| A |
An acronym for ampere. |
| A / F sensor |
the A / F sensor is similar to the oxygen sensor, however I is constructed
differently and has different operating charateristics and is also called a wide
range ratio sensor. |
| A V-8 |
A Ford model A retrofit with a late model V-8 engine. |
| A-arm |
A triangle-shaped suspension control-arm device, with two points connected to
the chassis and one to the wheel spindle. Control arms are sometimes called
A-arms because from the top view, they are shaped like the letter A. Also
referred to as A-frame. |
| A-cam |
Pattern used for grinding pistons in an oval- or cam-shape with 0.005 inch
(0.127mm) difference between the thrust face and the pinhole side. |
| A-frame |
A term often used for A-arm. |
| A-pillar |
The structural support on either side of the windshield, just ahead of the
front doors. |
| A-post |
A term often use for a-pillar. |
| A-shim |
A valve spring-adjuster insert with a thickness of 0.060 inch (1.524mm) used
to balance spring pressure and to correct installed height. |
| A-to-D converter |
A digital electronic component that converts an electrical signal into
discrete binary values |
| A-train |
A combination of two or more trailers in which the dolly (converter or
turntable), is connected by a single pintle hook or coupler, and the drawbar
connection is at the center, between each vehicle. |
| A.O.T. |
Automotive overdrive transmission |
| A/C |
Air conditioning |
| A/C Coupling |
An oscilloscope setting that places a filter in the circuit,so the scope
ignores the DC and displays only the AC signal |
| A/C Current |
Current that flowes in one direction in the circuit then reverces it's flow
direction |
| A/C Sine Wave |
The waveform defined by an A/C electrical signal. |
| A/C Voltage |
Voltage that builds to it's maximum flowing in one direction then dropes to
it's minimum then builds to it's maximum in the opposit dircetion in a analoge
fation |
| A/C-CCPS |
Air conditioning clutch cycling pressure switch |
| A/C-CM |
Air conditioning control module |
| A/C-DV |
Air cleaner duct and valve |
| A/C-ISUS |
Air conditioning-idle speed up solenoid |
| A/C-P |
Air conditioning-pressure |
| A/CL |
Air cleaner |
| A/CL-ATC |
Air cleaner air temperature control |
| A/CL-BVS |
Air cleaner bimetal vacuum switch |
| A/CL-CWM |
Air cleaner cold weather modulator |
| A/CL-D |
Air cleaner diaphragm |
| A/CL-TS |
Air cleaner thermo-sensor |
| A/CL-TSOV |
Air cleaner temperature sensor override valve |
| A/CL-VCV |
Air cleaner vacuum control valve |
| A/D |
Analog to digital |
| A/D converter |
A circuit that translates an analog signal into digital quantities |
| A/F |
An acronym for air/fuel ratio. |
| A/F sensor |
A/F Sensor The A/F sensor is similar to the Oxygen sensor. It appers similar
to the Oxygen sensor, but it is constructed and has different operating
characteristics. |
| A/Gas |
One of four classes for non-supercharged coupes and sedans. Under National
Hot Rod Association (NHRA) rules, overall weight range is from 6.5 to 8.49 pounds
per cubic inch of engine displacement. |
| A/T |
An acronym for automatic transmission. |
| A4LD |
Automatic four-speed lock-up converter drive |
| AAA |
An acronym for the American Automobile Association. |
| AAC |
Auxiliary air control |
| AACA |
An acronym for the Antique Automobile Club of America. |
| AAI |
An acronym for the Alliance of American Insurers. |
| AAMA |
An acronym for the American Automobile Manufacturers Association. |
| AAP |
Auxiliary acceleration pump |
| AARA |
An acronym for the Antique Auto Racing Association. |
| AAS |
Aspirator air system |
| AATS |
Ambient air temperature sensor |
| AB |
Air bleed |
| ABCM |
An acronym for anti-lock brake control module. Some refer to it as anti-lock
brake computer module. |
| ABCV |
Air bleed control valve |
| ABDC |
After bottom dead center |
| abnormal operating conditions (AOC) |
Adverse. Other than normal operating conditions, such as rain, snow, sleet
and ice. |
| abnormal wear |
The excessive wear on a drive or driven member as might be caused by improper
tensioning, misalignment, or abrasive materials in the drive environment. |
| abnormal wear pattern |
A visual indication that two or more members, such as gears, pulleys, and/or
belts are improperly tensioned or aligned or that abrasive materials are
present. |
| abort |
The procedure for intentionally terminating a computer program when a
mistake, malfunction, or error has occurred. |
| ABPV |
Air by-pass valve |
| abrasion resistance |
A treatment of a wire covering's ability to resist surface wear due to
mechanical damage. |
| abrasive |
A very hard substance used for the removal of material by cutting, grinding,
lapping, or polishing metals. |
| abrasive finishing |
Any of several processes for removing scale or surface contaminants using
abrasives, such as bonded grinding wheels or disks, coated abrasives, honing
stones, or bonded abrasive sticks. |
| ABRS |
Air bag restraint system |
| ABS |
An acronym for Anti Lock Braking System |
| ABS event |
A rapid reduction in speed where one or more wheels begin to lock up. |
| absolute pressure |
A pressure measured on a scale having, as its zero point, at the complete
absence of pressure (known as a perfect vacuum). |
| absolute pressure sensor |
A device for sensing pressures from absolute zero. |
| absolute rating |
A single eternal explanation for all reality. That point at which all motion
in matter ceases, such as absolute zero. Also used in filter ratings to indicate
the diameter of the largest particle, normally expressed in micrometers, that
will pass through the filter. A filter media with an exact and consistent pore
size theoretically has an absolute rating. |
| absolute zero |
The lowest temperature on the Kelvin temperature scale (K), equivalent to -
459.7o F (-273.2o C). Temperature measured from 0o K is an absolute temperature.
All molecular motion ceases at 0o K. |
| absorb |
To take in by capillary action, as in a sponge. |
| absorbent medium |
A material akin to a sponge in that it can draw in fluid and retain it within
its structure. In this sense, it can act as a filter to remove (absorb) and
retain fluid. |
| absorptive lens |
A filter lens designed to reduce the effects of glare, reflection, and stray
light. |
| ABV |
Air by-pass valve or anti-backfire valve |
| AC |
Alternating current or altitude compensator; also Ac, Actinium An element
with the atomic number of 89 |
| ac adapter |
A transformer-type power supply that plugs into an ac (alternating current)
power outlet and provides low voltage ac or dc to provide power for accessory
equipment. |
| ac power supply |
A source of alternating current (ac), such as an ac outlet, transformer,
inverter, or an alternator (as generator). |
| AC/TVS |
Air cleaner/thermal vacuum switch |
| ACC |
[1] Air conditioning system [2] An accronym for Automotive Communications
Council [3] An acronym for air conditioning compressior clutch signal switch. [4]
Automatic Climate Control [5] Active Cruise Control |
| acceleration |
An increase in velocity or speed. |
| acceleration sensor |
A sensor that provides information about the rate of forward or reverse
acceleration or deceleration; also know as a G-switch |
| acceleration slip regulation (ASR) |
The name of the traction control system manufactured by Bosch. |
| acceleration squat |
The tendency of the rear part of a vehicle to press down on the rear springs
during hard acceleration. |
| accelerator |
A control, usually a foot-operated pedal, linked to the throttle valve of the
carburetor and used to control the flow of fuel into the engine. |
| accelerator pedal |
A foot-operated device for controlling the flow of fuel into the engine. |
| accelerator pedal position sensor |
A device designed to send an electrical signal to the central processing unit
relative to the position of the accelerator pedal at any given time. |
| accelerator pump |
A pump in the carburetor connected by linkage to the accelerator pedal that
momentarily enriches the air-fuel mixture when the accelerator is depressed at
low speed. |
| accelerometer |
An instrument that measures a vehicle's linear or lateral rate of
acceleration in g force or feet per second. |
| acceptable weld |
A weld that meets all the requirements and the acceptance criteria prescribed
by the welding specifications. |
| acceptor element |
An impurity which is added to germanium or silicon during the manufacture of
semiconductors, to produce a p-type material ( boron or indium ) |
| access fittings |
A service port or service valve. Also may refer to an access valve. |
| access slot |
An opening that permits access to a device, such as the openings in the
backing plates of a brake system that allow access to the star wheel
adjuster. |
| access time |
The time that is required to retrieve information from a system's
memory. |
| access valve |
A service port or service valve. Also may refer to an access fitting. |
| accidental ground |
A condition that exists when a wire, connected to the positive battery
terminal, contacts a grounded metal part of the car. |
| ACCS |
Air conditioning cycling switch |
| accumulator |
1. A tank located in the outlet of the evaporator to receive the refrigerant
that leaves the evaporator. A component used to store or hold liquid refrigerant
in an air-conditioning system. This device is constructed to ensure that no
liquid refrigerant enters the compressor. 2. A device that cushions the motion of
a clutch and servo action in an automatic transmission. 3. A mainarea that
stores hydraulic fluid under pressure. It can be used as a fluid shock absorber
or as an alternate pressure source for an ABS system 4. A register or storage
location that forms the result of an arithmetic or logic operation. Commonly used
