| C
| Carbon An element with the atomic number of 6 |
| C-cam
| The pattern used to grind pistons in an oval or cam shape, with a 0.009 inch (0.23 mm) difference between the thrust face and pinhole side. |
| C-clip
| 1. A term often used to describe an outside snap ring. 2. A C-shaped clip used to retain the drive axles in some rear-axle assemblies. 3. A clip used to secure a pin in linkage, such as for carburet ion. |
| c-pillar
| The structural support just behind the rear door that supports the greenhouse. |
| c-post
| A term often used for c-pillar. |
| C-train
| A combination of two or more trailers in which the dolly is connected to the first trailer by means of two pintle hooks or coupler-drawbar connections, resulting in only one pivot point. |
| C/L
| Closed loop |
| C3
| Computer command control or Cruiseomatic Type-3 |
| C31
| A computer-controlled, coil-ignition system that uses a computer to monitor, maintain, and adjust ignition timing. |
| C3I
| Computer controlled coil ignition |
| C4
| Computer controlled catalytic converter or Cruiseomatic Type-4 |
| C6
| Cruiseomatic Type-6 |
| CA
| Crank angle; also Ca, Calcium An element with the atomic number of 20 |
| CAA
| An acronym for the Federal Clean Air Act (last amended in 1990 |
| CAAA
| An acronym for Clean Air Act Amendments. |
| cab
| 1. The driver/passenger compartment of a truck or off-road vehicle. 2. Short for taxicab. |
| cab behind engine (CBE)
| A type of truck with the cab behind the engine. |
| cab over engine (COE)
| A type of truck with the cab above the engine. |
| cable
| An assembly of two or more wires that may be insulated or bare. |
| cable clamp
| A device used to clamp around a cable to transmit mechanical stain to all elements of the cable. |
| cabling
| The helical wrapping together of two or more insulated wires. |
| cabrioet
| A European term for convertible. |
| CAC
| Charge air cooler |
| CACVM
| Carburetor air cleaner vacuum motor |
| Cad cell
| A device that changes its resistance with a change of light intensity. |
| CAFÉ
| An acronym for Corporate Average Fuel Economy. |
| cage
| 1. The metal structure that separates the balls of a roller bearing assembly. 2. A shortened term for roll cage. |
| caged roller clutch
| A one-way clutch having the rollers and springs contained as a unit. |
| CAL-PAK
| A device used with fuel injection systems to allow fuel delivery in the event of a PROM or PCM malfunction. |
| calcium
| A metallic chemical element added to the grids of a maintenance-free battery to add strength. |
| calibrate
| 1. To check, test, or adjust the initial settings of a unit or system. 2. To compare the reading of some instrument with a fixed standard or another instrument and note or correct any deviation from the correct reading. |
| calibration
| The adjustment of a device or instrument so that output is within a designated tolerance for specific input values. |
| calibrator
| (PROM) An electronic component specifically programmed to met engine operation requirements for each vehicle model. It plugs into the PCM's mother board |
| California Air Resources board (CARB)
| A California agency responsible for regulations intended to reduce air pollution, especially that created by motor vehicles. |
| caliper
| 1. Non-rotational components of disc brakes that straddle the disc and contain hydraulic components forcing the brake pads against the rotor to slow or stop the vehicle. |
| caliper support
| The bracket or anchor that holds the brake caliper. |
| calorie
| A measurement of heat; the amount of heat required to raise 1 gram of water (H2O) 1 degree C. |
| Calpak
| Device on FI Systems to allow fuel delevery in event of PROM or ECM malfunction |
| cam
| 1. The eccentric element of a one-way roller clutch that carries the profiles through which the rollers transmit torque. 2. An acronym for camshaft. |
| cam and kit
| A specially ground camshaft, complete with a set of compatible camshaft valve train components, including lifters and springs. |
| cam angle
| A term often used for dwell angle. |
| cam button
| A device that keeps a camshaft properly positioned in an engine. |
| cam duration
| The amount of time, measured in crankshaft degrees, that a camshaft holds an exhaust or intake valve open. |
| cam follower
| A term often used for valve lifter. |
| cam ground
| Pistons machined to a slightly out-of round shape to permit them to expand with engine heat without getting stuck against the cylinder walls. |
| cam lift
| The distance, in thousandths of an inch, a cam lobe raises the valve lifter off the base circle. |
| cam sensor
| A camshaft-mounted sensor that signals when cylinder number one is at TDC. |
| cam-ground lining
| A brake shoe lining that has been arced or formed so that it is thinner at the ends than at the center, and the lining surface is not a portion of a circle with a constant radius. |
| cam-ground piston
| A piston ground slightly oval or elliptical in shape as a means to compensate for expansion caused by heat. |
| cam-lobe face and nose taper
| The slant, about 0.002 inch (o.051mm), designed across the cam-face contacting surface, from the cam front to rear edge, to promote lifter rotation. |
| cam-shaped pocket
| The recess in an overrunning clutch race, large at one end, tapering to small at the other end. |
| camber
| The inward or outward tilt of the wheel and tire assembly as viewed from the rear of the vehicle. |
| camber angle
| The amount, measured in degrees from the vertical, that the tip of a tire is tilted outward (positive) or inward (negative). |
| camber compensator
| A device that is used to maintain the proper camber of the rear wheels of a vehicle equipped with swing axles. |
| camel hump heads
| High performance heads by Chevrolet, identified by two humps on the outside end of the casting. |
| camelback
| A strip of new rubber used to recap a tire. |
| cammer
| An engine with an overhead camshaft. |
| CAMS
| Computerized automotive maintenance system |
| camshaft
| A shaft having lobes driven by the crankshaft via gears, chains, or belts that, in turn, opens and closes the intake and exhaust valves at proper intervals. |
| camshaft duration
| The amount of time, measured in degrees of crankshaft rotation, an intake or exhaust valve is held open. |
| camshaft lift
| How far a valve is pushed open, as determined by the height of the cam lobe and the geometry of the rocker arms on a push rod engine, or the cam followers on an overhead cam engine. |
| camshaft plug
| A plug found in the rear of the engine block, at the camshaft, to retain and direct oil to the rear camshaft bearings. |
| can
| A term often used for nitro or nitro methane, a highly combustible liquid used as the main ingredient in drag-racing fuel. |
| CAN (OBD-II)
| An acronym for Controller Area Network, The new (High Speed 500 kb/s) scan tool communication protocol for OBD-II Diagnossis beginning in 2004 on domestic vehicles and used for some time on Europen vehicles. Developed by Bosch and Mercedes-Benz. |
| CAN A (OBD-II)
| An acronym for Controller Area Network type A , a slow speed version of CAN operating at or about 100 kb/s. |
| CAN B (OBD-II)
| An acronym for Controler Area Network type B, a Medium speed version of CAN operating at or about 250 kb/s. |
| CAN C (OBD-II)
| An acronym for Controler Area Network type C, a High speed version of CAN operating at or about 500 kb/s. |
| can tap
| A device used to pierce, dispense, and seal small cans, such as refrigerant. |
| can valve
| A term often used for can tap. |
| Can-Am
| An acronym for Canadian American Challenge Cup. |
| Canadian-American Challenge Cup (Can-Am)
| A former annual series of SCCA sanctioned road races, held in the United /states and Canada, for unlimited sports cars with no restriction on engine displacement. |
| candlepower
| The amount of light energy produced by a bulb is measured in candlepower or in lumens. |
| candy-apple red
| A popular trade name for a gold-color-base, clear-coated, metallic-red paint job. |
| canister
| A mainarea filled with charcoal in an evaporative control system used to filter and trap fuel vapors. |
| canister filter
| A canister-like device containing a filter media which removes suspended particles of contaminants from air, fuel or oil. |
| canister purge solenoid
| A solenoid valve that admits fuel vapors to the canister for processing. |
| canted valves
| A cylinder-head layout where the intake valves are at one angle, while the exhaust valves are at another angle. |
| cantilever
| A lever that is anchored and supported at one end by its fulcrum and provides an opposing force at its opposite end. |
| cantilever tire
| A tire with a tread wider than the rim. |
| cap
| 1. A cover or lid for a mainarea. 2. That part of the distributor that directs electrical energy to the spark plugs. 3. A small metal part, usually of hardened steel, that acts as an interference between the valve-stem end and the rocker arm. 4. The half round, removable part of a connecting rod or main bearing. |
| capacitance
| Electrical capacitance is a term used to measure or describe how much charge can be stored in a capacitor for a given voltage potential difference. Normally measured in farads. |
| capacitor
| A device made up of two metallic plates separated by a dielectric or insulating material. Used in a conventional ignition system in the distributor to reduce arcing across the points and in the electrical charging system to reduce radio interference. |
| capacitor discharge ignition (CDI)
| A term used for a capacitor discharge ignition system. |
| capacity
| 1. The ability to perform or to hold. 2. Refrigeration produced; measured in tons or Btu per hour. |
| cape top
| The fixed enclosure over the rear seat. |
| capillary action
| The force by which liquid, in contact with a solid, is distributed between closely fitted surfaces of the joint, while being brazed or soldered. |
| capillary attraction
| Another term for capillary action. |
| capillary tube
| 1. A tube with a calibrated inside diameter and length used to control the flow of refrigerant,. 2. A tube that connects the remote bulb to the thermostatic expansion valve. 3. A tube that connects the remote bulb to the thermostat. |
| CAPP
| An acronym for Clean Air Performance Professionals. |
| captive fasteners
| A preassembled fastener used in conjunction with mating fasteners such as bolts, studs, nuts, or screws. |
| CAR
| A term used for carcinogenic effects. |
| Car Care Council
| A non-profit organization to educate the general public about the importance of preventive maintenance. |
| Car Wash Owners and Suppliers Association, Inc (COSA)
| A trade association of car wash manufacturers, operators, and suppliers. |
| CARB
| California Air Resources Board |
| carbide
| 1. A compound of solid elements, usually metal, with carbon. 2. A mixture of very hard metals, such as tungsten carbide. |
| carbolic acid
| A very toxic acid (C6H5OH); an ingredient used in cold-dip tanks. |
| carbon
| 1. A natural element. 2. A by-product of combustion. 3. Any form of graphite or undefined carbon. |
| carbon arc cutting and welding
| 1. A cutting process that uses a carbon electrode. 2. A welding process that uses an arc between a carbon electrode and the weld pool. |
| carbon canister
| A canister filled with carbon, used to absorb and store fuel vapors that are normally discharged into the air. |
| carbon dioxide (CO2)
| A harmless, odorless gas composed of one atom of carbon and two atoms of oxygen; a product of complete combustion. |
| carbon fiber
| A very strong, lightweight, synthetic fiber often used in race cars, such as formula One and Indy cars, because of its lightweight and high strength. |
| carbon monoxide
| (CO) A harmful pollutants composed of one atom of oxygen and one atom of carbon. A product of incomplete combustion. |
| carbon monoxide (CO)
| An odorless gas composed of carbon (c) and hydrogen (H), formed by the incomplete combustion of any fuel containing carbon. This major air pollutant is potentially lethal if inhaled, even in small amounts. |
| carbon pile
| An electrical test instrument used to provide an electrical load for testing batteries and the charging circuit. |
| carbon resistor
| A circuit component made of carbon, for opposing the flow of electrons through a circuit (May be either fixed or variable). |
| Carbon tetrachloride
| CCL4 used as a cleanning solvent , a refrigerant, and as a fire suppresent band by tital VI of the clean air act of 1990 |
| carbon tracks
| A condition where there is a cargo build up, or track, running from one point to another, acting as an electrical circuit and thereby causing a short circuit. |
| carbon-fouled plug
