| t
| 1. Tan. 2. (T) Model T Ford. 3. (T) Any hot rod based on Model T. stock, repro chassis, and/or body. |
| T-bone
| For one vehicle to strike another broad side. |
| T-bucket
| A Model T Ford roadster |
| T-head engine
| A flathead engine having intake valves on one side and exhaust valves on the other side of the cylinders. |
| T-top
| A partially removable car roof with panels above both front doors that may be lifted out. |
| T-tub
| A term used for T-bucket. |
| T/C
| Turbocharged |
| Ta
| Tantalum An element with the atomic number of 73 |
| TAA
| Throttle actuator assembly |
| TAB
| Thermactor air bypass |
| TAB/TAD
| Thermactor air bypass/thermactor air diverter |
| table
| The outer surface of a brake shoe to which the lining is attached. |
| TABPV
| Thermactor air bypass valve or throttle air bypass valve |
| TAC
| An acronym for thermostatically controlled air cleaner |
| TAC-AD
| Thermactor air cleaner-air diverter |
| TAC-BMS
| Thermactor air cleaner-bi-metallic sensor |
| TAC-CV
| Thermactor air cleaner-check valve |
| TAC-DV
| Thermactor air cleaner-delay valve |
| TAC-PVC
| Thermactor air cleaner-ported vacuum switch |
| TAC-RDV
| Thermactor air cleaner-reverse delay valve |
| TAC-RDVS
| Thermactor air cleaner-reverse delay valve single |
| TAC-TCV
| Thermactor air cleaner-thermal control valve |
| TAC-TS
| Thermactor air cleaner-temperature sensor |
| TAC-TSOV
| Thermactor air cleaner-temperature sensor override valve |
| TAC-TV
| Thermactor air cleaner-thermal vacuum valve |
| TAC-TVS
| Thermactor air cleaner-thermal vacuum switch |
| TAC-VCDV
| Thermactor air cleaner-vacuum control delay valve |
| TAC-VCV
| Thermactor air cleaner-vacuum control valve |
| TAC-VM
| Thermactor air cleaner-vacuum motor |
| TAC-WP
| Thermactor air cleaner-wax pellet type motor |
| tach
| an acronym for tachometer |
| tach-dwell-meter
| An instrument used to measure engine speed and distributor dwell |
| tachometer
| An instrument used to measure engine speed |
| tack cloth
| A varnish-coated cheese cloth having a tacky surface used to clean metal prior to painting. |
| tack weld
| A weld made to hold the parts of a work piece in proper alignment until the final weld can be made. |
| TAD
| Thermactor air diverter |
| tag axle
| The rearmost axle of a tandem-axle tractor used to increase the load-carrying capacity if the vehicle. |
| tail lights
| Lights used on the rear of a vehicle. |
| tailgate
| 1. The rear opening of a truck, station wagon or van. 2. To follow another vehicle closely. |
| tailpipe
| 1. The pipe from the muffler or catalytic converter to the rear of the vehicle 2. The outlet pipe from the evaporator to the compressor. |
| tall block
| An engine assembly consisting of a short block and a cylinder head. |
| tall gears
| A final drive assembly with a high gear ratio. |
| tall-deck engine
| An engine-block design height that permits a longer crank stroke. |
| TAME (Tertiary Amyl Methyl Ether)
| An ether manufactured by reacting methanol with isoamylene. The resulting ether is high octane and of low volatility. |
| tandem
| One directly in front of another and working together, such as the rear axles of a tractor. |
| tandem booster
| A power brake vacuum booster with two small diaphragms in tandem to provide added vacuum force. |
| tandem master cylinder
| A master cylinder that consists of a single bore with two pistons and separate fluid compression chambers used with "split" braking systems to ensure that there will be some braking power in one breaking circuit, even if there is a fluid loss in the other. |
| tandem-axle drive
| A type of drive that combines two single axles through the use of an interaxle differential or power divider and a short shaft that connects the two. |
| tandem-axle suspension
| A suspension consisting of two axles with a means for equalizing weight between them. |
| tang
| A projection peace of metal such as the peace on the end of the torque converter on an automatic transmission, used to rotate the oil pump |
| tank
| A mainarea for vapor or liquid such as an expansion tank of a fuel tank |
| tank unit
| That part of a fuel-indicating system that is mounter in the fuel tank |
| tank-vapor space
| The area above the fuel level provided as a breathing space for the liquid-vapor separator and to compensate for expansion of the fuel by heat |
| taper
| a cylindrical part, solid or hollow, that is larger at one end than at the other either by design or by wear |
| taper-bored piston pins
| Piston pins having tapered bores to reduce weight and add strength |
| tapered roller bearing
| A specific kind of baring that is based on tapered steel rollers held togather in a cage riding in a tapered seat. |
| tapped resistor
| A fixed resistor having tow or more taps to provide different resistance values, as for fan speed control |
| tappet
| A mechanical, solid-valve lifter located between the camshaft and valve stem, usually on an L-head engine |
| TARA
| An acronym for Truck-frame and Axle Repair Association |
| targa
| A two-passenger convertible with a roll bar behind the seat, introduced by Porsche in 1965. |
| tarpaulin
| 1 A cover used to protect the passenger compartment of an open car when the seat is not occupied. 2 A cover used to protect the cargo bed of a pickup truck |
| task manager
| PCM software designed to manage, regulate and perform various monitor testing. |
| TAVIA
| Temperature activated vacuum ignition advance |
| taxable horsepower
| The power of a vehicle engine calculated by a formula providing a uniform comparison that is used for licensing vehicles in some areas. |
| TB
| [1] Throttle body; [2] Terbium An element with the atomic number of 65 |
| TBA
| Throttle body assembly |
| TBI
| An acronym for Throttle-body injection system |
| TBL
| Thermal blower lockout |
| TBPCS
| Throttle bypass control system |
| TC
| [1] Turbocharged or turbocharger; [2] Technetium An element with the atomic number of 43 |
| TC-DV
| Throttle closing-delay valve |
| TC-TVS
| Throttle closing-thermal vacuum switch |
| TC-VS
| Throttle closing-vacuum switch |
| TCA
| Throttle control actuator |
| TCC
| Torque converter clutch r transmission converter clutch or transaxle converter clutch or three-way catalytic converter |
| TCCS
| Toyota computer control system |
| TCD
| Throttle closing dashpot |
| TCI
| Transistorized coil ignition |
| TCI-h
| Transistorized coil ignition-hall |
| TCI-I
| Transistorized coil ignition-induction |
| TCI-k
| Transistorized coil ignition-contact |
| TCIL
| Transmission control indicator lamp |
| TCM
| Transmission control module |
| TCP
| Acronym for Transmission Control Protocol; one of the main protocols in TCP/IP networks. |
| TCP/IP
| An acronym for Transmission Control Protocol Internet Protocol; The suite of communications protocols used to connect hosts on the internet. |
| TCS
| An acronym for 1. Traction Control System A system that attempts to control wheel spin during acceleration on slick road surfaces. 2. An acronym for transmission controlled spark |
| TCV
| Thermactor check valve or thermal control valve |
| TD
| Thermactor diverter |
| TD/TAC
| Trap door/thermostic air cleaner |
| TDC
| An acronym for top dead center |
| TDCL
| Total diagnostic communication link |
| TDDV
| Trap door delay valve |
| TDR
| Time delay relay |
| Te
| [1] Tellurium An element with the atomic number of 52 [2] A racing term for Top Eleminator |
| Tech 1
| A scantool recommended by GM for computer diagnosis |
| technical inspection
| The examination of vehicles before an event to ensure that they conform to the rules. |
| technical service bulletins
| (TSB) The periodic information provided by the vehicle manufacturers regarding any problems encountered |
| technician
| One involved in the design, operation, service or repair of a vehicle. |
| tee pee exhaust
| An exhaust system for the Volkswagen Beetle engine. |
| teething troubles
| Having difficulties with a new part or with a new vehicle. |