when a series of calculations are to be totaled. |
| accumulator-dehydrator |
An air conditioner accumulator that includes a desiccant. |
| accumulator-drier |
A term often used for accumulator-dehydrator. |
| accuracy |
The conformity of an indicated value to a value accepted as a standard. |
| ACCUS |
An acronym for the Automobile Competition Committee for the United
States. |
| ACD |
Air conditioning demand |
| ACE |
Automotive computerized equipment |
| acetic acid |
An activator that is used in RTV/silicone sealants to make them more
rubber-like in composition. |
| acetone |
1. A highly flammable liquid sometimes used as a racing-fuel additive.
Acetone CH3COCH3 helps to prevent other chemicals in a fuel mixture from
separating. 2. A powerful ketone-type lacquer solvent. 3. Used as a solvent to
clean parts. |
| acetylene |
A highly flammable gas used for metal cutting, welding, and brazing. |
| ACID |
An acronym for a four-mode, driving-test cycle used to test exhaust emissions
or vehicle driveability; the modes are Accelerate, Cruise, Idle, and
Decelerate. |
| acid dip |
1. A method of paint stripping. Metal parts can be immersed in an acid dip to
remove all traces of old paint and chemical impurities. 2. To immerse
stock-car-body panels in acid to reduce sheet metal thickness by etching, thus
reducing weight. |
| Acid Hydrogen |
Compounds that yield hydrogen ions when dissolived in water. |
| acid rain |
Corrosive rain formed when sulfur (S) emissions from motor vehicles and
industrial plants combine with hydrogen (H) and oxygen (O) in the atmosphere to
form sulfuric acid. The mixture of these chemicals with water produces an acid
solution that is found in rain. Not only is it corrosive to anything it may come
into contact with, it also raises the acidity of lakes and ponds, often to the
point that fish and other aquatic life cannot survive. |
| acidity |
The presence of acid-type chemicals that are identified by the acid number.
Acidity within some environments, such as the crankcase of an engine, causes
corrosion, sludge and varnish to increase. |
| Ackerman principle |
The geometric principle used to provide toe-out on turns. The ends of the
steering arms are angled so that the inside wheel turns more than the outside
wheel when a vehicle is making a turn, without scrubbing the tire treads on the
road surface. |
| Ackerman steering |
A term often used for Ackerman principle. |
| ACL |
An acronym for automatic chassis lubrication. |
| ACM |
[1] An acronym for air-control module. [2] Asbestos Containing Material |
| ACOV |
Air cut off valve |
| acquisition mode |
Modes that control how waveform points are produced from sample points.
Sample, peak detect, hi res, envelop, and average |
| Acquistion Mode |
Modes that control how waveform points are produced from sample points. Some
type include sample, peak detect, hi res, envelops, and average. |
| ACR3 |
An acronym for an Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Refrigerant Recovery,
Reclaim, and Recycle system. |
| ACRL |
An acronym for American City Racing League. |
| acronym |
a word that is formed by combining some parts (usually the first letter) of
some other terms. |
| ACRS |
An acronym for air-cushion restraint system. |
| ACRV |
Air control and reed valve |
| acrylic |
A polymer-based coating acrylic widely used for automotive topcoats. Its
physical properties can be controlled in part by the choice of the alcohol used
to make the ester. |
| ACS |
[1] Air control solenoid [2] Active Comfort Seats |
| ACSE |
An acronym for the Automotive Cooling System Institute. |
| ACT |
[1] An acronym for air charge temperature. [2] An acronym for Alternative
Control Technique |
| Activate |
The steps necessary to turn a feature or function on. |
| active coil |
Those coils that are free to deflect under a load. |
| active plate material |
The sponge lead in an automotive battery that is spread over the
negative-plate grid or the lead peroxide that is spread over the positive-plate
grid. |
| active restraint |
A vehicle occupant restraint, such as a lap belt and/or shoulder harness,
that must be attached or connected by the person using it. |
| active solvent |
A liquid that can dissolve a paint binder when used alone. |
| active spring coil |
Active coils in the center of the spring operate during the complete range of
spring loading. Also, see inactive spring coil and transitional spring coil. |
| active suspension system |
Also known as computer-controlled suspension system, a computerized system
able to control body roll, body pitch, brake dive, acceleration squall, and ride
height. Suspension systems that are controlled by double-acting hydraulic
cylinders or solenoids (actuators) mounted at each wheel. The actuators support
the vehicles weight, instead of conventional springs or air springs. |
| active testing |
OBD-II Diagnostic testing in which the PCM controls the system or component
in a specific action while monitoring takes place |
| ACTS |
Air charge temperature sensor |
| Actual Cash Value (ACV) |
The true value of a product, such as a used vehicle. |
| actual throat |
A welding term indication the shortest distance between the weld root and the
face of a fillet weld. |
| actuator |
1.Any device that receives an output signal or command from a computer and
does something in response to the signal 2. A device that translates hydraulic
pressure into mechanical energy |
| ACV |
1. An acronym for air-control valve. 2. An acronym for actual cash
value. |
| ACVD |
Air cleaner vacuum diaphragm |
| AD |
Air diverter |
| adapter |
1. Any of various pieces of hardware that permits non-matching parts to
connect, mesh, or function together. 2. A device used to connect an engine and a
transmission not originally designed to be used together. 3. Welds under a spring
seat to increase mounting height of the fit seal to the axle. |
| adaptive memory |
The feature of a computer memory that allows the microprocessor to
automatically compensate for changes in the dynamics of the process being
controlled. Anything stored in adaptive memory is lost when power to the computer
is interrupted, such as when the battery is disconnected. |
| Adaptive suspersion system |
Suspension system that are able to change ride characteristics by
continuously altering shock damping and ride height |
| adaptor |
Another way of spelling adapter. |
| ADB (X) |
Automatic Differential Braking |
| ADC |
(Analog-toDigital Converter A sigital electronic component that converts an
electrical signal into discrete binary values. changes analog signals to digital
signals. |
| add-on |
1. Any device or system added to a vehicle by the dealer, independent garage,
or owner. 2. A component or device added to a computer system to increase its
storage capacity, to modify its architecture, or to upgrade its performance;
circuitry or system that can be attached to a computer. |
| add-on coolers |
1. A method of increasing the transmission system's cooling capacity by
adding an external fluid cooling unit. 2. A device to provide cooling for the
power steering fluid. |
| additive |
1. Any material added to a lubricating grease or oil to improve its
suitability for service. It may improve a property that the lubricant already
possesses or give it properties that it does not naturally possess. 2. Any
material added to the cooling system to inhibit rust, increase the boiling point,
and/or decrease the freezing point. 3. Any one of a number of special chemicals
added to a paint to bring about special effects. 4. Chemicals added to gasoline
in very small quantities to improve and maintain gasoline quality. |
| address |
A number identifying the location in a computer's memory, or a peripheral; or
in general, a destination or source.. |
| address format |
The way that the parts of an address are arranged in an instruction. |
| adhesion |
1. The ability of a tire to remain in contact with the road surface. 2. The
property of oil that causes it to cling to metal surfaces, such as bearings. |
| adhesive bonding |
1. A technique for bonding metals and/or plastics together during assembly of
panels and bodies. 2. A process used to attach aftermarket body kits, such as
rocker panels and spoilers. |
| adiabatic engine |
An engine having combustion chambers insulated with a high-temperature
material. Heat loss is kept at a minimum and is retained rather than being
allowed to dissipate through the cooling and exhaust systems. This results in a
higher proportion of thermal energy being converted to useful power. |
| adjust |
To bring the parts of a component, system, or device to a specific
relationship, dimension, temperature, or pressure. |
| adjustable resistor |
A resistor with a mechanical means for changing its value, such as a moving
contact. (See potentiometer ) |
| adjustable shock |
Another term used for adjustable shock absorber. |
| adjustable shock absorber |
A shock absorber having an external means of adjustment to calibrate it
precisely for a specific operating condition. |
| adjustable strut |
A strut with a manually operated adjustment for strut firmness. The strut
adjusting knob, usually accessible without raising the vehicle, varies the strut
orifice opening. Also see travel-sensitive strut. |
| adjustable torque arm |
A member used to retain axle alignment and, in some cases, control axle
torque. Normally one adjustable and one rigid torque arm are used per axle so the
axle can be aligned. This rod can be extended or retracted for adjustment
purposes. |
| adjusting cam |
Eccentric bolts that are used to automatically or manually adjust the brake
shoe-to-drum clearance. Positioned in the backing plate of drum brakes, the cam
positions the shoe(s) closer to the drum. |
| adjusting shim |
A metal shim, available in various thicknesses, used to change the valve
clearance in some overhead cam engines. |
| adjusting sleeve |
An internally threaded sleeve located between the tie rod ends. The sleeve is
rotated to set toe in/toe out. |
| adjustment |
To make a necessary or desired change in clearance, fit or setting. |
| ADLO |
Automatic disengagement and lock out |
| Admittance (Y) |
The ease with which current flows in an ac circuit. It is the reciprocal of
impedance and is measured in mhos. |
| ADS |
Anti-diesel solenoid or a Euporean Acronym for an Automatic Damping
System |
| adsorb |
To collect a very thin layer on the surface of material. |
| adsorbent media |
Generally used in filters for the removal of odors, smoke, fumes, and some
impurities. The chief adsorptive granular media used for filters are activated
charcoal and similar forms of carbon, Fuller's earth, and other active clays.