| A spark plug having a dry, fluffy black deposit; the result of over-rich carburet ion, over choking, a sticking manifold heat valve, or clogged air cleaner. |
| carbonize
| The formation of carbon deposits as a result of by-products of combustion in an engine. |
| carbonyl chlorofluoride (COC1F)
| A toxic by-product of Refrigerant-12, and other CFCs; toxic if allowed to come into contact with an open flame or headed metal. |
| carbonyl fluoride (COF2)
| A toxic by-product of Refrigerant-12, and other CFCs; toxic if allowed to come into contact with an open flame or heated metal. |
| carburet ion
| A vacuum-dependent device used to mix fuel with air to form a vapor that is ideal for combustion. |
| carburetion
| The action that takes place in a carburetor while converting liquid fuel to a vapor and mixing it with air to form a combustible mixture |
| Carburetor
| A pressure differential device mounted on the intake manifold fo an engine that mixes the air and fuel in the proper porportions to allow even combustion |
| carburetor emission device
| An item attached or adjacent to the carburetor that establishes operating conditions intended to reduce exhaust emissions. |
| carburetor icing
| A condition caused by high-velocity fuel flow; ice is formed on the outside of the carburetor. |
| carburetor kickdown
| A moderate pressing of the accelerator pedal to change engagement of the fast-idle screw from high step to low step of the cam. |
| carburetor kit
| A set of gaskets and parts necessary to rebuild a carburetor. |
| carburetor restrictor plate
| A term often used for restrictor plate. |
| carburetor spacer
| A steel, aluminum, or plastic plate used to raise the carburetor above the normal opening of the intake manifold. |
| carburetor tag
| A tag affixed to the carburetor to identify the model for parts and specifications for service. |
| carburetor vacuum
| A ported vacuum, obtained from a carburetor source above the throttle plate, present after the throttle is partially open. |
| carburetor-heated air
| A system in which heated air is directed from the manifold to the carburetor for improved performance with a leaner air/fuel mixture. |
| carburetter
| A British spelling of carburetor. |
| carburettor
| A British spelling of carburetor. |
| carburize
| To treat or combine with carbon. |
| carburizing flame
| A reducing oxyfuel-gas flame in which there is an excess of fuel gas, resulting in a carbon-rich zone extending around and beyond the cone. |
| carcass
| 1. A tire casing to which the rubber tread and sidewall are bonded. 2. The inner part of the tire that holds the air for supporting the vehicle. 3. The empty remains of a stripped vehicle. |
| carcass plies
| That which surrounds both beads and extends around the inner surface of the tire to provide load-carrying capabilities on the rim. |
| carcinogen
| A substance or agent that produces or incites cancer. |
| carcinogenic
| A term often used for carcinogen. |
| carcinogenic effects
| Causing cancer or increasing the incidence of cancer in the population. |
| Cardan joint
| A universal joint having two yokes at right angles to each other, with a cruciform-shaped joint in the middle. |
| Cardan universal joint
| A term used for Cardan joint. |
| cargo weight rating (CWR)
| A truck's carrying capacity, in pounds. |
| Carnot Limit
| A theoretical limit on the efficiency of an engine based on the flow of heat between two reservoirs. |
| Carolina stocker
| A car built for drag racing, without regard for any recognized rules. |
| Carrera Panamericana
| 1. The legendary Mexican road races held in the early 1950s that ran the full length of Mexico. 2. Vintage car races held on the public highways of northern Baja, California. |
| carrier
| A part that holds, positions, moves, or transports anther part or parts. |
| carrier bearing
| A bearing that supports the ring-gear carrier in the differential. |
| carrier housing
| Cast-iron rear axle assemble section that contains the working parts of the differential. |
| Carriers
| Attached to the sholder anchor to move ro carry the anchor from one end of the track to the other |
| carry the wheels
| To do a wheel stand; a drag-racing term. |
| Carryall
| A trade name once used for a large station wagon built on a truck chassis; predecessor of the Suburban. |
| Carson top
| A removable, non-folding, padded soft top, used on many customized convertibles and roadsters. |
| CART
| An acronym for Championship Auto Racing Teams. |
| cartridge filter
| A filter media that includes yarns, felts, papers, resin-bonded fibers, woven-wire cloths, and sintered metallic and ceramic structures for cleaning impurities from air or liquid. Performance obtained by a disposable cartridge filter may range from 500 um to 1um or less. |
| cartridge roll
| A rolled piece of sandpaper used to deburr or blend sharp edges, such as when porting and polishing a head. |
| CAS
| Clean air system |
| CAS Registration Number
| The Chemical Abstract Service Number used to identify a chemical. |
| cascade
| Two devices in tandem; the output of one device connected to the input of the other. |
| case harden
| A heat-treating process that hardens the outer surface of metal, while leaving the core soft and ductile. |
| casing
| 1. The outer part of a tire assembly made of fabric or cord to which the rubber is vulcanized. 2. The other housing or shell containing as assembly. |
| cast iron
| A term used for a family of cast ferrous alloys containing at least 2% carbon, plus silicon and sulfur; may or may not contain other alloy elements. |
| cast-iron guide
| A valve guide made of cast iron. |
| castellate
| Formed to resemble a castle battlement. |
| castellated nut
| A nut with six raised portions or notches through which a cotter pin can be inserted to secure the nut. |
| caster
| 1. The angle between the steering-spindle axis and the wheel vertical as viewed from the side. 2. The backward or forward angle of the steering axis viewed from the side of the car. |
| caster angle
| The amount, measured in degrees from the vertical, that the upper ball joint is located behind or ahead of the lower ball joints. |
| casting
| A metal object formed to the required shape by pouring or injecting liquid metal into a mold. |
| casting flash
| A thin metal exuding at the parting edges of a casting mold, evident when the part is removed from the mold. |
| casting number
| A part number that has been cast into a part during manufacture. |
| castor oil
| A lubricant made from the castor bean. |
| cat
| An acronym for catalytic converter. |
| catalog
| An illustrated or ordered list of items and descriptions with sufficient data to identify the item. |
| catalysis
| The action of a catalyst. |
| catalyst
| A lead-sensitive substance, such as platinum, palladium, or rhodium, that accelerates or enhances a chemical reaction without being changed itself. When used in a catalytic converter, it can reduce the level of harmful pollutants in the exhaust. |
| Catalyst Poisoning
| The process of specific impurities binding to a catalyst. |
| Catalytic
| An action involving a catalyst |
| catalytic converter
| An automotive exhaust-system component, made of stainless steel, containing a catalyst to reduce oxides of nitrogen (Nox), and/or hydrocarbon (HC), and carbon monoxide (CO), in tailpipe emissions. |
| catch can
| A mainarea on a race car's radiator or fuel tank to prevent liquid from spilling on the ground during a pit stop. |
| catch tank
| A term often used for catch can. |
| catenary effect
| The curve that a length of chain assumes between its suspension points. |
| cathode
| [1] The negatively charged cell from which current flows in an electrolytic cell. [2] The negative electrode of a semiconductor diode [3] The portion of a fuel cell where Oxygen "reduction" occurs. |
| cathode ray tube (CRT)
| A vacuum tube used in electronic equipment and some electronic readouts to display information. |
| Cation
| A positive ion. Phosphoric acid and PEM fuel cells are "cation-mobile" cells. |
| caulking compound
| A thick, viscous material used as a sealer at joints, such as around the windshield. |
| caustic
| 1. A salt-based chemical for cleaning engine parts. 2. A cleaner that may be used for most metals, except aluminum. |
| caution flag
| A yellow flag displayed to race-car drivers to indicate a slow down. Also used to indicate no passing, due to a problem or mishap on the race track. |
| CAV
| Coasting air valve |
| cavitation
| The presence of air in a liquid during pumping, which can inhibit the flow of the liquid. |
| CB
| Circuit breaker, choke breaker, citizens band |
| CBC
| Converter brake clutch |
| CBD
| Closed bowl distributor |
| CBE
| An acronym for cab behind engine. |
| CBPS
| Coating by-pass system |
| CBT
| an acronym for Computer Based Training; a type of education in which the student learns by executing special training programs on a computer. |
| CBU
| An acronym for completely built up. |
| CBVV
| Carburetor bowl vent valve |
| cc
| 1. An acronym for cubic centimeter. 2. The measure of the volume of a combustion chamber. 3. An acronym for close cup, a method of determining the flash point of a flammable liquid. |
| CC-grade oil
| An American Petroleum Institute (API) specification standard for diesel motor oil. |
| cc-ing
| To measure or calculate the volume of a combustion chamber in cubic centimeters. |
| CC/FVS
| Charcoal canister/fuel vapor solenoid |
| CCA
| Cold cranking amperage |
| CCC
| An acronym for computer-command control. |
| CCCA
| An acronym for the Classic Car Club of America. |
| CCCS
| Computer command control system |
| CCD
| Computer controlled dwell |
| CCEC
| An acronym for constant current electronic control. |
| CCEGR
| Coolant controlled exhaust gas recirculation |
| CCEVS
| Coolant controlled engine vacuum switch |
| CCFOT
| An acronym for cycling clutch fixed orifice tube. |
| CCIE
| Coolant controlled idle enrichment |
| CCIEV
| Coolant controlled idle enrichment valve |
| CCIS
| Computer controlled ignition system |
| CCM
| Central control module |
| CCO
| Converter clutch override |
| CCOT
| An acronym for cycling clutch orifice tube. |
| CCP
| Control canister purge or climate control panel |
| CCPS
| Clutch cycling pressure switch |
| CCRM
| Constant control relay module |
| CCS
| Coast clutch solenoid |
| CCV
| Crankcase control valve or canister control valve |
| ccw
| An acronym for counterclockwise. |
| ccycling clutch
| An air-conditioning, electro-magnetic clutch that is turned on and off to control cabin temperature. |
| CD
| [1] Capacitive discharge or compact disk [2] Also Cd, Cadmium An element with the atomic number of 48 |
| CD-grade oil
| An API performance-specification standard for diesel motor oil. |
| CD-ROM
| An acronym for Compact Disc Read Only Memory; A type of optical disk capable of storing large amounts of data up to about 1 GB. |
| CDI
| Capacitor discharge ignition |
| CDI-I
| capacitor discharge ignition-induction |
| CDI-k
| capacitor discharge ignition-contact |
| CDR
| Crankcase depression regulator |
| CDRV
| Crankcase depression relief valve |
| CDS
| Coolant dual switch |
| CDV
| Choke delay valve |
| CE
| [1] Check engine [2]Ce, Cerium An element with the atomic number of 58 |
| CEAB
| Cold engine air bleed |
| CEAB-TVS
| Cold engine air bleed-thermal vacuum switch |
| CEAB-TVV
| Cold engine air bleed-thermal vacuum valve |
| CEC
| [1] Computerized emission control [2] An acronym for combustion emission control |
| CEL
| Check engine light |
| cell
| 1. A group of negative and positive plates to form a cell capable of storing or producing 2.1 V. in a lead acid battery. 2. A flashlight "battery", a dry cell; in a storage battery, one of the sets of positive and negative plates that, with electrolyte, generate a potential electrical difference. |
| cellular core
| A type of radiator core. |
| cellulose fiber
| Transparent material made of camphor and guncotton, formed into thread-like filaments. |
| Celsius
| The metric scale for temperature where water (H2O) freezes at 0 degree C and boils at 100 degrees C. |
| cementation
| A process for introducing elements onto the surfaces of metals by high-temperature diffusion. |
| cemf
| An acronym for counter electromotive force. |
| center bolt
| A term that generally refers to a leaf-spring center bolt. |
| center electrode
| The insulated part of a spark plug that conducts electricity toward the electrode gap to ground. |
| center link
| A steering linkage part that is connected to the tie rod ends and the Pitman arm to transfer the rotating motion of the steering box to the linear motion necessary to move the wheels from side to side. |
| center of gravity (CG)
| The exact point around which an object, such as a vehicle, is perfectly balanced in every direction. |
