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COMING
SOON: SKID CONTROL
SESSIONS.....WATCH OUT FOR DETAILS Official Driving School for The Civil Protection Department. Cell: 79693511 |
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fan belt: A flexible rubber belt that connects various components in the engine compartment, i.e., alternator, water pump, emission controls, power steering pump, air conditioner compressor. fan blade: A part of the fan projecting at an angle from the central hub, which draws the air through the radiator fan clutch: A clutch connected to the center of the fan. The clutch engages and disengages the fan according to the engine temperature through a thermostat fan cooling: A type of air cooling where a blower is responsible for transporting the amount of air required for the cooling of the engine past the cooling fins, which in turn dissipate the heat stored in them to the current of air flowing past them fan pulley: A pulley on the hub of the radiator fan on which its driving belt runs farewell tour: A year-long tribute or celecbration for a retiring driver and his racing fans. Farman: The 1925-1948 models with required application are classic car. fascia: Also spelled "facia." [1] A front protective panel usually located below the bumper. [2] In Britain it is the instrument panel. fastback: A design of car where the roof gently slopes to the rear end of the car. fast charger: A battery charger which can charge a battery at a rate of 40 amps or more, used by garages and battery suppliers fast idle: When the engine is cold, it needs to run faster to keep it from stalling. A cam on the carburetor forces the throttle open a little more when the choke is engaged. fast idle cam: A cam in a carburetor which opens the throttle slightly when the choke is brought into operation, either automatically or mechanically fast idle screw: A screw on a carburetor for adjusting the speed of the fast idle fast idle solenoid: A solenoid operating in conjunction with an automatic choke to open the throttle slightly when the choke is in operation fast lane: The outside lane (far left lane in North America, etc. or the far right lane in Britain, Australia, etc.). Also called the "passing lane" fatigue: A condition of a material, especially a metal, causing loss of elasticity and tendency to fracture after long or repeated stress, even though the stress may be less than that which would cause failure under static conditions. See metal fatigue. fatigue limit: The maximum stress that a material can endure for an infinite number of stress cycles without breaking fatigue resistance: The maximum stress that a material can endure for a given time without breaking fatigue strength: The maximum stress that a material can endure for a given time without breaking fatigue test: A test on a material to determine the range of stress it will stand without failing, by subjecting it to rapidly varying stresses to establish its fatigue limit fault: A defect which is either inherent in the vehicle as built (manufacturing fault) or which occurs during running fault diagnosis: The tracing of faults or error codes which can be determined by the in-built diagnostic system and an engine analyzer fault memory: A part of the electronic control unit and of the diagnostic system that stores error codes to assist the mechanic in diagnosing problems. fault reader: A device used in conjunction with the vehicle's diagnostic system, providing a read-out of status of the various components FBC: Acronym for Feedback Carburetor FCAI: Acronym for "Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries" (Australia). FE analysis: Acronym for Finite-Element Analysis featheredge: See feather-edge. feather edge: See feather-edge. feather-edge: [1] The tapered edge of the paint where it meets the metal. The edges should be tapered or slanted so that no edge will be felt when a finger is passed over it. [2] To sand the edges of a repaired area until they merge into the surrounding paintwork. feathering: [1] A type of tire wear in which the tread is worn down to a very thin edge [2] The application of gentle pressure on the throttle or brake pedal feather key: A key with parallel faces whose ends may be round or square. It usually fits into a groove on a shaft and in a mating hole to secure the shaft in place. FEBIAC: Acronym for "Fédération Belge des Industries de L'Automobile et du Cycle 'réunies'" (Belgium) Federal engine: An American engine which meets US Federal emission standards and certified by the EPA for use in any state except California federal side impact standard: Effective with the 1997 model year, all passenger cars are required to comply with Standard 214, side impact protection, as defined in the Code of Federal Regulations. Simply put, the entire structure, floor to roof, of all cars must be now be reinforced according to strict regulations. Interestingly, this standard does not yet apply to light trucks (minivans, compact pickups, SUVs). Federal Test Procedure: (FTP) An American method of testing automotive emissions by simulating typical driving conditions federal version: A vehicle that complies with U.S. emission standards which are less restrictive than the standards in California. Also called a "49-state car." Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile: (FIA) The international umbrella motoring organization to which national motoring organizations are affiliated and racing is sanctioned. This includes FIA Formula One World Championship (the world's premier racing series also called Formula One racing or F1), International Sports Car Championship (BPR), International Touring Car Championship, and through the Concorde Agreement (agreement to operate racing series under the FIA's guidelines and rules) for participating country's car clubs. Events take place worldwide. The current president is Max Mosley and the V.P. of Marketing is Bernie Eccelestone who controls the series. Fédération Internationale du Sport Automobile: (FISA) The intenational governing body of motor sport feed: [1] To supply (fuel, oil, current, etc.) [2] The supply of fuel, oil, current, etc. feedback: [1] The return of part of the output of a system to the input. Negative feedback causes self-adjustment of the system and therefore stability. Positive feedback causes instability. See closed loop system. [2] The information that a computer-controlled fuel system returns. The sensor measures the oxygen content of the engine's exhaust in order to keep the fuel-air ratio very close to the ideal proportion for combustion. Such tight control of the fuel-air ratio is required for the proper operation of three-way catalysts. feedback carburetor: (FBC) A carburettor regulated by a closed loop system providing the air/fuel mixture quality needed to operate a catalytic converter feedback control: A closed loop control feed line: A pipe supplying liquid or gas. feed pipe: A pipe supplying liquid or gas. feed pump: A pump suppiymg, for example, fuel in regulated quantities feel: The detection of the operation of a vehicle and its components. Brake feel involves detecting how effectively the brakes work; road feel conveys to the driver the way the suspension responds to the road. feeler blade: A thin blade of spring steel of an exact thickness for measuring small gaps or clearances between parts, usually made in sets of various thicknesses pinned together at one end to form a feeler gauge feeler gage: See feeler gauge. feeler gauge: A thin strip or blade of hardened steel, ground to an exact thickness, that is used to check clearances between parts. Thicknesses increase by 0.001 inch. feeler strip: A metal strip of a specific thickness from which single feeler blades can be cut, appropriate when frequent measuring is required, to avoid using worn blades FEI: Acronym for Fully Electronic Ignition FEMA: Acronym for "The Federation of European Motorcyclists Associations" on http://mag-uk.org/fema/. female: A fitting inside another part. Usually where two parts form a connection of some kind, the female part is the socket or hole into which another piece is inserted. female thread: Internal thread like that within a nut. fender: [1] A covering over the wheels to prevent mud from splattering. The British term for this part is "wing." [2] British term for "bumper" fender bender: A car accident in which only minor damage is done to body panels. fender rail: A length of metal trim surrounding a motorcycle fender. fender skirt: A plate designed to cover a portion of the rear fender wheel opening. Ferguson four-wheel drive: A transmission system in which power is distributed through a special viscous coupling differential, 37% to the front wheels and 63% to the rear wheels Ferrari: The V-12 (All Front Engined) (1947-70) models are milestone cars. ferrous: Something containing iron ferrous metal: Metal containing iron or steel. Non-ferrous metals are aluminum alloys, brass, copper, or magnesium. ferrule: A cap (cylindrical metal piece with a hole at each end) attached to the end of the cable outer housing to protect the cable housing from fraying. ferrules: See ferrule. festoon bulb: A light bulb in the form of a small glass tube with caps at each end providing the contacts FF headlight: A free-form headlight using a free-shape reflector FFÖ: Acronym for "Fachverband der Fahrzeugindustrie Österreichs" (Austria) f head: See F-head engine and engine type. f-head: See F-head engine and engine type. f head engine: See F-head engine.