Also see canister filter and filter. |
| adsorption |
The attraction and/or retention of particles by molecular attraction or
electrostatic forces present between the particles and a filter medium. |
| advance curve |
A term generally relating to spark advance curve. |
| AEA |
An acronym for the Automotive Electrical Association. |
| AEGS |
Automatic Electronic Gearbox Control |
| AERA |
An acronym for Automotive Engine Rebuilders Association. |
| aerobic sealer |
A silicone rubber sealing compound that requires oxygen for curing, such as
RTV, used to hold parts together. |
| aerodynamic |
The ease with which air can flow over the vehicle during higher speed
operation. An aerodynamically sound vehicle has very little wind resistance. |
| aerodynamic drag |
The resistance of air against an object, such as an automobile, trying to
pass through it. Also referred to as air drag and air resistance. |
| aerodynamic force |
A force created aerodynamically, such as by an air foil. |
| aerodynamic resistance |
Resistance of the air against an object, such as a vehicle, trying to pass
through it. The result of four factors; coefficient of drag, frontal area,
vehicle speed, and air density. Also referred to as air drag, air resistance, and
aerodynamic drag. |
| AES |
The Automotive Electronics Services providing automotive electronics system
diagnosis solutions ASEwave.com |
| AESMC |
An acronym for the Automotive Exhaust Systems Manufacturing Council. |
| AFC |
Air flow controlled |
| AFR |
An acronym for air/fuel ratio. |
| AFS |
Air flow sensor |
| after top dead center (ATDC) |
The position of a piston as it begins its intake or power stroke. |
| afterboil |
The boiling of fuel in the carburetor or coolant in the engine immediately
after the engine has been stopped. |
| afterburner |
A type of engine exhaust manifold that burns any HC and CO remaining in the
exhaust gas. |
| aftermarket |
Parts and equipment sold to consumers after the vehicle has been
manufactured. Aftermarket equipment and parts are sold by catalog, dealers,
independent garages, and parts houses independent from the vehicle
manufacturers. |
| afterrunning |
A term often used when an engine continues to run after the ignition has been
turned off. More often referred to as dieseling. |
| AFV |
Alternative fuel vehicle |
| Ag |
Silver An element with the atomic number of 47 |
| AGA |
American Gas Association |
| aging |
A time-temperature dependent change in the properties of certain materials
occurring at room or slightly elevated temperatures following hot or cold
working, or following quenching after thermal treatment. |
| AHFSS |
Air condition heater function select switch |
| AHRA |
An acronym for the now-defunct American Hod Rod Association. |
| AI |
Air injection |
| AIA |
1. An acronym for the Automobile Importers of America. 2. An acronym for
Automotive Industries Association. 3. An acronym for the Asbestos Information
Association. |
| AIADA |
An acronym for the American International Automobile Dealers
Association. |
| AIAM |
An acronym for the Association of International Automobile
Manufacturers. |
| AIC |
Air intake control or automatic idle control |
| AICV |
Air injection check valve |
| aiming screws |
Self-locking screws for adjusting the headlamp in horizontal and vertical
positions and for retaining the proper position. |
| AIR |
[1] an acronym for Air injection reaction [2] The combination of gases that
make up the earths atmosphere. |
| Air / Fuel Sensor |
The A/F sensor is similar to the Oxygen sensor. It appears similar to the
Oxygen sensor, however, it has different operating characteristics and is also
called the air/ fuel ratio sencer. and a wide range ratio sensor. |
| air bag |
1. Passive restraint with an inflatable air bag located in the steering wheel
in front of the driver and in the dash in front of the right front seat
passenger. 2. An inflatable bladder used in the place of a spring in an air
suspension system. Also see air lift. |
| air bag igniter |
A combustible device that converts electric energy into thermal energy to
ignite the inflator propellant. The igniter is an integral component of the
inflator assembly. |
| air bag inflator |
A term often used for air bag igniter. |
| air bag module |
The air bag and inflator assembly together in a single package. This module
is mounted in the center of the steering wheel. |
| air bag system |
The air bag system is designed as a supplemental restraint. In the case of an
accident it will deploy a bag from the steering wheel or passenger side dash
panel to provide additional protection against head and face injuries. |
| air bleed |
Holes or tubes in the carburetor to allow air to premix with gas flow. |
| air box |
An enclosed chamber to direct air into a carburetor or intake manifold. |
| air brake |
1. A moveable dynamic spoiler that can be raised against the wind to slow a
high speed vehicle. 2. The braking system on some heavy trucks that uses
compressed air to expand the brake shoes by cam or wedge against the brake
drums. |
| air carbon arc cutting |
A carbon arc-cutting process that removes molten metal with a jet of
air. |
| air charge temperature (ACT) |
The temperature of incoming air in fuel-injection system. |
| air cleaner |
A device connected to the carburetor in a manner that all incoming air must
pass through it. Its purpose is to filter dirt and dust from the air before it
passes into the engine. |
| air compressor |
1. Engine-driven mechanism for supplying high pressure air to truck brake
systems. There are basically two types of compressors: those designed to work on
in-line engines and those that work on V-type engines. The in-line type is
mounted toward the fire wall and is camshaft driven. 2. A gasoline engine or
electric -motor-driven mechanism for supplying shop air for the lift, air tools,
and paint spraying equipment. |
| air conditioner |
A device used for the automatic control of the temperature, humidity,
cleanness, and movement of air in a given space. |
| air conditioning (A/C) |
The process of adjusting and regulating, by heating or refrigerating, the
quality, quantity, temperature, humidity, and circulation of air in a space or
enclosure; to condition the air. |
| Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Refrigerant Recovery, Reclaim, and
Recycle System (ACR3) |
Equipment that is used to recover, reclaim, and recycle refrigerant from an
air, conditioning or refrigeration system. |
| air control valve (ACV) |
A component used to route air from the pump to either the exhaust manifold or
to the catalytic converter. |
| air cooled |
Removing heat from the engine by circulating air across the cylinder block
and heads. |
| air cooling |
Simple method of engine cooling that relies on forced airflow over extended
metal fins on the cylinder head and the block to maintain proper operating
temperature. |
| air core |
A method of constructing coils or transformers in which thee wire is wound on
a hollow, air-filled form instead of one using magnetic material in the
core. |
| air core coil |
A method of constructing coils or transformers in which the wire is wound on
a hollow form instead of one using magnetic material such as soft iron. |
| air cushion restraint system |
A term used for air bag system. |
| air dam |
1. A panel across a race car's front end, designed to reduce the air pressure
beneath the vehicle for a better ground effect. 2. Panels around the radiator to
ensure that all air passes through, not around, the radiator. |
| air delivery system |
The component that contains the air ducts, doors, blower, evaporator core,
heater core, ane controls that deliver air to the interior via the various
outlets. |
| air door |
A door in the duct system that controls the flow of air in the air
conditioner and/or heater. |
| air drag |
The resistance of air against an object, such as an automobile, trying to
pass through it. Also referred to as aerodynamic resistance and aerodynamic drag,
air resistance. |
| air ducts(s) |
Tubes, channels, or other tubular structures used to carry air to a specific
location. |
| air filter |
A filter that removes dust, dirt, and particles from the air passing through
it. |
| air foil |
The inverted wing of a race car designed to increase downward aerodynamic
force and, with it, vehicle traction. |
| air gap |
A small space between parts that are mated magnetically or electrically. |
| air hoist |
A hoisting device using compressed air in a cylinder, acting against a
piston, with suitable outside connections, such as a hook. |
| air horn |
1. A horn that is actuated by compressed air. 2. A tubular passage containing
the choke valves in the atmospheric side of a carburetor venturi through which
the incoming air must pass. |
| air hose |
Air lines between the tractor and trailer supplying air to the trailer
brakes. |
| Air Injection Reaction |
One method of reducing harmful exhaust emissions by injecting air into ether
the exhaust manifold or the catalytic converter |
| air inlet valve |
A moveable door in the plenum blower assembly that permits the selection of
outside air or inside air for both heating and cooling systems. |
| air intake and exhaust system |
The parts on the automobile engine used to get the air into the engine and
the exhaust out of the engine, including air cleaner, muffler, tail pipe, and
associated duct ing. |
| air intake system |
A system that allows fresh clean air to enter a component such as an air