| center of wheelbase
| The exact point midway between the front and rear wheels of a vehicle. |
| center to center
| The distance between two centers, usually cylinder bores. |
| center-mount components
| The modular installation of a system, such as heating or air conditioning, whereby the evaporator is mounted in the center of the firewall, on the engine side, and the heater core is mounted directly to the rear in the passenger compartment. |
| center-point steering
| A steering geometry in which the steering axis passes through the center of the tire contact points. |
| Center-tapped transformer
| A transformer that has a wire connected to the electrical midpoint of its windings. Generally the secondary is tapped. |
| centering cones
| Tapered pieces of metal, designed to slide onto a shaft to align and hold parts perpendicular to the axis of the shaft. |
| centerline
| 1. To bore align. 2. To blueprint. 3. The axis of an object. 4. Same as intake centerline when referring to a camshaft. 5. A line indicating the exact center. |
| centi
| The prefix representing the number 0.01 |
| centigrade
| 1. Former name for 100 point Celsius scale, the point at which water boils (100 degrees C). 2. A term often used incorrectly to indicate a metric temperature value is Celsius. |
| centimeter
| A metric unit of linear measure equal to 0.3937 inch. |
| centipoise (cP)
| A metric unit of dynamic viscosity. It is used by the paint industry to measure the viscosity of paint, and by the oil industry to indicate the low-temperature operating characteristics of oil. |
| centistroke
| A metric unit of kinetic viscosity used to indicate the high-temperature operating characteristics of oil. |
| central port injection
| 1. An early fuel-injection system installed on the 4.3L Chevrolet Vortec V-6, using one throttle-body, injection-style injector to pulse fuel directly to individual nozzles at the intake ports. 2. A fuel metering system consisting of one central fuel injector and separate poppet nozzles |
| Central Processing Unit
| Portion of the computer which calculates information |
| centrifugal
| 1. Moving away from the center or axis 2. to develop a force that is progressively away or outward from the axis |
| centrifugal advance
| A mechanical means of advancing spark timing in a conventional distributor with flyweights and springs. |
| centrifugal brake drum
| Combining the strength of steel with the friction characteristics of cast iron by spraying a lining of cast iron on the inside of a steel drum while hot. |
| centrifugal clutch
| A clutch that utilizes a centrifugal force to apply pressure against a friction disc in proportion to the speed of the clutch. |
| centrifugal filter
| A rotating filter that relies on centrifugal force to separate impurities from the fluid, usually oil. |
| centrifugal filter fan
| A fan found on the air-pump drive shaft used to clean the air entering the air pump. |
| centrifugal force
| The outward force, away from the center (axis) of rotation, acting on a revolving object, increasing as the square of the speed. |
| centrifugal supercharger
| A mechanically driven, forced-induction system using centrifugal force to increase air pressure. |
| centrifugally disengaging
| A one-way roller clutch in which the rollers disengage with the race, in over-running conditions. |
| centrifugally engaging
| A one-way roller clutch, in which the rollers make or maintain contact with the race in over-running conditions. |
| century mark
| 100 miles per hour. |
| Ceramic
| A material composed of silica and earth elements used as an insulator, as in spark plugs. |
| ceramic insulator
| The non-conductive material used, for example, in spark plugs, to insulate the center electrode from the ground. |
| Cerclip
| English term for Snap-ring |
| CES
| Clutch engage switch |
| CESS
| Cold engine sensor switch |
| cetane
| A primary reference fuel (C16H31) for describing the ignition quality of diesel fuel. |
| cetane number
| The number, generally from 40 to 60, that relates to the ignition quality of diesel fuel. |
| CETS
| Cold engine temperature switch |
| Cf
| Californium An element with the atomic number of 98 |
| CFC
| [1] An acronym for the chlorofluorocarbon family of ozone-depleting refrigerants. CFC12 was a popular refrigerant for automotive air conditioning systems untle it was phased out of production by the clean air act of 1990 |
| CFI
| Cross fire injection |
| cfm
| An acronym for cubic feet per minute. |
| CFS
| Carburetor feedback system |
| CG
| An acronym for center of gravity. |
| chain casing
| An enclosure, housing, or guard for a chain drive containing the lubricating system and providing protection from contamination. |
| chain drive
| A drive system consisting of a drive, and a driven sprocket and chain, such as a motorcycle or bicycle drive. |
| chain guide
| A device used to support and guide a chain, such as a timing chain, to reduce or prevent whip. |
| chain length
| The distance between the joint centers at each end of a taut chain strand. |
| chain pensioner
| A device used to maintain chain tension, such as a guide rail or a hydraulic pressure piston with a rubbing shoe. |
| chain pitch
| The center-to-center dimension between chain links or joints. |
| chamfer
| To remove a hard edge from a part. |
| chamfer face
| A beveled surface on a shaft or part that allows for easier assembly. |
| champ car
| 1. A championship car. 2. Early term for an Indy car. |
| Championship Auto Racing Teams (CART)
| The sanctioning body of such events as the annual Indycar World Series. |
| championship trial
| The traditional designation for the annual series of races for Indycars, sanctioned by AAA, USAC, and CART, now known as the Indycar World Series. |
| change of state
| The rearrangement of molecular matter as it changes between any of the three physical states solids, liquids, or gases |
| channel
| 1. To lower the body over the chassis. 2. Individual leg of the hydraulic system that relay pressure from the master cylinder to the wheel cylinder. |
| Chapman strut
| A type of rear suspension having a telescoping strut that is attached to the chassis at the top and to two links at the bottom, restricting lateral and longitudinal movement. |
| characteristic
| A measured or observed property of a device or substance. |
| charcoal canister
| A mainarea, usually located in the engine compartment, containing activated charcoal. The charcoal absorbs or traps vapors from a vehicle's sealed fuel system, generally when the engine is turned off. This is a basic component of evaporative emissions control systems. |
| charge
| 1. To restore the active material in a battery cell by electrically reversing the chemical action of discharge. 2. To fill an air conditioner with a specific amount of refrigerant or oil by volume or weight. 3. The amount of fuel/air mixture to be burned in a cylinder. 4. To drive aggressively. |
| charge temperature sensor
| A sensor that sends a signal to the computer causing it to vary the temperature of the intake stream. |
| charge the trailer
| To fill the trailer air-brake system with air. |
| Charge time
| The amount os time necessary to charge a capacitor |
| charge tolerance
| The accuracy, plus/minus, permitted in the specified amount of liquid or gas that is charged into a system. |
| charger
| 1. A term often used to describe a battery charger. 2. A top performance driver; one who pushes his car to the limit. |
| charging
| 1. The act of placing a charge of refrigerant or oil into an air-conditioning system. 2. The act of refreshing a batter. |
| charging circuit
| see charging system |
| charging cylinder
| A mainarea with a visual indicator, for use when a critical or exact amount of fluid must be measured. |
| charging hose
| A small-diameter hose, between the system and source, that is constructed to withstand high pressures. |
| charging station
| A unit containing a manifold and gauge set, charging cylinder, vacuum pump, and leak detector used to service air conditioners. |
| charging system
| A group of electrical components ( battery, alternator, voltage regulator, ) and interconnecting wiring, used to supply system voltage and amperage while charging the battery. |
| Charging Voltage
| The measured voltage of the alternators output |
| Charles's Law
| A rise in temperature will expand the volume of a gas. |
| chase
| A process to restore damaged threads. |
| chasing threads
| A manual process using a tap or die to restore threads in a nut or on a bolt. |
| chassis
| The lower structure of a vehicle to which the body and running gear are attached. |
| chassis dynamometer
| A drive-on device, used to measure net road horsepower and torque, delivered by the drive wheels. |
| chassis dyno
| A term often used for chassis dynamometer. |
| chassis ground
| in electrical terms, a ground is the desirable or intentional circuit return path. A chassis ground is the desirable return path using the vehicles chassis. |
| chassis lubrication
| 1.An element of preventive maintenance. 2. The procedure of applying the correct type and amount of grease to the chassis lubrication points at recommended intervals. 3. Adding or changing fluids. 4. Miscellaneous services including tire pressure and safety checks. |
| chassis tuning
| Adjusting the running-gear geometry of a vehicle to compensate for different road conditions. |
| chassis waddle
| A term often used when describing lateral runout or tire waddle. |
| chat
| Real-time communication between two or more users via computers |
| chat room
| A virtual room where a chat session takes place |
| cheater slick
| A tire that is constructed of the same sticky rubber as a racing tire, but has a shallow tread cut into it to make it street legal. |
| check
| To verify that a component system, or measurement, complies with specifications. |
| check ball
| 1. A device that maintains air or fuel pressure at a predetermined level. 2. A device that permits the flow of fluid or vapor in one direction only. 3. A type of hydraulic valve, consisting of a ball, that seals an orifice when it is seated and can be used to open the orifice. |
| Check Engine Light
| (CEL) this light is illuminated when the PCM detects a fault. |
| Check Engine Light (CEL)
| this light is illuminated when the PCM detects a fault. |
| check relay
| A term often used for check-valve relay or vacuum-check relay. |
| check valve
| 1. A valve that permits the passage of a gas or fluid in one direction but not in the other. 2. A device located in the liquid line or inlet to the drier of some systems to prevent refrigerant flow in the opposite direction when the unit is turned off. |
| check-valve relay
| An electrical switch to control a solenoid-operated check valve. |
| checker
| A term often used for checkered flag. |
| checkered flag
| 1. A flag waved at a driver, in closed-course competition, to indicate that he/she has completed the race. 2. The first driver shown the flag is the winner of an event. |
| cheek
| The plate-like part of a crankshaft that connects the journals, often serving as a counterweight. |
| chem mill
| A term used for chemical milling. |
| chemical energy
| A form of potential energy released or stored during chemical a reactions. |
| chemical fire extinguisher
| A type of fire extinguisher that used dry chemicals that displace oxygen, thereby extinguishing a fire. |
| chemical gasket
| A liquid or putty-like substance, similar to RTV, used as a substitute for a solid gasket. |
| chemical hazards
| Hazard concerns primarily, cut not exclusively, from solvents, fuels, asbestos, and antifreeze. |
| chemical instability
| An undesired condition that exists when a contaminant causes a fluid, such as refrigerant, to break down into a harmful chemical. |
| chemical milling
| A term often used for acid dip. |
| chemical reaction
| The formation of a new substance when two or more substances are brought together. |
| chemiluminescence
| The emission of light energy, other than by burning, during a chemical reaction. |
| cherry
| 1. In unusually fine shape. 2. As good or better than new. 3. Not used before. |
| chicane
| An artificial series of turns on a straight track, in road racing events, that are marked by pylons or temporary curbs. |
| child-safety latch
| A power-door lock system that prevents the door(s) from being opened from the inside, regardless of the position of the door-lock knob. |
| chilled cast iron
| Cast iron that has been hardened using dry ice. |
| chimney effect
| The tendency of air or gas to rise when heated. |
| chip
| 1. A nick in paint work. 2. A micro-processor part. 3. Metal removed during a milling or machining process. |
| chirp rubber
