit does not have to pass through one unit to reach the other. A method or pattern of connecting units in an electrical circuit so that they are connected negative-to-negative and positive-to-positive. In a parallel circuit, current can flow independently through several components at the same time.

2. Arrangement of electrical devices in which the current divides and travels through two or more paths and then returns through a common path.

Also seeSeries-parallel circuit

Parallel connection A way of joining photovoltaic cells or batteries by connecting positive leads to positive leads to keep the voltage output the same, but increase the amperage. Some 12-volt vehicles running two batteries to give more winter starting power must connect the batteries in parallel. If they were Connected in series the output would be 24 volts and fuses would blow or components would burn out.

Parallelism The same thickness of brake discs all the way around. The relationship between one friction surface of a brake disc and the other. Also SeeAxle parallelismLack Of Parallelism

Parallel key SeeFeather key

Parallel middle body The amidships portion of a ship in which the contour of the underwater hull form is unchanged

Parallelogram steering SeeParallelogram steering linkage

Parallelogram steering linkage

Parallelogram steering linkage

A Steering system using two short Tie rods connected to the Steering arms and to a long center link. The link is supported on one end on an Idler arm and the other end is attached directly to the Pitman arm. The arrangement forms a parallelogram shape.

Parallelogram steering system SeeParallelogram steering linkage

Parallelogram suspension SeeDouble wishbone suspension

Parallel parking The action of bringing a vehicle to a stop behind another vehicle (or between two vehicles) so that your front bumper is right behind the rear bumper of the vehicle in front of you. The technique of parallel parking involves driving beside the other vehicle and then backing up while turning the steering first to the right and then at the correct time turning it to the left. It is one of the testing requirements for obtaining a license.

Parallel trailing link suspension A front suspension layout used primarily by Volkswagen on rear-engined cars

Parallel twin

A type of engine usually found on two-cylinder motorcycles where the cylinders are beside each other and on the same side of the crankshaft. An Opposed twin has two cylinders that are on either side of the crankshaft.

Parallel-twin engine A two-cylinder engine with its cylinder placed side-by-side in an upright position

Parallel valves The intake and exhaust valves with parallel valve stems

Parameters SeeEngine parameters

Parapet Concrete rails on a bridge.

Parent panel The panel left in place on the car to which a new panel is welded after all the rusted metal has been cut out

Parison A short length of glass

Park (P)

1. One of the positions of the gear selector for an automatic gearbox; when engaged (after the vehicle has come to a complete standstill) the driving wheels are locked.

2. To leave a vehicle in a particular place. 3. A Parkade.

Also SeeCar parkMulti-storey car park

Parkade A place where vehicles can be parked on one of several levels.Also SeeCar parkMulti-storey car park

Park and Ride

Provision of long stay parking areas at the edge of a built up area which are linked by frequent bus (or other public transport) services to the City center and potentially other locations.

Park Avenue

Click image for books onPark Avenue

A model of automobile manufactured by the Buick division of General Motors

Park brake SeeParking brake

Park brake extension

Park brake extension

A device which is attached to the parking brake to help disable people to operate the parking brake more easily.

Parkbrake warning light A light on the instrument panel that illuminates when the parkbrake is applied; on most new cars it has been superseded by a multifunction brake warning light

Parking The action of placing a vehicle at a full stop out of the flow of traffic. Also SeeAngle parkingAttendant parkingEchelon parkingParallel parkingSelf-parkingValet parking

Parking brake 1. Hand or foot operated brake which prevents

vehicle movement while parked by locking rear wheels, or Transmission Output shaft. One type applies the rear Brake shoes by mechanical means and the other type applies a Brake band to a Brake drum installed in the Drivetrain.

2. The secondary brake system used to hold a stationary vehicle from moving. The system is applied with a hand or foot lever, and operates on only two wheels.

3. The mechanically actuated portion of a drum brake or disc brake caliper, used to prevent the vehicle from rolling when it is parked, applied by a lever, pedal, or rod

Also SeeAuxiliary Drum Parking BrakeEmergency brake

Parking-brake cable Cables that transmit brake actuating force in the parking-brake system.

Parking brake console

The reinforcing member incorporated in the center tunnel area of the floorpan to provide the mounting support for the handbrake

Parking-brake equalizer A device to equalize pull between the parking-brake actuator and two wheels.

Parking brake lever 1. A lever inside the drum brake which spreads the

brake shoes outward; the long end is connected to the parking brake cable, the opposite end to one brake shoe and to a push bar which acts on the other shoe.

2. A lever inside the passenger compartment attached to the end of the parking brake rod and which activates the parking brake cable.

Parking brake lever strut A push bar between the shoes in a drum brake

Parking brake pedal Foot-operated pedal for the parking brake

Parking brake warning switch assembly A unit used to actuate a warning device indicating the parking brake application mechanism is not in the fully released position.

Parking disc A marker displayed on the inside of a parked car showing time of arrival or latest permitted time of departure in a British parking lot

Parking heater An air heating system which operates independently of the engine

Parking interlock SeeParking lock

Parking lamp An energy-saving vehicle illumination mode on British cars for long-term roadside parking; includes only one

front sidelight and one taillight; the parking light can be switched to illuminate the left side or the right side

Parking light An energy-saving vehicle illumination mode on British cars for long-term roadside parking; includes only one front sidelight and one taillight; the parking light can be switched to illuminate the left side or the right side

Parking lock (PL) A lock gear and pawl that lock the transmission mechanically

Parking lot A ground level, outdoor area where vehicles can be left temporarily.

Parking lot stencil A printing device which is placed on the ground so that information like handicap parking signs can be made.

Parking meter A coin-operated timing device that indicates how long a vehicle may legally remain parked

Parking space A parking place reserved for a particular vehicle

Parking ticket A written fine for a parking offence, especially where a vehicle has exceeded the time limit for parking

Park light A low intensity light which is often incorporated into the front signal lights. The park lights are to be illuminated when the vehicle is still running, but pulled off the road. However, many people drive with them on -- an action which is illegal in some parts of North America.

Park safety switch A switch which allows the starter to be engaged only when the automatic shift lever is in either park or neutral

Part A component of a vehicle.Also SeeAftermarket partIntegral Part

Molded partNew-old-stock partSpare partStructural part

Partial flow filter A Bypass filter

Partial oxidation Fuel reforming reaction where the fuel is partially oxidized to carbon monoxide and hydrogen rather than fully oxidized to carbon dioxide and water. This is accomplished by injecting air with the fuel stream prior to the reformer. The advantage of partial oxidation over steam reforming of the fuel is that it is an exothermic reaction rather than an endothermic reaction and therefore generates its own heat.

Partial oxidation burner Heat source for the partial oxidation reactor.

Partial pressures Condition where two or more gases occupy a space and each one creates part of the total pressure.

Partial respray A respraying of only part of the bodywork, opposite to Full respray or Complete respray

Participation SeeDealer participation

Particulate A small, discrete mass of solid or liquid matter that remains individually dispersed in gas or liquid emissions. Particulates take the form of aerosol, dust, fume, mist, smoke, or spray. Each of these forms has different properties. Also SeeDiesel particulate filterParticulates

Particulate catalyst A Pellet catalyst

Particulate emission

An emission of solid particles of carbon and unburnt hydrocarbons from the exhaust system

Particulate emission limit The weight of particulate emissions in the exhaust of diesel engines, specified in grams per mile

Particulate filter SeeDiesel particulate filter

Particulate ignition temperature In diesel filtration tests, the exhaust gas temperature at which there is an equilibrium between particulate burn-off and deposit build-up

Particulate matter (PM)

1. Suspended solids of carbon and unburnt hydrocarbons from the exhaust system

2. A generic term for a broad class of chemically and physically diverse substances that exist as discrete particles (liquid droplets or solids) over a wide range of sizes. A NAAQS pollutant.

3. Particles formed by incomplete combustion of fuel. Compression ignition (diesel) engines generate significantly higher PM emissions than spark ignited engines. The particles are composed of elemental carbon, heavy hydrocarbons (SOF), and hydrated sulfuric acid (sulfate particulates).

Also seeDiesel Particulate MatterTotal Particulate Matter

Particulates 1. (PM) Suspended solids of carbon and unburnt

hydrocarbons from the exhaust system 2. Small pieces (particles) of matter; dust is a

common particulate.

Particulate Trap Diesel vehicle emission control device that traps and incinerates diesel particulate emissions after they are

exhausted from the engine but before they are expelled into the atmosphere.

Part-load The throttle opening between idle and fully open

Part-load enrichment Extra fuel injected during throttle opening to enrich the mixture during transition. Usually occurs during closed-loop operation

Part-load operation The operation of systems and components under conditions below full load

Partnership Business owned by at least two people

Partnership for a New Generation of Vehicles (PNGV) established in 1993, this partnership, between the United States Federal Government and the Automotive industry, was founded to establish global technical leadership in the development and production of affordable, fuel-efficient, low emission vehicles that meet today's performance standards.

Part number (p/n, PN) A reference number attributed to a particular part. Each company uses its own system of numbering the parts.

Part out To dismantle a vehicle and sell the parts. British term is break up

Part panel SeePatch panel

Parts car A vehicle that has been damaged beyond repair or Restoration, or that has deteriorated badly. It is useful only as a source of parts. It may be Driveable though unsafe, but it usually is not in driveable condition.

Parts catalog A directory listing available parts for a particular product

Parts per million

(ppm) Unit of concentration of one element in another. Parts store

SeeAuto parts store

Part Throttle SeeAdjustable Part Throttle

Part-throttle operation Driving without using full throttle

Part-time four-wheel drive A manually selectable four-wheel drive

PAS 1. Acronym for Power-assisted steering 2. Acronym for Passive Anti-Theft System

Pascal (pa) SI measurement of pressure, it equals one newton per square meter. Also seeKilopascal

Pascal's law A principle which states that when pressure is exerted on a confined liquid, it is transmitted undiminished. The law is particularly valid for Hydraulic systems. Discovered by Blaise Pascal (1623-1662)

PA sensor Acronym for Atmospheric pressure sensor

Pass 1. The act of overtaking a vehicle which is traveling

in the same direction you are. 2. The act of going past a vehicle which is traveling is

the opposite direction from you. 3. Weld metal created by one progression along the

weld. 4. Acronym for Personalized Automotive Security

System

Also seeBypass

Passage

SeeLateral air passageOil Bleed PassageOil passageScavenging passageTransfer passageWater passage

Passenger capacity The maximum number of people that a vehicle can carry.

Passenger car A four-wheeled motor car powered by an engine and designed for passengers and/or their luggage. Also seeLarge Passenger Car

Passenger car wheel A one-piece wheel made of sheet steel. The rim and disc are welded together or made of light-alloy (cast or forged), and designed for tubeless tires. Rims for passenger cars are almost exclusively designed as 5° drop center rims incorporating a safety bead seat (double hump and combination hump are most common; flat hump designs are less common) and a J-flange. The B-flange type is reduced in height and used on passenger cars with small rim diameter and rim width

Passenger cell That part of the vehicle in which the driver and passengers sit

Passenger compartment That part of the vehicle in which the driver and passengers sit

Passenger-miles traveled The total distance traveled by all passengers. It is calculated as the product of the occupancy rate in vehicles and the vehicle miles traveled.

Passenger ship A ship authorized to carry more than twelve passengers.

Passenger-side air bag An air bag restraint system designed to protect the front passenger; introduced on some cars in the early 1990s, it usually occupies the space normally provided for a glove compartment

Passenger vehicle Four wheeled motor vehicle that also includes mini-vans and sport utility vehicles.

Passer SeeSlow Passer

Passing 1. The action of overtaking another vehicle going in

the same direction you are. 2. The action of going past another vehicle which is

going in the opposite direction you are.

Passing gear An Automatic transmission gear that shifts a vehicle into a lower gear for a short burst of extra power to pass other cars on the highway. The gear is engaged by sharply depressing the Gas pedal. When the pedal is released, the vehicle returns to normal to normal driving gear. Also seeForced downshift.

Passing lane The outside lane (far left lane in North America, etc. or the far right lane in Britain, Australia, etc.). Also called the fast lane

Passivate 1. To reduce the reactivity of a chemically active

metal surface by electrochemical polarization or by immersion in a passivating solution

2. A process of surface treatment for neutralizing stainless steels. An oxydizing solution, such as nitric acid is applied to the surface. This strengthens the normal protective film which helps

in resisting corrosion. It also removes any foreign substance which might cause local corrosion.

Passivating 1. Technical definition: a process of dipping a metal

object into a nitric acid solution to rapidly form a chromium oxide on the surface of the material, creating a passive film that protects stainless from further oxidation called a passive film. The purpose of passivating is to remove both grease left from manufacturing and traces of steel particles which may have rubbed off manufacturing tools onto the object. Contrasts with commercial definition of cleaning.

2. Commercial definition: cleaning. A wide range of cleaning methods using different mixtures containing nitric, phosphoric and other acids or simply exposing cleaned stainless objects to air for a period of time will result in a "passivated" condition. For metal objects that have been properly cleaned, it is impossible to determine the method of cleaning or passivation that was used.

Passive film The major characteristic of stainless steel is its ability to form a thin layer of protection, called a "passive film," on its outside surface. This film results from a continual process of low-level oxidation, so oxygen from the atmosphere is needed for the passive film to exist. Once formed, it prevents further oxidation or corrosion from occurring. Even if chipped or scratched, a new passive film on stainless will form.

Passive restraint system SeeAirbag restraint system.

Passive safety Any device which automatically provides protection for the occupants of a vehicle such as the bumpers, Seat belt, padded dash, Laminated windshield, head

restraints, collapsible steering column, air bags, etc. In contrast with Active safety.

Passive safety features Items in a vehicle which do not require action on the part of the driver to avoid a hazard, e.g., crumple zones, bumpers, side impact beams, and roll-over bars. Also seePassive safety.

Passive solar heating A solar heating system that uses no external mechanical power, such as pumps or blowers, to move the collected solar heat.

Passive state A state for the fuel cell internal components normally entered when the power plant is purged with steam, air or nitrogen, or per the manufacturer's instructions when the power plant is turned off or prior to when the power plant is turned on (initialization).

Passport

Click image for books onHonda Passport

A model of automobile manufactured by Honda Paste

SeeGlass reinforced filler pasteGrinding paste

Patch 1. To repair a component. 2. The added part used to repair a component, e.g., a

rubber disc glued to a tube to cover a nail hole. 3. The footprint of a tire in its contact with the

ground.

Also SeeContact patchBalance patchMachine patchPlug patchTire Contact Patch

Patching 1. A repair method for welding up local corrosion

damage by using smaller panels made up from sheet metal.

2. A repair method for gluing a rubber patch to a tube which has a hole in it.

Patch panel A small sheet metal panel that is usually made up specially to repair minor rust holes

Path SeeHeat path

Pathfinder

Click image for books onPathfinder

A model of SUV manufactured by Nissan in Japan

Patter SeeWheel patter

Pattern

SeeBitter PatternContact patternHeavy side patternHerringbone PatternIgnition patternMaster patternPrimary patternReference ignition patternSecondary patternSpray patternTread patternWear pattern

Pattern Nuts Special nuts usually furnished in plain or chamfered face unless otherwise specified, and threads are unified Coarse or unified Fine, Class 2B. (also small and extra small)

Pattern panel A body panel made by somebody other than the original manufacturer, usually for repair purposes; this also includes panels remanufactured after the factory has discontinued making and supplying those parts.

Pattern percentage SeeTread pattern percentage

Pattern snips SeeStraight pattern snips

Pavement SeeBare pavement

Pavement markers Three-dimensional markers, reflectorized or non-reflectorized, epoxied onto pavement.

Pavement markings Traffic markings such as lines, arrows, bicycle symbols, and words like "only" and "school".

Paving

SeeSpot PavingTactile pavingTrue and Level Paving

Pawl 1. A bar, pin, or Stud that can be moved, pivoted, or

slid into engagement with teeth cut on another part, such as the parking pawl on the Automatic transmission that can be slid into contact with teeth on another part to lock the rear wheels.

2. A catch at the bottom of a lever which connects with a toothed rack to hold the lever in position (e.g., with a handbrake lever or in ratchets).

3. An arm pivoted so that its free end can fit into a notch, slot, or groove at certain times in order to hold a part stationary

Payload 1. The actual weight of cargo being carried, including

packaging, etc. (GVW -- Unladen weight = payload).

2. The revenue-earning cargo of a commercial vehicle.

Also seeInterior payload

Payment SeeMonthly payment

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "Qa"

Q_ Qb Qc Qd Qe

Qf Qg Qi Qm Qp Qua Que Qui Quo Qs Qt Qv Qw

Q 1. The letter on the sidewall of a tire denoting the

maximum speed for which it is designed (160 kph or 100mph).

2. A symbol for throughput. 3. A symbol for the quantity of water discharged,

usually in m3s-1. 4. A symbol of merit, often called the Q-factor, for an

energy-storing device, resonant system, or tuned circuit.