| Teflon pin bottom
| A Teflon piston-pin retainer that fits between the pin and cylinder wall. |
| TEL
| An acronym for tetraethyl lead. |
| telescoping shock absorber
| A shock having certain working parts that move in and out during compression and rebound. |
| television-radio-suppression cables
| A term used for spark plug wires or high tension cables. |
| tell-tale light
| short for Dash warning light or Ideate light |
| temp stick
| Short for temperature stick. |
| temper
| 1. The measure of a metal's hardness 2. To heat treat metal to reduce brittleness. |
| temperature
| A measure of heat intensity. |
| temperature coefficient
| The amount of change in the characteristics of a substance, device, or circuit for a given change in temperature. |
| temperature gauge
| A device that provides a visual indication of temperature. |
| temperature glide
| The range of an evaporating or condensing temperature for a given pressure. |
| temperature indicator
| A gauge or lamp to warn of an overcooling or overheating condition. |
| temperature rating
| The temperature-resistance ratings that indicate a tire's ability to withstand heat. |
| temperature sending unit
| A device in contact with the engine coolant that changes resistance, depending on its temperature, and sends a voltage signal to the gauge or lamp. |
| temperature sensing bulb
| A term used for remote bulb. |
| temperature stick
| A stick-like crayon designed to melt at a specific temperature when rubbed on a heated surface. |
| temperature-regulated valve
| A term used for hot-gas bypass valve. |
| temporary strainer
| A device installed during the run-in period of a new or rebuilt system, intended to remove coarse debris particles present in the system. After a suitable period it is removed, cleaned, and stored for future use. |
| temporary-use-only spare tire
| A term used for compact spare tire. |
| ten tenths
| Great performance by an individual. |
| tensile failure
| Failure in a synchronous belt drive caused by mishandling, misalignment, overloading, shock loads, or by large debris entering into the drive. |
| tensile force
| The moving force that slides or pulls an object over a surface. |
| tensile member
| The muscle of the belt whose purpose is to withstand the tension that is imposed to transmit the desired power. |
| tensile strength
| The maximum tension a metal can withstand without breaking. |
| tension-loaded ball joint
| A suspension component mounted in the lower control arm with the ball-joint stud facing upward into the knuckle so the vehicle weight tends to pull the ball out of the joint. |
| tenths
| A measure of personal performance as rated on a scale of one-tenth to ten-tenths. |
| tera
| The prefix representing the number 1,000,000,000,000 |
| terminal
| 1. A battery post or connector 2. An electrical connector. 3. The point where two or more conductors are connected |
| terminal speed
| The maximum speed, in drag racing, that a vehicle achieves when passing through the traps at the end of the strip. |
| ternary
| Having three parts, elements, or divisions. |
| TES
| Thermal electric switch |
| test lamp
| A term used for test light. |
| test light
| A small, non-powered or self-powered light used to determine electrical continuity in a circuit. |
| test wheel
| A controlled procedure by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to perform laboratory tests for temperature-resistance testing of automotive tires as determined by how long the tire lasts on the test wheel. The ratings are A, B, or C, with an A rating having the best temperature resistance. |
| tetrachloroethylene
| A chlorinated cleaning solvent with four chlorine atoms per molecule. |
| tetraethyl lead (TEL)
| A chemical, Pb, once added to gasoline to increase its octane and aid in lubrication of the valves. Lead damages catalytic converters and oxygen sensors and therefore cannot be used in vehicles designed to operate on unleaded fuel. Leaded gasoline is no longer sold in the United States. |
| tetrafluoroethane
| The chemical name for the "ozone-friendly" refrigerant commonly known as HFC-134a or, more simply, R-134a. |
| TFI Thick-film integration
| The name of a Ford electronic ignition system. |
| TGS
| Top gear switch |
| Th
| Thorium An element with the atomic number of 90 |
| Thermactor
| An air pump or air-aspirator, air-injection system by Ford. |
| Thermactor pump
| A device that injects ambient air into the exhaust system. |
| thermal
| Pertaining to heat or the energy of heat.. |
| thermal cutting
| A cutting process that removes metal by localized melting, burning, or vaporizing of the work piece. |
| thermal delay fuse
| A device once used in conjunction with the compressor protection switch that heats and blows a fuse to stop a compressor action during abnormal operation. |
| thermal efficience
| The difference between potential and actual energy developed in a fuel measured in Btu's per pound or gallon (kilogram or liter). |
| thermal fuse
| A temperature-sensitive fuse link designed so that it melts at a certain temperature and opens a circuit. |
| thermal limiter
| An electrical or mechanical device, similar to a fuse, that opens at 300 degrees F to control the intensity or quantity of heat. |
| thermal reactor
| An obsolete early attempt of an emissions-control device comprising a large, heavy, exhaust manifold in which hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide that escape from the cylinders are oxidized. |
| thermal stability
| The ability of a device to reach and maintain a specific temperature for a long period of time. |
| thermic reaction
| The chemical reaction between metal oxide and aluminum that produces superheated molten metal and a slag containing aluminum oxide. |
| thermistor
| [1] A resister that changes it's resistance in relationship to the temperature surrounding it |
| thermocouple
| Thermoelectric couple used to measure temperature. |
| thermoelectric meters
| A type of dash instrument that uses heat created by current flow through the gauge to deflect the indicator needle |
| thermoelectric principle
| The production of a voltage potential created by heating the connection of two dissimilar metals. |
| thermostat
| 1. A driver-operated device used to cycle the clutch to control the rate of refrigerant flow as a means of temperature control 2. A temperature-sensitive component located in a housing at the coolant outlet of the engine that restricts coolant flow to the radiator to maintain the desired engine-operating temperatures. Often referred to as Ranco control. |
| thermostatic air cleaner
| An engine air-cleaner assembly that controls the temperature of the intake air by blending relatively cool underhood or outside air with relatively hot air picked up fro a shroud over the exhaust manifold. |
| thermostatic clutch control
| A method of temperature control using a thermostat to cycle a clutch on and off. |
| thermostatic de-icing switch
| A thermostat that prevents the evaporator from icing up due to low temperature conditions. |
| thermostatic expansion valve
| The component of a refrigeration system that regulates the rate of flow of refrigerant into the evaporator as governed by the action of the remote bulb-sensing tailpipe temperatures. |
| thermostatic gauge
| A type of gauge used to indicate fuel level, oil pressure, and engine-coolant temperature. |
| thermostatic pressure valve
| A valve that opens and loses in relation to temperature changes. |
| thermostatic switch
| A term used for thermostat. |
| thermostatic vacuum switch (TVS)
| A valve that controls the passage of vacuum according to temperature, blocking vacuum until a certain coolant temperature is reached, at which point it opens. |
| thermostatic vacuum valve (TVV)
| A valve that is operational with a vacuum signal that is proportional to an applied temperature. |
| thermostatically controlled air cleaner (TCAC)