| To quickly shift gears during hard acceleration, so the tires momentarily break loose and leave slight streaks of rubber on the pavement. |
| chirp the tires
| A phrase sometimes used for chirp rubber. |
| chit box
| A recreational vehicle, such as a mobile home or trailer. |
| chizer
| A term often given to a Chrysler product. |
| chlorinated hydrocarbon solvents
| A class of chemical compounds that contain various combinations of hydrogen, carbon, and chlorine atoms; best known as a class of cleaning solvents. |
| chlorofluorocarbon (CFC)
| A family of chemicals that includes the automotive air-conditioning refrigerant, R-12. Designated CFC, they have been blamed for a deterioration of the Earth's protective ozone layer and have been phrased out of production by international agreement. |
| CHMSL
| Center high mount stop light |
| choke
| A manually or thermostatically controlled device mounted to a choke shaft having vanes at the mouth of a carburetor that closes when the engine is cold. This increases the gasoline content in the air/fuel mixture that aids in starting when fuel evaporation is low. |
| choke heater
| A device that warms the thermostatic coil of an automatic choke, causing it to open quickly. Later-model carburetors often have an electrical heating element and/or a timer circuit. |
| choke piston
| A vacuum-controlled piston used to partially open the choke when the engine starts. |
| choke plate
| A butterfly valve that closes at the inlet of the carburetor to enrich the air/fuel mixture, as when starting the engine. |
| choke pull-off
| A vacuum motor that opens he choke plate during full acceleration. |
| choke rod
| A rod connected to the choke plate. |
| choke shaft
| A shaft at the mouth of a carburetor on which the choke plate is mounted. |
| choke valve
| A term often used for choke plate. |
| chop
| 1. To lower the greenhouse of a vehicle. 2. To cut in front of another vehicle in a closed-course race. |
| chop channel and enamel
| The full restyling treatment of a car. |
| Chop Mode
| A display mode of operation in which small time segments of each channel are traced sequentially so that more than one waveform can appear on the screen simultaneously |
| chopped flywheel
| To machine the surface of a flywheel to lighten it. |
| Christmas tree
| the electrical countdown system used in drag racing. |
| chrome
| A simple term for chromium. |
| chrome carnival
| A term that applies to a rod and custom show. |
| chrome molly steel
| A yellow alloy that contains chromium and molybdenum. |
| chrome plate
| To apply a thin layer of chrome for appearance. |
| chrome rings
| Piston rings that are plated with chromium. |
| chrome steel
| A steel alloy that contains chromium. |
| chromies
| A term used for chrome-plated wheels. |
| chromium
| 1. A basic element, Cr. 2. A metal used in alloys to provide a durable and hard surface. 3. An alloy used to plate metal to provide a shining surface. |
| Chrondek
| The trade name of a popular brand of racing timing equipment. |
| Chryco
| A term often used for Chrysler Corporation. |
| chute
| 1. A fast, straight stretch of track on an oval track or road course. 2. A parachute, as used to slow drag and lake cars. 3. The starting position for a dragster. |
| CI
| [1] Computer controlled distributorless ignition [2] An acronym for cubic inch |
| CID
| [1] Cylinder identification [2] cubic inch displacement [3] cylinder identification device |
| circle burning
| An oval race track. |
| circlip
| A split-steel snap ring that fits into a groove, to hold various parts in place. |
| circuit
| 1. A complete path for an electric current from the source, through a resistance, and back to the power source. 2. A race course. |
| circuit board
| A generic term used for printed circuit board. |
| circuit breaker
| an electrical switch-like protective device that automatically opens to interrupt the circuit if current exceeds its rated limit. |
| Circuit Loading
| The unintentional and undesireable interaction of the probe and oscilloscope with the circuit being tested, distorting the signal |
| CIS
| An acronym for continuous injection system. |
| CIS-E
| An acronym for continuous injection system-electronic. |
| CKP
| Crankshaft position sensor. |
| Cl
| Chlorine An element with the atomic number of 17 |
| clad
| A metal or material covered with another metal by bonding. |
| clad metal
| A metal that is covered with another metal or alloy of different composition, applied to one or both sides by casting, drawing, rolling, surfacing, chemical deposition, or electroplating. |
| cladding
| the application of a surfacing material to impare corrosion and/or heat resistance. |
| clamp
| A screw-, cam-, or lever-actuated device for temporarily holding parts together. |
| Clamping Diode
| A diode that is connected in parallel with a coil to prevent voltage spikes from the coil from reaching other components in the circuit |
| class
| A group of competition cars with basically the same specifications and performance potentials. |
| class 2
| The type of digital data stream used on non-OBD-II diagnostic systems. Class 2 uses two-bit pulse widths and toggles between o (passive) and 7 volts (active) |
| class F red insulating enamel
| a paint that is used to seal the interior of an engine and to aid in rapid oil return to the crankcase. |
| classic
| 1. A fine car. 2. An important racing event, such as the Indy 500. 3. Certain cars built between 1925 and 1948. |
| Classic Car Club of America (CCCA)
| An organization that is dedicated to the preservation of specific American and European luxury cars manufactured between 1925 and 1948. |
| classifying vehicles
| Any or all of the methods used to classify vehicles, such as by weight or fuel consumption. See the appropriate heading for a specific definition. |
| CLC
| Converter lock-up clutch |
| CLCC
| Closed loop carburetor control |
| clean
| 1. To flush. 2. To purge. 3. Free of dirt, grime, or grease. |
| Clean Air Act
| A term used for Clean Air Act and its Amendments (CAAA). A Title IV amendment, signed into law in 1990 by President George Bush, that established national policy relative to the reduction and elimination of ozone-depleting substances. The act also includes requirements for oxygenated fuels programs in CO non-attainment areas and reformulated gasoline programs in certain ozone non-attainment areas. |
| Clean Air Performance Professionals (CAPP)
| an association of repair shops and technicians promoting inspection and maintenance programs to help protect our environment. |
| clean room
| an enclosed, ventilated or air-conditioned area, free of airborne particles where delicate components, such as engines and automatic transmissions, can be assembled with minimal risk of contamination. |
| clear coat
| A hard, transparent coating that is applied to a painted surface to enhance the illusion of visual depth and/or protect the surface. |
| clearance
| The space between mating parts, such as between a journal and a bearing, that allows freedom of movement or prevents interference. |
| clearance ramp
| The area of a mechanical-lifter camshaft lobe that makes the progression from the base circle to the edge. |
| clearance volume
| The total-volume measurement above a piston at top dead center, (TDC), including the area of the combustion chamber. |
| clearing time
| The time it takes a circuit breaker to sense an over current, until circuit interruption. |
| Cleveland V-8
| A popular 351 cid V-8 engine manufactured in Cleveland by Ford. |
| click
| To tap on a mouse button, pressing it down and then immediately releasing it. |
| clip
| A major body repair where the front ir rear of a vehicle is replaced with the front or rear of another vehicle of the same mike and model |
| clipboard
| A special file or memory area (buffer) where data is stored temporarily before being copied to another location. |
| clock
| 1. A device for telling the time of day. 2. A term often used for speedometer. 3. A device that generates a basic periodic signal used to control timing of all operations in a synchronous system or computer. |
| Clock Circuit
| A crystal that electrically vibrates when subjected to a current at certin voltage levels |
| clock input
| An input terminal in a circuit where timing or synchronizing signals are applied. |
| clock rate
| The frequency of oscillation of the master clock, or oscillator, in a system. |
| clock spring
| A device, located between the steering column and steering wheel, that conducts electrical signals in an air-bag system to the module, while allowing steering-wheel rotation. This provides electrical continuity in all steering-wheel positions. |
| Clockspring
| A winding of electrical conducting tape enclosed within a plastic housing. The clockspring maintains continuity between the steering wheel, switches,the air bag, and the wiring harness in all steering wheel positions. |
| close coupled
| A limited rear-seating space, such as in a club coupe or two-plus-two. |
| close ratios
| A transmission, usually used in drag racers, with close spacing between the speeds of the gears, allowing for minimum engine rpm reduction when shifting. |
| close the door
| 1. To immediately pull in front of an opponent after overtaking, preventing him/her from re-passing. 2. To move over while entering a curve to block an opponent just as he/she pulls alongside on the inside to pass, preventing him/her from doing so. Also known as close the gate. |
| close the gate
| A term often used for close the door. |
| closed course
| An oval track or road race circuit. |
| Closed Loop
| [1] The basic principle of electronic engine management in which input from an Oxygen sensor allows the engine-control computer to determine and maintain a nearly perfect air/fuel ratio [2] A computer condition in which the air/fuel ratio is being controlled on the basis of various inputs to the computer [3] A contionuous circuit from beinning to end and beyond |
| closed-camber head
| A cylinder head having a combustion chamber with a very large quench or squish area. |
| closed-end spring
| Coil springs having end hoops next to the coils. |
| closed-loop fuel system
| A computerized air/fuel metering system based on monitoring the temperature and composition of the exhaust gases. |
| cloud point
| 1. The low temperature at which diesel fuel begins to produce wax crystals. 2. The temperature at which wax begins to separate from oil. |
| club coupe
| A two-door, four,- or five- passenger vehicle with limited rear seating. |
| clunker
| 1. A poorly performing car. 2. The family buggy. |
| cluster gear
| A set of three or four gears on a common shaft in a manual transmission. |
| clutch
| 1. A device for connecting and disconnecting the power flow between the engine and standard transmissions, used during starting, shifting, and stopping. 2. A device used to connect two collinear shafts to a driving mechanism such as a motor, engine, or line shaft, and to disconnect them at will. 3. An electromagnetic clutch used to engage and disengage the compressor, to turn the air conditioner on and off. |
| clutch armature
| That part of an electro-magnetic clutch that is attached to the compressor crankshaft and is pulled into contact with the rotor when engaged. |
| clutch cable
| A cable that actuates the clutch fork of a manual-transmission system. |
| clutch can
| A term often used for bell housing. |
| clutch coil
| A unit consisting of many windings of wire fastened to the front of the air conditioning compressor. When current is applied, a magnetic field is set up that pulls the armature into the rotor to engage the clutch. Also known as clutch field. |
| clutch disc
| Circular-shaped component, with a friction facing on each side, that transfers power from the flywheel and pressure plate to the splined clutch shaft. |
| clutch drum
| A component of a clutch assembly that usually houses the clutch discs and pressure plate. A band often closes around the outside diameter of a clutch drum. |
| clutch field
| A unit consisting of many windings of wire fastened to the front of the air-conditioner compressor. When current is applied, a magnetic field is set up that pulls the armature in to engage the clutch. Also known as clutch coil |
| clutch fork
| A lever in the clutch that actuates the release bearing. |
| clutch gear
| A gear or gears found on the clutch shaft. |
| clutch housing
| Cast-iron or aluminum shell that surrounds the clutch assembly located between the engine and transmission. |
| clutch hub
| A special hub used in certain limited slip-differential applications, such as single-pack types located between the splined discs and side gear. |
| clutch off