5. A symbol for Charge.

Also seeSpeed rating

QAM Acronym for Quadrature amplitude modulation

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "Ra"

Ra Rb Rc Rd Re Rf Rh

R 1. Letter designation for tires to indicate that they

are Radial as in P185R13 tire. 2. Reverse. 3. A letter on a fuel gauge indicating low fuel; when

first illuminated it indicates that there is approximately five liters left in reserve.

4. Symbol for Resistance

Also seeSpeed rating.

R-11 (trichloromonofluoromethane) Low pressure, synthetic chemical refrigerant which is also used as a cleaning fluid.

R-12 (dichlorodifluoromethane) Popular refrigerant known as Freon 12.

R-22 (monochlorodifluoromethane) Low temperature refrigerant with boiling point of -40.5°C at atmospheric pressure.

R-113 (trichlorotrifluoroethane) Synthetic chemical refrigerant which is nontoxic and nonflammable.

R-160 (ethyl chloride) Toxic refrigerant now seldom used.

R-170 (ethane) Low temperature application refrigerant.

R-290 (propane) Low temperature application refrigerant.

R-500 Refrigerant which is an azeotropic mixture of R-12 and R-152a.

R-502 Refrigerant which is azeotropic mixture of R-22 and R-115.

R-503

Refrigerant which is azeotropic mixture of R-23 and R-13.

R-504 Refrigerant which is azeotropic mixture of R-32 and R-115.

R-600 (butane) Low-temperature application refrigerant; also used as a fuel.

R-611 (methyl formate) Low pressure refrigerant.

R-717 (ammonia) Popular refrigerant for industrial refrigerating systems; also a popular absorption system refrigerant.

RABS Acronym for Rear-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (Ford)

RAC Acronym for the Royal Automobile Club.

Race

Bearing Race

1. The inner or outer ring that provides a contact surface for the balls or Rollers in a bearing.

2. A competition (usually based on Speed) between two vehicles.

3. To run an engine at high speed when not in gear.

Also SeeBall RaceBearing raceDrag raceInner RaceRace camshaft

Race cam A type of camshaft for race car engines which increases lift of valve, speed of valve opening and closing, length of time valve is held open, etc. Also called Full cam, Three-quarter cam, or Semi-race cam, depending upon design.

Race camshaft A Camshaft, other than stock, designed to improve engine performance by altering Cam profile. Provides increased lift, faster opening and closing, earlier opening and later closing, etc. Race camshafts are available as semi-race or street grind, Three-quarter race camshaft or full race. Grinds in between these general categories are also available. Also seeThree-quarter Race Camshaft

Racer SeeBoy racerCafe racerFactory RacersSports Racer

Racing SeeBanger racingCyclo-Cross Racing

Racing Green SeeBritish Racing Green.

Racing harness

SeeFour-point Racing Harness

Racing start A start on a normal street, e.g., at traffic lights, using excessive throttle resulting in wheelspin and screeching tires.

Rack 1. A long, toothed bar. 2. Removable wood or metal wall sections attachable

to flatbed trailers to make sides for confining loads.

Also SeeHeadache RackHitch RackLuggage rackRoof rackSteering rackTrunk rack

Rack and pinion SeeRack and pinion gearbox.

Rack and pinion gearbox

Rack and pinion gearbox

A type of Steering system with a Pinion gear on the end of the Steering shaft. The pinion engages a long rack (a bar with a row of teeth cut along one edge). When the Steering wheel is turned, the pinion turns and moves the rack to the left or right. This movement is carried through Tie rods to the Steering arms at the wheels.

Rack and pinion steering

Rack and pinion steering

The pinion gear rotates with the steering shaft, moving the rack from side to side. Several full turns of the pinion are required to shift the rack from lock to lock. Because there are so few parts in the steering linkage, rack and pinion is a very precise and responsive steering system and is often used in sports cars. Also SeeRack and pinion gearbox

Rack-and-pinion steering SeeRack and pinion steering

Rack galvanizing A galvanizing method for objects which can be placed on a rack.

Rad Abbreviation for Radiator.

RAD Acronym for radiator temperature switch

Radar detector A device which will sense the presence of a radar device which law enforcement officers might be using to spot speeders.

Radial

SeeRadial engineRadial tireSteel Belted Radial

Radial bearing A bearing designed to absorb the radial forces acting on a pump. Compare Thrust bearing

Radial clearance SeeRadial play.

Radial commutator Electrical contact surface on a rotor which is perpendicular or at right angles to the shaft center line.

Radial compressor A compressor with pistons radiating out from the centerline of the compressor. The Harrison (Frigidaire) is a typical example.

Radial cooling fins Brake drum cooling fins that are parallel to the centerline of the axle.

Radial cracking Cracking of sidewall rubber running perpendicular to the tire beads. May result from underinflation or exposure to ozone.

Radial discharge nozzle Booster venturi with four spokes or arms which carry fuel to the outer circumference of the booster before discharging it from tiny holes in the ends of the spokes. Used only on the Corvair Model H carburetor.

Radial engine

Radial Engine

An internal combustion engine with a number of Cylinders arranged in a circle around the Crankshaft center line. As the crankshaft turns, the pistons are in various stages of the strokes (i.e., intake, exhaust, compression, power). A design often used for aircraft engines.

Radial-flow pump

Radial-flow pump

An end-suction centrifugal pump with the liquid flowing perpendicular to the pump shaft. The liquid enters at

the center of the impeller and is directed out along the impeller blades in a direction at right angles to the pump shaft.

Radial load A load perpendicularly applied to the axis of rotation.

Radial play A bearing clearance in the radial direction.

Radial ply

Radial ply

The ply or plies used in tire in which the cords run at right angles to the bead and parallel to the tire radius. Also seeRadial tire.

Radial ply tire A type of tire construction in which sidewall structural plies run radially out towards the tread instead of criss-cross diagonally. With their thinner, more flexible sidewalls, radial tires have lower rolling resistance than cross-ply tires (yielding better fuel consumption) as well as giving longer tread life. They can accommodate the use of low inflation pressures without overheating, due to their flexible sidewalls, but are sometimes more prone to sidewall damage when operating in rocky or stony conditions. Because radial tires invariably also have a braced tread area of great dimensional stability,

they "track-lay" the tread (like a bulldozer), do not suffer from "tread shuffle" and so achieve more traction in limiting off-road conditions.

Radial runout 1. A tire assembly that does not form a true circle;

the radii of the circle are not equal. Most usual causes are bent wheel (out of round) or tire not mounted properly (beads not seated). This is one of the main causes of vehicle vibration.

2. A variation in the diameter of a brake disc, wheel, or tire from a specified amount.

Radial shaft seal A typical seal design used to prevent leaks between stationary parts and rotating shafts and to exclude foreign matter. A lip seal, typically of neoprene, is held in a metal retainer and applies a sealing pressure to a rotating shaft, the pressure being provided by an annular garter spring winch surrounds the sealing lip; radial shaft seals are used wherever a shaft penetrates a casing, such as on crankshafts, camshafts, water pump shafts, etc.

Radial tire

Radial tire

A type of tire construction which has the main carcass Plies or cords which run at right angles to the bead and parallel to the radius. By itself, this construction is very

weak because when the Bias angle is smaller, the structure is stiff. However, the radial tire has a very large Bias angle. In order to strengthen the tire, a belt surrounds the circumference. This belt is made of low-angle plies (usually about 15 degrees). In this way, the Tread area is stiff and the Sidewalls are flexible. In this way the sidewalls can act independently of each other. In a P185/80R13 tire, R indicates a radial tire. Also SeeSteel belted radial tire

Radiant barrier A thin, reflective foil sheet that exhibits low radiant energy transmission and under certain conditions can block radiant heat transfer; installed in attics to reduce heat flow through a roof assembly into the living space.

Radiant drier SeeInfrared radiant drier.

Radiant energy Energy that transmits away from its source in all directions.

Radiant heating Heating system in which warm or hot surfaces are used to radiate heat into the space to be conditioned.

Radiation 1. The transfer of heat from one object to another

when the hotter object sends out invisible rays or waves that upon striking the colder object, cause it to vibrate and thus heat.

2. The process by which energy (such as heat) is emitted by one body, as particles or waves, transmitted through an intervening medium or space (like air), and absorbed by another body. Also refers to the energy transferred by this process

3. The transfer of heat through matter or space by means of electromagnetic waves.

Also SeeBackground RadiationBeta RadiationBlack-body RadiationQuantity Of RadiationSolar RadiationThermal radiation

Radiation shield A separate panel or panels interposed between surfaces and jackets to reduce heat losses through radiation.

Radiative forcing A change in average net radiation at the top of the troposphere (known as the tropopause) because of a change in either incoming solar or exiting infrared radiation. A positive radiative forcing tends on average to warm the earth's surface; a negative radiative forcing on average tends to cool the earth's surface. Greenhouse gases, when emitted into the atmosphere, trap infrared energy radiated from the earth's surface and therefore tend to produce positive radiative forcing. Also seeGreenhouse gases

Radiatively active gases Gases that absorb incoming solar radiation or outgoing infrared radiation, affecting the vertical temperature profile of the atmosphere. Also seeRadiative forcing

Radiator

Radiator

A device that cools the liquid in the Cooling system by allowing it to circulate through a series of water Channels, which are exposed to air Ducts. Also SeeCrossflow radiatorDownflow radiatorHeat exchangerRodding the radiator

Radiator cap

Pressure cap

1. A Pressure cap at the top of the radiator. 2. A high pressure cap used in radiators to allow

operation at high temperature. Higher pressure raises the boiling point of the coolant.

Radiator drain cock

Radiator drain cock

A radiator tap; unlike the Radiator drain plug, tools are not required to drain the coolant from a radiator with a drain cock.

Radiator drain plug A threaded closure plug located at the underside of a radiator used to drain the coolant; usually equipped with a hex or Allen head.

Radiator fan Two types are used on automobiles a crankshaft-driven fan connected by a temperature-sensitive viscous coupling, or a fan driven by an electric motor.

Radiator fan motor An electrically operated motor responsible for driving the radiator fan. An electric motor allows much more freedom in radiator location and engine bay design and permits aftercooling of the engine with the engine switched off most engines mounted crosswise at the front (as on most front-wheel-drive subcompacts) use electric radiator fans which also lead to reduced power losses, since the vehicle's engine is not also required to drive the radiator fan also. The problem with them, however, is that even with the engine off, the fan may start up unexpectedly for the person inspecting the engine bay.

Radiator fill hole

An opening at the top of the Radiator through which new water and Coolant can be added when the engine and radiator is cool. In modern vehicles, an overflow reservoir is the location for topping off the radiator fluid since opening a hot radiator cap can be dangerous. The Pressure cap seals the fill hole.

Radiator grille The grating that admits cooling air to the radiator.

Radiator grille surround The sheet metal panel for mounting the radiator grille; often combined with the front apron to form a single front panel.

Radiator guard SeeSide radiator guard.

Radiator hose The rubber pipe connecting the radiator to the cylinder block.

Radiator hose shark tooth pliers A special automotive tool for removing and installing radiator and heater hoses; round and toothed jaws securely grip the hose while the handles provide leverage to twist the hose free.

Radiator overflow tank

Radiator overflow tank

A small bottle that acts as a reservoir for liquid expelled from the Cooling system through the Overflow pipe and returns the liquid to the system when it cools down. A special Radiator Pressure cap is also part of the kit. It is also called a Closed Cooling System when it is part of the Original equipment.

Radiator pressure cap SeePressure cap.

Radiator shell

Radiator shell

A metal or plastic enclosure which surrounds the outside perimeter of the radiator and mounts to the frame of the vehicle. In modern motorcycles, it is usually chromed.

Radiator support panel A panel located behind the radiator grille surround which provides a mounting for the radiator and connects the mudguard skirts at their front edge.

Radiator tank

A reservoir containing the coolant in a radiator. Early units were made from sheet metal, typically brass or aluminum. Newer versions used advanced polymer technology and injection molding processes have made it possible to produce radiator tanks from thermoplastics. Since all modern cars use forced circulation systems, there is no need for a vertical flow through the radiator. Thus most radiators are mounted horizontally. Also called Radiator Overflow Tank

Radii adapter A mounting device that is used to center a drum or rotor on the arbor of a lathe. A radii adapter centers the drum or rotor through contact with the bearing races.

Radio A device which receives radio signals (either AM, FM, or both) and plays the sound through the speakers. Automobile radios began to appear in vehicles in 1928. Even in the mid-1960s, many cars came without radios.Also SeeCar radioCB radioCitizens band radioDIN radioMobile two-way radio

Radio/cassette deck (r/c) A combined radio and tape deck.

Radio choke An electric coil used to prevent static in the radio caused by opening and closing of the contact points in the instrument voltage regulator.

Radio Data System (RDS) A system which interrupts a radio broadcast with the latest information on e.g., traffic problems.

Radio frequency interference (RFI) interference generated by the ignition system and other electrical apparatus; counteracted by suppressors.

Radiograph

A photograph obtained by passing X-rays or gamma rays through the object to be photographed and recording the variations in density on a photographic film.

Radius SeeBuffered radiusCrown radiusFree radiusLoaded radiusRadius rodsRolling radiusScrub radiusTurning radius

Radius arm An additional suspension link in a beam axle layout providing fore-and-aft location of the axle.

Radius rod An additional suspension link in a beam axle layout providing fore-and-aft location of the axle.

Radius rods Rods or arms which are part of the Suspension, usually a live rear axle. They are attached to the axle and pivoted on the Frame. They are used to keep the axle at right angles to the Frame (i.e., prevent lateral movement) and yet permit an up and down motion. On some cars like the Triumph Spitfire, they are used to help locate the Swing axles.

Radius seat A spherical seat that provides positive centering of the wheel bolt head in the wheel.

Radon A naturally occurring radioactive gas found in the United States in nearly all types of soil, rock, and water. It can migrate into most buildings. Studies have linked high concentrations of radon to lung cancer.

RAF Acronym for Reactivity Adjustment Factor

Raft

SeeSuspension Raft

Rag SeeTack rag.

Rage SeeRoad rage.

Ragtop Colloquial term for Convertible.

RAI Acronym for Nederlandse vereniging de Rijwiel-en-Automobiel Indusrie (Netherlands).

Rail 1. A Dragster built around a relatively long pipe

Frame. The only body panels used are around the Driver's cockpit area.

2. A common pressure accumulator.

Also SeeBull-headed RailCommon Rail InjectionDrip railFender railFuel railLight RailOil railRoof railRunning on railsSeat railShift rails

Rail console SeeSeat rail console.

Railer SeeRoadRailer®

Rail job

A vehicle that has been transformed into a dragster built around a long pipe frame with minimal body panels.

Rail Joint SeeCast Welded Rail Joint

Railroad locomotive Self-propelled vehicle that runs on rails and is used for moving railroad cars.

Railton A vehicle brand of which the 1925-1948 models, with required application, are Classic cars.

Railway SeeCable Railway

Railway Container A cargo container that can be loaded or stacked on a railroad flat car.

Rain SeeAcid rain.

Rain grooves Channels cut into a road's surface to help water run off the road during a rainstorm

Raising The action of beating a rounded shape out of a flat panel by starting in the center and working outward in a spiral to the edge; the metal is shrunk around the edge but remains about the same in the center.

Rake 1. The angle at which a rod is attached. 2. The fore-and-aft inclination from the vertical.

Also seeBack RakeFork rake

Raked A vehicle which has the Ground clearance or body altered so that either the front or rear of the vehicle is

increased or lowered, thus giving the vehicle a tilted appearance.

Rake the leaves Trucker slang for the last vehicle in a string as in "Looks like I get to rake the leaves tonight."

Rally SeeIron Butt Rally

RAM Acronym for Random Access Memory -- memory that serves as a temporary storage place for data from the sensors.

Ram air 1. In a ram air system, carburetors get fresh air to be

mixed with the gasoline via forward facing ducts. The idea is that as the vehicle moves faster, more air is forced or rammed into the carburetors resulting in improved performance.

2. A term referring to the air forced through the condenser coils by vehicle movement or fan action.

Ram induction Using the forward Momentum of vehicle to scoop air and force it into Carburetor via a suitable passageway.

Ram intake manifold An Intake manifold that has very long passageways that at certain Speeds aid the entrance of fuel mixture into the Cylinders.

Ramp 1. Equipment used to support a vehicle's front or rear

for underbody work. 2. A device used to raise a vehicle in the air.

Also seeHead RampRunaway Truck Ramp

Ramp angle A measure of vehicle under-belly clearance or the ability to drive over a sharp ridge or ramp without

touching the underside of the vehicle on the obstacle. The ramp angle is the angle measured from the lowest part of the chassis at mid-wheelbase down to the periphery of front and rear wheels. Obviously a short wheelbase vehicle with large wheels will have the smallest ramp angle and best under-belly clearance.

Ramp breakover angle SeeRamp angle

Ramp-over angle An indication of how high a hump the vehicle can negotiate without scraping the undercarriage or becoming high-centered; that is, stuck with the center of the vehicle on the hump and the wheels in the air.

Ram pressure The pressure generated by the deflection of the fluid flow due to the curvature of the stator blades, resulting in a momentum acting on the turbine.

Ram tube A tube of a specific length and shape in the intake manifold that promotes performance at certain engine speeds by ramming air into the cylinders.