conditioner, passenger compartment, or engine. |
| air jack |
A device that uses compressed air to lift a vehicle. On some Indy and sports
GOT cars, the jacks are built into the chassis, permitting the whole car to be
raised instantly. This enables the pit crew to change all four tires
simultaneously. |
| air lift |
A tradename for a pneumatic helper spring with a Schrader valve that
simplifies increasing or decreasing air pressure to compensate for changes in
load. |
| air line |
A hose, pipe, or tube through which air passes. |
| air lock |
A pocket of air that blocks the normal flow of liquid in a system. |
| air management system |
The system of solenoids and valves that control the output of the air pump to
the catalytic converter, air cleaner housing, or exhaust manifold. |
| air nozzle |
1. The tube through which air is delivered to the exhaust gas in an
air-injection system. 2. A device used to direct a stream of air into the desired
area. |
| air outlet valve |
A movable door in the plenum blower assembly that directs airflow into the
heater core or into the duct-work that leads to the evaporator. |
| air pollution |
The introduction of impurities and contaminants, many of which are caused by
humans, into the atmosphere. |
| air pressure |
1. Atmospheric pressure. 2. The pressure produced by an air pump or
compressor in a cylinder. |
| air pressure test |
Applying air pressure to control valve body holes and passages leading to
apply devices to check for the proper application |
| air pump |
1. A belt- or direct-driven vane-type pump that supplies the air needed for
most air-injection systems. 2. A term often used for air compressor. |
| air resistance |
The resistance of air against an object, such as an automobile, trying to
pass through it. Also referred to as air drag, aerodynamic drag, and aerodynamic
resistance. |
| air scoop |
Opening at the front and/or along the side of a vehicle's bodywork to channel
cool, ambient air to the radiator, engine, induction system, oil cooler, or
brakes. |
| air shifting |
Process that uses air pressure to engage different range combinations in the
transmission's auxiliary section without a mechanical linkage to the driver. |
| air shock |
Also known as load-leveling shock absorber. A shock operating on principles
of air pressure; may also have a hydraulic section. |
| air shock absorber |
A term often used when referring to an air shock or load-leveling shock
absorber. |
| air slide release |
An air-operated release mechanism for positioning a sliding fifth wheel,
operated from the cab of a tractor by actuating an air-control valve. |
| air spring |
Also known as air bag. An air-filled device that functions as the spring on
axles that utilize air pressure in the suspension system. |
| air spring suspension |
A single or multiaxle suspension relying on air bags for springs and weight
distribution of axles. |
| air suspension speaker |
A speaker mounted in a closed box so that the enclosed air acts as a spring
against the back side of the speaker cone. |
| air suspension system |
A suspension system that uses contained compressed air for vehicle
springing. |
| air temperature sensor |
A unit consisting of an aspirator, bimetallic sensing element, and a vacuum
modulator used to sense in-car temperature. |
| air-conditioner muffler |
A tank-like device usually located in the compressor discharge line to reduce
compressor pumping sounds. |
| air-control module (ACM) |
A component of the fuel control system that monitors intake air volume and
meters fuel accordingly. |
| air-cooled engine |
An engine that is cooled by the passage of air, generally forced, around and
over the cylinders. |
| air-injection reactor (AIR) |
An air-injection system comprised of a vane pump, diverter valve, and check
valve; a type of emission control system that pumps fresh air into the
exhaust. |
| air-injection system |
One that supplies fresh air to the exhaust stream, which helps oxidize HC and
CO, and, gives the catalyst in the catalytic converter the extra air it needs to
oxidize those pollutants. |
| air-injector system |
Engine emission-control system that injects fresh air at each exhaust port.
The injected air mixes with the hot exhaust gases prolonging combustion, which
reduces hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide exhaust emissions. |
| air-over-hydraulic brakes |
Brakes utilizing a hydraulic system assisted by an air pressure system. |
| AIR/CSV |
Air injection reaction/control switching valve |
| air/fuel mixture |
The proportion of air to fuel provided by a carburetor of fuel-injection
system. |
| Air/Fuel Ratio |
The ratio of air to gasoline by weight in the fuel mixture drawn into the
engine |
| air/fuel ratio (A/F, ARF) |
The relative proportions of air and fuel entering an engine's cylinders as
produced by the carburetor or fuel-injection system; the measure of the amount of
air and fuel needed for proper combustion. The ideal or Stoichiometric ratio for
gasoline is 14.7:1 air to fuel by weight. A higher ratio would contain more air
and less fuel, and would be considered a lean mixture. A lower ratio with more
fuel and less air would be a rich mixture. The air/fuel ratio is determined by
the orifice size of the main jets inside a carburetor, the dwell duration of the
mixture control solenoid inside a feedback carburetor, or the orifice opening and
fuel pulse duration of a fuel injector. |
| AIR/MV |
Air injection reaction/management valve |
| AIR/SSV |
Air injection reaction/switch solenoid valve |
| AIR/VDV |
Air injection reaction/vacuum delay valve |
| AIRB |
Air injection reaction bypass |
| airborne |
A term used to describe contaminants floating in air through the engine. The
contaminants are light enough to be suspended in the air stream. |
| AIRD |
Air injection reaction diverter |
| Airflow meter |
Used to measure the volume of air entering the engine on many fuel injection
systems |
| airflow sensor (AS) |
An instrument for measuring airflow in an electronic fuel-injection system to
be processed by the electronic control module with other sensory data to
calibrate the air/fuel mixture. |
| airless blasting |
A method of surface cleaning parts using propelled shot. |
| AIRS |
Aerometric Information Retrieval System (An EPA database) |
| AIS |
Air injection system or auto idle speed |
| AIS-ACV |
Air injection system-air control valve |
| AIS-AMV |
Air injection system-air management valve |
| AIS-ASS |
Air injection system-air switching solenoid |
| AIS-ASV |
Air injection system-air switching valve |
| AIS-BPV |
Air injection system-bypass valve |
| AIS-DV |
Air injection system-diverter valve |
| AIS-PAF |
Air injection system-pulse air feeder |
| AIS-RV |
Air injection system- relief valve |
| AIS-SV |
Air injection system-solenoid valve |
| AIS-VCV |
Air injection system-vacuum control valve |
| AIS-VSV |
Air injection system-vacuum switching valve |
| AISM |
Automatic idle speed motor |
| AIV |
Air injection valve |
| AK steel |
A term often used for aluminum-killed steel. |
| Al |
Aluminum An element with the atomic number of 13 |
| ALCL |
Assembly line communications link |
| alcohol |
A colorless volatile liquid; some forms can be used as a fuel for racing
engines. |
| ALDL |
An acronym for assembly line data link. |
| Alexander Charles |
Alexander Cesar Jacques Charles (1746 - 1823 ) A French Scientist after which
is named Charles's Law which made the connection that a rise in temperature will
caus an expanction in the volume of a gas. |
| algorithm |
[1] A formula or set of steps for solving a particular problem. [2] A
systematic sequence of defined processes and operations required to ensure the
solution of a problem |
| Aliasing |
Aliasing occurs when a digital oscilloscope does not take enough samples on a
particular signal. After the scope reconstructs and displays the waveform you can
be "Fooled" into seeing a false waveform. |
| align bore |
A stationary or portable boring machine used to correct an engine's
out-of-round and/or warped main bearing housings. |
| align hone |
A stationary machine operation that corrects an engine's out-of round and/or
warped main bearing housings using a special honing mandrel. |
| align ream |
A machine or hand process to enlarge the inside diameter of bushings to the
proper size. |
| alignment |
The act of lining up or the state of being in a true line. |
| alignment gap |
The distance between two adjacent auto-body panels. |
| alignment pin |
A pin or pins used to align one part with another, such as the pins used to
align a cylinder head on an engine block. |
| alignment rack |
A drive-on device used for front end or four wheel alignment |
| alignment stud |
A stud or studs used to align one part with another, such as the studs used
to align a cylinder head on an engine block. |
| Alkali |
A chemical "base" (the opposite of an acid) Certain types of alkalis
(especialy potassium hydroxide) have been used as fuel cell electrolytes. |
| Alkaline Fuel Cell (AFC) |
A type of Hydrogen/Oxygen fuel cell in which the electrolyte is concentrated
potassium hydroxide (KOH) and hydroxide ions (HO-) are transported from the
cathode to the anode. |
| alky |
A performance term used for alcohol, usually methanol, used as a fuel for
racing car engines. |
| alkyd |
A coating based on a polyester binder. The polyester binders are chemical
combinations of molecules that contain more than one acid or alcohol group.