| To get a fast start by engaging the clutch suddenly, such as at the start of a drag race. |
| clutch packs
| A series of clutch discs and plates, installed alternately in the clutch housing, to act as a driving or driven unit of a multi-disc clutch. |
| clutch pedal
| A pivoting component inside the vehicle that the driver depresses with his/her foot to operate the clutch. |
| clutch piston
| An assembly in the multiple-disc clutch drum that is moved by oil pressure to engage he clutch and returned to a released position by mechanical-spring force. |
| clutch plate
| 1. A pressure plate that forces the clutch disc against the flywheel. 2. A term often used for clutch armature. 3. A generic term for the friction and steel discs used in a multiple-disc clutch. |
| clutch rotor
| That freewheeling portion of the air-conditioning system clutch, in which the drive belt rides, that mates to the armature when power is applied to the coil. |
| clutch shaft
| The main shaft on which the clutch is assembled. |
| clutch slippage
| A term given to the condition when, although engine speed is increased, increased torque is not transferred through to the driving wheels. |
| clutch-control unit
| A computer that controls clutch operation. |
| clutch-cycle pressure switch
| A pressure activated switch that controls the air-conditioner-compressor clutch action to prevent evaporator icing. |
| clutch-cycle switch
| An electrical switch, pressure or temperature actuated, that cuts off the air conditioning compressor at a predetermined evaporator temperature. |
| clutch-cycle time (total)
| The time between when an air-conditioner clutch engages and when it disengages, then re-engages; a time equal to one on and one off cycle. |
| clutch-release bearing
| A component, attached to the clutch-release fork, that contacts and then moves the release levers when the clutch pedal is depressed. |
| clutch-release fork
| A pivoting clutch housing component that transfers motion from the free-play adjusting rod on the clutch linkage to the attached clutch-release bearing. |
| clutch-relief check valve
| A valve that releases to prevent the buildup of pressure in a multiple-disc clutch assembly. |
| clutch-safety switch
| A term often used for neutral start switch or neutral safety switch. |
| cm
| centimeter; Also Cm, Curium An element with the atomic number of 96 |
| CMH
| Cold mixture heater |
| CMOS
| Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor. |
| CMP
| Camshaft position sensor |
| CNG
| An acronym for compressed natural gas. |
| Co
| [1] Cobalt An element with the atomic number of 27 [2] The symbol for carbon monoxide |
| co-solvents
| An additive of heavier alcohols used with methanol to improve water tolerance and improve other characteristics of gasoline/methanol blends. |
| CO2
| The symbol for carbon dioxide. |
| coach
| 1. A bus. 2. A motor home. 3. An enclosed, two-door sedan of yesteryear. 4. A large, four-wheeled carriage; the forerunner of a modern vehicle. |
| coach builder
| A manufacture of fine custom-automotive bodies. |
| coachwork
| The product of a coach builder. |
| coating
| 1. Paint that is used to provide beauty or weather protection to a vehicle or to its parts. 2. Any material applied to a metal surface to provide protection against the elements. |
| coaxial cable
| A cable consisting of two conductors concentric with, and insulated from, each other. |
| COC
| Conventional oxidizing catalyst |
| cockpit
| The driver's compartment of a vehicle. |
| code installation
| In general, an installation that conforms to the state and federal regulations and codes to insure safe and efficient conditions. |
| Code of Federal Regulations
| Regulations that are generated, published and enforced by the United /states government. |
| COE
| An acronym for cab over engine. |
| coefficient
| 1. Any of the factors of a product considered in relation to a specific factor; a constant factor of a term as distinguished from a variable; 2. A number that serves as a measure of some property of characteristic. |
| coefficient of drag (Cx)
| A measure of the air resistence of a moving vehicle; a measure of how much air is moved as the vehicle moves from one point to another. |
| coefficient of friction
| The measure of the resistance of one surface moving against another. It is obtained by dividing the force required to slide the surfaces across one another by the pressure holding the surfaces togather. |
| coefficient of water/oil distribution
| The ratio of the solubility of a chemical in water compared to its solubility in oil. |
| cog
| A gear, particularly the final drive gear. |
| coil
| [1] A term often used to describe a suspension spring or the component that is formed when several turns of wire are wound on a cylindrical form or on a metal core. |
| coil bind
| A condition where springs are compressed to the point that the coils touch. |
| coil failure
| 1. A defective ignition coil. 2. Also see coil spring failures. |
| coil over shock
| A suspension component that consists of a shock absorber inside a coil spring. |
| coil spring
| A spring-steel bar or rod that is wound into the shape of a coil to provide an up-down springing effect. Found on most vehicle suspensions, these springs are used to support the car's weight, maintain height, and correctly position all other suspension parts, but are little help in supporting side-to-side or lateral movement. |
| coil tower
| The high-voltage, center terminal of a conventional ignition coil. |
| coil-on plug ignition system
| An ignition system without a distributor where each spark plug has its own ignition coil. |
| coil-preload springs
| Coil springs, located in the pressure-plate assembly, made of tempered-steel rods formed into a spiral that resists compression. |
| coil-spring clutch
| A clutch that uses coil springs to hold the pressure plate against the friction disk. |
| coil-spring failures
| The inability of a coil spring to compress and/or rebound, due to constant overloading, continual jounce and rebound action, metal fatigue, or a crack, break, or nick on the surface layer or coating. |
| coil-spring rear suspension
| A rear-axle assembly that is attached to the frame through a link-type suspension system. Coil springs are mounted between the lower suspension arms and the frame, while the shock absorbers are mounted between the back of the suspension arms and the frame. |
| coil-spring seat
| The formed mounts that determine the coil-spring position on the car frame and rear axle housing. Seats may have sound-insulating pads. |
| coke bottle
| The shape of an auto body tucked slightly inward at the center, like a Coca-Cola bottle. |
| COLA
| An acronym for cost of living allowance. |
| cold
| 1. An object that is not hot or warm, generally below body temperature, 98.6 F (37 C). 2. The absence of all heat, -259.67 F (-162 C). |
| cold drawn
| A process where metal is drawn or rolled into a particular shape or size. |
| cold inflation pressure
| The tire inflation pressure after a tire has been standing for three hours or driven less than one mile after standing for three hours. |
| cold manifold
| An intake manifold that does not have a preheat passage. |
| cold patch
| A process used to repair a punctured tire or tube, without the aid of heat. |
| cold rate
| The number of minutes a battery will deliver 300 amperes at 0 F (-17.8 C), before the cell voltage drops to below 1.0 volt. |
| cold soak
| To place a component in a cool area to allow it to cool to ambient temperature for twelve or more hours. |
| Cold Start Injector
| An auxiliary fuel injector which injects additional fuel into the intake manifold during cold engine starting and operation |
| cold weld
| A method of repairing small cracks in blocks and heads by using tapered plugs to fill the cracks. |
| cold working
| The deformation of metallic material at a temperature below the recrystallization temperature, resulting in strain hardening of the material |
| cold-cranking amps (CCA)
| A common term used for cold-cranking power rating. The number of amperes a fully charged lead acid battery can deliver for 30 seconds at 0o without the cell voltage dropping below 1.2 volts per cell or 7.2 volts of a 12 volt battery |
| cold-cranking power rating(CCP)
| The number of amperes that a fully charged battery will deliver for 30 seconds at 0 F (-17.8 C) without the terminal voltage dropping below 7.2 volts. |
| cold-engine lockout switch
| A switch that sends a signal to the body-control module, or controller, to prevent an action, such as blower-motor operation, until the coolant in the engine has risen to a predetermined temperature. |
| cold-rolled steel (CRS)
| Carbon steel that is worked into shape while cold. |
| cold-solder joint
| A loose or intermittent electrical connection, caused by poor soldering techniques. |
| cold-start injector
| An electronic fuel-injection system that supplies extra fuel to the engine for cold starting. |
| cold-start test
| A prescribed federal test procedure for measuring emissions before an engine has warmed up after a 12-hour cold soak at 68 F to 78 F (20 C to 25.6 C). |
| cold-start valve
| A valve that permits additional air into the intake manifold during a cold start on a fuel-injected engine. |
| cold-weather modulator
| A thermostatically controlled check valve that traps vacuum in the vacuum motor circuit when the car is accelerated hard at any temperature below 55 F (12.8 C), to prevent hesitation by allowing heated air to enter the engine. |
| collapsible steering column
| An energy-absorbing steering column that is designed to collapse if the driver is thrown into it due to a heavy collision. |
| collapsible washer
| A washer that crushes when a nut is tightened against it |
| collect
| A term used for valve keeper. |
| collector
| 1. A device that collects exhaust gases from the primary tubes and channels them into a single exhaust pipe. 2. The tank of a radiator that receives the fluid before it passes through the radiator. Transistor part (Emitter, Collector, Base) |
| collector tank
| The tank that collects coolant from the engine, containing a baffle plate to aid in even distribution of coolant through the core. |
| collision shop
| A specialty paint and body shop that restores a wrecked or damaged vehicle to its pre-accident condition. |
| color code
| A means of identifying conductors or vacuum hoses by the use of color. |
| color sanding
| Color-blending by lightly sanding to smooth surface imperfections, using 1000 grit or higher paper. |
| color-code chart
| A chart listing the colors of wire insulation and, sometimes, wire sizes for a particular automobile. |
| combination brake system
| A dual-brake system that uses disc brakes at the front wheels and drum brakes at the rear wheels. |
| Combination Manifold
| An assembly which includes both the intake and exhaust manifolds in one casting |
| combination valve
| 1. S hydraulic control valve with two or three valve functions in one valve body. 2.An H-valve, used in some early air-conditioning systems, combining a suction throttling valve and an expansion valve. |
| combined emissions-control system
| An early General Motors transmission-controlled spark system that uses the solenoid valve's plunger as an auxiliary throttle stop. |
| combustion
| The burning of the air/fuel mixture in an engine. |
| combustion chamber
| Area above a piston at TDC, primarily distinguished by a recessed cylinder head, where combustion takes place. |
| Combustion Control Computer
| The fuel injection system used on 1981 through 1983 Chrysler Imperial vehicles |
| combustion emission control (CEC)
| An exhaust emission-control system that combines a transmission-controlled spark system and a deceleration throttle-position device. |
| combustion knock
| A term often used for knock. |
| combustion pressure
| The pressure in the cylinder from expanding gases immediately after the air/fuel mixture is ignited, which is about four times greater than compression pressure. |
| combustion recess
| An indented area on the rotor face where part of the burning of the air/fuel mixture occurs. |
| comfort
| A pleasing and enjoyable feeling due to the removal of excessive heat, moisture, dust, and pollen from the air. |
| Comfortron
| A trade name for an early automatic-temperature-control system. |
| common point
| A connection point, such as for several conductors or levers. |
| Communication
| The transmission fo information from one point, person or piece of equipment to another |
| commutating pole
| An electromagnetic bar inserted between the pole pieces of a generator to offset the cross magnetization of the armature currents. |
| commutator
| the name for the copper segment of the starter or generator that transfers electrical energy to the armature or rotor windings. |