R&D Acronym for Research & Development.

Random access memory (RAM) A type of volatile memory that is used to store information for either short or long term usage. This type of memory can be written to. If energy is removed from the RAM device, the contents in memory are destroyed. Also seeNon-volatile Random Access Memory

Randonnée A long bicycle touring ride of 160 to 1200 kilometers made up of several controls (checkpoints).

Randonneur A male long-distance cyclist.

Also seeRandonneuseSuper Randonneur

Randonneur 5000 One of the most prestigious awards a Randonneur can earn. To be one of the recipients, a randonneur must do a full series of 200, 300, 400, 600, and 1000km Brevets, a Paris-Brest-Paris randonneur event, a Flèche team ride, and the remaining distances ridden on sanctioned brevets for a total of 5000 kilometers. The qualifying events must all be completed within a four-year period.

Randonneuring Long distance bicycle riding within a specified length of time. First developed in France in 1891 a few years before the Tour de France which later spun off from randonneuring. It is not considered a race but a ride. Everyone who completes the ride within the time limit is awarded the same medal regardless of how quickly he/she rides the distance.

Randonneurs Mondiaux An umbrella organization of national randonneuring groups. Its primary functions are to organize foreign (i.e., France, Spain, United Kingdom, Holland, Belgium, Australia, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Austria, Germany, Russia, South Africa, Canada, and the United States) participation in Paris-Brest-Paris and other 1200-kilometer Brevets, encourage the exchange of information of interest to randonneurs, and reward clubs' and individuals' participation in long-distance randonnées with various medals and trophies.

Randonneuse 1. A female long-distance cyclist. 2. A bicycle specifically designed for randonneuring.

Range Pressure or temperature settings of a control; change within limits.

Also SeeBonding RangeDual-range transmissionGear rangeHeat rangeHeat range reserveLoad rangeMid-rangeProduct rangeRev rangeSpark Plug Heat RangeTack Range

Range-change The transfer gearbox lever Also seeAuxiliary gearbox.

Range gearbox SeeHigh/low range gearbox.

Range gearing SeeWide range gearing.

Range reserve SeeHeat range reserve.

Range Rover

Click image for books onRange Rover

A model of SUV manufactured in England

Range transmission

SeeHigh/low range transmission.

Rank SeeTaxi rank.

Rankine cycle The thermodynamic cycle that is an ideal standard for comparing performance of heat-engines, steam power plants, steam turbines, and heat pump systems that use a condensable vapor as the working fluid. Efficiency is measured as work done divided by sensible heat supplied.

Rankine cycle engine The Rankine cycle system uses a liquid that evaporates when heated and expands to produce work, such as turning a turbine, which when connected to a generator, produces electricity. The exhaust vapor expelled from the turbine condenses and the liquid is pumped back to the boiler to repeat the cycle. The working fluid most commonly used is water, though other liquids can also be used. Rankine cycle design is used by most commercial electric power plants. The traditional steam locomotive is also a common form of the Rankine cycle engine. The Rankine engine itself can be either a piston engine or a turbine.

Rankine scale Name given the absolute (Fahrenheit) scale. Zero (0°R) on this scale is -460°F

RAP Acronym for Retained Access Power

Rapid Transit SeeLight Rapid Transit

Rash SeeRoad rash.

Rasp

1. A tool like a file with coarse teeth used to prepare a tire for Section repair and for Buffing prior to Retreading.

2. The action of using a rasp tool.

Ratchet 1. A feature of a special wrench which allows you to

turn the handle in one direction to tighten a nut or bolt, but turning it in the opposite direction does nothing but position the handle back where you started and leaves the wrench on the nut or bolt. Likewise you could set the wrench to loosen a nut or bolt.

2. A drive handle with ratchet mechanism, usually called a Socket wrench.

3. A toothed Rack or wheel which is engaged by a lever to permit motion in only one direction.

Also SeeAir ratchetTap ratchet

Ratchet adapter A device which converts a torque wrench or drive handle without a ratchet mechanism into a reversible ratchet tool.

Ratchet handle A Ratchet tool.

Ratchet jaw Trucker slang for a non-stop talker as in "He sure was a ratchet jaw."

Ratchet screwdriver A screwdriver with a ratchet mechanism.

Rate SeeBase interest rateBuy RateCharging rateConversion rateDamping rateDeflection rate

Discharge rateDoor ratesFlat rateFlat rate manualFlow rateNet interest rateProgressive rate springReaction RateSpark rateSpring rateTurn-in rate

Rated capacity The quantity of electricity which can be drawn from a fully charged battery for 20 hours by a constant discharging current until cutoff voltage of 1.75 volts per cell is reached. Also seeAmpere-hour capacity.

Rated horsepower SeeSAE horsepower.

Rated power 1. The power output of an engine as horsepower or

kilowatt. 2. The value stated on the generator nameplate. It is

the power available at the output terminals of a component or piece of equipment that is operated in compliance with the manufacturer's performance specifications.

Rated pressure A nominal pressure rating applied to vehicle parts.

Rated voltage The voltage given for electrical equipment or devices which refers to specified operating conditions.

Rate manual SeeFlat rate manual.

Rate spring

SeeProgressive rate springSingle rate springVariable rate springs

Rate suspension SeeRising rate suspension.

Rat Hole Service Drilling rigs.

Rating SeeAmp Hr RatingAmperage ratingCetane ratingGross axle weight ratingGross Combined Weight RatingGross Vehicle Weight RatingLoad ratingManufacturers Performance RatingsOctane ratingPly ratingRated capacitySpeed ratingTow rating

Ratio A fixed relationship between things in number, quantity or degree. For example, if the fuel mixture contains one part of gas for fifteen parts of air, the ratio would be 15 to 1.Also SeeAir-fuel ratioAir ratioAspect ratioAxial RatioBore-stroke ratioBraking ratioBreeding RatioBypass RatioCompression ratio

Economy ratioEquivalence RatioFinal drive ratioFuel-air ratioGear ratioOverall gear ratioOxygen-To-Carbon RatioPedal RatioPower-to-weight ratioPrimary compression ratioRear axle ratioSeasonal Energy Efficiency RatioSpeed ratioStall torque ratioSteam-To-Carbon RatioSteering overall ratioSteering ratioStoichiometric ratio

Ratio Adapter Controller Module SeeDigital Ratio Adapter Controller Module

Rationalization An industrial reorganization primarily aimed at a more cost-effective and time-saving production process.

Ratio steering SeeVariable ratio steering.

Rat-tail file A Round file.

Rattle SeeBody rattleDeath rattleDiesel rattle

Rattle spring SeeSpreader spring.

Rattrap

The type of Bicycle pedals that have thin metal plates with jagged edges running parallel on each side of the pedal Spindle.

RAVE valve A device used on Two-stroke engines which automatically alters or varies the Exhaust port size. It stands for Rotax adjustable variable exhaust.

Ravigneaux planetary gear set A system which is composed of two sun gears of different diameters, one internal gear, and several planet pinions.

Raw exhaust gas The exhaust gas upstream of any emission control device, e.g., before it passes through a catalytic converter.

Raw rubber Natural rubber that has not been vulcanized.

Ray SeeBeta RaysCathode RayInfrared RaysUltraviolet Rays

Rayleigh frequency distribution A mathematical representation of the frequency or ratio that specific wind speeds occur within a specified time interval.

Raymond-Mays A vehicle brand of which the 1925-1948 models with required application are Classic cars.

Rayon A synthetic fiber.

Ray Tube SeeCathode Ray Tube

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "Sa"

S

1. A letter rating for tires to indicate that they are theoretically rated for speeds up to 180 kph (110 mph), as in P220SR15. The next higher rating is T.

2. Abbreviation for Special or Sport, indicating better performance than a standard car model.

S2000

A model of automobile manufactured by Honda

S4WD Acronym for Selectable Four Wheel Drive

SA An API classification for straight mineral oil used in early gasoline and diesel engines which are operated under such mild conditions that the protection of compounded oils is not required. This category has no performance requirements, and oils in this category should not be used in any engine unless specifically recommended by the equipment manufacturer. It was replaced by the obsolete SB. Modern gasoline engines should use oil that meets the SM classification.

Saab

A model of automobile manufactured in Sweden and includes 9-2X (2005-06), 9-3 (1999-current), 9-5 (1999-current), 9-7X (2005-07), 900 (1978-98), and 9000 (1985-98)

Sacco panels SeeSide bumper panels

Sacrificial anode An electropositive metal coating, such as aluminum or zinc, that protects the steel of a car body by corroding first when attacked by electrolytic action

Sacrificial protection SeeCathodic protection

Saddle 1. Seat on a Bicycle 2. Metal piece on a centerpull brake. 3. Upper main bearing seat

Also seeAnatomic saddleGel saddleYoke

Saddlebag

Saddlebag

A large bag or one of a pair which hangs down from the saddle or straddles the rear wheel of a bicycle or motorcycle. Also called panniers

Saddle gel A gelatin substance that is inserted into a bicycle or motorcycle saddle beneath the leather cover to provide more cushioning.

Saddle tank 1. A fuel tank mounted above the rear axle. 2. A fuel tank that fits over the top tube of the frame

of a motorcycle

Saddle valve

Saddle valve

A device that is silver brazed or clamped on a tubing line or pipe where a spike punctures the line or a hole is drilled in the line to provide a secondary outlet of the liquid in the line. Also called tap-a-line

SAE Acronym for Society of Automotive Engineers. It publishes automotive research papers and defines various automotive standards of measurement.

SAE gross bhp An older unit of engine power. In the SAE gross bhp test, a bare engine is used, i.e., an engine equipped with only those accessories that are necessary for its operation, such as the oil pump and fuel pump; but water pump, alternator, exhaust system, etc. are not used; this results in a higher power rating than achievable by the same engine under real operating conditions

SAE gross horsepower A production engine's actual power available at the flywheel or output shaft (usually crankshaft) as tested with an absorption dynamometer. It differs from SAE net horsepower in that many of the accessories (such as alternator, water pump, etc.) are not attached. Engines before 1973 were primarily measured with these "gross" numbers. Since 1973, net figures were published. This confusion caused many people to suppose that their engine had been seriously de-tuned when they saw that the same engine in 1972 had 400 hp but in 1973 had only 235 hp. (This example is from the Cadillac 500 cubic inch engine). Compare SAE net horsepower. Also SeeBrake horsepowerHorsepower

SAE horsepower A simple formula of long standing is used to determine horsepower. The formula is (bore diameter) squared times (number of cylinders) divided by 2.5. This formula is used primarily for licensing purposes and is not very accurate for determining actual brake horsepower.

Also called rated horsepower. Compare SAE gross horsepower and SAE net horsepower. Also seeHorsepower.

SAE net bhp A newer unit of engine power. A fully-equipped engine (as when installed in a vehicle) is used to determine SAE net bhp figures; as a rough guideline, SAE net is about 70-85 percent of SAE gross

SAE net horsepower The brake power (power available at the flywheel or output shaft -- usually the crankshaft) of a fully equipped engine fitted with all the accessories necessary to perform its intended functions unaided. In 1973, automobile manufacturers began publishing their engine specifications in net horsepower and net torque instead of gross figures. In many cases the published numbers were significantly lower in 1973 than in 1972. Some of the decrease was attributed to the addition of pollution equipment, the lowering of compression, and the use of regular unleaded gasoline instead of premium leaded fuel. However most of the decrease in number was a switch to net figures. Compare SAE gross horsepower. Also SeeBrake horsepowerHorsepower

SAE Specifications Standards developed by the Society of Automotive Engineers, Inc.

SAE Standard Screw Threads The SAE Screw Thread Standard, as revised in 1954, conforms with the Unified and American Standard.

SAE steels A numerical index used to identify composition of SAE steel

Safe headway A safe distance between two vehicles on the road

Safe stop wheel A Run-on tire

SAFETEA-LU Acronym for Safe, Accountable, Flexible, and Efficient Transportation Equity Act - a Legacy for Users

Safety SeeActive safetyDriveshaft safety strapExperimental Safety VehicleInsurance Institute For Highway SafetyIntegrated child safety seatIntegrated safety beltsMotor Vehicle Safety ActPark safety switchPassive safety featuresPassive safetySafety factorSafety hubSafety rimSafety valve

Safety Act SeeMotor Vehicle Safety Act

Safety, active SeeActive safety.

Safety Administration SeeNational Traffic Safety AdministrationNational Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Safety bead seat A general term for a safety contour on the rim bead seat preventing the tire bead from sliding into the rim well especially during cornering maneuvers

Safety belt

SeeSeat beltIntegrated safety belts

Safety Board SeeNational Transportation Safety Board

Safety can 1. Approved container of not more than 5-gal.

capacity. It has a spring-closing lid and spout cover. It is designed to relieve internal pressure safely when exposed to fire.

2. An approved container of not more than two gallons capacity having a spring-closing lid and spout cover and so designed that it will safely relieve internal pressure when subjected to fire exposure.

Safety catch A secondary latch usually located under the front edge of the hood, near the center, which prevents accidental release of the hood if the main cable-operated hood lock is activated by mistake

Safety chains

Safety chains

Two, crossed chains linking the trailer and vehicle frame as a safeguard if the towing hitch fails

Safety Compliance Certification Label (SCC) An American label which must be attached to the lower half of the left-hand front door lock facing; specifies the VIN and other relevant information

Safety control 1. Device to stop the operation of a unit if unsafe

pressure, temperatures, and/or dangerous conditions are reached.

2. Automatic controls and interlocks (including relays, switches, and other auxiliary equipment) which are intended to prevent unsafe operation of the controlled equipment.

Also seePrimary Safety Control

Safety-control circuit A circuit or portion thereof involving one or more safety controls aimed at preventing unsafe operation of the controlled equipment due to grounding, opening or shorting of any part of the circuit.

Safety Cutout SeeHead Pressure Safety CutoutLow Pressure Safety CutoutOil Pressure Safety Cutout

Safety Data Sheets SeeMaterial Safety Data Sheets

Safety factor 1. Providing strength beyond that needed, as an

extra margin of insurance against part failure. 2. Degree of strength above normal requirements

which serves as insurance against failure

Safety features SeePassive safety features

Safety glass SeeLaminated glass

Safety goggles

Safety goggles

A close-fitting glasses or mask to protect the eyes (e.g., during welding)

Safety harness SeeHarness

Safety hub A device that is installed on the rear axle to prevent the wheels from leaving the vehicle in the event of a broken axle.

Safety hubs SeeSafety hub.

Safety ledge A raised area (hump) around the circumference of the bead seat area of passenger wheels. Its function is to prevent the tire beads from becoming unseated during hard cornering or while running with low air pressure. A must with tubeless passenger tires. Also called Special ledge

Safety motor control

Electrical device used to open circuit to motor if temperature, pressure, and/or current flow exceed safe conditions.

Safety pin

Safety pin

A securing device

Safety plug Device which will release the contents of a container before rupture pressures are reached.

Safety pressure cap SeePressure cap.

Safety reflector SeeWarning triangle

Safety relief valve A spring-loaded valve designed to open and relieve excessive pressure in a device when it exceeds a predetermined safe point

Safety rim A rim having two safety ridges, one on each lip, to prevent the tire beads from entering the drop center area in the event of a blowout. This feature keeps the tire on the rim.

Safety seat SeeBaby seatIntegrated child safety seat

Safety shutdown The action of shutting off all fuel and ignition energy to the fuel utilization equipment by means of a safety

control or controls such that restart cannot be accomplished without manual reset.

Safety shutoff device A device that will shut off the fuel supply to the controlled burner in the event the source of ignition fails. This device may interrupt the flow of fuel to the main burner only, or to the pilot and main burner under its supervision.

Safety stand

Safety stand

A device that can be securely locked at a choice of heights, so it can be placed under a specific part of the vehicle underbody to support the weight of the vehicle that has been raised with a jack, and keep the vehicle safely in place. Usually used in pairs. Also called jack stand or axle stand

Safety steering column SeeCollapsible steering column

Safety strap SeeDriveshaft safety strap

Safety switch

SeeNeutral safety switchPark safety switch

Safety valve 1. A valve designed to open and relieve the pressure

within a container when container pressure exceeds a predetermined level.

2. Self-operated, quick opening valve used for fast relief of excessive pressures.

Safety valve shutoff A valve that is automatically closed by the safety control system or by an emergency device. Such valve may be of the automatic or manually opened type.

Safety Vehicle SeeExperimental Safety Vehicle

Safety wheel A general term referring to either a wheel with a safety bead seat or a wheel with run flat properties

SA-FV Acronym for Separator assembly-fuel Vacuum

Sag 1. To bend or droop under weight or pressure. As a

result of a front or rear end collision, the frame may develop a sag in the middle, much like a hammock.

2. To fail to meet projected sales. 3. A paint problem.

Also seePump SagSags

Sagging 1. An aggravated condition of paint where a band of

paint runs down the side of a vertical area of the body. It may be caused by excessive build-up of paint, thinners which are too slow-acting, or excessively slow movement of the spray gun.