Alkyds are widely used in water-based house paints and automotive primers. |
| all-season tire |
Tires with special tread designed to improve traction on snow or ice
(generally provides 37% higher average snow traction compared with non-all-season
tires), while providing acceptable noise levels on smooth road surfaces. |
| all-terrain cycle |
A small, three-wheeled, off-road vehicle by Honda. |
| all-terrain vehicle |
A small, lightweight, four-wheeled vehicle with high flotation tires designed
primarily for off-highway use. |
| all-wheel drive (AWD) |
A vehicle drivetrain with a center differential having all four wheels under
power at all times. |
| Alliance of American Insurers (AAI) |
An association of insurance companies that write auto, liability, property,
and worker's compensation coverage insurance. |
| alligator clip |
A long-nosed, spring-loaded metal clip with meshing teeth. Used to make
temporary electrical connections |
| allotropic |
A term that applies to elements that appear in more than one form, though
their atomic composition is the same. For example, the properties of graphite and
diamond are the same as the element carbon (C). Since their physical properties
are entirely different, both are called an allotropic of carbon. |
| alloy |
A metal containing additions of other metallic or nonmetallic elements to
enhance specific properties such as strength and corrosion resistance. |
| alloy powder |
Powder prepared from a homogeneous molten alloy or from the solidification
product of such an alloy. |
| alloy steel |
Steel containing specified quantities of alloying elements added to effect
changes in mechanical or physical properties. |
| alloys |
Light-weight aluminum or magnesium alloy wheels. Also see mags. |
| alnico |
a permanent-magnet alloy of aluminum, nickel, and cobalt. |
| alpha particle |
A particle that is a by-product of radioactive decay. It has a positive
electrical charge that is twice the negative charge of an electron. |
| alpha version |
A very early version of a software product. |
| Alphanumeric |
Describes the combined set of all letters in the alphabet and the numbers 0
through 9 Sometimes additional characters are considered alphanumeric, for
example, on IBM mainframe computers the charaters @, #, and $ are used. |
| alt |
An acronym for alternator. Also, may be used as an acronym for alternate or
altitude. |
| altered |
A drag-racing vehicle with a stock-looking coupe, roadster, or sedan body,
but without normal street equipment. The engine and/or cockpit may be moved to
the rear for better weight distribution. |
| Alternate Mode |
A sisplay mode of operation in which the oscilliscope completes tracing one
channel before beginning to trace another channel |
| alternating current (ac or AC) |
[1] The type of electrical current actually produced in an alternator. [2] A
current flow that begins at "0" volts with the passage of a magnet and flows in
one direction as it's inducted voltage increases to its maximum then decreases to
its minimum then the inducted voltage induced by the opposite end of the magnet
increases from "0" again however the current flows in the opposite
direction. |
| alternative refrigerant |
A refrigerant that can be used to replace an existing refrigerant, such as
ozone friendly HFC-134a that is used to replace ozone depleting CFC-12 |
| alternator |
An electricity-generating device that converts mechanical energy to
electrical energy in the form of alternating current. Diodes rectify the
alternating current into direct current. |
| altitude |
The distance of a point above sea level. Important to automotive emissions
control because the higher the altitude, the fewer oxygen molecules per given
volume of air, which alters the effective compression and air/fuel ratios. |
| altitude compensation system |
An altitude barometric switch and solenoid used to provide better
driveability at more than 4,000 feet (1,219 meters) above sea level. |
| ALU |
Arithmetic Logic Unit, which is the part of the computer containing the
necessary designed circuitry to carry out the computational information
requirements such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and
comparing of poerations of a digital system |
| alum |
1. A crystallized double sulfate of aluminum (Al) and potassium (K). 2. More
commonly, an acronym for aluminum (Al). |
| aluminized coating |
A metal spray process used to coat engine components subject to high
temperatures for long periods of time to increase heat dissipation to the ambient
atmosphere. |
| aluminized valve |
A valve with a thin layer of aluminum sprayed on the valve face and,
sometimes, on the top of the valve head to provide a thin, hard,
corrosion-resistant. |
| aluminum (Al) |
A versatile engineering and construction material that is light in weight,
yet some of its alloys have strengths greater than steel. It has high resistance
to corrosion and is an excellent conductor of heat and electricity. |
| aluminum cylinder block |
An engine block cast of aluminum or aluminum alloy, usually with cast iron
sleeves installed as cylinder bores. |
| aluminum-killed steel |
Steel alloy in which aluminum has been added to "kill" it in the molten stage
and refine its grain structure. A process of stopping molten steel from bubbling
and combining with oxygen after being poured into ingots. Also see
silicone-killed steel. |
| AM |
Amplitude modulation or air management; also Am, Americium An element with
the atomic number of 95 |
| AM1 |
Air management 1 |
| AM2 |
Air management 2 |
| amber |
A type of resin that, when rubbed with a cloth, assumes a strong positive
charge. |
| amber lens |
The color lens used for turn signals and flashers on modern motor
vehicles. |
| Ambient |
All around, surrounding, or encompassing |
| ambient air |
The air that surrounds an object. |
| ambient air temperature |
The temperature of the air that surrounds an object. |
| ambient compressor switch |
An electrical switch that energizes the air conditioner compressor clutch
when the outside ambient air temperature is 47 F (8.3 C) or above. Similarly, the
switch turns off the compressor when the air temperature drops below 32 F (o
C). |
| ambient sensor |
A sensor used on computerized automatic temperature-control systems that
senses the outside air temperature and uses this information as an input to the
system; a thermistor used in automatic temperature-control units to sense ambient
temperature. Also see thermistor. |
| ambient switch |
A switch used to control compressor operation by turning it ON or OFF. The
switch is regulated by ambient temperature. |
| ambient temperature |
The temperature of the air surrounding a vehicle. |
| ambient temperature sensor |
A sensor that measures the outside air temperature as it enters the
evaporator. |
| AMC |
[1] American Motors Corporation [2] Utah's Air Monitoring Center |
| American Automobile Association (AAA) |
A motor club providing travel information, emergency road service, and other
services to its members. |
| American Automobile Manufacturers Association (AAMA) |
A trade association of Chrysler, Ford, and General Motors that sponsors
research, disseminates information, and lobbies on behalf of the American
automotive industry in the United States. |
| American City Racing League |
A racing series sanctioned by the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) for
three-car teams representing specific cities and running 2000 spec cars with 2.0
liter Ford engines. |
| American Hot Rod Association (AHRA) |
A drag-racing sanctioning body that is no longer in existence. |
| American International Automobile Dealers Association (AIADA) |
An association of auto dealers and their employees who sell and service
automobiles manufactured in the United States and abroad. |
| American National Standards Institute (ANSI) |
A privately funded organization that promotes uniform standards in such areas
as measurements. |
| American Petroleum Institute (API) |
A petroleum-industry lobbying and public information group. |
| American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) |
An association to which mechanical engineers can belong. Through ASME,
members can keep current on new technologies and procedures in the engineering
field. |
| American Society of Test Engineers (ASTE) |
An association to foster improved communications among those involved in the
testing industry. |
| American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) |
A professional organization to develop and promote standards for products,
materials, systems, and services. |
| American Trucking Association (ATA) |
A national federation of commercial trucking associations. |
| American wire gauge (AWG) |
A standard for the measurement of the size of wire. The higher the gauge
number, the smaller the wire. |
| AMM |
Air Mass Meter |
| ammeter |
An instrument used to determine the amount of amperage (current draw) in a
circuit [1] by connecting the ammeter in series with the circuit and measuring
the total number of electrons flowing in the circuit or [2] by using an inductive
probe that measures the strength of the magnetic field that is created by the
current flowing through the wire. |
| ammeter shunt |
A low-resistance conductor used to increase the range of an ammeter. It is
shunted (placed in parallel) across the ammeter movement and carries the majority
of the current. |
| amp |
An acronym for ampere. |
| amp/hour |
Amperes per hour; a standard measure for a rate of current flow. |
| ampacity |
The current-carrying capacity of conductors or equipment, expressed in
amperes. |
| amperage |
the amount of current, expressed in amperes. |
| amperage capacity |
An indication of the length of time a battery can produce an amperage, or the
amount of amperage that a battery can produce before being discharged. |
| Ampere |
Andre Marie Ampere (1775-1836) a teacher at paris, has his permanent place in
the history of science as it was his name that was chosen for the unit by which
we measure electrical current |
| ampere (A) |
[1] A unit of measure for current. [2] 1 Coulonb of electrons or 6.28x10
/18th electrons passing a single point in one second [3] Names for Andre Ampere
(1775 - 1836 ) |
| ampere - turns |
A measure of the magnetic field produced by a coil of wire with current
flowing through it. Equal to amperes of current flow multiplied by the number of
turns of wire on the coil. |
| Ampere Turns |
The unit of measurement for electrical magnetic field strength |
| Amplification |
An increase in signal amplitude during its transmission from one point to
another |
| amplifier |
A device consisting of one or more vacuum tubs, transistors, or magnetic
devices and associated components to increase the strength of the applied
signal. |
| Amplitude |
[1] The difference between the highest and lowest voltage displayed [2] The
magnitude of an electrical signal above or below some reference, usually measured
in voltage above or below "0" |
| amplitude modulation (AM) |