| compact high-pressure tire
| A term often used for compact spare. |
| compact spare
| A weight- and space-saver tire, especially designed for temporary use. |
| compact spare tire
| A spare tire and wheel that is much smaller than the other tires on the vehicle, and is designed for short-distance driving at relatively low speeds. |
| compact tire
| A term used for compact spare tire. |
| companion cylinders
| Two cylinders in an engine that are at TDC at the same time. |
| comparator
| [1] An instrument for comparing specific critical measurements to a fixed standard [2] A circuit for compairing two input signals which may be ether analog or digital signals but the output will always be digital |
| compensating coil
| A coil that serves to compensate for the mechanical friction in the moving coil of an electrical meter or gauge. |
| compensating port
| A device used to maintain the proper level of brake fluid in the brake lines. |
| complete circuit
| An uninterrupted electrical circuit or fluid circuit in which electrical current may travel to and from the battery, or fluid or vapor may circulate continuously through the system. |
| completely built up (CBU)
| The complete building, rebuilding, or modification of a component or vehicle, as in a kit car. |
| component
| A part or an accessory of a system, circuit. or vehicle. Can also be used to describe the larger volume ingredients of a liquid such as gasoline coolant, or paint. |
| component isolation
| To isolate a component from the rest of the system or circuit for testing or replacement. |
| component location table
| A table or chart, used with an electrical schematic, that describes or illustrates the actual location of the part being investigated. |
| Composit Bulb
| A headlight assembly that has a replaceable bulb in its housing |
| composite drum
| A drum made of different materials, usually cast iron and steel or aluminum, to reduce weight. The friction surfaces and the hub are cast iron, but supporting parts are made of lighter metal. |
| composite headlight
| A halogen headlight system that uses a replaceable bulb, allowing vehicle manufacturers to produce any style of headlight lens they desire. |
| composite materials
| The bonding of different materials, usually for strength, such as carbon fiber and fiberglass. |
| composite rotor
| A rotor made of different materials, usually cast iron and steel or aluminum, to reduce weight. The friction surfaces and the hub are cast iron, but supporting parts are made of lighter metal. |
| composite spring
| A term used for fiber-composite spring. |
| composite washer
| A flat washer made of different elements. |
| composition gasket
| A gasket made of a combination of materials. |
| Compound
| A substance composed of tpw or more elements combined chemically |
| compound gauge
| A gauge that registers both above and below atmospheric pressure; used on the low side of an air-conditioning system. |
| compound low gear
| A combination of low gear in the transmission and low range in the transfer case in a four-wheel-drive vehicle with a two-speed transfer case. |
| compound planetary gearset
| A gearset that contains more than just the three basic members of a simple planetary gearset. |
| compound wound
| A type of electrical motor where some field coils are wired in series and some are wired in parallel with the armature. |
| Comprehensive Component
| Any component, other than a main monitor, that has any effect on vehicle emissions |
| comprehensive components
| Any component, other than a major monitor, that has any effect on vehicle emissions. |
| compressed natural gas
| A gas, primarily methane, used as a motor fuel. |
| compressibility
| The ability of a gasket to conform to surface irregularities "soft" gaskets are more compensable than "hard" gaskets. |
| compression
| 1. The process of squeezing a vapor (gas) into a smaller space. 2. The upward stroke of a piston that compresses the fuel/air mixture into the combustion chamber prior to ignition |
| compression braking
| The slowing of a vehicle utilizing a diesel engine, such as that provided by a Jake brake. It is a misnomer that a gasoline engine will slow the vehicle by compression braking; actually, vacuum causes the braking effect. |
| Compression Gauge
| A gauge used in the spark plug hole of the cylinder head to measure cylinder compression pressure |
| compression height
| A distance, as measured from the crown of the piston to the center of the wrist pin. |
| compression ignition
| The operating system of a diesel engine, where heated air is used to ignite the fuel. |
| compression intake valve
| A term used for compression valve or intake valve. |
| compression pressure
| The highest pressure developed during the compression stroke in an engine, as checked with a compression gauge. |
| compression ratio (CR)
| 1.A measurement of how much the air/fuel mixture is compressed inside an engine cylinder. If compressed to 1/10 of its original volume, the compression ratio is 10 to 1. 2. The ratio of the volume in the engine cylinder with the piston at bottom dead center compared (BDC) to the volume at top dead center (TDC) |
| compression ring
| A piston ring that seals pressure during the compression and power strokes. There are usually two compression rings per piston. |
| compression seal
| A metal seal found in a direct fuel-injection system, to resist compression pressures. |
| compression stroke
| the movement of the piston from BDC to TDC, immediately after the intake stroke. |
| Compression Testing
| A test of the engine compression through the spark plug hole to determin if the cylinder is sealing adequatly |
| compression valve
| A calibrated valve, located at the base of the shock absorber, providing variable resistance to fluid flow during compression. |
| compression-loaded ball joint
| A suspension ball joint, mounted above and resting on the knuckle, so the vehicle weight forces the bal into the joint. |
| compressive strength
| The maximum compressive stress that a material can withstand without significant plastic deformation or fracture. |
| compressor
| 1. A component of the refrigeration system that pumps refrigerant and increases the pressure of the refrigerant vapor. 2. A device used to pump air. |
| compressor crankshaft seal
| A term used for compressor shaft seal. |
| compressor-discharge pressure switch
| A pressure-operated electrical switch that opens the compressor-clutch circuit during high-pressure conditions. |
| compressor-protection switch
| An electrical switch installed in the rear head of some compressors to stop the compressor in the event of a loss of refrigerant. |
| compressor-shaft seal
| An assembly consisting of springs, snap rings, O-rings, seal sets, a shaft seal, and a gasket mounted on the compressor crankshaft to permit the shaft to be turned without a loss of refrigerant or oil. |
| computer
| A machine capable of following instructions to alter data in a desirable way and to perform most of these operations without human intervention. |
| computer based training (CBT)
| a type of education in which the student learns by executing special training programs on a computer. |
| computer literacy
| The level of expertise and familiarity someone has with computers. |
| computer-aided manufacturing
| The use of computer technology in the management, control, and operation of manufacturing. |
| computer-command control (CCC)
| A term given a computer that controls the function and operation of an automotive system, or sub system. |
| computer-controlled brakes
| A system having a sensor on each wheel, feeding electrical impulses into an on-board computer. As the vehicle is stopped, each wheel is stopped or slowed down at the same rate, reducing sideways skidding during rapid braking. |
| computer-controlled suspension system
| A system in which a computer-controlled actuator is positioned in the top of each shock absorber or strut. The shock absorber or strut actuators rotate a shaft inside the piston rod, and this shaft is connected to the shock valve. |
| computer-generated code
| A term more commonly known as trouble code. |
| computerese
| The jargon and other specialized vocabulary of those working with computers and information-processing systems. |
| computerize
| 1. To equip a business or organization with computers in order to facilitate or automate procedures. 2. To convert a manual operation into one that is performed by a computer. |
| computerized air suspension
| A type of suspension system equipped with rubber air bas controlled by an air compressor to maintain a specific ride height determined by vehicle load and road-surface conditions. |
| computerized automatic temperature control
| A microprocessor control system that monitors incoming data and adjusts the temperature and humidity of the air inside the passenger compartment. |
| computerized engine control
| A microprocessor-based, engine-management system that utilizes various sensor inputs to regulate spark timing, fuel mixture, emissions, and other functions. Most systems include on-board, self-diagnostic capability and store fault codes to help diagnosis of system problems. |
| con rod
| Short for connecting rod. |
| concave fillet weld
| A fillet weld having a concave face. |
| concave side
| An inward-curved depression. |
| concealed headlight
| A headlight system that enhances a vehicle's style and aerodynamics by hiding the lamps behind electrically-or vacuum-controlled doors when not in use. |
| concentricity
| The condition in which two or more features, in any combination have a common axis. |
| concours d'elegance
| French for "contest of elegance," a showing of luxury cars in a plush setting. |
| condensate
| Moisture that is removed from air, such as that collected on the surface of an air-conditioning-system evaporator. |
| condensation
| 1. The moisture removed from ambient air. 2. The process of a substance changing state from a vapor (gas) to a liquid. |
| condenser
| 1. A liquefier; the component of a refrigeration system in which refrigerant vapor is changed to a liquid by the removal of heat. 2. An improper by often used term for a capacitor. |
| condenser comb
| A comb-like device used to straighten the fins on the evaporator or condenser. |
| condenser temperature
| The temperature at which compressed gas in the condenser changes to a liquid. |
| condensing pressure
| 1. High side or head pressure, as read from the gauge at the high-side service valve. 2. The pressure present from the discharge side of the compressor to the metering device inlet. |
| conditioned air
| Air that is cool, dry, and clean. |
| conductance
| The ability of a material to transmit an electrical charge. In DC circuits, it is the reciprocal of the resistance. |
| conduction
| The transmission of heat or electricity thought, or by means of, a conductor. |
| conductor
| Any material that will conduct an electrical charge or any material with less than three electrons in its valance shell. |
| conductor placement
| A term used for wire placement. |
| conduit
| 1. A tubular raceway, A tubular pathway such as tubing used to protect a wiring system or branch circuit. 3. A flexible metal housing or jacket that houses the parking brake cables to protect them from dirt, rust, abrasion, and other damage. |
| cone
| 1. The conical diaphragm attached to the voice coil of a speaker that produces sound. 2. The conical part of an oxyfuel gas flame adjacent to the tip orifice. |
| coned-disk spring
| A term used for Belleville washer. |
| configuration
| The shape or form of anything, such as an engine. |
| conformability
| The ease or difficulty of different materials to be shaped or worked. |
| conicity
| A tire condition that occurs when the tire tread is installed off center on the carcass, creating a cone shape. This causes the vehicle to pull to one side and is diagnosed by changing the tire position on the vehicle and noting the direction of pull. |
| connecting link
| A link in which a removable plate facilitates connecting or disconnecting the ends of a length of chain. |
| connecting rod
| A component used to attach the piston, with pin to the crankshaft rod journal. |
| connecting-rod cap
| The half-round, lower, bolt-on portion of the connecting rod. |
| constant mesh
| Gears that mesh continually, such as a planetary gear, eliminating the clashing or grinding that may occur when other types of gears are shifted together. |
| constant tension
| A system or device that is designed to be under perpetual pressure or stress. |
| constant voltage
| The common type of power which all loads are connected in parallel, with different amounts of current flowing through each load. |