2. The straining of a ship that tends to make the middle portion lower than the bow and stern

Sagging door A door that sits too low in the door opening which is often indicated by an uneven door gap that widens towards the rear bottom and front top of the door but narrows down at the rear top and front bottom. This condition may be caused by faulty setting of the door hinges and lock/striker assembly. On convertibles, it often pinpoints structural damage, because the chassis may be bending in the middle

Sags An aggravated condition of paint where a band of paint runs down the side of a vertical area of the body. It may be caused by excessive build-up of paint, thinners which are too slow-acting, or excessively slow movement of the spray gun

Sag wagon A support vehicle for touring bicycles or motorcycles to provide food, repairs, or a ride home.

SAI Acronym for Steering axis inclination

Sailing SeePlane sailing

Sainte Claire SeeWills Sainte Claire

SAIR Acronym for Secondary Air Injection System

Salable natural gas Natural gas marketed under controlled quality conditions.

SALA suspension Acronym for Short arm/long arm suspension

Sales Total automotive product sales (vehicles, automotive parts, including OE and aftermarket).

Also SeeBulk SalesFleet SalesNet sales valueYard Sale

Sales value SeeNet sales value

Salient pole An electric motor has salient poles when its stator or field poles are concentrated into confined arcs and the winding is wrapped around them (as opposed to distributing them in a series of slots)

Saloon A British term for Sedan

Salt SeeBechgaard SaltBlueing Salts

Salt brine recycling Collecting brine runoff and reusing it as a pre-wetting agent for salt

Salt flat Salt marsh of very unreliable consistency and bearing strength found in desert regions and characterized by a top crust of varying thickness and strength with soft salt mud of great depth beneath it.

Salt fog testing SeeSalt spray testing

Salt spray chamber A test chamber for Salt spray testing

Salt spray testing Spray tests with sodium chloride solutions

Salt water splash An open-air corrosion test facility

Salvaged A vehicle totaled in an accident and then repaired. There is no guarantee of street worthiness for a

salvaged vehicle. It may look good, but be hazardous to drive.

Sam Browne A wide strap, made of reflective material, worn around the waist with a strap diagonally over the right shoulder

Sampler SeeBomb Sampler

Sampling SeeConstant-volume sampling.

Sand 1. To smooth or clean a surface by rubbing with

sandpaper. Sanding usually refers to hand tools such as sandpaper and block, while grinding always refers to power tools such as angle grinders.

2. A term popularly applied to loose, unconsolidated accumulations of detrital sediment, consisting essentially of rounded grains of quartz. In the mechanical analysis of soil, sand, according to international classification, has a size between .06 and 2.0 mm.

3. To apply a thin layer of sand or sand and salt to an icy road surface to increase traction.

Also seeBlack SandSilica sand

Sand blast Cleaning by the use of sand propelled at high speeds in an air blast.

Sand blaster

Sand blaster

A metal box into which a rusty or dirty object is placed. Compressed air and sand or grit are forced through a nozzle and is directed at the object in order to remove the dirt, paint, or rust.

Sandblasting The cleaning of a surface with a jet of sand (or grit) under air or steam pressure

Sand casting The formation of shapes by pouring molten metal into a cavity shaped in sand in a molding flask

Sand channels Open face tubes or planks (sometimes articulated) with a rough inner surface with ridges used to put under the driving wheels to assist in gaining traction when the vehicle is stuck in soft sand. Also seeSand ladders

pierced steel plankingSand tracks

Sander A power-driven tool with a rotating abrasive disc for smoothing and cleaning surfaces. Also SeeBelt sanderDisc sanderGround-oriented sanderOrbital sander

Sanding SeeBlock sandingWet sanding

Sanding block A block of rubber or plastic to which the sandpaper is fastened, offering the operator a good grip. The block should be used for most sanding jobs because it distributes the pressure evenly and gives a more uniform surface.

Sand ladders A pair of aluminum ladders, about 170 cm long, specially made with rungs closer than normal, to lay beneath the vehicle wheels in soft sand to give grip and flotation. Also seeSand channelspierced steel plankingSand tracks

Sandpaper An abrasive paper coated with sand for smoothing and cleaning. Compare Glasspaper

Sand recycling Collecting road sand used one winter and processing it for reuse the next winter or for other applications

Sand scratch SeeSand scratches.

Sand scratches

The marks left in metal or in the old finish by abrasives. They may also show in the finish coat due to lack of filling or sealing.

Sand scratching A paint fault characterized by the paint film appearing low in gloss and showing primer and metal imperfections in the top coat; may be caused by excessively coarse sanding and too thin a paint coat

Sand scratch swelling Solvents present in surface scratches that cause the old finish to swell.

Sand tires An off-road tire designed for desert sand and beach sand. Usually with smooth tread blocks rather than the sharp, bold blocks of a mud tire.

Sand tracks Generic name sometimes given to any item fulfilling the role of a sand ladder. May be pierced steel planking Also seeSand channelsSand ladders

Sandwich construction A composite construction of alloys, plastics, and other materials consisting of a foam or honeycomb layer and glued between two hard outer sheets. Also called Sandwich laminate

Sandwich laminate SeeSandwich construction

SAP SeeAIA-SAP

SAS 1. Acronym for Scandinavian Automotive

Suppliers 2. Acronym for speed adjusting screw

SASE

Acronym for self-addressed stamped envelope. Often used in advertisements where the seller will provide information if potential buyers will send a SASE enclosed in their query letter. Also seeSSAE.

Satellite A block of controls near the steering wheel rim. Also seeGlobal Positioning Satellite

Saturated vapor Vapor condition which will result in condensation into droplets of liquid if vapor temperature is reduced.

Saturation Condition existing when substance contains all of another substance it can hold for that temperature and pressure.

Saturation period The length of time the breaker points are closed and current is flowing through the primary windings of the coil.

Saturn

A make of automobile manufactured by General Motors. Includes Aura (2007-current), Ion (2003-07), L100 (2001-02), L200 (2001-03), L300 (2001-05), LS (2000), LS1 (2000), LS2 (2000), LW1 (2000), LW2 (2000), LW200 (2001-03), LW300 (2001-03), Outlook (2007), Relay (2005-07), SC (1991-92), SC1 (1993-02), SC2 (1993-2002), SKY (2007-current), SL (1991-2002), SL1

(1991-2002), SL2 (1991-2002), SW1 (1993-99), SW2 (1993-2001), and VUE (2002-07)

Saturn Aura Green Line A midsize Hybrid sedan produced by General Motors similar to the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid that uses a Belt Alternator Starter (BAS) hybrid system.

Saver spare SeeSpace saver spare

Saver wheel SeeSpace saver spare wheel

Saving tire SeeSpace saving tire

SAVM Acronym for Spark Advance Vacuum Modulator

SAW Acronym for Spark Angle Work

Saybolt Furol viscosity A viscosity test similar in nature to the Saybolt Universal viscosity test but one more appropriate for testing high-viscosity oils. Certain transmission and gear oils, and heavy fuel oils are rated by this method. The results obtained are approximately 1/10th the viscosity which would be shown by the Saybolt Universal method.

Saybolt viscometer An instrument used to determine the fluidity or viscosity of an oil.

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "Ta"

T A letter rating for tires to indicate that they are theoretically rated for speeds up to 190 kph (118 mph),

as in P220TR15.The next higher rating is H and the one lower rating is S

TA Acronym for Temperature Air (Honda)

Tab 1. A small projecting part as on a tab washer, or on a

gasket where it engages with another seal. 2. Not a continuous flange as provided at the top

mounting of a fender, but a short flange section to provide localized fitting of one panel to another

TAB Acronym for Thermactor Air bypass solenoid

Table SeeLining TableLoad and inflation tableTray table

Tab washer A washer with a projection that may be hammered against a flat side of a nut, or into a hole in the surface, or over an edge, in order to secure the nut to the surface on which it bears

TAC 1. Acronym for Thermostatic air cleaner 2. Acronym for Throttle Actuator Control

Tach Abbreviation for Tachometer.

Tacho Colloquial term for Tachograph

Tachograph Instrument to record, on a graph, vehicle trip information such as speed, rpm, distance, time traveled, stop and go periods. It is used on transport trucks.

Tachometer (tach)

1. A device used to indicate the speed of the engine in rpm. The tachometer is mounted on or near the

Dashboard (some even appear on the Hood and others in a heads-up display on the Windshield). It helps the Driver to know the optimum rpm for changing gears on a vehicle with Manual transmission. A tachometer is also a diagnostic device which a mechanic uses to determine Idle speed and other Carburetor and running settings. Also called a rev counter

2. A small generator normally used as a velocity-sensing device. Tachometers are typically attached to the output shaft of DC servo motors requiring close speed regulation. The tachometer feeds its signal to a control which adjusts its output to the DC motor accordingly (called closed loop feedback control)

Tack 1. A term used to describe the sticky quality of a

rubber compound. 2. The sticky quality of an adhesive film, either while

wet or after the film has set. Technically it is the pull resistance (measured in dynes) exerted by a material completely adhering to two surfaces being pulled apart.

Also SeeRear tack stripSurface tack

Tack cloth A special cloth used to wipe sanded panels prior to spraying in order to remove even minute dust particles and other foreign substances from the panel surface

Tack coat The first Coat of Enamel that is allowed to dry until tacky usually about 10-30 minutes, depending on the amount of Thinner used. The surface is tacky when it will not stick to the finger when light pressure is applied.

Tack hammer

A special hammer with a magnetic head for inserting small nails or tacks

Tackiness The stickiness of the adhesive film while in the stage of drying.

Tacking Attaching a panel provisionally by placing a few spots of weld along its outline; final spot or seam welding is carried out only afterwards

Tack rag A cloth impregnated with a non-drying Varnish that is used to pick up dust and dirt particles.

Tack range The time during of a film to distortion or rupture when it is exposed to forces exerted in opposite directions (measured in psi).

Tack strip SeeRear tack strip

Tack weld Small weld used to temporarily hold together components of an assembly.

Tack welding Attaching a panel provisionally by placing a few spots of weld along its outline; final spot or seam welding is carried out only afterwards

Taco To bend a wheel over on itself, in the shape of a taco. "I taco'd my wheel when I hit that tree."

TAC system A contact breaker ignition system developed by Lucas, controlled by two transistors, one serving as a power output transistor

Tactile paving Contoured paving to mark out pedestrian crossing points for those with vision problems.

TAD Acronym for Thermactor air diverter solenoid

Tadpole cycle

A three wheel cycle with two wheels in front and one in the back. Also seeDelta cycle

TAEE Acronym for Tertiary amyl ethyl ether

Tag axle A non-powered axle placed behind the drive axle in large trucks. Contrasted with a Pusher axle which is placed in front of the drive axle.

Tag block A wiring harness terminal block with a number of electrical plugs and sockets

Tag-Robinson Colorimeter An instrument used to determine the color of oils. Also a scale of color values.

Tag Trailers A single axle trailer with equipment like generators, cement mixers, or wood chippers.

Tagalong Trailers Usually single axle equipment like generators, cement mixers, or wood chippers.

Tail The rear of a vehicle. Also SeeKamm tailWhale tail

Tailboard A board at the rear of a pick-up that can be removed or let down on a hinge. Compare Tailgate

Tail fin A vertical fin on the back of the rear fenders. Copied from a Lockheed P38 fighter plane, Cadillac introduced tail fins on a coupe in 1948; they were a fashion until the 1960s

Tailgate 1. On a truck it is the fold down access door to the

truck bed. On some Station wagon and SUVs, it is the rear opening which usually requires the

window to be lowered before the tailgate folds out. It differs from a liftgate in that the back opening is raised to allow entry.

2. As a verb, to follow closely behind another vehicle--an illegal and unsafe procedure.

Tailgating Driving so close to the vehicle in front as to be affected by its slipstream; a very dangerous practice as available reaction time is reduced to a minimum. The correct distance is 2 or 3 seconds behind the vehicle in front.

Tail heavy The description of the towing vehicle if the vehicle being towed is too heavy

Tail lamp The red rear light that illuminates as soon as the lights are switched on, to show your vehicle to those behind you

Tail lift SeeBrake dive

Tail light The red rear light that illuminates as soon as the lights are switched on, to show your vehicle to those behind you

Tail light box A deep-drawn panel spot-welded into the tail light aperture to accept the complete tail light cluster. The tail light box provides better corrosion protection for the electrical connections of the tail light than would be possible by installing the tail light with a rubber seal into the open light aperture

Tail light panel SeeRear panel

Tail light surround SeeRear light surround

Tail pipe The Exhaust pipe which runs from the Muffler to the rear of the vehicle. and is open to the atmosphere, through which the Exhaust gases are routed into the atmosphere. Outlet pipe from the evaporator.

Tailpipe The last link in the exhaust system. Conducts exhaust gases from the muffler to the rear of the car and into the atmosphere.

Tailpipe expander A special automotive tool used for reshaping and expanding tailpipes evenly, to assure a tight fit and prevent exhaust leaks

Tailshaft A ship's propeller shaft. Also seeGearbox output shaft

Take SeePower take off

Take foot off the accelerator The action of Easing up on the accelerator completely so that there is only a minimal amount of fuel entering the engine thus the engine will slow down

Take foot off the gas pedal The action of Easing up on the gas pedal completely so that there is only a minimal amount of fuel entering the engine thus the engine will slow down

Take foot off the throttle pedal The action of Easing up on the throttle pedal completely so that there is only a minimal amount of fuel entering the engine thus the engine will slow down

Take off SeePower take off

Take up To begin to transmit the drive when the clutch is engaged

Take-up The act of taking up.Also SeeLifting platform take-up pointQuick take-up valve

Take-up point SeeLifting platform take-up point

Take-up valve SeeQuick take-up valve

Talbot Lago A vehicle brand of which all 150C models are Classic cars.

Talbot A vehicle brand of which all 105C and 110C models are Classic cars. The 1946-54 Lago 4.5 models are Milestone cars.

Talc Powder lubricant to prevent sticking between tube and tire. A soft mineral; a basic magnesium silicate usually occurring in foliated, granular, or fibrous masses, used in the manufacture of electrical insulators

Talking warning system Using the car radio speakers, this microprocessor-based system tells the driver the source of the problem in a clear, pleasant (female) voice. If the radio is on at the time of the alert, the computer automatically turns down the volume so the warning can be heard

Tall oil The oily mixture of rosin acids, fatty acids, and other materials obtained by acid treatment of the alkaline liquors from the digesting (pulping) of pine wood.

TAME Acronym for Tertiary amyl methyl ether

Tampering SeeGlass tampering detector

Tampering detector

SeeGlass tampering detector

Tamperproof carburetor A carburetor with factory-adjusted idle speed, sealed idle speed adjustment screw, and provisions to ensure that exhaust emission levels remain within specified limits over an extended period of time

Tandem 1. A Bicycle that provides seats, bars, and pedals for

two or more riders, one behind the other. 2. A tractor-trailer truck.

Also seeFixed TandemSliding TandemSpread Tandem

Tandem axle SeeTandem axles.

Tandem axles 1. A pair of axles at the rear of the power unit

(tractor or straight truck) or trailer. For power units, if described as a tandem, usually indicates the number of drive axles on the power unit.

2. A combination of two axles having a common suspension. Pair of axles and associated suspension usually located close together. Called Tandems.

Also seeSpread Axle

Tandem booster A vacuum power booster that uses two diaphragms to increase brake application force. Smaller in diameter than single-diaphragm boosters.

Tandem drive Two powered axles in combination.

Tandem master cylinder 1. A master cylinder with two pistons; when the

brake pedal is pressed, the pushrod activates the

primary piston which in turn moves the secondary piston; necessary for dual-circuit braking systems

2. A master cylinder having a single bore with two pistons and separate fluid compression chambers. In the event of significant fluid loss in one circuit, this design, used in split braking systems, ensures that there will be some braking power in the other circuit. For this reason, it has been mandatory on cars marketed in the US since 1967

Tandems SeeTandem Axles

Tang A device mounted on a rotating shaft or component that engages in a recess of a component to be driven Also seeBearing TangCenterstand Tang

Tangential-flow scavenging SeeLoop scavenging

Tank A container into which any liquid or gas can be held. Also it may even be empty such as a Vacuum tank.Also SeeAcetylene cylinderAir tankAnodizing tankBallast tankBleeder TankBottom tankBuffer TankCylinderDeep tankElectropaint tankExpansion tankFlat TankFuel tank

Fuel tank senderGas tankHeader tankMiles Per TankRadiator tankSaddle tankSlop tankSupply TankSurge TankVacuum tankQuiescent Tank

Tank bag A bag that sits on the gas tank of the motorcycle, secured by a magnet or by straps. Tank bags are good for holding lightweight items such as gloves, maps, and wallets

Tank-barge A river barge for the carrying of liquid bulk cargo

Tank bib A leather or vinyl covering over the gas tank of a motorcycle to protect the finish from scratches

Tank chap A leather or vinyl covering over the sides of a gas tank of a motorcycle to protect the finish from scratches

Tanker 1. An enclosed cargo body designed solely for the

transportation of fluid or gaseous commodities in bulk. Not to be confused with trailers which are designed for carrying dry bulk products.

2. A ship designed for transporting liquid cargo, usually petroleum products.

3. A dry bulk tanker. Sometimes called air-can trailers. Used exclusively for hauling dry bulk material. Cargo is emptied pneumatically.