A technique for impressing information upon a carrier by varying the
amplitude of the carrier. |
| AMV |
Air management valve |
| anaerobic sealants |
A chemical sealant placed on a gasket in an engine to aid in sealing and to
position the gasket during installation. |
| anaerobic sealer |
Liquid or gel that bonds two parts together in the absence of air. |
| Analog |
[1] Continously Variable [2] A signal that varies in amplitued continuously
and without interruption. |
| analog computer |
A computer that measures continuously changing conditions, such as
temperature and pressure, and converts them into quantities. |
| analog instrument |
An instrument having a needle on a dial used for taking measurements, such as
temperature and engine RPM. |
| analog signal |
An electrical signal that varies in amplitude within a given parameter |
| analog-to-digital converter |
Electrical device used to convert continuous analog signals to a digital code
that represents the amplitude of the original signal sample. |
| anaroid tube |
A thermo-mechanical device in a fuel-injection system that regulates the
amount of fuel being injected according to differences in temperature and
pressure in the intake manifold. |
| anchor |
1. A Slang expression for brakes. 2. A mounting point on a vehicle structure
for a stressed, non-structural component, such as a seat belt or a seat. |
| anchor end |
That end of a brake shoe that is attached to a fixed point on the backing
plate. |
| anchor pin |
A steel pin rigidly attached to the backing plate of drum brakes. Return
springs are attached to the anchor pin and to the brake shoes to hold the shoes
against the anchor pin in a non-applied position. In an applied position, it
prevents the shoes from rotating with the drums. |
| anchors |
Performance term for brakes. |
| AND gate |
A digital logic gate that must have all of its inputs high to produce an
output |
| aneroid bellows |
An accordion-shaped temperature sensor charged with a small amount of
volatile liquid. Temperature change causes the bellows to contract or expand,
which, in turn, opens or closes a switch, such as a thermostat. |
| angle block |
A cylinder block that does not have a deck at 90 degrees to the
cylinder. |
| angle mill |
A machining operation to mill the deck surface at a shallow angle on the
exhaust side of the engine block in order to increase the compression ratio by
decreasing the combustion chamber volume. |
| angle plug head |
A cylinder head having spark plugs that are angled toward the exhaust
valves. |
| angstrom (A0) |
The unit used to depict the wavelength of light or other electromagnetic
radiation. Two hundred and fifty million angstroms equal one inch. |
| Anion |
A negative ion. Alkali, molten carbonate and solid oxide fuel cells are
"anion-mobile" cells . |
| anneal |
1. A heating and cooling of steel in the solid state, usually requiring
gradual cooling. 2. To heat aluminum to 640 degrees F (338 degrees C) and then
cool it to 450 degrees F (232 degrees C) to soften it to make it ductile. |
| annealing |
A heat-treatment process to reduce hardness or brittleness, relieve stresses,
improve machinability, facilitate cold working, or produce a desired
microstructure or property. |
| annulus |
Any type of ring gear, including the ring part of the ring and pinion in the
rear end, and the gears in the planetary gear set of an automatic
transmission. |
| anode |
[1] The positively charged electrode in an electrolytic cell toward which
current flows.[2] In a fuel cell it is where the fuel reacts or "Oxidizes", and
releases electrons. |
| anodize |
A protective oxide coating to a metal surface using the metal as the anode in
an electrical cell and allowing an electrolyte to act upon it. |
| ANSI |
An acronym for the American National Standards Institute. |
| ant |
An acronym for antenna. |
| antenna |
A wire or other conductive metallic structure used for radiating or receiving
electromagnetic signals, such as those for radio, television, or radar. |
| antenna trimmer |
A method used to calibrate the antenna for an AM radio |
| anti-backfire valve |
A valve that is used in the air-injection system to prevent backfiring in the
exhaust system during deceleration. |
| anti-drive |
A suspension geometry that resists a vehicle's tendency to drop or dive on
the front springs when braking. |
| anti-foam agent |
An additive that reduces foaming caused by the churning action of the
crankshaft in the engine oil. |
| anti-fouler |
A device installed on a spark plug in an oil-burning engine to reduce the
fouling of the plug. |
| anti-icers |
Chemicals added to gasoline to prevent it from freezing. Typically an alcohol
such as ethanol, methanol, or isopropyl alcohol. |
| anti-knock additive |
A compound that may be added to gasoline to increase its octane, thereby
decreasing its knock. |
| anti-knock index |
The average of the motor octane number (MON) and the research octane number
(RON); a measure of fuel's anti-knock characteristics. |
| anti-lock brake |
A type of braking system that senses the speed of each wheel and, in
conjunction with a computer, controls the hydraulic braking pressure, thereby
eliminating wheel lockup. |
| anti-lock brake control module |
The computer used to control an anti-lock braking system. |
| anti-oxidant |
A substance that prevents or slow down oxidation of plastic material that is
exposed to air and the elements. |
| anti-percolation valve |
A device used to prevent fuel from evaporating from the fuel bowl of a
carburetor while the engine is running. It is connected to the throttle linkage,
so it is closed when the throttle is open, and open when the throttle is closed.
With the engine off, hot fuel vapors boil out through the vent line and into the
charcoal canister. |
| anti-rattle hardware |
Clips, springs, and washers to prevent disc pads or brake shoes from rattling
and vibrating. |
| Anti-rool bar |
English term for Sway bar |
| anti-rust additive |
A solution that is added to coolant to retard rust formation inside a cooling
system. |
| anti-seize compound |
A thread compound designed to protect threaded connections from damage due to
rust or corrosion. |
| anti-siphon system |
A small passage in a carburetor to prevent fuel from siphoning from the float
bowl into the engine. |
| anti-skid control |
Accessory for the brake system that operates on rear wheels, or all four
wheels, to prevent wheel lockup during braking. Braking pressure is reduced to
wheel(s) that are about to lock up and skid, by electronic controls. |
| anti-smog device |
A part or parts designed to reduce or eliminate vehicle exhaust
emissions. |
| anti-squat |
Suspension geometry that will resist a vehicle's tendency to drop or squat on
the rear springs when accelerating. |
| anti-static agents |
Treatment used during, and/or after the molding process to minimize static
electricity in plastic materials. |
| anti-sway bar |
A suspension component, often called a sway bar, intended to prevent
side-to-side body movement in relation to the axles and wheels. |
| anti-theft system |
Deterrent systems designed to scare off would-be car thieves by sounding
alarms and/or disabling the ignition system. Common components used in an
automobile anti-theft system include an electronic control module, door switches
at all doors, trunk key cylinder switch, hood switch, starter inhibitor relay,
horn relay and alarm. |
| antifreeze |
A chemical solution added to thee coolant (water) to prevent freezing;
usually ethylene glycol and anticorrosion chemicals. Ethylene glycol resists
evaporation, but the anticorrosion elements in the antifreeze may be used up in
one year, depending on the amount and type of driving.. |
| antifriction bearing |
The term applies to almost any ball-roller or taper-roller bearing. |
| antilock brake system |
1. A service brake system that modulates hydraulic pressure to one or more
wheels as needed to keep those wheels from locking during braking. An antilock
brake system can improve vehicle control during hard braking and eliminate or
reduce the tendency for the vehicle to skid. 2. A term often used for anti-lock
brake. |
| antimony |
a metal added to non-maintenance-free of hybrid battery grids to add
strength. |
| antique |
Any automobile built before 1930. |
| Antique Auto Racing Association (AARA) |
An association of persons interested in the history of auto-racing;
preserving, restoring, and driving antique race cars. |
| Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) |
An association of collectors, hobbyists, and others interested in the
preservation, maintenance, and restoration of antique automobiles. |
| Antitheft device |
A device or system that prevents illegal entry or driving of a vehicle |
| antivirus program |
A software utility that searches disk drives for viruses and removes any that
are found. |
| AO |
An acronym for Approval Order |
| AOC |
An acronym for abnormal operating conditions. |
| AOD |
Automatic over drive |
| AP |
Atmospheric pressure or air pump |
| AP-ACV |
Air pump-air control valve |
| AP-AMV |
Air pump-air management valve |
| AP-ASS |
Air pump-air switching solenoid |
| AP-ASV |
Air pump-air switching valve |
| AP-BPV |
Air pump-by pass valve |
| AP-DCTO |
Air pump-dual coolant temperature override |
| AP-DV |
Air pump-diverter valve |
| AP-EADV |
Air pump-electric air control divert valve |
| AP-EAP |
Air pump-electric air pump |
| AP-RV |
Air pump-relief valve |
| AP-SV |
Air pump-solenoid valve |
| AP-TV |
Air pump-transmitting valve |
| AP-VCV |
Air pump-vacuum control valve |
| AP-VSV |
Air pump-vacuum switching valve |
| APAA |
An acronym for the Automotive Parts an Accessories Association, Inc. |
| apex |
The innermost point of a turn or corner on a roadway or race course. |
| apex seal |
A seal used to retain the combustion pressure at all three tips of the rotor
in a rotary engine. |
| apexes |
The peaks on the rotor, formed by the meeting of two adjoining rotor faces in
a rotary engine. |
| API |
An acronym for American Petroleum Institute. |
| API degrees |
Another term used for API gravity. |
| API gravity |
The scale for the density (gravity) of a liquid petroleum product, expressed
in API degrees. The lighter the product the higher the number. |
| API ring |
The information printed, in a ring, on the top or side of an oil or lubricant
mainarea providing the API specifications and ratings of the contents. |
| appearance money |
The payment of money to a popular driver to encourage competition in a race,
so his or her participation can be advertised in advance, thereby trying to
attract a larger paying crowd. |
| application cable |
The line or cable that engages the vehicle's emergency brake system. |
| Applied Voltage |
The voltage applied to the circuit by the scorce |
| apply devices |
Hydraulically operated bands, multi-disc clutches, and mechanically operated
one-way clutches that drive or hold the members of a planetary gearset. |
| apply side |
The side of a piston on which force or pressure is exerted to move the piston