| A device used to regulate the temperature of the air entering the engine air cleaner as an aid in reducing emissions. |
| thermosyphon
| The flow of coolant in a heat exchanger, such as a radiator, that is possible by the difference in densities of heated and cooled fluid. |
| Thexton
| An aftermarket tool manufacturer |
| thin wall guide
| An insert that may be used to repair a damaged valve guide. |
| thinner
| A solvent used to reduce the viscosity of a liquid. |
| third gauge
| A low-side gauge used to check pressure drop across a suction-pressure regulator at the compressor inlet on some car lines. |
| third member
| A differential. |
| thou
| A term used for thousandths, as in a measurement or thousands, as in revolutions per minute. |
| thousand
| A number equal to ten times one hundred. |
| thousandths
| One part of a thousand. |
| thread class
| A standard designation to indicate the closeness of fit between two threaded parts, such as a bolt and nut. |
| thread series
| A standard designation of the number of threads and their pitch per unit, inch or millimeter. |
| threaded fastener
| Any of several types of components that hold parts together in assembly by interference of screw threads with mating threads in another component, such as capscrews, self-threading screws, stud-and-nut, and bolt-and-nut assemblies. |
| threaded insert
| A threaded coil that is used to repair a damaged internal thread. |
| three on the tree
| A three-speed manual transmission having a column-mounted shifter. |
| three phase
| A type of electrical power such as that produced by an alternator. |
| three piece valve
| An intake or exhaust valve made of three different types of material in the head, stem, and tip. |
| Three way monolithic Catalytic Converter
| A converter that contains Rhodium in the first bed to reduce NOx emissions and Plattadium and Platinum in the second bed to change HC to H2O and CO to CO2 A monolithic Converter has a one piece construction |
| three-mode cycle
| A quick test procedure to study the causes of high emissions performed on a dynamometer under load or in a service bay without a load. |
| three-speed differential
| A type of two-speed axle arrangement with the capability of operating both axles at a different speed at the same time. The third speed is actually an intermediate speed between the high and low range. |
| three-speed transmission
| A transmission providing three forward-gear ratios, one reverse gear ratio and neutral. |
| three-way catalyst (TWC)
| A catalytic converter that oxidizes hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide and reduces oxides of nitrogen emissions. It has a chamber upstream handling reduction, and one downstream handling oxidation. |
| three-window coupe
| A coupe without rear-quarter windows. |
| threshold limit value
| The percentage, in parts per million (ppm), of refrigeration in atmospheric air above which a human can become drowsy or have loss of concentration. |
| Threshold Voltage Level
| The level a voltage must attain to activate a circuit or component |
| throat
| 1. The lower part of a connecting rod 2. A carburetor barrel. |
| throttle
| 1. A hand control to adjust engine speed 2. An accelerator pedal. |
| throttle body
| The housing of a throttle-body injection system that contains the valve. |
| throttle cut-out relay
| A term used for wide-open-throttle cut-out relay. |
| throttle plate
| A term used for throttle valve. |
| throttle position sensor
| A variable three-wire resistor-type electrical sensor which sends a signal to the electronic control unit relative to the throttle position. |
| throttle pressure
| The transmission hydraulic pressure that is directly related to engine load. Throttle pressure, which increases with throttle opening and engine torque output, is one of the principle pressures used to control shift points. |
| throttle return check
| A dashpot. |
| throttle solenoid positioner
| An electric device that holds the throttle plate in the hot-idle position and closes it when the ignition switch is turned off. |
| throttle valve
| A flap valve that controls the amount of air admitted into the induction system. |
| throttle-body injection
| A term used for throttle-body injection system. |
| throttle-body injection system (TBI)
| A fuel-injection system that resembles a carburetor and has fuel injectors located in a common throttle body. It provides many of the advantages of fuel injection, such as easier starting and lower emissions, without the cost and complexity of a multiport-injection system. |
| throttling valve
| A term used for throttle valve, suction throttling valve, or evaporator pressure regulator. |
| throw
| 1. A connecting rod journal on a crankshaft 2. The number of output circuits on a switch. |
| throw a rod
| 1. A loose connecting-rod bearing 2. A broken connecting rod that has been forced through the block or oil pan. |
| throwout bearing
| The clutch-release bearing. |
| thrust angle
| The angle between the geometric centerline and the thrust line of a vehicle. |
| thrust bearing
| A bearing or a part of the main bearing that limits end-to-end movement of the crankshaft. |
| thrust line
| The bisector of total toe on the rear wheels, or the direction in which the rear wheels are pointing. |
| thrust load
| Load placed on a part that is parallel with the center of the axis. |
| thrust plate
| A retainer that positions the camshaft in an OHV engine and limits its end-to-end movement. |
| thrust surface
| the area of a crank or block that absorbs end-to-end thrust pressure. |
| thrust washer
| A washer that is capable of supporting a thrust load. |
| THS
| Transmission hydraulic switch |
| THS 3/2
| Transmission hydraulic switch 3rd/2nd gear |
| THS 4/3
| Transmission hydraulic switch 4th/3rd gear |
| thumbnail grooves
| Small grooves in a thrust bearing that provide a path for lubrication to the thrust surfaces. |
| Thyristor
| A semiconductor switching device composed of alternating N and P layers used to rectify current from AC to DC |
| TI
| [1] Transistorized ignition [2] Titanium An element with the atomic number of 22 |
| TI3
| Transistorized ignition 3 pin module |
| TI5
| Transistorized ignition 5 pin module |
| Tickover
| English term for Idle |
| TICV
| Thermal ignition control valve |
| TIDC
| Thermostatic ignition distributor control |
| tie rod
| The linkage between the idler arm or pitman arm and the steering arm. |
| tie-rod coupling
| A threaded sleeve between the tie rod and the tie-rod end providing lengthwise adjustment to set front-wheel toe in. |
| tie-rod end
| A pivoting ball and socket joint located near the outer end of the tie rod used to connect the tie rods to the center link and to the steering arms. |
| TIG
| An acronym for tungsten inert gas. |
| TIG weld
| A welding process using tungsten (W) and inert gas such as Argon (Ar). |
| Tijuana chrome
| Silver, chrome, or aluminum spray paint. |
| tilt steering wheel
| A type of steering wheel that can be tilted to various angles to provide for driver comfort and convenience. |
| Time Base
| Oscilloscope circuitry that controls the timing od the sweep. The time base is set by the opperator in seconds / divitions |
| time constant
| The time in seconds required for a capacitor to attain 63.2% of its final charge. Also a measure of the time in seconds it takes for current flowing in an inductance to build to 63.2% of its final value. |
| time guide
| A reference, providing average time required to perform specific repairs or service to a motor vehicle, that may be used as a labor charge based on an hourly rate. |
| time trials
| Timed runs for individual race vehicles, usually to determine starting positions for a race. |
| time, speed, and distance (TSD)
| A type of rally where the object is to cover the greatest distance in the shortest period of time without exceeding the speed limit. |
| timing