Also SeeOil tankerPetrol tanker

Tanker truck

A truck designed to carry liquid in bulk. British term is petrol tanker

Tank sender SeeFuel tank sender

Tank, supply Separate tank connected directly or by a pump to the oil-burning appliance.

Tanktop A covering usually of wood, placed over the tank top for its protection

Tank Vapor Valve SeeFuel Tank Vapor Valve

Tank Wagon Sales SeeDealer Tank Wagon Sales

Tap

Tap

1. To cut threads in a hole, nut, or tube with a rotating tool called a "tap."

2. The fluted tool used to cut the threads. 3. To strike lightly

Also SeeBottoming TapDieDrain tapPressure TapSpark Plug Insert Tap

TAP Acronym for Transmission Adaptive Pressure

Tap and die set

A set of taps and dies for internal and external threading, usually covers a range of the most popular sizes.

Tap Bolt A fully threaded hexagon head bolt.

Tap-changing Equipment SeeAutomatic Tap-changing Equipment

Tape SeeAdhesive tapeBlacking A TapeBonnet tapeHood tapeInsulating tapeLoom TapeMasking tapeRim tape

Tap End Stud A double-end stud having each end threaded for a different class of fit. The tap end has a Class 5 fit to produce an interference fit in a tapped hole for semi-permanent assembly. The nut end is threaded Class 2A for assembly with a standard nut.

Taper 1. A gradual narrowing in size of a long round object

toward one end. 2. A lack of parallelism. A defect in which the

thickness of the drum or rotor at the outer edge differs from its thickness at the inner edge.

Also SeeAdvanced rim taperBase rim taperDrop center rim taperFlat base rim taperIntermediate rim taperRim bead seat taperRim taper

Semi-drop center rim taperWorm and taper pin

Taper-breaking tool SeeBall joint separator

Taper cutter A tool used to ream, deburr, align, and enlarge holes, e.g., on car bodies. Also called Tapered reamer

Tapered Bottom Bracket SeeSquare Tapered Bottom Bracket

Tapered compression ring The upper compression ring which, due to its tapered cross-section, requires a reduced running-in period thus ensuring a tight seal quickly

Tapered leaf spring SeeParabolic spring

Tapered punch SeeDrift punch

Tapered reamer SeeTaper cutter

Tapered roller bearing

Tapered roller bearing

An antifriction bearing using a series of tapered, cone-shaped hardened steel Rollers operating between an outer and inner hardened steel Race. It can accept axial thrust as well as providing shaft location. Used where both radial and thrust loads are to be handled.

Taper leaf spring SeeParabolic spring

Taper of Head In flat bearing surface fasteners, the taper of a head or nut is the angle between a side and the axis.

Taper pin

Taper pin

A roll pin or Dowel pin that is wider at one end than the other. The taper pin aids in hole alignment. Also SeeThreaded Taper pinWorm and taper pin

Taper seat 1. A conical seat that provides positive centering of a

wheel bolt head in the wheel. The opposite of Radius seat.

2. A seal without a gasket achieved by mating the conical surface of the spark plug shell and the cylinder head

Tape weight SeeAdhesive weight.

Tap holder

A tool used to hold and drive taps, reamers, and screw extractors with two long handles to provide high leverage for turning operation

Tapped Hole A threaded hole in a part.

Tappet 1. The screw used to adjust the Clearance between

the Valve stem and the Lifter or the Rocker arm.

2.

Tappet

The Valve lifter itself.

Also SeeBarrel tappetBucket tappetCam followerFlat tappetHydraulic tappetMushroom tappetValve tappet

Tappet adjusting screw SeeValve adjusting screw

Tappet gasket SeeRocker cover gasket

Tappet noise Noise caused by the Lash or Clearance between the Valve stem and Rocker arm or between the valve stem and Valve lifter.

Tappet wrench A wrench designed for adjusting valve clearances on OHV-engines with bucket tappet assembly that use an adjusting screw instead of valve shims for adjustment

Tapping SeeBoot TappingHinge tapping plate

Tapping plate SeeHinge tapping plate

Tapping Screw A screw which is threaded to the head and designed to form or tap its mating thread in one or more of the parts to be assembled, of various types as follows:

Tapping Screw, Type A: A thread-forming type of tapping screw having a gimlet point and a thread of relatively coarse pitch and special form, used in punched, or nested holes in metal sheets or in treated plywood or special asbestos compositions.

Tapping Screw, Type B: Also designate "type Z." A thread-forming type of tapping screw, having a blunt point with tapered threads of moderate pitch, used with punched, drilled or nested holes.

Tapping Screw, Type C: A thread-forming type of tapping screw having a blunt point with tapered threads at the end, having UNC or UNF threads and designed for fastening metal sheets.

Tapping Screw, Type D: Also designated "type EC." A thread-cutting type of tapping screw having the same thread as type C but provided with a fluted

end produced at thread rolling or a milled slot (or slots) produced after thread rolling.

Tapping Screw, Type F: A thread-cutting type of tapping screw having the same thread form as type C but provided with a multiple flute tapered end to facilitate tapping.

Tapping Screw, Type FZ: A thread-cutting type of tapping screw having the same thread form as type B but provided with a multiple fluted tapered end to facilitate tapping.

Tapping Screw, Type G: Also designated "type EC." A thread-cutting type of tapping screw having the same thread form as type C but provided with a slot across the end to facilitate tapping in hard materials or deep holes.

Tapping Screw, Type H: Also designated "type DB" or "type 25." A tapping screw having the same thread as a type B but provided with a slot in the end to facilitate tapping in plastics.

Tap ratchet A tool with ratchet mechanism used to hold and operate bits such as taps, drills, reamers, or screw extractors

Tap spanner SeeTap holder

Tap wrench SeeTap holder

Tar A black, sticky substance made from petroleum. It is useful for patching cracks in the road. However, when driving over it, the wheels kick up particles of it on a vehicle's painted surface. Also seeBug and tar removerWaste Tar

Tare weight

The weight of a truck, exclusive of its contents, but including gas, oil, etc., ready to roil. Also seeChassis WeightCurb weight

Targa A removable-roof body style popularized by Porsche that is similar to a convertible except that it incorporates a fixed, roll-bar-like structure running from side to side behind the front seats.

Targa bar A type of roll bar made of a relatively wide band of sheet steel rather than of tubing; made popular by the Porsche 911 Targa

Targa top A rigid, removable roof section between the windshield and Targa bar

Tariff 1. A duty or tax imposed on imports. 2. A published volume of rate schedules and general

terms and conditions under which a product or service will be supplied.

Also SeeGeneral Agreement on Tariffs and TradeGeneralized Preferential Tariff

Tariffs and Trade SeeGeneral Agreement on Tariffs and Trade

Tarnish To discolor due to the formation of a thin film of oxide, sulfide, or some other corrosion product

Tarpaulin Waterproof canvas material used to cover cargo being transported

Tar remover SeeBug and tar remover.

Tar sands

Naturally occurring bitumen-impregnated sands that yield mixtures of liquid hydrocarbon and that require further processing other than mechanical blending before becoming finished petroleum products.

TAS Acronym for Throttle Adjust Screw

TA sensor Intake Air Temperature Sensor

Tatra A vehicle brand of which the 1925-1948 models with required application are Classic cars.

Taurus

Click image for books onFord Taurus

A model of automobile manufactured by Ford

TAV Acronym for Temperature Actuated Vacuum

Tax SeeCar taxDisplacement taxesRoad tax

Tax disc A road fund license disc displayed on the windshield to show that a British road tax has been paid

Taxi A vehicle in which passengers are carried for hire which is usually recorded by a meter Also seeTijuana Taxi

Taxicab

A car in which passengers are carried for hire which is usually recorded by a meter

Taxi rank A British term for a Taxi stand

Taxi stand A place where taxis wait to be hired

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "Ua"

Ua Ub Uc Ud Ue Ui Uj Uk Ul Um Un Up Ur Us Ut Uv

UAIB Acronym for Union of Automobile Importers in Bulgaria

UART Acronym for Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter

UAW Acronym for United Auto Workers -- An international union of workers in the automobile, aerospace, and agricultural implement industries in North America.

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "Va"

Va

Vb Vc Vd Ve Vf Vg Vh Vi Vl Vm Vn Vo Vp Vr Vs Vt Vu Vv Vw Vx

V 1. A letter rating for tires to indicate that they are

theoretically rated for speeds up to 210 kph (130 mph), as in P220VR15. The next higher rating is W and the one lower rating is H.

2. A letter indicating a valve configuration as in 16v meaning a 16 valve engine.

3. A letter indicating the configuration of the cylinders in an engine as in V-8

4. Acronym for Volts

V-4 SeeV-four

V-6 SeeV-six

V-8

SeeV-eight

V-10 SeeV-ten

V-12 SeeV-twelve

V-16 SeeV-sixteen

VA Value analysis.

Vac Abbreviation for Vacuum

Vac servo SeeVacuum brake booster

Vacuum 1. An enclosed area in which the air pressure is

below that of the surrounding Atmospheric pressure.

2. Technically, a complete absence of pressure (0 psi), although the term is commonly used to describe any pressure less than atmospheric.

Also SeeAir-valve carburetorGauge VacuumManifold vacuumPorted vacuum advancePulse vacuum hublockSeparator Assembly-fuel VacuumVenturi vacuum

Vacuum activators Dampers and control valves used in automotive air conditioning system controlled by the vacuum created by engine intake manifold vacuum.

Vacuum advance

A mechanism on the side of the Distributor that automatically varies the instant at which the Spark occurs as a function of Intake manifold vacuum. Vacuum advance provides the additional advance that is needed when the engine is operating at part throttle. At part throttle less Air-fuel mixture gets into the Cylinders and the mixture takes longer to burn after it is ignited. Because the mixture burns more slowly, the Piston will be past Top dead center and moving down before the mixture has a chance to burn and produce high power. As a result much of the power in the fuel will be lost. The vacuum advance mechanism consists of a flexible spring-loaded Diaphragm connected by a Linkage to the Breaker plate on which the points are mounted. The sealed side of the Diaphragm is connected by a tube to the Carburetor. The Throttle valve is below the vacuum passage in the Carburetor Air horn so there is no vacuum advance when the engine is idling because the throttle is closed. However, when the throttle is partly open, Intake manifold vacuum pulls the Diaphragm in and this causes the Breaker plate to rotate a few degrees and advance the Timing. With wide-open throttle there is very little vacuum in the Intake manifold so there will be no vacuum advance. In most instances the vacuum advance is disconnected before checking the timing and Point gap.Also SeePorted vacuum advanceSpeed control vacuum advance

Vacuum advance mechanism SeeVacuum advance

Vacuum advance unit SeeVacuum advance

Vacuum assisted brake SeeBrake booster.

Vacuum assisted brakes SeeBrake booster.

Vacuum assist unit An actuating mechanism that uses vacuum on one side of a diaphragm as a source of power.

Vacuum booster 1. A small Diaphragm Vacuum pump, generally in

combination with the Fuel pump, that is used to bolster engine Vacuum during Acceleration so that the vacuum operated devices will continue to operate.

2. A power brake actuating mechanism that uses vacuum on one side of a diaphragm as a power source.

Also seeIntegral Vacuum BoosterMultiplier Vacuum Booster

Vacuum brake booster A device directly connected to the master cylinder and mounted on the engine side of the bulkhead, which uses engine manifold vacuum to produce additional braking force

Vacuum brake supply line The conduit for transmitting supply vacuum from a vacuum source to the vacuum reservoirs.

Vacuum brake system A brake system that uses engine vacuum to operate and control.

Vacuum Bypass System SeeDelay Vacuum Bypass System

Vacuum capsule A pneumatic actuator that converts air pressure differences into a regulating short-stroke movement; the circular, flat capsule has a spring-loaded diaphragm with a lever attached

Vacuum chamber

A pneumatic actuator that converts air pressure differences into a regulating short-stroke movement; the circular, flat capsule has a spring-loaded diaphragm with a lever attached

Vacuum check valve (VCK-V) a one-way valve used to retain a vacuum signal in a line after the vacuum source is gone

Vacuum control A load-dependant mechanical ignition timing, controlled by the inlet manifold vacuum

Vacuum control switch A switch that monitors the vacuum signal enabling the ECU to recognize open or closed throttle (idle) operation

Vacuum control system Intake manifold vacuum is used to operate dampers and controls in some automobile systems.

Vacuum control unit An assembly for load-dependent ignition timing controlled by the intake manifold vacuum, consisting of a vacuum capsule with a spring-loaded diaphragm linked to the breaker plate

Vacuum control valve (VCV) a ported vacuum switch, controls vacuum to other emission devices during engine warm up

Vacuum delay valve (VDV) a valve used by GM to bleed ported vacuum to the vacuum advance unit through a small orifice and control vacuum advance rate. Used to retard or delay the application of a vacuum signal. Also called Delay valve

Vacuum differential valve (VDV) a device used in a Thermactor system with a catalyst that sense intake manifold vacuum and triggers the bypass valve to dump injection air to the atmosphere during deceleration

Vacuum distillation Distillation under reduced pressure (less the atmospheric) which lowers the boiling temperature of

the liquid being distilled. This technique with its relatively low temperatures prevents cracking or decomposition of the charge stock.

Vacuum-electric Switch

Vacuum-electric Switch

A component which gives gross reading of vacuum in the intake manifold by using a diaphragm to operate a simple on-off electrical switch.

Vacuum filter A filter which removes electrical noise from the vacuum signal sent from the vacuum sensor to the ECU

Vacuum gage SeeVacuum gauge.

Vacuum gauge A gauge used to determine the amount of Vacuum existing in a chamber.

Vacuum hose A pipe which connects the intake manifold to the vacuum brake booster

Vacuum hublock SeePulse vacuum hublock

Vacuum hydraulic power unit A unit consisting of a vacuum brake cylinder or chamber, hydraulic cylinder(s) and control valve, in which driver effort is combined with force from the cylinder piston or chamber diaphragm to displace fluid under pressure for actuation of the brake(s).

Vacuum ignition-timing control SeeVacuum control

Vacuum leak

A loss of vacuum from a leaking hose or defective gasket

Vacuum modulated EGR An exhaust gas recirculation in which the amount of exhaust gas admitted to the intake manifold depends on a vacuum signal controlled by throttle position. When the throttle is closed, at idle or during deceleration, there is no vacuum signal to the EGR valve; as the throttle is opened, a vacuum signal is supplied causing the EGR valve to open

Vacuum modulator A small unit attached to the Automatic transmission. If the vehicle tends to stay in Low gear, shifts with difficulty or produces whitish smoke, has an Automatic transmission, and is constantly low in Transmission fluid, try replacing the vacuum modulator before undertaking major repairs. Most vacuum modulators simply screw into place. Also seeModulator.

Vacuum motor A vacuum-actuated device used to operate doors and valves. Also seeAir Cleaner Duct And Valve Vacuum Motor

Vacuum operated exhaust heat control valve (VHC) a vacuum operated heat riser valve used by Ford to cause the exhaust to flow through the intake crossover passage for preheating of the air-fuel mixture

Vacuum over hydraulic brake system A hydraulic-type brake system actuated by a vacuum-powered master cylinder.

Vacuum-powered master cylinder A brake master cylinder actuated by a vacuum cylinder or chamber.

Vacuum power motor A device for use in opening doors in heating and air conditioning systems

Vacuum power unit

A device for use in opening valves and doors in heating and air conditioning systems using vacuum as a source of power.

Vacuum pressure Any pressure less than that exerted by the atmosphere.

Vacuum pump 1. A Diaphragm type of Pump used to produce a

Vacuum. 2. A special high efficiency device used for creating

high vacuums for testing or drying purposes. 3. A mechanical device used to evacuate an air

conditioning system to rid it of moisture, air, and contaminants.

4. A device which creates a vacuum to actuate the brakes.

Vacuum reducer valve (VRV) A valve used by GM to limit the amount of vacuum governing the ignition advance mechanism of the distributor; on some ignition systems, a VRV is used to reduce intake manifold vacuum when the coolant temperature is above 104°C, in order to prevent or reduce detonation

Vacuum regulator valve three and four-port (VRV) this type of vacuum regulator valve is used to control the vacuum advance to the distributor

Vacuum regulator valve two-port (VRV) this vacuum regulator provides a constant output signal when the input level is greater than a preset level. At a lower input vacuum, the output equals the input

Vacuum relief valve A valve which automatically opens and closes a vent for relieving a vacuum within the a system, depending on whether the vacuum is above or below a predetermined value.