| constant-current charging
| A charging system in which a constant flow of current is fed into the battery. |
| constant-current electronic control (CCEC)
| A type of engine-computer control. |
| constant-ratio steering gear
| A steering-gear system having the same gear ratio when the wheels are near the straight-ahead position as during extreme turns. |
| constant-velocity joint
| Two universal joints, closely coupled, so their acceleration-deceleration effects cancel each other out. |
| constant-voltage charging
| A method of charging where the voltage to the battery is constant, and the current decreases as a fully-charged condition is reached. |
| consumption
| A term most generally used when referring to fuel consumption. |
| contact
| One of the current carrying parts of a relay , switch or connector that engages or disengages to open or close the associated electrical circuit. |
| contact area
| The area of a member that comes into contact with another member, such as a belt to a pulley, or a tire to the ground. |
| contact patch
| The area of contact of a tire with the road surface when the tire is supporting the vehicle weight. |
| contact points
| A term often used for contact area or breaker points: |
| mainarea tube
| A shock-absorber component that is used to house the internal parts. |
| contaminants
| 1. Chemicals or impurities in oil or fuel that reduces its effectiveness and efficiency, such as water, carbon, acids, dust, and dirt particles. 2. Chemicals or impurities that make ambient air impure, especially those produced from the combustion process. |
| contaminated
| A term used when referring to a system that is known to contain foreign substances, such as incompatible or hazardous materials. |
| contingency money
| A payment made by accessory and equipment manufacturers to top rated drivers, and some crew members, for using and/or displaying their products in a race. |
| continuity
| The ease or ability of an electrical circuit or component to transfer energy from one point to another. A continuous electrical path. |
| continuous code
| A series of computer diagnostic codes that relate to engine-control functions. |
| continuous combustion
| The constant combustion of an air/fuel mixture. |
| continuous duty
| A demand on an energy-consuming system that requires operation, at a constant load, for an indefinite period of time. |
| continuous fuel injection (CFI)
| A type of fuel-injection system that continuously sprays a stream of fuel into the engine. |
| continuous variable transmission (CTV)
| A stepless transmission that uses a sheave clutch to transmit engine torque. |
| continuous weld
| A weld that extends continuously from one end of a joint to the other. |
| continuous-injection system (CIS)
| A continuous-flow, mechanically controlled, fuel-injection system. |
| continuous-injection system-electronic (CIS-E)
| A continuous-flow, electronically controlled, fuel- system. injection. |
| control arm
| The main link between the vehicle frame and the wheels that acts as a hinge to allow the wheels to go up and down independently of the chassis. |
| control cable
| 1. A rigid wire, generally sheathed, used for the remote control of a device, such as a parking brake. 2. An insulated wire used to supply electric current to a motor, controls, or other electrically operated circuits or devices. |
| control head
| The master controls (such as temperature and fan speed) that the vehicle driver uses to select the desired system condition. |
| control link
| A term used for control arm. |
| control plunger
| A device that is regulated by the fuel-injection-system airflow sensor to regulated fuel delivery to the injectors. |
| control points
| Holes, points, or flat surfaces that are used to align body parts during assembly or reconstruction. |
| control pressure
| The fuel pressure required for a fuel-injection system to function. |
| control thermostat
| A temperature-actuated electrical switch used to cycle the compressor clutch on and off thereby controlling the air conditioning system temperature. |
| control valve
| 1.The mechanism, located inside the power steering gearbox or on the steering relay rod, that controls the amount of power assist relayed to the steering linkage via a power piston. 2. A mechanical, pneumatic, or electric valve used to control the flow of coolant into the heater core. |
| control valve assembly
| The block of metal that contains the hydraulic passages and electric solenoids used to direct brake fluid during an ABS event. |
| Controlled Canister Purge
| An ECM controlled solenoid valve that permits manifold vacuum to purge the evaporative emissions from the charcoal canister |
| controlled-leak governor
| A governor assembly that reduces the leakage of line pressure as a vehicle's speed increases. |
| convection
| The transfer of heat by motion of the heated material, such as air or liquid. |
| conventional cab
| A truck having a cab behind the engine. |
| conventional frame
| A chassis frame that is separate from the body. |
| conventional strut
| An assembly in which the coil spring that supports the vehicle weight sits on a lower-spring seat, which is part of the strut housing, to maintain vehicle height. |
| conventional theory
| The original theory of electricity that electrical current would flow from the positive potential to the negative potential. |
| conventional tire
| A term used for bias ply tire. |
| conventional-frame designs
| One of several frame designs ie ladder, x-frame, hourglass or perimeter frame |
| conversion
| The substitution of one element or component for another, as in substituting R-134a for R-12 in an automotive air-conditioning system; changing the fuel-type requirements of an engine; or changing ignition systems. |
| converter dolly
| An axle, frame, drawbar, and fifth-wheel arrangement that converts a semi-trailor into a full trailer. |
| converter pressure
| The operating pressure within the torque converter. |
| converter-signal pressure
| The pressure that signals the torque-converter, lockup clutch engagement. |
| convertible
| An automobile having a retractable or removable roof. |
| convertible top
| A vinyl or canvas soft-top roof system for two- or four-door vehicles that can be manually or automatically lowered and raised. |
| cook
| 1. To overheat, generally to the point of severe or irreparable damage. 2. To perform well as in "s/he's cookin'." |
| Cool Pack
| A trade name used to describe an early after-market hang-on or under-dash, after-market air-conditioning system. |
| coolant
| The fluid, consisting of water and antifreeze, that circulates throughout a liquid-cooling system, around hot engine parts, to remove the heat and prevent damage. |
| coolant circulation
| the movement of liquid throughout the cooling system by water pump action to move heat, generated by engine combustion, to the upper radiator section. |
| coolant fan
| An electrically- or mechanically-driven fan to increase air flow across the radiator to facilitate heat removal. |
| coolant jacket
| Hollow passages surrounding the cylinders in the block and the combustion chambers in the cylinder head. |
| coolant passages
| Coolant passages, called coolant jackets or water jackets, surround each cylinder in the block to provide a means to carry away unwanted engine heat. |
| coolant pump
| A term often used for water pump. A centrifugal-type pump used to circulate coolant through the cooling system. |
| coolant reservoir
| A tank used for storing excess coolant; connected to the cooling system with a small-diameter overflow hose. |
| Coolant Temperature Switch
| This is an "ON-OFF" switch that switches the cooling fan on and off at a perscribed temperature |
| coolant temperature-override switch
| A temperature-controlled vacuum device that prevents overheating during idle speed, associated with late ignition, by advancing the timing to increase engine-idle speed. |
| coolant thermostat
| A unit found in the coolant outlet of the engine to help prevent over-cooling conditions, especially during short trips. |
| coolant-fan relay
| A control device that is used to activate the electric-coolant fan at a pre-determined, high-coolant temperature. |
| coolant-recovery system
| A cooling system having a semisealed pressure cap, with a radiator-overflow hose leading into a separate plastic reservoir. This saves coolant during hot operation and returns it to the radiator when the system cools. |
| coolant-recovery tank
| A storage mainarea that is used in a coolant-recovery system. |
| coolant-temperature sensor
| A thermistor that sends a signal to the electronic control unit relative to the coolant temperature in a computerized engine-control system. |
| cooling coil
| 1. An evaporator. 2. An oil cooler. 3. An auxiliary cooler. |
| cooling method
| The method used to remove excess heat from an engine or system, such as air cooling or liquid cooling. |
| cooling system
| 1. An air conditioner. 2. A system of parts that circulates coolant through the engine to remove heat. 3. A system to remove heat from a heat-generating mechanism. |
| cooling-fan controller module
| An electronic unit that will cycle the cooling fan ON and OFF, in response to signals from other engine sensors. |
| cooling-system fan
| An electrically- or mechanically-driven rotating device, having four to seven pitched blades to move air past a heat exchanger, such as the radiator. |
| copolymer
| A substance made of giant molecules formed from the smaller molecules of two or more unlike substances. |
| copper (Cu)
| A reddish-colored metallic element, with great electrical properties; one of the oldest metals known. |
| copper gasket
| A gasket made of copper and used in high-temperature and pressure conditions. |
| copper sulfate
| A chemical used to detect chrome-plated cylinders and test crankshafts for Tuftriding. |
| copper-asbestos-copper gasket
| A gasket made of copper-clad asbestos; now rare and not used due to the dangers associated with asbestos fibers. |
| cord
| An inner material of textile, steel, fiberglass, or wire running through the polies of a tire that produce strength. |
| cord material
| A material, such as rayon, nylon, fiberglass, polyester, or steel used in tire construction to provide strength and maintain desired shape. |
| cord plies
| the layers of rubber-impregnated cord material molded in the sidewalls of the tire casing. |
| core
| 1. The interior of a hollow casing. 2. The coolant passages and fins of a radiator or heater found between the two header tanks. 3. A used part or assembly that is to be returned to the vendor for rebuilding. |
| core hole
| 1. A hole provided to facilitate sand casting. 2. A cavity in a casting caused by the shifting of the core during manufacturing. |
| core loss
| The electric los occurring in the core of an armature or transformer due to eddy currents, hysteresis, and like influences. |
| core plug
| A metal, cup-shaped disc in a cast component, such as the engine block, to seal openings required by the casting tools that may pop out to protect it from freezing damage. Also known as freeze plug. |
| core shift
| A condition where one side of a cylinder bore is thicker than the other side. |
| core-hole plug
| A plug used to provide a seal for a core hole. |
| cornering light
| Lamps in both sides of the vehicle body near the front that light up when the turn signals are activated and burn steady when the turn signal switch is in a turn position, providing additional illumination of the road in the direction of the turn. |
| Cornering Lights
| Lamps that illuminate when the turn signals are activated |
| Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFÉ)
| The fuel mileage standard for an automaker's line of vehicles set annually by the Department of Transportation (DOT). |
| corrosion
| The act of gnawing, or eating away portions of medials, a chemical action of Oxygen reacting to medials, Iron containing medials corrode in the form of rust. |
| corrosion inhibitors
| [1] An additive used to reduce the corrosion properties of gasoline. [2] also used in anti-freeze to protect the cooling system from the corrosion properties of water. |
| corrosive flux
| A flux composed of inorganic salts and acids, or activated rosin with a residue that chemically attacks the metal. |
| corrosive rain
| A form of pollution produced when sulfur and nitrogen are emitted into the air. Known as acid rain. |
| corrugated metal gasket
| Thin sheets of metal used as a gasket that is shaped into parallel grooves and ridges for added strength. |
| corsa
| Italian for course. |
| COSA
| An acronym for Carwash Owners and Suppliers Association, Inc. |