| 1. The combustion spark delivery in relation to the piston position 2. The procedure of marking the appropriate teeth of a gear set prior to installation and placement in proper mesh 3. The time relationship between reference clock signals in a computer and other control signals, e.g. other inputs or outputs that control the action or response of a circuit. |
| timing belt
| The belt through which the crankshaft drives the camshaft or camshafts in an overhead valve or overhead cam engine. |
| timing chain
| The chain through which the crankshaft drives the camshaft or camshafts in an overhead valve or overhead cam engine. |
| timing diagram
| A graphical method used to identify the time in which all of the events of the four-stroke engine operate. |
| Timing Disc
| Also Known as an armature, reluctor, trigger wheel, pulse wheel, or timing core. Itis used to conduct lines of magnetic force and indacate piston position |
| timing gear
| the gear or gears through which the crankshaft drives the camshaft or camshafts in an overhead valve or overhead cam engine. |
| timing light
| a stroboscopic tool used to check the precise timing of a conventional ignition, adjusted by loosening the holddown bolt and turning the distributor. |
| timing valve
| a device in the fuel-injector pump which times the delivery of fuel to the injectors. |
| tin
| 1. An element (Sn) 2. A term often used for metal. |
| tin indian
| A Pontiac. |
| tin knocker
| One who repairs auto bodies. |
| tin top
| A vehicle with a fully enclosed body. |
| tin work
| Auto bodywork. |
| tin worker
| One that works on vehicle bodies. |
| tinny
| A station wagon having an all metal body. |
| tip insert
| A term used for leaf-tip insert. |
| tip the can
| To increase the ratio of nitro in a racing-fuel mixture. |
| tip-in hesatation
| |
| tire
| 1. An air-filled or solid covering for a wheel, normally of rubber 2. A device made of rubber, fabric and other materials that, when filled with fluid or gas under pressure and mounted on a wheel, cushions and sustains the imposed load. Tires contribute to the ride and steering quality of a vehicle and play a significant role in vehicle safety. Tires must be designed to carry the weight of the vehicle, transfer braking and driving torque to the road, and withstand side thrust over varying speeds and conditions. |
| tire aspect ratio
| a term used for aspect ratio. Also known as series number. |
| tire balancing
| The procedure of using special equipment for identifying the lighter portions of a tire and adding weights until opposite tire sections weigh the same. |
| tire bead
| a term used for bead. |
| tire belt
| A term used for belt. |
| tire black
| A black liquid dressing used to refresh the appearance of tires. |
| tire carcass
| The plies that make up the underbody of the tire. |
| tire casing
| Layers of cord called plies on which the rubber tread is applied. |
| tire chain
| Specialty chains which may be placed over the tires to improve traction when driving on ice or snow; typically used in emergency situations such as driving on snow-covered or ice-covered mountain roads. |
| tire coding
| Information required by federal legislation to be placed on all tires, such as: manufacturer and tire name, size designation, maximum load-carrying characteristics, limit, and range, a ten-digit Department of Transportation serial number indicating where and when it was made, and the letter A, B, or C, indicating conformity to a uniform tire quality grading system. |
| tire conicity
| A condition where the plies and/or belts are not level across the tire tread and are somewhat cone shaped. This causes a pull to one side as the car is driven straight ahead if the tires are on the front of the vehicle. |
| tire construction
| A typical, modern, tire-construction design has two wire beads, bead filler, liner, steel reinforcement in the sidewall, sidewall with hard side compound, rayon carcass plies, steel belts, jointless belt cover, hard under-tread compound, and hard high-grip tread compound. |
| tire contact area
| the footprint, patch, or patch area of the tire that is in contact with the road surface when the tire is supporting the vehicle weight. |
| tire deflection
| The difference between the free diameter and the rolling diameter of the tire. |
| tire design
| The three basic tire construction designs are based on the arrangement of the body plies: bias, belted radial, and belted bias. A bias-ply tire is constructed with the plies arranged on a bias crossing each other, A belted radial-ply tire is constructed with plies that run at right angles to the circumference of the tire. A belted bias-ply tire is constructed with reinforcing belts beneath the tread section. |
| tire free diameter
| The free diameter of a tire is the distance of a horizontal line through the center of the spindle and wheel to the outer edges of the thread. |
| tire function
| 1. To cushion the vehicle ride to provide a comfortable ride for the occupant; reduces jolts to the vehicle caused by road irregularities 2. To support the vehicle weight 3. To develop traction to drive and steer the vehicle under a wide variety of road conditions 4. To contribute to the directional stability of the vehicle, and absorb all the stresses of accelerating, braking, and centrifugal force in turns. |
| Tire Industry Safety Council (TISC)
| A public education organization. |
| tire inflation
| air pressure inside the tire, measured in pounds per square inch (psi) or kiloPascal (kPa), checked when tire is cool or has been driven less than one mile. |
| tire inflation label
| A label required by federal law and is usually placed on the inner glovebox door or on the left hand door post. |
| tire life expectancy
| The expected service life of a ire based on its tread wear rating and uniform tire quality grading. |
| tire load range
| The load-carrying capacity of a tire, expressed in letters A through L. The load range letters replace the older method pf rating tire strength by the number of plies used in its construction. |
| tire manufacturer's code
| A term for manufacturer's code. |
| tire mixing
| Having more than one size tire on a vehicle. Tires should be replaced only with those recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. Using incorrect or improper tires can cause the vehicle to handle improperly and may result in an accident. |
| tire motion forces
| Forces that affect a tire in motion, including centrifugal, acceleration, and deceleration forces. |
| tire out of roundness
| The lateral runout or radial runout of a tire. |
| tire performance criteria
| Information molded on the tire sidewall indicating that the tire meets the manufacturer's performance standards for traction, endurance, dimensions, noise, handling, and rolling resistance. |
| tire placard
| A label that is permanently attached to the rear face of the driver's door of most vehicles providing information such as maximum vehicle load, tire size, including spare, and cold inflation pressure, including spare. |
| tire profile
| The profile of a tire is based on the width and height of a cross section of the tire determined by an aspect ratio equal to the section height divided by the section width. |
| tire pucker
| A tire tread that has pulled up on the edges due to mounting on a too-narrow wheel. |
| tire purposes
| A term used for tire functions. |
| tire rim
| A term used for wheel rim. |
| tire rolling diameter
| The distance of a perpendicular straight line through the center of the spindle to the outer edges of the tread when the tire is supporting the vehicle weight. |
| tire rotation
| Swapping tires around to various positions, as prescribed by the tire manufacturer, on the vehicle to equalize tire wear. |
| tire runout
| The lateral runout and radial runout of a tire. |
| tire scrub
| The sliding of a tire at an angle to the direction that it is pointed. |
| tire shimmy
| An out-of-balance condition called wheel shimmy. |
| tire sidewall