Vacuum reservoir

(VRESER) stores excess vacuum to prevent rapid fluctuations and sudden drops in a vacuum signal, such as during acceleration

Vacuum restrictor (VREST) controls the flow rate and/or timing in actions to the different emission control components

Vacuum retard A vacuum control unit for retarding the spark

Vacuum retard delay valve (VRDV) delays a decrease in vacuum at the distributor vacuum advance unit when the source vacuum decreases. Used to delay release of vacuum from a diaphragm -- a momentary vacuum trap

Vacuum retard unit A vacuum control unit for retarding the spark

Vacuum runout point The point reached when a vacuum brake power Piston has built up all the braking force it is capable of with the Vacuum available. Also seeBooster Vacuum Runout Point

Vacuum sealing apparatus A component in continuous zinc vapor deposition lines through which steel strips enter the deposition chamber and which prevents a build-up of pressure within the chamber

Vacuum sensor A sensor which detects changes in manifold pressure in comparison to barometric pressure; such changes indicate the need for an adjustment in air/fuel mixture and electronic spark timing to maintain efficient engine operation. Also called Manifold pressure sensor, Pressure differential sensor, or Manifold vacuum sensor Also seeManifold Vacuum Sensor

Vacuum servo A flexible diaphragm with a linkage attached to it installed in a sealed housing. When vacuum is applied

to one side of the diaphragm, atmospheric pressure on the other side moves the diaphragm and linkage to perform work.Also SeeVacuum brake booster

Vacuum solenoid On some engines, a vacuum solenoid controlled by an electrical sensor switch is used to control the EGR valve

Vacuum suction cup

Dent Puller

A hand tool for pulling out shallow body dents and for lifting flat, heavy objects such as windshields or sheet metal

Vacuum suspended power booster A type of power booster that contains vacuum in both chambers of the booster when the brake pedal is at rest. When the pedal is applied, the rear chamber is vented to the atmosphere, causing the diaphragm of the booster to move toward the master cylinder which assist the driver in the application of the brakes

Vacuum-suspended power chamber A booster power chamber that has vacuum on both sides of its diaphragm when the brakes are not applied.

Vacuum switch A switch that closes or opens its contacts in response to changing vacuum conditions. Also SeeChoke Thermal Vacuum SwitchOil Thermal Vacuum Switch

Ported Vacuum SwitchTemperature Vacuum SwitchThermal vacuum switchThermostatic Vacuum Switch

Vacuum switching valve (VSV) an electrically controlled vacuum switching valve used to control emission control devices

Vacuum tank A tank in which a Vacuum exists. It is generally used to provide vacuum to a Power brake installation in the event engine vacuum cannot be obtained. The tank will supply several brake applications before the vacuum is exhausted.

Vacuum timing control SeeVacuum control

Vacuum transducer

Vacuum transducer

A sensor with a vacuum diaphragm which moves an iron rod inside a coil of wire sending a signal to the computer that is proportional to the amount of vacuum.

Vacuum transmitting valve (VTV) a valve used to limit the rate of vacuum advance

Vacuum unit SeeVacuum control unit

Vacuum valve SeeHot Water Vacuum ValveIdle Vacuum ValveThermal vacuum valve

Vacuum Valve Assembly

SeeThermactor Air Control Solenoid Vacuum Valve Assembly

Vacuum vent valve (VVV) controls the induction of fresh air into a vacuum system to prevent chemical decay of the vacuum diaphragm that can occur on contact with fuel

Vacuum Zone Switch SeeManifold Vacuum Zone Switch

VAF 1. Acronym for Vane air-flow meter 2. Acronym for Volume Air Flow

Valance A panel used to conceal structural detail or to provide extra protection. Also SeeRear corner valanceRear quarter valanceRear valance

Valet parking The parking of your car by a parking attendant

Valet switch On some alarm systems, a switch to override the alarm system for valet parking, car washes, etc.

Value SeeActual cash valueAntiknock ValueBeta ValueCalorific ValueCd valueDuty paid valueExpected residual valueHeating ValueLower Heating ValueNet sales valuePh value

Stated residual valueThermal ValueThreshold Limit ValueYield Value

Value added SeeAuto Pact Canadian Value AddedCensus value added

Value of shipment Summation of value of shipments produced by establishment, receipts of custom and repair revenue.

Valve A device used to either open or close an opening to allow or prevent the flow of a liquid or gas from one place to another. Also SeeABS relay valveAccumulator valveAdjustable-port Proportioning ValveAir Aspirator ValveAir Bypass ValveAir control valveAir gulp valveAir Inlet ValveAir Inlet ValveAir Outlet ValveAir Outlet ValveAir select valveAir switching valveAir ValveAir-valve carburetorAllan ValveAltitude ValveAngle ValveAnti-backfire valveAnti-percolation valveAnti-backfire valveAnti-percolation valveAntisurge Valve

Aspirator valveAutomatic Expansion ValveAuxiliary Air Control ValveAuxiliary Air ValveAuxiliary Control ValveBall check valveBall valveBleeder valveBleed valveBlowoff valveBoost valveBrake pressure modulator valveBrake proportioning valveBucket ValveBurned valvesBurner ValveButterfly valveBypass valveCam followerCanister Purge Shut-off ValveCanister Purge ValveChange valveCheck valveClosed Type Check ValveChoke valveCombination valveCompensator valveControl valveDelay valveDelivery valveDiaphragm Type ValveDiaphragm ValveDifferential Pressure ValveDischarge valveDisc valveDiverter valveDropped valveDump valveEAC Valve

EAS ValveEconomizer valveEGR valveElectric air control valveElectric air switching valveElectric Water ValveElectronic Air Control ValveElectronic Egr ValveEmergency ValveExhaust valve opensExhaust valveExpansion valveFlapper ValveFloat ValveFollow-up-type ValveFour valveFrequency valveFrench ValveFuel injector nozzleFuel Tank Vapor ValveGas ValveGovernor valveGulp valveHairpin valve springHand Lapped ValvesHeat control valveHigh pressure relief valveHigh-side Service ValveHigh Side Service ValveHold-off ValveHot Water Vacuum ValveHydraulic valve lifterIdle Air Control ValveIdle stop valveIdle Vacuum ValveInlet valveIntake valve closesIntake valve opensIntake valve

Integral Backpressure Transducer EGR ValveKickdown valveKing ValveKneuter valveLambda ValveLatching Type ValveLiquid Receiver Service ValveLoad Sensing Proportioning ValveLoad-sensitive proportioning valveLow-side Float ValveLow-side Service ValveLubricated Plug ValveManifold Control ValveManifold heat control valveManual valveMetering valveModulating ValveModulator valveMotor ValveNeedle Point ValveNeedle valveOil Control Orifice ValveOil cooler bypass valveOil drain valveOil filter bypass valveOpen Type Check ValveOperating ValveOverhead valvesOverrun control valveOversize valve guideParallel valvesPCV valvePetcockPilot Operated Absolute ValvePilot ValvePOA Suction Throttling ValvePop-off valvePoppet valvePorted EGR Valve

Positive Crankcase Ventilation ValvePower valvePressure Differential ValvePressure limiting valvePressure-operated Altitude ValvePressure regulating valvePressure regulator valvePressure relief valvePressure Water ValvePresta valvePrimary valveProgressive valve springProgressively wound valve springProportioning valvePulse Width Modulation ValvePurge Control ValveQuick take-up valveRAVE valveReactionary Type ValveReed valveReed valve induction timingRelay Emergency ValveRelief valveResidual Brake Pressure Type Check ValveResidual Pressure Check ValveResidual pressure valveReverse inhibitor valveReversing ValveRiser ValveRotary disc valveRotary valveRunning-on control valveSaddle ValveSafety Relief ValveSafety valveScavenging valveSchrader valveSecondary Air Pulse ValveSecondary Air Switching Valve

Secondary Air Bypass ValveSecondary Air Anti-backfire ValveSemi-Automatic ValveService Brake ValveService ValveShift valveShuttle valveSide ValveSleeve valveSlide valveSodium-cooled exhaust valveSodium-cooled valveSolenoid valveSolenoid Vent ValveSpark Delay ValveSponge rubber valveSpool balance valveSpool valveStep ValveStop ValveSuction Pressure Control ValveSuction Service ValveSuction throttling valveSuction ValveTemperature Relief ValveThermactor Air Control ValveThermal time valveThermal vacuum valveThermal Vent ValveThermostatic Expansion ValveThermostatic ValveThermostatic Water ValveThree-way ValveThrottle valveTiming ValveTire valveTwo-temperature ValveTwo-way Type Check ValveTwo-way Valve

Vacuum Check ValveVacuum Control ValveVacuum Delay ValveVacuum Differential ValveVacuum Operated Exhaust Heat Control ValveVacuum reducer valveVacuum Relief ValveVacuum Retard Delay ValveVacuum Switching ValveVacuum Transmitting ValveVacuum Vent ValveVariable valve actuationWarning Light ValveWater ValveX-valve

Valve actuation SeeVariable valve actuation

Valve adjusting screw A screw at the end of a rocker which bears on a pushrod; used to tilt the rocker and thus adjust the valve clearance

Valve and transducer assembly This type of EGR valve consist of a modified ported EGR valve and a remote Transducer. Works the same way as an integral backpressure transducer EGR valve

Valve angle A segment of the full circle of a rotary disc valve cut out to admit the fresh charge into the cylinder

Valve aperture SeeValve hole

Valve assembly A device through which a tire is inflated. It includes a valve stem, valve core, and valve cap. Also seeControl valve assembly

Valve block

SeeControl valve assembly

Valve body Part of the valve assembly containing plungers, pistons, springs, etc.

Valve body housing A housing which incorporates the bores in which the valve spools slide and the canals which channel the oil flow

Valve body separator plate A plate sandwiched between two gaskets which separates the upper and lower parts of the valve body

Valve bounce The bouncing of a valve on its seat due to the valve spring resonating at very high engine speeds. Also called flutter. Also seeBounce

Valve bushing SeeValve guide

Valve cap A screw-on cap to prevent the entry of dirt and dust into the tire valve. It does not keep the air in -- the Valve core does that.

Valve carburetor SeeAir-valve carburetor

Valve clearance The distance between the small end of the Valve stem and the Rocker arm or Valve lifter. This gap is necessary to compensate for Expansion due to heat. Also called Valve lash.

Valve clearance depression A recess in the piston crown

Valve closes SeeExhaust valve closesIntake valve closes

Valve core A check valve within a tire air valve which permits air pressure chucks without undue loss of air pressure. The core should not be considered a valve seal.

Valve cover A long metal lid located on the top of the Cylinder head on vehicles with overhead camshafts. The valve cover is removed when the valves need adjusting. The British term is rocker box or rocker cover.

Valve cover gasket A gasket between the cylinder head and the valve cover; usually either a flat paper or cork gasket or an O-ring. The British term is rocker cover gasket.

Valve crown SeeValve head

Valve cut-out On some four-valve engines at low speed the main rocker arms open only two valves per combustion chamber in order to keep the energy of the gases at a high level; with increasing rpm, the energy of the gases becomes sufficiently strong for the remaining two valves to be opened via hydraulic locking bolts

Valve diameter Intake valves can be distinguished from exhaust valves by their larger diameter

Valve duration The length of time, measured in degrees of engine Crankshaft rotation, that a valve remains open.

Valve engine SeeSixteen valve engine

Valve, expansion Type of refrigerant control which maintains constant pressure in the low side of refrigerating mechanism. Valve is caused to operate by pressure in low or suction side, Often referred to as an automatic expansion valve or AEV.

Valve extension

Extra length added to a tire valve stem for greater accessibility particularly on inside duals.

Valve face The outer lower edge of the Valve head. The face contacts the Valve seat when the valve is closed.

Valve float A condition where the valves in the engine are forced back open before they have had a chance to seat. Brought about (usually) by extremely high rpm. The Valve lifters lose contact with the cam lobes because the Valve springs are not strong enough to overcome the Momentum of the various Valvetrain components. The onset of valve float prevents higher-rpm operation. Extended periods of valve float will damage the Valvetrain. Also called Valve bounce

Valve follower SeeValve lifter.

Valve gear A mechanism that operates the intake and exhaust valves; includes the cams, pushrods, rocker arms, etc. but not the valves themselves

Valve grinder A special automotive tool consisting of a wooden shaft and rubber suction cup(s) for hand grinding valves.

Valve grinding Renewing the Valve face area by grinding on a special grinding machine.

Valve grinding compound An abrasive compound used for refacing valve seats. The suction cup is placed on the valve head and the valve is pressed into the seat; turning the handle between one's hands will grind the valve into its seat; always use with grinding paste. Not to be confused with valve seat cutter which is used to cut worn valve seats to a specific angle. Also called valve lapping compound

Valve grinding tool

A special automotive tool consisting of a wooden shaft and rubber suction cup(s) for hand grinding valves

Valve guide The cylindrical hole which is located in the Cylinder head or Block through which the stem of the Poppet valve passes. It is designed to keep the valve in proper alignment. It also serves as a bearing surface. Some guides are pressed into place and others are merely drilled in the block or in the head metal. Also seeOversize valve guide

Valve guide driver A tool for installing valve guides

Valve guide reamer A tool used to enlarge worn valve guides to accommodate oversized valve stems

Valve guide remover A drift punch for driving out valve guides

Valve guide seal SeeValve stem seal

Valve head The surface of the large end of a valve.

Valve hole The circular opening in the rim of a wheel for mounting tubeless tires. Tubeless car tires commonly have a snap-in valve consisting of a rubber molding bonded to the metal stem casing. The rubber molding has a groove formed at the base; when the valve is pulled through the valve hole, the pliable rubber base snaps into position. Commercial vehicle valves for tubeless tires are all metal; they are attached to the rim and the valve hole by an extended thread formed at the base and secured by a nut. Airtight sealing is achieved by either an O-ring or a fiat and flanged rubber washer. Commercial vehicle valve stems may have a single, double, or triple bend to accommodate different rim profiles and single and twin wheel combinations. On bicycle rims, the hole may be one of two sizes to

accommodate Presta or Schrader valves. Also called valve aperture

Valve induction SeeReed valve induction timing

Valve induction timing SeeReed valve induction timing

Valve in head engine SeeValve-in-head engine.

Valve-in-head engine An engine in which both Intake and Exhaust valves are mounted in the Cylinder head and are driven by pushrods or by an overhead camshaft. Also called I-head engine or Overhead-valve engine.

Valve In Receiver SeeEvaporator Equalized Valve In Receiver

Valve job Replacing or regrinding old valves

Valve keeper A small unit that snaps into a groove in the end of the Valve stem. It is designed to secure the Valve spring, valve spring retaining washer and valve stem together. Some are of a split design, some of a horseshoe shape, etc. Also called Valve key or valve retainer.

Valve key Key, keeper, washer, or other device which holds valve spring cup or washer in place on valve stem Also seeValve keeper.

Valve lag The time between TDC or BDC and a valve closing

Valve lapper A special automotive tool for grinding (lapping) valves into valve seats; some types are power-operated, thus allowing faster grinding compared with standard suction-type valve grinding tools

Valve lapping compound SeeValve grinding compound

Valve lash Valve tappet Clearance or total Clearance in the valve operating train with Cam follower on Camshaft Base circle. Also seeValve clearance

Valve Lead The time between a valve opening and TDC or BDC

Valve lift Distance a valve moves from the full closed to the full open position. It is usually about a quarter of the diameter of the port.

Valve lifter 1. The cylindrically shaped component that presses

against the lobe of a camshaft and moves up and down as the cam lobe rotates. Most valve lifters have an oil-lubricated hardened face that slides on the cam lobe. So-called roller lifters, however, have a small Roller in contact with the cam lobe -- thereby reducing the friction between the cam lobe and the lifter. Also called valve follower or Cam follower.

2. A tool that compresses valve springs for removal and replacement.

Also seeHydraulic valve lifter

Valve lock Key, keeper, washer, or other device which holds valve spring cup or washer in place on valve stem

Valve Main Burner SeeIndividual Valve Main Burner

Valve margin The width of the edge of the Valve head between the top of the valve and the edge of the face. Too narrow a

margin results in Preignition and valve damage through over-heating.

Valve oil seal A Neoprene rubber ring that is placed in a groove in the Valve stem to prevent excess oil entering the area between the stem and the guide. There are other types of these seals.

Valve opens SeeExhaust valve opensIntake valve opens

Valve overlap A certain period in which both the Intake and Exhaust valve are partially open. The intake is starting to open while the exhaust is not yet closed. It is usually expressed in degrees of crankshaft rotation and determined by the valve timing, valve overlap is necessary for the efficient flow of gases in and out of the combustion chamber

Valve plate Part of compressor located between top of compressor body and head. It contains compressor valves and ports. SeeValve body separator plate

Valve port The opening, through the Head or block, from the Intake or Exhaust manifold to the valve seat.

Valve principle The original method of ABS control using an electrically operated valve to control the air pressure

Valve Refrigerant Cylinder SeeLiquid-vapor Valve Refrigerant Cylinder

Valve retainer SeeValve keeper.

Valve rotator

A unit that is placed on the end of the Valve stem so that when the valve is opened and closed, the valve will rotate a small amount with each opening and closing. This gives longer valve life. Also called Roto cap

Valve seat 1. The area onto which the face of the Poppet seats

when closed. The two common angles for this seat are forty-five and thirty degrees.

2. The surface against which a valve comes to rest to provide a seal against leakage.

Valve seat cutter A special automotive tool with carting blades for use with power tools; used to cut worn valve seats with 30° or 45° angles

Valve seat face An annular part of a valve head located at the valve seat of the cylinder head

Valve seat grinding Renewing the valve seat area by grinding with a stone mounted upon a special Mandrel.