to do work. |
| appraiser |
An insurance company's representative who estimates a vehicle's damage and
authorizes payment to the collision repair/refinishing shop. Also see
estimator. |
| approach angle |
The maximum angle, in degrees, of a line running upward and forward from the
front tire contract point to the lowest obstruction under the front of the
vehicle. Also see departure angle. |
| APRA |
Acronym for Automotive Parts Rebuilders Association. |
| apron |
The inner edge of a race track. |
| AQRV |
A acronym for Air Quality Related Values |
| aquaplaning |
A tire unable to remain in contact with the ground or pavement in wet weather
that rides on the water itself. Also known as hydroplaning or, more simply,
planing. |
| Ar |
Argon An element with the atomic number of 18 |
| ARA |
An acronym for 1. Automotive Recyclers Association. 2. Automotive Retailers
Association. |
| aramid fibers |
A family of synthetic materials that are stronger than steel but weigh little
more than half what an equal volume of fiberglass weighs. |
| arbor |
A tapered metal shaft used to secure a cutting tool or a part being turned on
a lathe. |
| arbor press |
A manual- or power-operated press used to force arbors or mandrels into or
out of holes and for similar assembly or disassembly operations. |
| ARC |
[1] Automatic ride control [2] To run flat out on an oval track [2] The
discharge of electrical current across a gap between two electrodes. |
| arc blow |
In welding, the deflection of an arc from its normal path because of magnetic
forces. |
| arc braze welding |
A braze welding process that uses an arc to provide the heat. |
| arc cutter |
A term often used for thermal cutter. |
| arc cutting |
The thermal cutting process that severs or removes metal by melting it with
the heat of an arc between an electrode and the work piece. |
| arc force |
The axial force developed by an arc plasma during a welding procedure. |
| arc gouging |
A thermal gouging that uses an arc-cutting process to form a bevel or
groove. |
| arc length |
The distance from the tip of the welding electrode to the adjacent surface of
the weld pool. |
| arc spraying |
A thermal spraying process using an arc between two consumable electrodes of
surfacing materials as a heat source, and a compressed gas to atomize and propel
the surfacing material to the substrate. |
| arc welding |
A weld process that produces fusion of work pieces by heating them with an
arc with or without the application of pressure and with or without filler
metal. |
| architecture |
The physical structure of a computer's internal operations, including its
registers, memory, instruction set, input/output structure, and so on. |
| arcing |
1. The process of grinding or forming drum brake linings to conform to the
drum diameter and provide clearance where needed. 2.A term that applies to the
spark that occurs in an electrical circuit in an air gap, such as a spark
plug. |
| arcing time |
The time elapsing from the severance of the circuit to the final interruption
of current flow. |
| arid |
Dry |
| arithmetic-logic unit |
A basic element of the central processing unit (CPU) in a computer. That
portion of the CPU where arithmetic and logical operations are performed. |
| arm |
1. To turn on a theft-deterrent system. 2. Crankshaft throw. Also see long
arm and short arm. |
| armature |
1. A part moved by magnetism. 2. A part moved through a magnetic field to
produce current. 3. The rotating unit inside a dc generator or starter. |
| Armco |
The trade name of a particular type of guard rail or barrier used on public
roadways and race courses. |
| arming |
In an automobile anti-theft system, arming means placing the alarm system in
readiness, enabling it to detect an illegal entry. Arming is accomplished when
the ignition switch is turned off and the doors are locked. |
| Arming Sensor |
A device that places an alarm system into the "Redy Mode" to detect an
illegal entry |
| armored ring groove |
A metal ring groove cast into a piston during manufacturing to increase
resistance to wear. |
| arnoid gauge |
An instrument used to align the center of a crankshaft journal with the
centers of a crankshaft grinder. |
| arnoid hydrocarbons |
Compounds having carbons linked in a closed ring by alternating single and
double bonds. |
| aromatic |
A type of solvent based on benzene ring molecules. Aromatics are often used
as diluents in acrylic lacquers. In gasoline aromatics are commonly used for the
BTX group (benzene, toluene, xylene) and are hydrocarbons. |
| arsenic |
One of the chemical elements. Atomic number 33. Atomic weight 74.9216. Symbol
As. |
| articulated vehicle |
Large trucks or buses with two or more wheeled units, so designed for ease of
cornering. |
| articulating upper coupler |
A bolster plate kingpin arrangement that is not rigidly attached to the
trailer but provides articulation and/or oscillation about an axis parallel to
the rear axle of the trailer. |
| articulation |
1. The action of a chain joint in flexing from the straight to an angle and
back to the straight as the joint passes around a sprocket or other path. 2.
Vertical movement of the front driving or rear axle, relative to the frame of the
vehicle to which they are attached. |
| Artificial intelligence |
The ability of a computer to respond systematically to information fed to it
by reacting in a human manner to such things as reasoning and the ability to
learn |
| ARV |
Air relief valve |
| As |
Arsenic An element with the atomic number of 33 |
| ASA |
An acronym for the Automotive Service Association. |
| asbestos |
A fiber mineral that is heat resistant and nonburning. Once used in brake
linings, gaskets, and clutch facings, it is no longer used due to health
hazards. |
| Asbestos Information Association (AIA) |
An association to provide industry-wide information on asbestos and health,
and on industry efforts to eliminate existing hazards. |
| asbestosis |
A progressive and disabling lung disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibers
over a long period of time. |
| ASC |
Air suction control |
| ASCII |
Abbreviation for American Standard Code for Information Interchange. It is a
7-Bit code that is widely used to represent informational data for processing and
communications |
| ASCS |
Air suction control solenoid |
| ASD |
Auto Sutdown a Chrysler relay or a Euporean acronym for an Automatic Locking
Differential |
| ASDM |
Air-bag system diagnostic module |
| ASDR |
Auto shut down relay |
| ASE |
An acronym and registered trademark of the National Institute for Automotive
Service Excellence. |
| ASIA |
An acronym for the Automotive Service Industry Association. |
| ASM Testing |
Acceleration Simulation Mode testing of a vehicles emissions. This test
procedure measures HC and NOx emissions in parts per million, and carbon monoxide
and carbon dioxide in percentages on a dyno. |
| ASME |
An acronym for the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. |
| ASOV |
Air shut off valve |
| aspect ratio |
Also known as tire profile. A measurement of the cross-sectional height to
the cross-sectional width of a tire expressed as a percentage. |
| asphalt eater |
A top-performing drag car. |
| aspirator |
A device that uses suction to move air, accomplished by a differential in air
pressure; a one-way valve attached to the exhaust system of an engine that admits
air during periods of vacuum between exhaust pressure pulses. Used to help
oxidize hydrocarbon (HC) and carbon monoxide (CO), and to supply additional air
that the catalytic converter may require. Can be used instead of a belt-driven,
air-injection pump in some applications. |
| aspirator valve |
A device used to draw out fluids by suction. In this case, a pollution device
is used to draw fresh air by suction into the exhaust flow to reduce
emissions. |
| ASR |
Auto shutdown relay |
| ASRV |
Air switching relief valve |
| ASS |
Air switching solenoid |
| assembly |
Any unit made up of two or more parts. |
| assembly line communications link |
An electrical connector used to check a vehicle's operating system while it
is still on the assembly line. |
| assembly line data link |
The information processed for use in assembly-line diagnostics. |
| assembly lube |
A special lubricant used to coat parts that rub or rotate against each other
during initial assembly. |
| Association of International Automobile Manufactures (AIAM) |
A trade association of United States subsidiaries of international automobile
companies. |
| assy |
An acronym for assembly. |
| ASTE |
Acronym for American Society of Test Engineers. |
| ASTM |
Acronym for American Society of Testing and Materials. |
| ASV |
Air suction valve or air switching valve |
| asymmetrical cam |
A camshaft having different profiles for the intake and exhaust lobes. |
| asymmetrical rear-leafing spring |
A spring on which the rear axle is not located in its center. |
| asynchronous |
[1] Not having a constant period or not synchronous. [2] A means of operating
electronic circuits without a common timing signal to synchronize events; rather,
the events occur at random times. |
| Asynchronous Fuel Timing |
Fuel injector firing which is not in direct relationship tto the ignition
reference pulses |
| At |
[1] Astatine An element with the atomic number of 85 [2] An acronym for
automatic transmission. |
| ATA |
An acronym for the American Trucking Association. |
| Atari dashboard |
A digital instrument panel; so called due to its resemblance to an Atari
video game. |
| ATC |
1. A trade name by Honda for a three-wheeled all-terrain cycle. 2. An acronym
for automatic temperature control. 3. after top center |
| ATC servo programmer |
A mechanically operated switch to control blower speed whenever the blower
switch is in the AUTO position on some car lines. |
| ATCV |
Air temperature control valve |
| ATDC |
An acronym for after top dead center. |
| ATF |
An acronym for automatic transmission fluid. |
| ATM |
Actuator test mode |
| atmo |
1. A racing engine running on atmospheric pressure. 2. An acronym for
atmosphere. |
| atmosphere |
The mass of air that surrounds Earth. |
| atmospheric ozone |
As ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun reach Earth, they are combined with
smog and other pollutants to produce atmospheric ozone. Atmospheric ozone, unlike
stratospheric ozone, is considered harmful. Whenever possible it is to be
avoided. |
| atmospheric pollution |
Impurities and contaminants in thee atmospheric environment, many of which
are caused by humans. |
| atmospheric pressure |
The pressure of the atmosphere at any given location. At sea level, it is
14.696 psia (101.33 kPa absolute). |
| atmospheric pressure sensor |
A device designed to send an electrical signal to the central processing unit
relative to the atmospheric pressure at any given time. |
| atmospheric suspended |
A term that describes a power brake vacuum booster in which atmospheric
pressure is present on both sides of the diaphragm when the brakes are released.