| Cosmoline
| A trade name for a heavy-grade lubricant used to protect machine surfaces. |
| cost of living allowance (COLA)
| An increase in stipends based on the average increase in the cost of living for any given period. |
| Cosworth
| A British racing-engine manufacturer. |
| COTS
| Coolant override temperature sensor |
| cough
| To damage or destroy an engine. |
| coulomb
| A unit used to define a quantity of electrons equal to 6.28 x 10 18 either stored as in a capacitor or moving as in an ampere . |
| counter
| A device, such as a register or computer-storage location, used to represent the number of occurrences of an event. |
| counter emf
| Induced voltage; the voltage opposing the applied voltage and the current in a coil, caused by a flow of current in the coil. |
| counterbalance
| A weight added to a rotating shaft or wheel to offset vibrations. |
| counterbored ring
| A compression piston ring with a counterbore on its inside diameter to promote cylinder sealing. |
| counterboring
| A machining process, related to drilling, using an end-cutting tool to concentrically enlarge a hole to a limited depth. |
| counterclockwise (CCW)
| A rotation to the left; as opposed to the direction of the rotation of clock hands. |
| counterclockwise rotation
| Rotating in the opposite direction of the hands on a clock. |
| counterelectromotive force
| [1] A term used for back emf or counter emf. [2] An induced voltage that opposes the source voltage |
| countergear
| An integral cluster of three or more various-sized gears, located in the lower transmission case, that revolve on a countershaft to provide the desired gear ratios, usually for second, low, and reverse. |
| countershaft
| 1. A shaft used in a V-8 engine to reduce the effects of imbalance. 2. Two shafts used in an I-4 engine to reduce the effects of imbalance. 3. The shaft that supports the cluster-gear set in a manual transmission and rotates in the opposite direction of the clutch and driveshaft. |
| countersinking
| A machining process, related to drilling, that bevels or recesses the material around the circumference of a hole. |
| counterweight
| 1. A weight that is cast opposite each offset connecting-rod journal to provide the necessary balance. 2. A weight that is added to a rotating shaft or member to offset vibration by balancing the part. |
| Counts
| Numerical value given to movement increments or steps of a digitally controlled output, such as the idle air control value |
| coupe (cpe)
| A car with a close-coupled passenger compartment. |
| coupe de ville
| A coupe with an open driver compartment and enclosed passenger compartment. |
| coupling
| An attachment where one mechanism or part drives another mechanism or part, to follow the movements of the first. |
| coupling phase
| the point in torque-converter operation where the turbine speed is 90% of the impeller speed, and there is no longer any torque multiplication. |
| coupling stage
| A term referring to the torque-converter turbine speed, as it closely approaches the impeller speed; occurs during higher speeds under light loads. |
| coupling yoke
| Two integral or separate Y-shaped components to which the universal-joint bearing cups are attached. |
| coupon
| 1. A piece of metal, of specified size, used for testing. 2. A piece of metal from which a test specimen may be prepared. |
| courtesy light
| Lamps that illuminate the vehicle interior and/or exterior when a door is opened, and are controlled from the headlight and for switches. |
| Covalent bonding
| when atoms share valence electrons with other atoms |
| covered electrode
| A composite filler metal consisting of a core of bare electrodes or a metal-cored electrode, with a covering sufficient to provide a slag layer on the weld metal. |
| cowl
| That part of a vehicle between the passenger compartment and engine to which the windshield and dashboard are attached. |
| cowl air intake
| The inlet at the base of the windshield that allows outside air to enter the heater/air-conditioning system, or driver/passenger compartment of the vehicle. |
| CP
| [1] acronym for crank position [2] acronym for canister purge |
| CPA
| Connector position assurance |
| CPCS
| Canister purge control solenoid |
| CPCV
| Canister purge control valve |
| CPDV
| Choke pull-off delay valve |
| cpe
| An acronym for coupe. |
| CPP
| Clutch pedal position |
| CPRV
| Canister purge regulator valve |
| CPS
| Crank position sensor or cycles per second or canister purge solenoid or central power supply |
| CPSV
| Canister purge solenoid valve |
| CPTVS
| Canister purge thermal vacuum switch |
| CPU
| An acronym for central processing unit. |
| CPVDV
| Canister purge vacuum delay valve |
| Cr
| [1] Chromium An element with the atomic number of 24 [2] acronym for compression ratio |
| cracked
| 1. Broken. 2. A term often used for the mid-position of a two-way valve. |
| crank
| 1. A crankshaft. 2 To start an engine. 3. To go fast. |
| crank kit
| A reconditioned crankshaft with the appropriate rod and main bearings. |
| crank pin
| The rod journal of a crankshaft. |
| crank rpm
| A measurement that is required for an electronic engine-control system to determine when ignition should occur. |
| crank signal
| An electrical signal sent to the computer, to tell it that the engine is cranking and to enrich the air/fuel ratio for easier starting. |
| crank start
| To start an internal-combustion engine by hand cranking. |
| crank web
| That part of a crankshaft that is between a crankpin and a main bearing. |
| crankcase
| The lower section of the engine that supports the crankshaft, confined by the lower block casting and the oil pan. |
| crankcase breather
| A tube or vent that allows excessive crankcase pressure to escape. |
| crankcase dilution
| The thinning of oil in the crankcase, caused by the condensation of gasoline due to blow-by, and by seepage past the piston rings. |
| crankcase emissions
| Fumes that leave the crankcase by way of an open or closed ventilation system. |
| crankcase fumes
| Vapors inside the crankcase that could contaminate the air, including unburned fuel vapors, water vapor, or blow-by gases. Also known as crankcase vapors. |
| crankcase pressure
| The pressure produced in the crankcase from blow-by gases. |
| crankcase vapors
| Fumes inside the crankcase, caused by blow-by, that could contaminate the air, including unburned fuel vapors, water vapor, or blow-by gases. Also known as crankcase fumes. |
| crankcase ventilation
| A tube or vent that allows excessive crankcase pressure to escape. |
| cranking circuit
| The starting motor and its associated circuit, including battery, relay (solenoid), ignition switch, neutral safety switch, cables, and wires. |
| cranking motor
| A special high-torque electric motor designed for the purpose of cranking the engine for starting. |
| Cranking Retard Module
| Ingition module which frachers a circuit that retards the ignition timing up to 18 degrees |
| crankshaft
| 1. A revolving part mounted in the lower portion of the engine block. 2. That part of a reciprocating compressor on which the wobble plate or connecting rods are attached. |
| crankshaft arm
| A connector between the two rod journals and the main bearing on the crankshaft. |
| crankshaft counterbalance
| A term used for crankcase counterweight. |
| crankshaft counterweight
| A weight that is cast opposite each offset connecting-rod journal, to provide the necessary balance. |
| crankshaft end-play
| A specified crankshaft endwise motion controlled by side flanges on one of the main bearings. |
| crankshaft gear
| A gear or sprocket found on the front end of the crankshaft that is used, directly or indirectly, to drive the camshaft. |
| crankshaft main journal
| That part of the crankshaft, ground around and polished smooth, around which the closely-fitted main bearings surround the journals and support the crankshaft. |
| crankshaft oil passage
| Holes drilled through the crankshaft to permit oil to flow from the main bearings to the connecting-rod bearings. |
| Crankshaft Position Sensor
| Mounted immediately in front of the cylinder block and aligned with the crankshaft pulse ring: relays the actual position of the chranshaft to the Power Train Control Module |
| crankshaft pulley
| A pulley fitting on the front of the crankshaft. |
| crankshaft seal
| 1. A rubber-like seal around an engine crankshaft to prevent the leakage of oil. 2. A rubber-like and/or ceramic seal surrounding the compressor crankshaft to prevent the leakage of oil and/or refrigerant. |
| crankshaft throw
| One crankpin with two webs. |
| crankshaft thrust collar
| A disc-shaped, machined surface between the main bearing and the two rod journals on the crankshaft. |
| crash
| A serious computer failure. |
| crash box
| A manual transmission with straight-cut, non-synchromesh gears. |
| crash sensor
| Normally open, gold-plated, electrical switches that are designed to closes when subjected to a predetermined impact. |
| crazing
| Fine cracks that may extend in a network on or under the surface of a material, often occurring in the presence of an organic liquid or vapor. |
| CRC
| [1] CRC industries A chemical company providing chemicals for automotive and other industries |
| cream hardener
| An activating ingredient for a plastic-filler material, such Bondo. |
| cream puff
| A vehicle that is in especially fine condition. |
| creature comforts
| Any options or amenities that improve vehicle driving or riding pleasures. |
| crescent
| 1. A concave and convex shape. 2. A short roadway curved in a half circle. |
| critical pressure
| The pressure at which a gas becomes unstable. |
| critical temperature
| The temperature at which a flammable gas will ignite. |
| crocus cloth
| A very fine-grit sandpaper that is used to clean or polish parts, such as a crankcase. |
| cross
| The central component of the U-joint connecting the input and output yokes. |
| Cross Fire
| The undesired firing of a spark plug |
| cross heads
| A T-shaped part on a diesel engine to open and close two valves at one time. |
| cross lock
| A holding device used with automatic-throttle cable adjusters. |
| cross section
| A section formed by a plane cutting through an object, generally at 90 degrees to the centerline to show interior details in a drawing. |
| cross up
| To lose control of a vehicle, allowing it to spin and skid out of control. |
| Cross-Circuit Short
| A current flow path between hot wires in two different circuits |
| cross-drilled crank
| A crankshaft having two oil passages at right angles to each other in the main journal to provide extra lubrication for the main and rod bearings. |
| cross-groove joint
| A disc-shaped, inner, constant-velocity universal joint that bolts to a transaxle stub flange and uses balls and V-shaped grooves on the inner and outer races to accommodate the plunging motion of the half-shaft. |
| crossbolt main cap
| A main-bearing cap that is secured with two down-facing bolts and two bolts that intersect at right angles. |
| crossfire
| The electromagnetic-induction spark that can be transmitted in another wire close to the wire carrying the current. |
| crossfire injection
| A type of throttle-body injection system that uses two injectors mounted on the manifold. Each injector feeds a cylinder on the opposite side by using a crossover port. |
| crossflow head
| A cylinder head having its intake ports on one side and the exhaust ports on the other side. |
| crossflow radiator
| A radiator in which the coolant flow is from one side to the other. |
| crosshatch
| 1. A honing pattern that is required in a cylinder to maintain the correct amount of oil retention and to facilitate ring rotation. 2. A series of crisscrossing lines that indicate a specific area in a drawing or diagram. |
| crossmember
| A part of the underbody structure of a vehicle that extends from one side of the frame to the other or from one side of the unibody to the other. Usually removable to gain access for repair. |
| crossover network
| An electrical circuit that routes different frequencies to the woofer, midrange, and tweeter in a multiple-speaker system. |
| crossover pipe
| A pipe used to connect both sides of an exhaust system to equalize the pressure. |
| crossover tube
| A tube that is used to transmit liquid or gases in or around an engine. |
| crowd
| An accelerator action that maintains a constant manifold-vacuum reading, requiring a progressive opening of the ;throttle as the vehicle speed is increased. |
| crown
| The top surface of a piston. |
| crown gear
| The ring gear in a differential. |
| crown wheel
| A term often used for crown gear. |
| Crownwheel
| English term for Flywheel Ring Gear |
|
Auto & Car Glossary