Valve seat insert A hardened steel valve seat that may be removed and replaced. The use of valve seat inserts dispenses with the need for lead in the fuel to act as a lubricant between the valve head and seat Also seeInsert.

Valve seat ring A ring-shaped insert of a harder metal than that of the cylinder head; the use of valve seat inserts dispenses with the need for lead in the fuel to act as a lubricant between the valve head and seat

Valve, service Device used to check pressures, service, and charge refrigerating systems.

Valve shim

A calibrated shim used to adjust valve clearance on OHV engines with bucket tappet assembly; for adjustment, a calibrated valve shim is placed or removed from between tappet and cam

Valve shim pliers A special automotive tool for the removal and installation of valve shims

Valve Shutoff SeeManual Main Valve ShutoffManual Valve ShutoffSafety Valve Shutoff

Valves-in-receiver unit (VIR) a component used on GM system, in which the thermostatic expansion valve, POA suction throttling valve, the receiver-drier, and, if equipped, the sight glass are all combined into one assembly

Valve slot Tube-type tires require a valve slot instead of a valve hole to allow the tire valve to be removed from the rim; a thread adaptor is molded to a circular rubber patch vulcanized to the inner tube; the valve stem casing is then screwed onto the tube adaptor

Valve, solenoid Valve made to work by magnetic action through an electrically energized coil.

Valve spool 1. In an automatic transmission, a sliding cylindrical

internal part of a valve with one or more sections of reduced diameter

2. A spool-shaped valve, such as in the power-steering unit.

Valve spring A small Coil spring that closes the valve after it has been opened by the cam, and prevents the valve from bouncing on its seat. The action of the spring keeps the Lifter in contact with the cam. If the spring is weak,

noise will be generated and the valve, spring, lifter and cam will be subjected to hammer-like blows that cause Metal fatigue.Also SeeHairpin valve springProgressively wound valve springProgressive valve spring

Valve spring cap The retaining cap (of intake or exhaust valves) which secures the valve keeper on the valve stem

Valve spring collar The retaining cap (of intake or exhaust valves) which secures the valve keeper on the valve stem

Valve spring compressor A special automotive tool used to compress valve springs for removal and replacement; the most common type is a c-shaped clamp

Valve spring depressor A lever-type tool used to depress valve springs, e.g., for removal and installation of valve stem seals

Valve spring lifter A pliers-type tool with two expanding jaws, used to lift and compress valve springs for removal and replacement

Valve spring retainer SeeValve spring cap

Valve spring seat A seat retaining the bottom of the valve spring

Valve stem The long cylindrical portion of the valve that moves up and down in the Valve guide.

Valve stem seal The oil seal between the valve and the cylinder head which prevents excessive oil leakage from the top of the cylinder head into the combustion chamber

Valve stem seal installer A sleeve-type tool used to push down valve stem seals for installation

Valve stem seal pliers A special plier for removing valve stem seals on overhead camshaft engines

Valve, suction Valve in refrigeration compressor which allows vaporized refrigerant to enter cylinder from suction line and prevents its return.

Valve switch SeeThrottle position sensor

Valve system SeeVTEC Valve system

Valve tappet An adjusting screw to obtain the specified Clearance at the end of the Valve stem (tappet clearance). The screw may be in the top of the Lifter, in the Rocker arm, or in the case of the Ball joint rocker arm, the nut on the mounting Stud acts in place of a tappet screw.

Valve Three And Four-port SeeVacuum Regulator Valve Three And Four-port

Valve timing Adjusting the position of the Camshaft to the Crankshaft so that the valves will open and close at the proper time. Also seeVariable valve timing

Valve tip The upper end of the valve that contacts the rocker arm

Valvetrain SeeValve train.

Valve train

1. The various parts making up the valve and its operating mechanism which causes the valves to open and close.

2. The system of valves that lets the fuel charges in and let the exhaust gases out.

Valve Two-port SeeVacuum Regulator Valve Two-port

Valve umbrella A washer-like unit that is placed over the end of the Valve stem to prevent the entry of excess oil between the stem and the guide. Used in valve-in-head installations.

Valve Vacuum Motor SeeAir Cleaner Duct And Valve Vacuum Motor

Valve, water In most water cooling units. a valve that provides a flow of water to cool the system while it is running.

Van 1. A covered road vehicle for carrying goods.

2. A recreational vehicle based on the body of a commercial van, usually with comfortable, plush interior trim, often with a bed.

3. A cargo body style with a totally enclosed cargo area. Included are beverage vans, or bay vans, and sealed shipping containers mounted on a special bodiless chassis.

Also SeeBox vanCube vanLight vanOpen Top VanRefrigerated VanStep van

Vanadium Inhibitor An organic and/or inorganic metal bearing chemical intended to chemically and/or physically combine with the compounds formed during combustion of heavy fuel oil to improve the surface properties of the treated ash compounds.

Van camper SeeType B motorhomeClass B RV

Van conversions SeeClass B RV

Vane A thin plate that is affixed to a rotatable unit to either throw off air or liquid, or to receive the thrust imparted by moving air or liquid striking the vane. In the first case it would be acting as a Pump and in the second case as a Turbine.Also SeeAir-intake Guide VanesExternal vane pumpHall vane switch

Vane air-flow meter

(VAF) a sensor with a moveable vane connected to a potentiometer calibrated to cause the amount of air flowing to the engine

Vane air temperature sensor (VAT) located inside the vane airflow meter housing; sense the temperature of the air flowing into the engine

Vane-in-rotor pump A Sliding-vane pump

Vane-in-stator pump SeeExternal vane pump

Vane pump A type of rotary pump with either a slotted rotor and sliding vanes or a rotor with hinged vanes; typically used for air pumps in secondary air injection systems, as a compressor in air conditioning systems, and in some transmission systems. Also SeeExternal vane pump

Vanes compressor Mechanism for pumping fluid by revolving blades inside cylindrical housing.

Vane switch SeeHall vane switch

Vane wheel impeller An impeller with straight radial vanes

Van lift

Van lift

A platform which is deployed from a vehicle, allowing people who use wheelchairs or have trouble stepping up easy access. These platforms or lifts are run by

electricity or hydraulics but can always be manually operated in the event that one of the previously-mentioned power sources fail.

Vanity mirror A mirror on the inside of a sun visor

Vanity plate A personalized license plate

Vapor 1. The gaseous form of a liquid which is usually

created by heating the liquid. 2. A gas which is often found in its liquid state while

in use. 3. The gaseous state of refrigerant. Vaporized

refrigerant is preferred to the word gas.

Also SeeFuel vaporFuel vapor recirculation systemSaturated VaporSuperheated VaporWater Vapor

Vapor barrier Thin plastic or metal foil sheet used in air-conditioned structures to prevent water vapor from penetrating insulating material.

Vapor canister SeeActivated carbon canister

Vapor degreasing A type of cleansing procedure to remove grease, oil, and loosely attached solids from metals; a solvent such as trichlorethylene is boiled, and its vapors are condensed on the metal surfaces

Vapor deposition A production of a surface film of metal on a heated surface, usually in a vacuum, either by decomposition of the vapor of a compound at the work surface, or by

direct reaction between the work surface and the vapor. Also seeZinc vapor deposition

Vapor displacement The release of vapors that had previously occupied space above liquid fuels stored in tanks. These releases occur when tanks are emptied and filled.

Vapor-engine SeeBinary Vapor-engine

Vapor injection SeeWater injection.

Vaporization 1. Breaking the Gasoline into fine particles and

mixing it with the incoming air. 2. Change of liquid into a gaseous state.

Also seeHeat Of VaporizationLatent Heat Of Vaporization

Vaporize The action of converting a liquid into a mist or vapor by breaking it into small particles and mixing it with air. The design of the Carburetor and Fuel injectors vaporizes Gasoline to produce a combustible Fuel-air mixture. If it is not vaporized, the liquid gasoline may not burn properly and may even Hydraulic.

Vapor Lamp SeeMercury Vapor Lamp

Vapor lines Air conditioning system lines in which refrigerant is normally in a gaseous or vapor state.

Vapor lock 1. This is an unwanted condition where bubbles of air

form in the fuel line caused by boiling or vaporizing of the fuel in the lines from excess

heat. The boiling will interfere with the movement of the fuel and the air bubbles which form will in some cases, completely stop the flow. Sometimes it will cause the Float chamber to overflow which Floods the Carburetor and result in an over-rich mixture that can cause stalling of the engine when the Accelerator is depressed. Fuels containing Alcohol have lower Boiling points and many old-car owners have installed more-powerful electric Fuel pumps which overcome vapor lock tendencies of these fuels by pushing them through the air bubble. A wet rag will cool the line and get rid of the problem. To prevent the problem in hot weather, some mechanics wrap tinfoil around the fuel lines to reflect the heat away.

2. The abnormal condition that occurs when brake fluid contains too much moisture and is overheated, causing the moisture in the fluid to boil. Gas bubbles are formed in the fluid, which causes a spongy brake pedal or a complete loss of hydraulic pressure.

3. Condition where liquid is trapped in line because of bend or improper installation. Such vapor prevents liquid flow.

Vapor pressure 1. Pressure imposed by either a vapor or gas. 2. The tendency of a liquid to pass into the vapor

state at a given temperature. With automotive fuels, volatility is determined by measuring RVP.

Also seeReid Vapor Pressure

Vapor pressure curve Graphic presentation of various pressures produced by refrigerant under various temperatures.

Vapor recirculation SeeFuel vapor recirculation system

Vapor recirculation system

SeeFuel vapor recirculation system

Vapor recovery An emission control system used by gasoline stations. A special filler nozzle seals the gap between the pump filler nozzle and the car's filler opening, preventing benzene vapors from escaping into the atmosphere; instead, they are recycled into the gas station's own fuel tank; the same system is also used when the gas station receives a new delivery of fuel from a gas tanker Also seeOnboard Refueling Vapor Recovery

Vapor recovery system A system that prevents the escape of Gasoline vapors from the Fuel system into the atmosphere. The basic system consists of a Canister filled with activated Charcoal and pipes connecting the Canister to the Fuel tank and Carburetor. Any vapor-filled air that leaves the Fuel tank because of Expansion passes through special Emission control pipes to the Canister where the vapors are grabbed and stored by the Charcoal. Then when the engine is started, Intake manifold Vacuum draws fresh outside air up through an opening in the Canister. This moving air pulls the fuel vapor out of the Charcoal and carries it to the Carburetor and into the engine. In the meantime any Gasoline that evaporates from the Carburetor collects in the Carburetor and Air cleaner. As soon as the engine starts this vapor is drawn down through the Carburetor and into the engine along with the entering Fuel-air mixture. Also called evaporative Emission control. Also seeExhaust emission controlsFuel Vapor Recovery System

Vapor recycling An emission control system used by gasoline stations. A special filler nozzle seals the gap between the pump

filler nozzle and the car's filler opening, preventing benzene vapors from escaping into the atmosphere; instead, they are recycled into the gas station's own fuel tank; the same system is also used when the gas station receives a new delivery of fuel from a gas tanker

Vapor retarder A material that retards the movement of water vapor through a building element (walls, ceilings) and prevents insulation and structural wood from becoming damp and metals from corroding. Often applied to insulation batts or separately in the form of treated papers, plastic sheets, and metallic foils.

Vapor, saturated Vapor condition which will result in condensation into droplets of liquid if vapor temperature is reduced.

Vapor separator A device used on cars equipped with air conditioning to prevent Vapor lock by feeding vapors back to the Fuel tank via a separate line.

Vapor Valve SeeFuel Tank Vapor Valve

Vapor withdrawal A system of piping and connection to operate an engine directly on vapor taken from the top of an LPG tank

Vapour British spelling for Vapor

VAR A unit of reactive power in a circuit carrying a sinusoidal current. A VAR equals the amount of reactive power in the circuit when the product of the root-mean-square value of the voltage (volts) by the root-mean value of the current (amps) and the sine of the phase angle between the voltage and the current, equals 1.

VARI Acronym for Vacuum Assisted Resin Injection -- a process for forming composite panels and bodywork with consistent, controllable results.

Variable SeeInfinitely variable transmissionInput variable

Variable air volume (VAV) system on the heating and cooling system: A means of varying the amount of conditioned air to a space. A variable air volume system maintains the air flow at a constant temperature, but supplies varying quantities of conditioned air in different parts of the building according to the heating and cooling needs.

Variable air volume controller (VAV) Device having electronic components used to regulate the volume of air in a distribution system.

Variable assist power steering A power steering system that enables the stiffness or tension of the steering to increase at higher speeds for more control or to soften at low speeds when performing slower activities, such as parallel parking. Also seeVariable ratio steering

Variable assist steering SeeVariable assist power steering

Variable belt transmission A continuously variable transmission using rubber V-belts on expanding-contracting pulleys, depending on engine speed and load; originally developed by van Doorne for DAF and then used on the Volvo 340

Variable-choke carburetor SeeVariable-venturi carburetor

Variable displacement compressor A compressor which can change its output in accordance with the conditions.

Variable dwell SeeDwell-angle control

Variable exhaust port

SeeAdjustable variable exhaust port.

Variable fuel vehicle SeeFlexible fuel vehicle

Variable hole cutter A drill bit with a stepped cutting head used to drill holes into sheet metal and to enlarge the radii gradually by advancing from one step diameter to the next on the same drill bit

Variable intake manifold A setup in which the path through which air travels into the engine can be altered. Altering the path at a set point allows an engine to develop more power over its rev range.

Variable-jet carburetor A carburetor with a sliding needle which moves in and out of a jet to change its functioning size. A type found on many motorcycle carburetors.

Variable limited-slip axle/center differential A limited-slip axle/center differential with an electronically operated multiple-disc clutch as a slip-inhibiting device

Variable message sign An upright electronic computer-controlled highway information sign sign (either permanent or movable), which reveals road conditions, traffic restrictions, road safety, etc.

Variable pitch pulley Pulley which can be adjusted to provide different pulley drive ratios.

Variable pitch stator A Stator that has Vanes that may be adjusted to various angles depending on load conditions. The vane adjustment will increase or decrease the Efficiency of the Stator.

Variable rate springs

Springs which become stiffer under compression; variable rate gas springs are a feature of air suspension systems

Variable ratio steering Steering ratio characteristics in power steering systems providing different ratios for small and large steering angles

Variable reluctance sensor (VR or VRS) a non-contact Transducer that converts mechanical motion into electrical control signals

Variable resistor A resistor, connected in series with an electric motor that can be adjusted to vary the amount of current available and thereby alter motor speed

Variable-speed wind turbines Turbines in which the rotor speed increases and decreases with changing wind speed, producing electricity with a variable frequency.

Variable spring Spring providing variable effective length through cam action to suit load.

Variable Transducer SeeBackpressure Variable Transducer

Variable transmission SeeContinuously variable transmissionInfinitely variable transmission.

Variable valve actuation In older engines, the Intake and Exhaust valves operated in a fixed program of timed openings and closings. With variable valve actuation, these actions are varied for a better balance of low-speed, medium-speed, and high-speed operation.

Variable valve timing Through the use of computers, the precise time when the valves open and close can be altered. It may be better to change the timing slightly when the engine is at a higher RPM than when it is slower.

Variable-venturi SeeAir-valve carburetor.

Variable-venturi carburetor The characteristic feature of this carburetor is the vacuum-operated piston which adjusts the cross-sectional area of the venturi and moves a jet needle in and out of a needle jet; typical designs are the SU and Stromberg carburetors

Variable volume induction system intake configuration

A restrictor plate that opens and closes controlling the amount of oxygen that can go into the engine.

Variomatic transmission A transmission which used rubber belts and expanding pulleys to provide an infinitely variable belt drive. Also seeVariable belt transmission

Varnish 1. A deposit on the interior of the engine caused by

the engine oil breaking down under prolonged heat and use. Certain portions of the oil deposit themselves in hard Coatings of varnish.

2. Residue formed when Gasoline gets old and stale.

VAT Acronym for Vane air temperature sensor

VATS Acronym for Vehicle AntiTheft System

Vauxhall

A vehicle brand of which only the 25/70 and 30/98 models of 1925-1948 are Classic cars.

VAV Acronym for Variable air volume

VAWT Acronym for vertical-axis wind turbine

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "Wa"

W 1. A letter rating for tires to indicate that they are

theoretically rated for speeds up to 270 kph, as in P220WR15.The next higher rating is Y and the one lower rating is V

2. Acronym for Watt

W/ Abbreviation for with, as in black w/white top.

WAC 1. Acronym for Wide Open Throttle A/C Cutoff

Relay 2. Acronym for Wide Open Throttle A/C Cutout

Relay

WACA Acronym for A/C Wide Open Throttle Cutout Relay Monitor

Waddle A side to side rocking movement of a vehicle in motion, caused by suspension or tire damage or excessive lateral runout

Wading plugs Oil drain holes are provided in the bottom of the clutch housing (and the camshaft drive-belt housing on Tdi and 2.5D engines) to preclude the possibility of the clutch or cam belts becoming contaminated in the event of oil leaks from the adjacent bearings. Wading plugs should be fitted to block these holes when driving

through water over 30 cm deep and subsequently removed.