A obsolete type of vacuum booster. |
| atom |
[1] A basic unit of matter consisting of protons, neutrons, and electrons
arranged in such a way that retains its separate unique characteristics. [2] The
smallest of the building blocks of the universe. [3] The smallest division of an
element still retaining all of the original properties of the element. |
| atomization |
The breaking down of a liquid into small particles, like a mist, by the use
of pressure. |
| atomized |
A liquid is atomized when it is broken into tiny droplets of the liquid, much
like a mist or spray form. |
| ATRA |
An acronym for Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association. |
| ATS |
Air temperature sensor or altitude trim solenoid |
| ATS-AS |
Altitude trim solenoid/air sensor |
| attenuation |
The decrease in the strength of a signal as it passes through a control
system. |
| attenuator |
A circuit, component or device that reduces the signal strength without
distorting the signal or reducing its fidelity |
| atto |
The prefix representing the number 0.000,000,000,000,000,001 |
| attrition |
The wearing down by rubbing or friction; abrasion. |
| ATV |
An acronym for all-terrain vehicle. |
| Au |
Gold An element with the atomic number of 79 |
| authorization |
The process of granting or denying access to a network or resource. |
| auto |
Shortened form for automatic or automobile. |
| auto control |
Another term used for automatic control. |
| auto ignition |
Short for automatic ignition. |
| autocross |
A form of automotive competition that is held on a tight, closed course.
Vehicle handling and agility is stressed, rather than flat out speed. |
| automatic |
Having the power of self-motion self-moving or self-acting. |
| automatic adjuster |
A drum-brake mechanism that adjusts the lining clearance as wear occurs. It
is commonly actuated on reverse stops or when the parking brake is set. |
| automatic chassis lubrication (ACL) |
A system where the chassis is automatically lubricated at predetermined
intervals. |
| automatic choke |
A mechanism that positions the choke valve automatically in accordance with
engine temperature. |
| automatic control |
1. A dial on the instrument panel that is set at a desired temperature level
to control the condition of the air automatically. 2. Any system that reacts to a
predetermined condition rather than responding to external commands. 3. Also
known as auto control. |
| automatic door locks |
A passive system used to lock all doors when the required conditions are met.
Many systems lock the doors when the gear selector is placed in drive, the
ignition switch is in RUN, and all doors are properly shut. |
| automatic headlight dimming |
Automatically switches the headlights from high beams to low beams under two
different conditions when light from oncoming vehicles strikes the
photocell-amplifier, or light from the taillights of a vehicle being passed
strikes the photocell-amplifier. |
| Automatic Idle Speed Motor |
The output control device used by Chrysler to increase or decrease engine
idle speed |
| automatic ignition |
A condition where the engine continues to run after the ignition has been
shut off. Often called dieseling or running on. Also known as auto ignition. |
| automatic level control |
A shock-absorber system operated by air pressure and provided as an accessory
on some vehicles to automatically maintain the correct riding height under
various load conditions. |
| automatic on/off with time delay |
1. To turn on the headlights automatically when ambient light decreases to a
predetermined level. 2. To allow the headlights to remain on for a certain amount
of time after the vehicle has been turned off. |
| Automatic Probe Calibration |
A procedure to allow a device to adjust internally to compensate for
resistance variations between probes |
| Automatic Shut-Down Relay |
The relay used by Chrysler to feed ignition voltage to the fuel pump,
ignition system and the injectors |
| automatic steering effect |
The tendency of a vehicle to travel straight out of a turn when the steering
wheel is released. |
| automatic temperature control (ATC) |
An air-conditioner control system designed to maintain a pre-selected, in-car
temperature and humidy level automatically. |
| automatic tensioning |
The constant tension of a device, maintained at a proper value by some
automatic means; to minimize the attention required. |
| Automatic Traction Control |
A system that automaticlly prevents slippage of one of the drive wheels |
| automatic transmission (AT, A/T) |
A transmission in which gear ratios are changed automatically. |
| automatic transmission cooler |
A device, often found in the radiator, through which automatic transmission
fluid circulates to be cooled by surrounding air or engine coolant. |
| automatic transmission fluid (AFT) |
A red, petroleum-based fluid used to transfer power and control, lubricate,
cool, and clean the automatic transmission. |
| Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association (ATRA) |
A trade association for transmission repair shops, technicians, and suppliers
of transmission repair equipment, parts, and tools. |
| automation |
1. Semi-automatic or automatic material handlers, loaders, unloaders, and
other labor-saving devices. 2. Automatic cycle control of machines or equipment
by tracer, cam, plugboard, numerical control, or computer. 3. The application of
machinery and equipment to perform and control semi-automatically or
automatically and continuously allo operations in a manufacturing plant. |
| Automobile Competition Committee for the United States (ACCUS) |
With representatives of NASCAR, SCCA, IMSA, and USAC, the American affiliate
of FISA, coordinating major United States racing events with the international
calendar. |
| automobile emissions |
Certain impurities that may enter the atmosphere during vehicle operation,
such as hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO), and oxides of nitrogen
(Nox). |
| Automobile Importers of America (AIA) |
A professional organization of importers of cars and trucks into the United
States. |
| automotive air conditioning |
The process of transferring heat from insider to outside the passenger
compartment. The cooled air is also dehumidified, purified, and circulated. |
| automotive air pollution |
Evaporated and unburned fuel, and other undesirable by-products of combustion
that escape from a motor vehicle into the atmosphere. |
| automotive battery |
An electro-chemical device that stores and provides electrical energy for the
operation of a vehicle. |
| automotive body shop |
A term often used for body shop. |
| Automotive Communications Council (ACC) |
A professional association of advertising, marketing, and communications
executives. |
| automotive cooling system |
The many components that operate to absorb and dissipate heat developed in
the combustion process, thus maintaining the desired engine-operating
temperature. |
| Automotive Cooling System Institute (ACSI) |
A Motor and Equipment Manufacturers Association subgroup made up of
cooling-system product manufacturers. |
| Automotive Electrical Association (AEA) |
A trade association absorbed in 1991 by the Automotive Service Industry
Association (ASIA). |
| Automotive Electronics Services |
AES provides automotive electronics system diagnosis solutions to the
automotive industry at large |
| automotive emissions |
Another term for automotive air pollution. |
| Automotive Engine Rebuilders Association (AERA) |
An association of machine shops and others dedicated to engine
rebuilding. |
| Automotive Exhaust Systems Manufacturers Council (AESMC) |
An association that provides technical information and lobbying efforts on
behalf of the exhaust-system-replacement market. |
| Automotive Friction Material Edge Code (AFMEC) |
A series of codes on the side of a brake lining material, and coefficient of
friction. These codes are for lining identification and comparison; they do not
indicate quality. |
| Automotive Industries Association (AIA) |
A Canadian aftermarket trade group of distributors, supplies, wholesalers,
and retailers. |
| Automotive Parts and Accessories Association, Inc. (APAA) |
A trade association for aftermarket retailers, wholesalers, manufacturers,
and distributors. |
| Automotive Parts Rebuilders Association (APRA) |
A trade association of automotive parts Rebuilders and suppliers of
remanufactured parts. |
| automotive power brakes |
A brake system having a vacuum and atmospheric air-operated power booster or
hydraulic power boost to multiply braking force. |
| Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA) |
International association of automotive recyclers, owners and dealers in used
car and truck parts. |
| Automotive Retailers Association (ARA) |
An association of the automotive retailers, sales and service, including
collision repairs, mechanical repairs, used car sales, auto wrecking, and
towing. |
| Automotive Service Association (ASA) |
A trade organization for body, mechanical, and transmission shop owners. |
| Automotive Service Industry Association (ASIA) |
A trade association for those who manufacture, distribute, and sell parts,
tools, and equipment to the do-it-yourself (DIY) market and professional
aftermarket. |
| Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA) |
An association of major manufacturers and warehouse distributors of
aftermarket parts. |
| Autoset |
A feature that allowes the oscilloscope to sample the incoming electrical
signal and adjust the voltage scale and time base to display a readable
signal |
| Autronic eye |
A trade term for automatic headlight dimmer. |
| aux |
1. An acronym form of auxiliary. 2. An auxiliary item of equipment, such as
aux fuel tank. |
| auxiliary |
A spare; an extra; a back-up system. |
| auxiliary air valve |
A device that allows air to bypass a closed throttle during engine start-up
and warm-up. |
| auxiliary drum parking brake |
The incorporation of an auxiliary parking-brake drum inside a rear rotor on
some four-wheel drive disc-brake system. |
| auxiliary seal |
A secondary seal mounted outside the seal housing 1. To prevent refrigeration
oil from escaping and entering the clutch assembly. 2. To aid in the prevention
of the loss of fluid from a system. |
| auxiliary section |
The section of a transmission housing the auxiliary drive gear, main shaft
assembly, countershaft,, and synchronizer assembly, where range shifting
occurs. |
| auxiliary shaft |
A separate shaft, in an overhead cam engine, that drives devices such as the
fuel pump, oil pump, and distributor. |
<
Auto & Car Glossary