FHP: Acronym for "friction horsepower" F.I.: Abbreviation for "fuel injection." FI: Acronym for "fuel injection." FIA: Acronym for "Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile" -- An international umbrella motoring organization to which national motoring organizations are affiliated Fiat: The 1925-1948 models with required application are classic cars. fiberglass: A mixture of glass fibres and resin that when cured (hardened) produces a very light and strong material. It is used to build boats, car bodies, repair damaged areas, etc. It can also be spelled "Fibreglass." Also called "glass reinforced plastic." fibreglass: A mixture of glass fibres and resin that when cured (hardened) produces a very light and strong material. It is used to build boats, car bodies, repair damaged areas, etc. It can also be spelled "Fiberglass." fibreglass body: A body shell which is moulded in one piece from fiberglass and has the advantage of lightweight and freedom from corrosion fibreglass mat: A layer of chopped but irregular individual fibreglass strands dressed with a chemical to hold them loosely together, which when a resin is applied hardens into a strong material for repairing holes, e.g. in car bodies fiber optics: The transfer of light through glass fibers. Cadillac, for instance, transfers the light of the headlight or taillight through fiber optics showing that the lights are actually on; rather than just an electrical connection which shows that the indicator light works. field: [1] The area covered or filled with an electric, magnetic, or gravitational force. See magnetic field. [2] A particular body of interest or expertise. field coil: Insulated wire wrapped around an iron or steel core. When current flows through the wire, a strong magnetic force field is built up. field intensity: The force acting on a unit electric charge or unit magnetic pole placed at a given point. field terminal: (F) The input terminal on a generator field testing: The testing of a vehicle or component as it would appear under normal conditions field trial: The testing of a vehicle or component as it would appear under normal conditions field winding: That part which produces a constant-strength magnetic field in an electric motor or generator, the field core being on the stator or the rotor depending on the type of motor or generator fierceness: The tendency of a clutch to engage suddenly so that it is difficult to procede smoothly from a stop FIEV: Acronym for "Fédération des Industries des Equipements pour Véhicules" (i.e., The French Vehicle Equipment Industries Association) fifth: The top gear in a five-speed transmission fifth gear: The top gear in a five-speed transmission fifth wheel: [1] A wheel that is temporarily attached to a vehicle to test the accuracy of the speedometer, etc. [2] A trailer which has its tongue attached to the bed of a truck. fifth-wheel travel trailer: A trailer which is towed by a pickup truck. The tongue of the trailer fits into the bed of the truck. Like a travel trailer, it comes with all the amenities of home. The master bedroom is over the truck bed. fifty-fifty power split: An arrangement in a four-wheel drive transmission where equal amounts of power are delivered to the front and rear wheels filament: A fine wire inside a light bulb that heats to incandescence when current passes through it. The filament produces the light. file: [1] A flat or rounded tool with a rough surface of hardened steel. When it is rubbed against metal, it removes small bits of metal leading to a smaller amount of base metal. [2] The action of removing metal by using a file. file card brush: A brush with angled wire bristles for cleaning between the teeth on a file or the threads on a bolt. file handle: A wood or plastic handle, which it fitted to the back end of a file. filler: [1] paste usually with a polyester base which, when mixed with a hardener, forms a surface which can be sanded smooth and is suitable for repairs to dented or rusted bodywork. Also called "filler paste." [2] A primer filler. [3] an inert material added to paper, resins, and other substances to modify their poroperties and improve quality. [4] An opening through which some liquid can be poured (i.e., oil or gasoline) filler cap: A cover which seals off a filler hole. filler door: A hinged door (usually less than six inches square and painted the body color) which covers the gas cap and filler neck on some models. filler neck: A funnel shaped part which is connected to the main container (gas tank, radiator, windshield washer reservoir, etc.) and is usually covered with a cap filler rod: A metal wire that is melted and added to the welding puddle to produce the necessary increase in bead thickness. Also see welding rod filler strip: A free flowing rubber used under the tread when added thickness is needed. fillet: [1] A round joint between two parts connected at an angle. [2] Weld metal in the internal vertex, or corner, of the angle formed by two pieces of metal, giving the joint additional strength to withstand unusual stresses. fillet weld: Metal fused into a comer formed by two pieces of metal whose welded surfaces are approximately 90° to each other. filling: Repairing of holes or dents in bodywork with filler paste or body lead filling station: A British term for a gas