| That area of the tire between the "bead" and the "tread pattern" made from an abrasive-resistant blend of rubber, which absorbs shocks and impacts from road irregularities and prevents damage to the plies. |
| tire stagger
| Providing different size tires on each side of the axle of an oval-track race car to compensate for all left turns. |
| tire tramp
| A term used for wheel tramp. |
| tire tread
| A term used for tread. |
| tire trueing
| Procedure of "rounding" a tire by removing rubber so the tread face forms a true circle. This is done by removing high-tread areas while revolving the tire. |
| tire valve stem
| A term used for valve stem. |
| tire waddle
| The side-to-side movement at the front and/or rear of the vehicle caused by the steel belt not being straight within the tire. This is most noticeable at low speeds of 5 to 30 mph (8 to 48.3 km/hr). |
| tire wear pattern
| A term used for wear pattern. |
| tire's area of contact
| a term used for footprint or tire contact area. |
| tire-speed rating
| A tire rating that specifies the speed at which the tire can be safely used and does not suggest that a vehicle can be driven safely at the designated speed, because of various road and weather conditions that may be encountered. Also the condition of the vehicle may affect high-speed operation. |
| TISC
| An acronym for Tire Industry Safety Council. |
| TIV
| Thermactor idle vacuum |
| TK
| Throttle kicker |
| TKA
| Throttle kicker actuator |
| TKS
| Throttle kicker solenoid |
| Tl
| Thallium An element with the atomic number of 81 |
| TLUC
| Transmission lock-up converter |
| TLUC-TVS
| Transmission lock-up converter-thermal vacuum switch |
| TLUC-VS
| Transmission lock-up converter-vacuum switch |
| TM
| [1] Throttle modulator [2] Thulium An element with the atomic number of 69 |
| TMC
| An acronym for Tune-Up Manufacturers Council. |
| toe
| The end of the brake shoe against the anchor. |
| toe adjustment
| The methods provided by the manufacturer to move the front or rear wheels so there is a specified distance between a centerline of each front wheel, and the centerline of the rear wheels. |
| toe angle
| The difference in the distance between the centerline of the tires on either axle (front or rear) measured at the front and rear of the tires and at spindle height. |
| toe in
| The amount by which the front of a front wheel points inward. |
| toe out
| The amount by which the front of a front wheel points outward. |
| toe out on turns
| The difference between the angles each of the front wheels makes during a turn. |
| tolerance
| The allowable variation from a standard specification. |
| toluene
| 1. A colorless, flammable liquid hydrocarbon. C6H5CH3 , used as a cleaning solvent. |
| ton
| 1. A speed of 100 miles-per-hour 2. A unit of weight regarded as 2,000 pounds (907.2 kilograms). |
| ton of refrigeration
| The effect of melting one ton of ice in 24 hours, equal to 12,000 Btu per hour. |
| tongue weight
| The load applied to the hitch by the trailer tongue, equal to about 10-15 percent of the trailer gross weight. |
| tonneau cover
| Automotive classic jargon used for tarpaulin or bed cover. |
| tooling
| A set of required standard or special tools needed to produce a particular part, including jigs, fixtures, gauges, and cutting tools, but excluding machine tools. |
| tooth
| A projection on a gear rim or synchronous belt that meshes or engages with another component. |
| tooth cracks
| In asynchronous belt drive, tooth cracks and eventual tooth separation can be caused by under tensioning, over tensioning, or using a backside idler with too small a diameter or as a result of an under-designed belt drive. |
| tooth form
| The shape of the working surface of a sprocket tooth from the bottom of the seating curve up through the working faces to the tip of the tooth. |
| tooth separation
| A tooth crack. |
| TOP
| Transmission oil pressure |
| top dead center (TDC)
| The piston position at the top of its stroke. |
| top eliminator (TE)
| the overall winner in a series of drag races. |
| top end
| 1. High engine rpm; a point that horsepower is the greatest 2. The far end of a quarter-mile drag strip. |
| top fuel
| The hottest category in drag racing having cars capable of a quarter mile in less than five seconds, and a top speed of over 300 mph (482.7 km/h). |
| top inch
| The first downward inch of a piston stroke where most wear occurs. |
| top loader
| A Ford four-speed transmission of the mid 1960s to early 1970s. |
| top ring
| The top ring of a piston. |
| top time (TT)
| The speed at which a vehicle passes through the traps at the end of a quarter mile. |
| top U-bolt plate
| A plate located on the top of the spring and held in place when the U-bolts are tightened, clamping the spring and axle together. |
| top-end power
| The engine output at high speed. |
| top-mount battery
| A battery having terminals located at the top of the case. |
| topcoat
| Usually the final paint film applied to a surface. |
| TOR
| Transmission override relay |
| Torch
| English term for Flashlight |
| torching
| 1. The cutting or burning of a valve face caused by excessive detonation 2. To flame-cut metal. |
| torque
| 1. The measure of a force-producing tension and rotation around an axis. 2. A twisting force which may or may not result in motion. |
| torque and twist
| The forces developed in the trailer and/or tractor frame that are transmitted through the fifth wheel when a rigid trailer, such as a tanker, is required to negotiate bumps, such as street curbs. |
| torque converter
| 1. Unit that transfers power from the engine to the transmission input shaft by directing and redirecting fluid flow. 2. A type of fluid coupling used to connect the engine crankshaft to the automatic transmission input shaft. Torque converter multiply the available engine torque under certain operating conditions. |
| torque converter capacity
| The ability of a torque converter to absorb and transmit engine torque in relation to the amount of slippage in the converter. |
| torque converter clutch
| A clutch located inside the torque converter that locks the turbine and the impeller together to prevent any slippage. Also called a lockup torque converter. |
| torque curve
| A graphic depiction of the amount of torque available at different engine speeds. |
| torque multiplication
| Torque increase as a result of converter action that allows the turbine to revolve slower than the impeller during acceleration and heavy-load conditions at a ratio as much as 2:1. |
| torque multiplication phase
| The period of torque converter operation when the vortex flow is redirected through the stator to accelerate impeller flow to the turbine and increase engine torque. |
| torque plate
| A thick, metal plate bolted to the deck of a block during cylinder boring and honing to reproduce the stress caused when the heads are installed and the bolts are properly torqued. |
| torque rod shims
| Thin metal shims used to rotate the axis pinion to change the operating angle of the U-joint. |
| torque sequence
| The order in which a series of bolts or nuts should be tightened. |
| torque spec
| The force required to tighten a nut or bolt. |
| torque steer
| An outside influence, such as uneven front tire-tread wear, causing the steering wheel to turn right or left during hard acceleration, relating to the dual torque and steering requirements that are applied to the drive axle of front-wheel-drive vehicles. |
| torque test
| A starting motor test to determine torque produced and current required while the specified voltage is applied. |
| torque tube
| A drive-shaft system that is enclosed in a tube extending from the transmission tailshaft to the rear-axle housing. |
| torque wrench
| A wrench that indicates the amount of torque being exerted when used, to enable threaded parts to be tightened a specified amount. |
| torque-limiting clutch brake
| A system designed to slip when loads of 20-25 pounds-feet are reached, to protect the brake from overloading and the high heat damage. |
| torque-to-yield bolt