Wad punch A tool with a round cutting edge for cutting out holes in gaskets or other soft materials

Wafer A thin sheet of semiconductor (photovoltaic material) made by cutting it from a single crystal or ingot.

Wagon SeeDealer Tank Wagon SalesDragon WagonFour-door station wagonGarbage WagonLiftback station wagonSag wagonSpace wagonStation wagonTwo-door station wagon

Waistline A British term for Belt line. An imaginary or molded horizontal line below the bottom of the side window that separates the roof area from the bottom of the body

Waiver SeeDuty waiver

Wakening SeeField Wakening

Walcker SeeChenard-Walcker

Walked over Trucker slang for Over powered by a stronger c.b. signal as in "Come back on that someone walked all over you."

Walk-in cooler

Larger. commercially refrigerated space kept below room temperature. Often found in supermarkets or wholesale meat distribution centers.

Walking Beam Suspension A type of truck and tractor rear suspension consisting of two beams, one at each side of the chassis, which pivot in the center and connect at the front to one axle of a tandem and at the rear to the other axle.

Walking Floor A type of dump trailer with a conveyor belt or chain running down the center of the floor of the trailer to unload the cargo. Also called live bottom

Wall SeeBearing WallCylinder wallRetaining wallSound walls

Walnut SeeBurr walnut

Wander A steering action where the vehicle moves or rambles from a fixed course without positive control.

Wanderer The first Wanderer car with a 5/12 hp four-cylinder engine was test driven in 1912. It went into series production in 1913. This small Wanderer car had not been on the market very long when it became a stage star in the operetta Puppchen (which can be translated loosely as "darling") by Jean Gilbert. The title song was rather catchy "Darling, you are the apple of my eye, darling, I think the world of you." From then on the little Wanderer was known simply by the name Puppchen.

Wandering A condition in which the front wheels of an automobile tend to steer slowly one way and then another, and interferes with directional control of stability

Wankel engine A rotary Internal combustion engine invented by Felix Wankel (1902-1988). It consists of an equilateral triangular member with curved sides orbiting about an Eccentric on a shaft inside a stationary Housing whose inner working surface is in the shape of an Epitrochoid. The Rotor is in sliding contact with the Eccentric and imparts power to the eccentric shaft as a connecting rod does to a Crankshaft. With one-third of a rotor revolution per shaft revolution and a power impulse for each of the three rotor sides, the Wankel generates one power impulse per revolution per rotor--twice that of what the Four-cycle Piston engine produces. Thus it has become accepted practice to multiply the geometry Displacement of the Wankel by a factor of two for comparison with Otto-cycle piston engines. The Wankel's advantages include compact size, light weight and smooth operation because there are no Reciprocating parts. Its drawbacks include relatively high Exhaust emission, possible sealing problems and low Fuel economy. Mazda, however, has made significant improvements in all three areas.

Warding file SeeKey file

Warm Air SeeFurnace Central Warm Air

Warm Air Furnace SeeCentral Warm Air Furnace

Warm up 1. To run an engine until it reaches normal operating

temperature. 2. The laps taken on the track prior to the race used

to warm up the tires, transmission, engine fluids and other components of the race car before the start of the event.

Warm-up The action of starting an engine and allowing it to idle until it reaches operating temperature before driving away.

Warm-up control unit A unit that produces the richer mixture needed for cold running and modulates fuel system pressure according to engine temperature; the unit includes an electrically heated thermostatic spring, which reduces the force on a spring-loaded control diaphragm

Warm-up enrichment A reduced enrichment of the air/fuel mixture following cranking and after-start enrichment. In the past, warming up an engine was thought to be good practice but now manufacturers recommend that motorists should drive off immediately, as this is the quickest way of heating up the engine and preventing oil being washed off the cylinder walls by partially burnt rich mixture (which causes engine wear)

Warm-up regulator On Bosch CIS, the original name for the control-pressure regulator

Warning SeeDeflation warning systemDirection indicator warning lightEngine oil level warning lightFluid level warning indicatorHandbrake warning lightHazard warning switchLow Tire Pressure WarningOil pressure warning lightParkbrake warning lightReversing warning signal

Warning Flasher SeeHazard Warning Flasher

Warning indicator

SeeFluid level warning indicatorLevel Warning Indicator

Warning lamp A small lamp on the instrument panel that lights up if there is a problem

Warning light A small lamp on the instrument panel that lights up if there is a problem. Also SeeBrake warning lightCheck engine warning lightCoolant level warning lightDirection indicator warning lightEngine oil level warning lightHandbrake warning lightOil pressure warning lightParkbrake warning lightSeat belt warning lightSignal light warning lightSRS warning light

Warning light valve A valve in the hydraulic circuits of a dual brake system that switches on a dash warning light when one system fails.

Warning signal SeeReversing warning signal

Warning switch SeeHazard warning switchPressure Differential Warning Switch

Warning Switch Assembly SeeBrake Fluid Level Warning Switch AssemblyDifferential Pressure Warning Switch AssemblyParking Brake Warning Switch Assembly

Warning system

SeeDeflation warning systemTalking warning system

Warning tracks 1. The little ridges in the road that warn you of an

upcoming tollbooth or another lane. Sometimes called wake-up bumps or Bot's Dots -- Mr. Bot got very rich off these.

2. A part of the race track which is off the main part of the section for driving.

Warning triangle A triangular red safety reflector that should be carried on all vehicles and be placed at the side of the road to warn of an obstruction ahead, such as a broken-down vehicle

Warp 1. A bending or twisting out of shape. 2. Threads in cloth that run along the length of the

material. 3. To bend or twist out of shape

Warranty The promise made by both the vehicle manufacturer and the vehicle dealer to fix or replace parts on a new vehicle if there is a malfunction before a specific time or distance has elapsed. In some instances some manufacturers or dealers grant warranty even after the expiry of the designated time or distance. This is called good will warranty. Also SeeAnti-corrosion warrantyGood will warranty

Wash SeeCar washWindow Wash

Washboard

A road surface which has a series of lateral grooves -- usually found on gravel roads and caused by water runoff. Also called corrugations

Washcoat An oxide layer on the catalyst substrate which increases with the active surface area

Washer A flat Disc with a hole in the center. It may be made of metal, rubber, plastic, or leather. It is often placed under a nut to even out pressure and prevent damage to the part on which it rests. Also Seeair washerBridge washerCrush washerCup washerDish washerFlat washerHelical spring lock washerOpen washerProtector washerSlip WasherSpacer WasherSpring lock washerSpring washerTab washerThrust washerWindshield washer fluidWindshield washer

Washer face A circular rim or boss on the underside of the head of a bolt (i.e., the bearing surface) or on one side of a nut to give a flat surface for the bolt or nut to sit on. A smooth washer face takes away any burrs or imperfections caused by the manufacturing process.

Washer fluid A fluid added to the water in the windshield washer and rear window washer reservoirs/bottles to improve the cleaning action and lower the freezing point.

Also seeWindshield washer fluid

Washer pump SeeWindshield washer pump

Wash/wipe SeeHeadlight wash/wipeRear wash/wipe system

Wash/wipe switch A switch on the instrument panel that operates the rear wash/wipe system

Wash/wipe system SeeWindshield wash/wipe systemRear wash/wipe system

Waste SeeBiomass wasteHazardous Wastes

Wastegate SeeWaste gate

Waste gate A valve used to limit the boost developed in a turbocharger. A waste gate operates by allowing some of the engine's exhaust flow to bypass the turbocharger's Turbine section under certain conditions. Also seeElectronically-controlled Wastegate

Waste materials Otherwise discarded combustible materials that, when burned, produce energy for such purposes as space heating and electric power generation. The size of the waste may be reduced by shredders, grinders, or hammermills. Noncombustible materials, if any, may be removed. The waste may be dried and then burned, either alone or in combination with fossil fuels.

Waste oil Petroleum-based materials that are worthless for any purpose other than fuel use.

Waste spark method In distributorless ignition systems, dual-spark coils fire two spark plugs at the same time; one of these sparks is in a cylinder during its exhaust stroke, where the spark has no effect (waste spark); the other spark occurs in the cylinder near the end of the compression stroke

Waste tar Petroleum-based materials that are worthless for any purpose other than fuel use.

Watchdog timer A device that detects controller malfunction and initiates independent action to safely deactivate the equipment operated by the failed controller. The device accomplishes failure detection, by monitoring a periodic update signal from the controller, and activation, if this periodic signal does not occur within a specified time period.

Water SeeDe-ionized waterDistilled waterLight WaterSweet WaterValve Water

Water bar A diversion ditch and/or hump installed across a trail or road to divert runoff from the surface before the flow gains enough volume and velocity to cause soil movement and erosion, and deposit the runoff into a dispersion area. Water bars are most frequently used on retired roads, trails, and landings.

Water column A reference term used in connection with a manometer

Water-cooled

An engine which is cooled by antifreeze in contrast with an air-cooled engine.

Water-cooled condenser 1. Heat exchanger designed to transfer heat from hot

gaseous refrigerant to water. 2. Condensing unit which is cooled through use of

water flow.

Water cooling system The normal cooling system used on most cars and trucks to keep the temperature of the engine down to a desirable level; engine heat is removed via water acting as a coolant which surrounds the cylinders in a water jacket; the system typically includes water passages, coolant pump, thermostat, hoses, and radiator

Watercourse A definite channel with bed and banks within which concentrated water flows continuously, frequently or infrequently.

Water defrosting Use of water to melt ice and frost from evaporator during off-cycle.

Water extractor SeeAir transformer

Water fade A delay in brake application caused by water contamination that reduces friction between the brake linings and drum or rotor.

Water gauge A device, often a glass tube, which shows the level of water.

Water hammer Noise generated by back pressure of water when a valve is closed.

Water injection In an attempt to improve performance and allow the use of lower octane Gasoline, water injection was

developed. The cooling of the water vapor charge suppresses Detonation. A small amount of water or alcohol-water fluid is injected into the Fuel-air mixture as it enters into the Carburetor. Theoretically, as the water evaporates it should cool the incoming charge which then becomes denser, leading to higher Volumetric efficiency. This in turn should lead to improvements in performance and Economy and allow the use of lower octane fuel because cooling of the charge suppresses Detonation.

Water jacket 1. The area around the Cylinder block and Head or

Intake manifold that is left hollow so that water may be admitted for cooling. Also called cooling jacket.

2. Channels in the engine through which water and coolant circulate to cool the engine.

Also SeeCooling system.

Water jet cutter A stream of water under great pressure (50,000 psi) which is controlled by a computer and is used to accurately cut plastic and fiberglass, etc.

Waterline The line of the water's edge when the ship is afloat. Also seeLoad waterline

Water marking Stains on the paintwork caused when a drop of water evaporates, leaving behind an outline of the drop

Water passage A passage within the water jacket designed to prevent the formation of pockets of steam

Water pump A device that circulates the liquid through the Cooling system by pumping it from the engine Water jackets to the Radiator. The pump is usually mounted at the front of the engine and is driven by a belt from a Pulley

on the front end of the Crankshaft. Also called a coolant pump.

Water separator A device found on diesel cars which removes any water that may have contaminated the diesel fuel.

Water splash SeeSalt water splash

Water spotting Stains on the paintwork that occur when a drop of water evaporates from the painted surface and leaves a white spot behind. Also seeWater-spotting.

Water-spotting Drops of water that mar the Finish before it is thoroughly cured.

Water temperature gauge A gauge on the instrument panel which indicates coolant temperature

Water turbine A turbine that uses water pressure to rotate its blades; the primary types are the Pelton wheel, for high heads (pressure); the Francis turbine, for low to medium heads; and the Kaplan for a wide range of heads. Primarily used to power an electric generator.

Water valve 1. A shut-off valve, mechanically or vacuum

operated, for stopping the flow of hot coolant to the heater.

2. In most water cooling units, a valve that provides a flow of water to cool the system while it is running.

Also seeElectric Water ValvePressure Water ValveThermostatic Water Valve

Water vapor

Water in a vaporous form, especially when below boiling temperature and diffused (e.g., in the atmosphere).

Waterways SeeInternational waterways

Watt (W)

1. The international unit of measurement of power. One watt equals one Joule per second.

2. The unit of electrical power equal to one ampere under a pressure of one volt. A Watt is equal to 1/746 horsepower.

Also seeLumens Watt

Watt linkage A Suspension Linkage which has three-bars to locate the De Dion or Live axle. There are two usual methods for arranging a Watt linkage Frame to pivot on axle Housing to frame or axle to pivot on frame to axle. In either arrangement, this link structure restrains all movement of the axle to a vertical plane.

Watts link A device used to control side to side motion in a ladder bar, torque-tube, or 4-link rear suspension. A watts link has a pivot point in the center of the axle and a rod that runs to each side of the car. This design eliminate the side to side motion of a panhard rod.

Wave SeeBackward-wave tubeBending WaveBow WaveCarrier WavePressure wave superchargerPressure waveQuasi-longitudinal Wave

Quasi-optical WavesRectifier

Wave AC Current SeeAC current sine wave

Waveband A series of wavelengths forming a group

Waveform SeeBi-directional Waveform

Wave rectifier SeeRectifier

Wave supercharger SeePressure wave supercharger

Wax 1. A substance resembling beeswax in appearance

and character, and in general distinguished by its composition of esters and higher alcohols, and by its freedom from fatty acids; used for underbody sealing, cavity sealing, and paintwork care.

2. Ingredient in many lubricating oils which may separate from the oil if cooled enough.

3. A solid or semi-solid material at 25°C consisting of a mixture of hydrocarbons obtained or derived from petroleum fractions, or through a Fischer-Tropsch type process, in which the straight chained paraffin series predominates. This includes all marketable wax, whether crude or refined, with a congealing point (ASTM D 938) between 80 (or 85) and 116°C and a maximum oil content (ASTM D 3235) of 50 weight percent.

4. To treat with wax.

Also SeeCar waxHot waxMicrocrystalline Wax

Waxing 1. The formation of wax crystals in diesel fuel in

freezing conditions, thus clogging the fuel filter and stopping the engine; avoided by the use of a fuel heater or fuel additives.

2. The application of a wax finish on the paint surface of a vehicle to preserve the paint and maintain its beauty

Wax injection The injection of corrosion-inhibiting wax into car body cavities

Wax lancing The injection of corrosion-inhibiting wax into car body cavities

Wax-type thermostat A thermostat in which the expansion of melting paraffin wax (in a rigid cylinder) deforms a molded rubber membrane and displaces a piston/pin from the cylinder; this has the advantage of being insensitive to sudden temperature fluctuations or to the pressure in the system

Way SeeOil wayOne way clutch

Way clutch SeeOne way clutch

Ways 1. The machined abutments on which a sliding brake

caliper rides 2. Special sliding surfaces machined into the anchor

plate and caliper body where these parts of a sliding caliper make contact and move against one another.

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "Xa"

Xa Xe Xf Xl Xr Xt Xv Xy

X Originally this letter indicated experimental vehicles, but later came to indicate an exotic or unusual vehicle.Also SeeMichelin X

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "Ya"

Ya Yb Yc Ye Yi Yo Yp Yu

Y A letter rating for tires to indicate that they are theoretically rated for speeds up to 300 kph (186 mph), as in P220YR15.The next higher rating is Z and the one lower rating is W

Yamaha

Click image for books onYamaha

A Japanese motorcycle manufacturer

Yard SeeBreaker's yardScrap yard

Yard Horse A tractor for moving trailers short distances in a truck yard or terminal compound. Also called switching tractor, yard tractor, trailer spotter, yard dog, and linehauler. Equipment is manufactured and sold for such exclusively off-road use, but sometimes old, spare, or unroadworthy tractors are used.

Yarding Method of transport from harvest area to storage landing.

Yard Jockey A person who operates a Yard tractor

Yard Mule Special tractor used to move trailers around a terminal, warehouse, distribution center, etc. Also called a Yard Tractor

Yard sale A bicycle term borrowed from skiing where a serious crash leaves all your various wares -- water bottles, pump, tool bag, etc. -- scattered as if on display for sale.

Yardstick Trucker slang for Mile markers on the road side as in "There's a smokey advertising at the 75 yardstick."

Yard Tractor Special tractor used to move trailers around a terminal, warehouse, distribution center, etc. Also called a Yard Mule

Yarn SeeBallooning Of Yarn

Yaw The rotation about a vertical axis that passes through the car's center of gravity.

Yaw acceleration A steady increase in the yaw angle

Yaw angle The angle of deviation between a vehicle's longitudinal axis and its true direction of motion, i.e., the difference between the direction a vehicle is pointing when cornering and the direction in which it is actually moving

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS - "Za"

Za Ze Zf Zi Zo Zv

Z 1. A letter rating for tires to indicate that they are

theoretically rated for speeds over 300 kph (186 mph), as in P245/50ZR16. There is no higher rating, but the one lower rating is Y

2. The symbol for Impedance

Zahnradfabrik Friedrichshafen SeeZF

ZAP SeeAIA-ZAP

Z-axle A rear axle introduced with the BMW Z1 in 1988, consisting of a trailing arm, one upper lateral link, one

lower diagonal link, and a coil spring at each side; also included is an anti-roll bar