| A bolt that has been tightened to a specified yield or stretch point. |
| Torqueflite
| A three-speed, plus reverse, automatic transmission used by Chrysler. |
| torsion bar
| A long, spring-steel bar replacing the coil springs, connected from the chassis to the lower control arm, to provide the necessary springing effect on the front suspensions by twisting rather than compressing or bending. |
| torsion-bar spring
| A term used for torsion bar. |
| torsion-bar steering gear
| A rotary valve power-steering gear. |
| torsion-bar suspension
| A suspension featuring a torsion bar rather than a coil or leaf spring. |
| torsional balance
| A term used for vibration damper. |
| torsional rigidity
| The resistance of a structure to twisting and flexing. |
| torsional rings
| Rings that have a slight twist when placed within the cylinder wall, made by adding a chamfer or counterbore on the ring. |
| torsional stabilizer bar
| A stabilizer bar made of spring steel reduces the body roll, thereby reducing the effect of centrifugal force when a vehicle rounds a corner. |
| torsional vibration
| A rotary vibration that causes a twist-untwist action on a rotating shaft. |
| Torx
| a star shapped driver used to increase torque and for resest headed fasners |
| Torx fastener
| A six-point fastener that is easy to grip and drive without slippage. Sometimes called a "star" fastener, this relatively new fastener is used on most late model cars in luggage racks, headlights, tail-light assemblies, mirror mountings, and exterior trim. |
| TOS
| Throttle opener system |
| TOT
| Transmission oil temperature |
| total heat load
| The amount of heat to be removed or added, based on all conditions. |
| total pedal travel
| The complete distance a clutch pedal must move to disengage the flywheel. |
| total volume
| Volume of space in the cylinder and combustion chamber above the piston at bottom dead center (BDC). |
| totaled
| the condition of a vehicle that has been damaged beyond repair. |
| tow truck
| A truck set up to pull a trailer or other vehicle. |
| tow vehicle
| A vehicle set up to pull a trailer or other vehicle. |
| town car
| A four-door, chauffeur-driven sedan with an open cockpit and an enclosed passenger compartment. |
| toxicity
| A measure of how poisonous a substance is. |
| toxics
| [1] A chemical harmful to human life [2] As definer in the 1990 clean air act amendment, toxics include benzene, butadiene, formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and polycyclic organic mater. |
| toy
| 1. Any vehicle driven for fun. 2. (Toy) An acronym for Toyota. |
| TP
| Throttle position |
| TPBPV
| Tank pressure by-pass valve |
| TPC designation
| A term used for tire performance criteria. |
| TPCV
| Tank pressure control valve |
| TPI
| An acronym for tuned port injection. |
| TPS
| Throttle position sensor or throttle position switch |
| TPT
| Throttle position transducer |
| TPV
| Throttle poppet valve |
| TR
| Thermal reactor, or Transformer rectifier |
| trace
| 1. A colored dye introduced into a system to detect leaks 2. To follow logically from beginning to end 3. A bar hinged to two parts to transfer motion between them. 4. A graphical representation of the change in voltage on the line over a specific period of time. |
| track
| 1. A term used for tread 2. The roadway or pathway a vehicle travels during a competitive event 3. To follow 4. A belt or tread that guides lines of motion. |
| track bar
| A steel bar attached to the axle housing on one side and he frame on the other side of the vehicle to maintain sideways alignment between the axle housing and frame on some coil-spring equipped models. |
| tracking
| Rear wheels following directly behind the front wheels. |
| traction
| A body's friction on a surface such as a vehicle tire on a roadway. |
| traction bar
| A device used on a rear-wheel-drive to prevent axle twist and spring wind up during hard acceleration. |
| Traction Control System
| A system that attempts to control wheel spin during acceleration on slick road surfaces. |
| traction rating
| A tire rating that indicates the traction capabilities of the tire to the consumer. |
| Traction-Lock
| A limited-slip differential by Ford. |
| tractive effort
| The pushing force exerted by the vehicle's driving wheels against the road's surface. |
| tractor
| 1. A term used for truck tractor 2. A motor vehicle having a fifth wheel used for pulling a semitrailer 3. A truck or short wheel-base vehicle used for pulling a trailer or semitrailer 4. A self-propelled vehicle having tracks or wheels. |
| tractor breakaway valve
| a device that automatically seals off the tractor air supply from the trailer air supply when the tractor system pressure drops to 30 or 40 psi. |
| tractor protection valve
| A term used for tractor breakaway valve. |
| tractor/trailer lift suspension
| A single-axle air-ride suspension with lift capabilities commonly used with steerable axles for pusher and tag applications. |
| trade number
| The number stamped on an automotive light bulb. All bulbs of the same trade number have the same candlepower and wattage, regardless of the manufacturer of the bulb. |
| trail braking
| A driving technique where the brakes are applied after entering a turn to help rotate the vehicle. |
| trailer
| 1. A platform or mainarea on wheels pulled by a truck or tractor 2. A non-powered vehicle used to haul cargo 3. To put on the trailer. |
| trailer charge
| To fill the trailer air tanks with air by means of a dash control valve, tractor protection valve, and a trailer relay emergency valve. |
| trailer hand-control valve
| A device located on the dash or steering column used to apply only the trailer brakes; primarily used in jack-knife situations. |
| trailer slider
| A movable suspension frame that is capable of changing the trailer wheelbase by "sliding" and locking into different positions. |
| trailer tongue
| An extension at the front of a trailer that attaches to a hitch ball on a tow vehicle. |
| trailing arm
| A suspension arm that attaches to the chassis ahead of the wheel, generally for the rear wheels on a front-wheel drive vehicle. |
| Trailing Edge
| [1] In a Hall-effect switch, the edges of the rotating blades that exit the switch [2] The desending edge of a waveform |
| trailing shoe
| A shoe, toward the rear of a non-servo brake assembly, which pivots around a fulcrum in a direction opposite to normal drum rotation. |
| tramp
| a form of wheel hop where a pair of wheels on an axle hop in opposite phase due to axle windup. |
| tranny
| A term for transmission. |
| trans
| A term for transmission. |
| Trans-Am
| An annual road-racing series, the oldest in the United States, for pony cars and small sedans. |
| transaxle
| A combination transmission-and-axle assembly, common in front-engine, front-drive vehicles. |
| transaxle pinion gear shaft
| The shaft on which a pinion is found in a transaxle. |
| transceiver
| An abbreviation for Transmitter- Receiver; a device that both transmits and receives analog or digital signals. |
| transducer
| [1] A transducer is a device that creates an electrical signal in response to a physical stimuli. [2]a device that converts an input of one form into an output of another form, such as a motor that converts an electric signal to a rotary motion or a device that converts vacuum signals into electrical signals. |
| transfer case
| A small transmission used on four-wheel-drive vehicles to transfer engine torque to the front and/or rear axles. |
| transfer gears
| Gears used to transfer engine torque from one level to another in a transaxle. |
| transformer
| A set of coils wound on an iron core in which a magnetic field couples energy between two or more coils or windings ( see ignition coil ) |
| transient
| The instantaneous change of voltage or current produced when a charge is made from one steady-state condition to another. |
| Transient Voltage
| Voltage produced most likly by self-induction. Transient voltage travels randomly throughout the vehicle's electrical system |
| transistor
| A semiconductor device for controlling the flow of current between two terminals, the emitter and the collector, by means of variations in the current flow between a third terminal, the base, and one of the other two. |
| transistorized ignition
| An ignition system having conventional breaker points with transistor regulation of voltage. |
| Transition
| The point where a condition changes such as the point when a digital signal changes from off to on |
| transitional spring coil
| Coils that become inactive when compressed to their maximum load-carrying capacity. |
| transmission
| A gearing device of a vehicle that provides variable ratios between the engine output and the differential input. |
| transmission band
| A flexible steel band lined with friction material that is clamped around a circular drum to hold it from turning. |
| transmission controlled spark (TCS)
| An emissions-control system to prevent distributor vacuum advance at normal operating temperature until the transmission has shifted into high gear by using a transmission-mounted electric switch controlling a solenoid-actuated vacuum valve. |
| transmission oil cooler
| Heat exchanger located in the radiator outlet end section through which transmission fluid flows for cooling purposes on most automatic transmission cars. |
| transmission-regulated spark system (TRS)
| A system that allows distributor vacuum advance only when the transmission is in high gear. |
| transplant
| 1. An automobile factory operated by an automaker in a country other than its own, such as United States automaker's plants in Canada 2. An engine swap. |
| transverse
| Mounted side-to-side or latitudinally |
| transverse crack
| A crack with its major axis oriented approximately perpendicular to the weld axis. |
| transverse vibration
| A vibration caused by an unbalanced drive line. |
| traps
| 1. The measured section at the end of a drag strip 2. The fastest part of an oval track or road racing course. |
| trash box
| 1. An engine built from junk parts 2. A car built from junk parts. |
| travel
| 1. A term used for rebound travel 2. To move or go from one place to another. |
| travel trailer
| A trailer with living accommodations. |
| travel-sensitive strut
| A strut with the capability to adjust its firmness in relation to the amount of piston travel within. |
| traverse engine
| An engine mounted sideways in a vehicle, such as in most front-drive vehicles. |
| traverse leaf spring
| A leaf spring mounted sideways, such as in the Model T, or Corvette. |
| TRC
| Throttle return control |
| TRCS
| Throttle return control solenoid |
| TRCTL
| Throttle return control throttle lever actuator |
| TRD
| Transmission range drive |
| tread
| That portion of a tire that comes into contact with the surface of the road and is designed to allow the air flow to cool the tire and to channel water during wet weather. |
| tread compound
| A blend of synthetic rubber used in the tire tread material. |
| tread distortion
| Tread shape change on certain tires as rotating contact is made with the road surface; less severe in belted tires. |
| tread groove
| The recessed portion of the tire tread between the ribs. |
| tread rib
| The raised portion of the tire tread between the grooves. |
| tread rubber
| A blend of up to 30 different synthetic, and eight natural rubbers used in a tire tread. |
| tread-wear indicator
| Projections of rubber, 1/16 inch (1.59 mm) high at the bottom of the tread grooves, spaced around the tire to identify a tire worn to the recommended safe limit. |
| tread-wear rating
| A tire rating indicating the wear capabilities of the tread that allow consumers to compare tire life expectancy. |
| treadle
| A dual, heavy-truck brake valve that 1. Releases air from the service reservoir to the service lines and brake chambers 2. Opens ports to service lines to vent air in the primary and secondary systems. |
| tree
| A term used for Christmas tree. |
| tree diagnostics chart
| A flow chart that suggests logical procedures to follow when troubleshooting a problem. |
| Tri-Chevy
| 1955, 1956, and 1957 Chevrolets. |
| tri-coat
| A painting system having three layers of topcoat paint. |
| tri-oval track
| A racing course with three high-banked turns such as at the Daytona International Speedway. |
| tri-power
| A triple two-barrel carburetor setup. |
| tri-Y header
| An exhaust manifold setup that pairs cylinders according to their firing order to provide better exhaust scavenging. |
| triangulation
| The arrangement of frame members for greater durability and rigidity. |
| triaxle suspension
| A suspension consisting of three axles with a means of equalizing weight between them. |
| trichloroethylene
| A chlorinated cleaning solvent often used in aerosol brake cleaner. |
| trickle charger
| A battery charger with a very low output. |
| Trigger holdoff
| A control that allowes for adjustment of the period of time after a valid trigger during which the oscilloscope cannot trigger |
| Trigger level
| The voltage level that a trigger source signal must reach befor the trigger circuit intiates a sweep |
| Trigger Mode
| A mode that determines whether or not the oscilloscope draws a waveform if it does not detect a trigger |
| Trigger slope
| The slpoe that a trigger source signal must reach before the trigger circuit initates a sweep. |
| Trigger Slpoe
| The slope that a trigger source signal must reach before the trigger circuit initiates a sweep |
| Trigger Source
| The signal that supplies the scope with its trigger or starting point. This can be either internal or from an external source |
| triggering
| Using a signal to start one or more events. |
| trip
| 1. A key cycle (key on, run, key off/power-down ) where the enable criteria for a particular diagnostic are met and the diagnostic test runs. 2. Ignition cycle and engine run sequence in which the PCM runs emission control monitors. |
| triple evacuation
| The process of evacuating a system that involves three pump downs and two system purges with an inert gas, such as dry nitrogen (N). |
| tripod
| The central part of certain CV joints having three arms or trunnions with needle bearings and rollers running in grooves or races in the assembly. |
| TRL
| Transmission range low |
| TROD
| Transmission range over-drive |
| trophy
| An award for achievement, such as winning a race. |
| trophy dash
| a short match, at the start of the event, among the fastest qualifying cars in an oval track race. |
| trophy run
| A match for an individual class trophy in drag racing. |
| trouble code
| A number generated by a computer to indicate a failure in a sensor, circuit, or the computer itself. The number may be communicated to the technician by the flashing of a dash light when the diagnostic mode is entered. Also known as failure code. |
| trouble diagnosis
| The work required to find the cause of a problem. |
| troubleshooting
| The location of a problem or malfunction by a process of elimination. |
| TRR
| Transmission range reverse |
| TRS
| An acronym for transmission-regulated spark system. |
| TRSCV
| Throttle return solenoid control valve |
| truck
| A large vehicle generally used for hauling cargo or for pulling a trailer. |
| truck tractor
| A large truck with a fifth wheel used to pull a semitrailer. |
| Truck-Frame and Axle Repair Association (TARA)
| A trade association of those engaged in repair of truck and heavy equipment frames. |
| trueing
| 1. Straightening bent shafting or parts. 2. Dressing a grinding wheel. 3. Setting up a flywheel or pulley so that it runs evenly without sideways motion at its rim. 4. Making an edge straight or bringing two parts square with each other. |
| trunk
| A storage compartment at the rear of most passenger cars. |
| trunk unit
| An early automotive air-conditioning evaporator that mounted in the trunk compartment and was channeled through the package tray. |
| trunnion
| The ends of a universal joint cross where the bearings ride. |
| Truth table
| A chart used to show the output condition of a logic gate or circuit as compared to different conditions of input. |
| TS
| Temperature sensor or throttle solenoid |
| TSB
| An acronym for technical service bulletin. The periodic information provided by the vehicle manufacturers regarding any problems encountered |
| TSD
| An acronym for time, speed, and distance. |
| TSL
| Transmission select switch low |
| TSN
| Transmission select switch neutral |
| TSOD
| Transmission select switch over-drive |
| TSP
| Throttle solenoid positioner |
| TSR
| Transmission select switch reverse |
| TSS
| Transmission speed sensor |
| TT
| An acronym for top time. |
| TTL
| Transistor transistor logic |
| TTMA
| Truck-Trailer Manufacturers Association |
| TTP
| Through the partition |
| TTS
| Transmission temperature switch |
| tub
| 1. A term used for phaeton. 2. A phaeton body. 3. The external structure of an auto body. |
| tubbed
| A standard passenger-car body with cut-out rear wheel wells to accommodate oversize rear wheels. |
| tube-and fin condenser
| A type of heat exchanger that consists of tubes to which fins are attached to facilitate the transfer of heat from the fluid passing through it to the air passing over it. |
| tube-and-fin evaporator
| A type of heat exchanger that consists of tubes to which fins are attached to facilitate the transfer of heat from the air passing over it to the fluid passing through it. |
| tube-and-fin radiator
| A type of heat exchanger that consists of tubes to which fins are attached to facilitate the transfer of heat from the fluid passing through it to the air passing over it. |
| tubeless tire
| A tire having an integral inside rubber liner to retain air; mounted directly on the rim. |
| tubular core
| A radiator or heater core made up of tubular cells. |
| tubular pushrod
| A term used for hollow pushrod. |
| tucked and rolled
| A type of upholstery pleating. |
| Tudor
| An early Ford designation for a four-door sedan. |
| Tuftride (210)
| The tradename of a liquid chemical used to surface-harden metal parts, such as crankshafts. |
| tules
| The boondocks or the back country. |
| tulip valve
| An intake or exhaust valve with a tulip-shape on the backside of the valve head. |
| tune up
| A routine maintenance procedure that includes replacing the rotor and spark plugs; in older cars, replacing the rotor, points, capacitor, spark plugs and adjustment of the timing. |
| Tune-Up Manufacturers Council (TMC)
| A trade association for the manufacturers of ignition parts. |
| tune-up specifications
| Specifications used during a tune-up procedure on a vehicle. |
| tuned exhaust
| An exhaust system having equal length passages. |
| tuned header
| A term used for tuned exhaust. |
| tuned intake
| A term used for ram tuning. |
| tuned port injection (TPI)
| A multiport fuel-injection system used on 5.0 and 5.7 Liter General Motors V-8 engines featuring tuned intake runners from a common plenum. |
| tunes
| Slang for a stereo sound system. |
| tungsten electrode
| A non-filler metal electrode used in arc welding, arc cutting, and plasma spraying, made principally of tungsten (W). |
| tungsten inert gas welding
| A welding process using tungsten (W) with an inert gas, such as argon (Ar), as a shield. |
| tunnel ram manifold
| An intake manifold having a large plenum and long runners to the intake ports, improving output at high rpm. |
| turbine
| 1. The driven member inside a torque converter consisting of many vanes that receive fluid flow from the impeller. 2. A driven member that connects to the transmission input shaft and provides torque input to the planetary gearset. |
| turbine engine
| An engine in which gas pressure is created by combustion to spin a turbine. |
| turbo
| An acronym for turbocharger. |
| turbo car
| A car with a turbine engine. |
| Turbo Hydra-Matic
| An automatic transmission by General Motors. |
| Turbo Hydro
| A term used for Turbo Hydra-Matic. |
| turbo intercooler
| A term used for intercooler. |
| turbo lag
| The short delay in engine response when a driver punches the throttle in a turbocharged vehicle. |
| turbocharger
| A turbine-type supercharger driven by exhaust gases. |
| turbosupercharger
| a term used for turbocharger. |
| turbulence
| A violent disturbance such as the rapid swirling motion of the air/fuel mixture entering a combustion chamber. |
| turkey pan
| Flanges that are installed as deflectors in an engine to reduce oil splash in the lifter areas. |
| turn
| 1. To change directions. 2. A specific speed as in "to turn 90 mph:. |
| turn ratio
| The ratio between the number of turns between windings in a transformer, primary to secondary. |
| turn signal
| Lights located at the four corners of a vehicle to signal a turn. |
| turning circle
| A term used for turning diameter. |
| turning diameter
| the diameter of a circle a vehicle would make if the steering were locked. |
| turning torque
| Amount of torque required to keep a shaft or gear rotating. |
| TV
| Thermo-valve or throttle valve |
| TVISD
| Throttle vacuum idle speed diaphragm |
| TVM
| Transmission vacuum modulator |
| TVRV
| Transaxle vacuum reducer valve |
| TVS
| An acronym for thermostatic vacuum switch. |
| TVSA
| Trapped vacuum spark advance |
| TVSV
| Thermostatic vacuum switching valve |
| TVV
| An acronym for thermostatic vacuum valve. |
| TWC
| Three-way catalyst |
| TWC&COC
| Three-way catalyst & conventional oxidation catalyst |
| TWC+OC
| Three-way + oxidation catalytic converter |
| twenty five ampere rate
| A battery rating to indicate the time a fully charged battery at 80 degree's F can deliver 25 amperes before the cells drop to 1.75 volts. |
| twenty-hour rating
| The amount of current a battery can deliver for 20 hours at 80 degree's F without the cell voltage dropping below 1.75 volts. |
| twice pipes
| A dual-exhaust system on a hot rod. |
| twin
| 1. A two-cylinder engine. 2. An identical pair. |
| twin cam
| Dual overhead camshafts. |
| twin I-beam
| A front suspension using two I-beams, each attached to the chassis at the end opposite the wheel, and coil spring at the wheel end. |
| twin torsion bar
| A suspension system having two torsion bars, one placed above the other. |
| Twin-Grip
| A limited-slip differential by AMC. |
| twin-plug head
| a cylinder head having provisions for two spark plugs per cylinder. |
| twin-plug ignition system
| An ignition system having two distributors, two coils, and two plugs per cylinder. |
| twisted pair
| Ant two separate, insulated conductors twisted together and used to carry a signal |
| two cycle
| A term used for two-stroke cycle. |
| two in the glue
| A two-speed automatic transmission. |
| two plus two
| 1. A term used for club coupe. 2. A four or five passenger two-door auto body with limited rear-seat space. |
| two speed axle assembly
| A heavy-duty, vehicle-axle arrangement having two different output ratios from the differential that are controlled from the cab or the truck. |
| two-bolt main
| An engine block in which the mains are held in place with two bolts each. |
| two-piece drive shaft
| A type of drive shaft having two sections requiring a center support bearing mounted on the vehicle frame and universal joints at both ends and in the center. |
| two-piece piston
| A piston having a removable skirt. |
| two-piece valve
| A valve having a head and stem made of two different materials. |
| two-plane manifold
| An intake manifold with two plenums. |
| two-stroke cycle
| An engine in which the four events, intake, compression, combustion, and exhaust, take place in two stokes of the piston. |
| two-way catalyst
| A catalytic converter that oxidizes hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide, but has little effect on oxides of nitrogen. |
| TWV
| Two way valve |
| TXV
| Thermal expansion valve |
Auto & Car Glossary