station fillister screw: A set screw with a deep rounded head fill plug: A small screw-in plug in the steering box or similar, which is removed for topping up with oil. fill up: [1] To put in the full amount of fuel as in "Fill up the gas tank, I'm down to a quarter of a tank." Often said, "Fill 'er up" or "Fill her up." [2] The amount needed to make a full tank as in "I need a fill up." film: A thin layer or coating of something. See paint film. film strength: The ability of a liquid like oil to withstand pressure filter: A device designed to remove foreign substances from air, oil, gasoline, water, etc. See air cleaner, bypass filter, ceramic filter, cuno filter, fuel filter, full-flow oil filter, and oil filter. filter cartridge: The replaceable porous part of some oil filters and air filters; but often refers to the whole filter. Also called "filter element" filter element: The replaceable porous part of some oil filters and air filters; but often refers to the whole filter. Also called "filter cartridge" filter screen: A piece of wire mesh in a pipe or surrounding an air filter which is designed to collect dirt and foreign matter filter wrench: An oil filter wrench for removing the oil filter filtration: The removal of dirt or suspended particles from a liquid or the air with the aid of a filter fin: [1] A thin metal object projecting from a surface and is used to dissipate heat. It is found on radiators and air-cooled engines. [2] Wings and airfoils used to improve a vehicle's aerodynamics, stability, or possibly aesthetics. final drive: This is the end of the drive train before power is transmitted to the wheels. In a typical car, the engine (or electric motor) transmits its power through some sort of clutch into a transmission. Then the power is transmitted to differential gears that adjust the engine speed to the most efficient use intended. These final drive differential gears are either at the front axle or rear axle, depending on the vehicle's layout. A typical family car or one intended for high speeds will have a low numerical ratio, to give it speed and good fuel efficiency. A truck or performance car is likely to have a high numerical ratio for better pulling power or for better acceleration final drive gear: The last gear in a drivetrain before the driven wheels. Usually it is in the differential. final drive ratio: This is the ratio that describes the difference between the number of times the driveshaft must turn before the axle shaft turns once. In a final drive ratio of 3.55:1, for example, the driveshaft must turn 3.55 times before the axle will turn once. The number of teeth on the ring and pinion gears determine the ratio. In most instances, the ratio is not a simple number like 3.00:1 because the same teeth on the drive and driven gears would always meet and cause wear. finance and control: Ownership of company (i.e., Canadian, U.S., Japanese, German, etc.); public or private; capital investments: Buildings, machinery and equipment, tooling programs. fine: [1] Something that is made of very small particles. [2] The position of threads on a bolt or nut that are very close together. See national fine thread finger: A protruding piece which engages or triggers something. See clutch semi-centrifugal release fingers. fingers: See clutch semi-centrifugal release fingers. finger tight: The torque required when securing something without the use of a wrench; but using only one's fingers. finish: [1] The final coat of paint applied to a vehicle. See original finish. [2] The overall look of a vehicle so that the paint, for instance, is evenly applied, there are no bare spots, etc. Usually this word is used in the expression "fit and finish." [3] Surface refinement as in smooth finish. finish coat: The final color coat applied to a vehicle. finish hammer: A pounding device used for detail work in shaping a panel after it has been brought approximately into the right shape. finishing enamel: The paint used as the top coat of a painting system -- usually before a clear coat is applied. Also called "finishing paint." finishing paint: The paint used as the top coat of a painting system -- usually before a clear coat is applied. Also called "finishing enamel." finish restorer: A polish or rubbing compound with very slight abrasive which is used to remove an oxidized paint surface to bring back its original lustre. finishing stone: A fine grain stone used at the completion of the honing process to give a smooth surface. finite-element analysis: A reduction of a complex structure to its basic component parts so that these can be studied in a computer, especially in a CAD process. Also called "FE analysis" finning: An arrangement of fins on a surface to aid cooling by improving the heat transfer rate, typically found on air-cooled engines fins: A series of blades such as are found in the internal design of the torque converter. To create mechanical torque from hydraulic pressure, oil is forced under pressure through the torque converter. The inside of the converter is made up of layers of steel fins which zigzag in direction and vary in size. First the fins are large but as the layers go on, the fins decrease in size. This design generates greater hydraulic pressure as the oil passes through the converter, the strong flow of oil creates a fluid coupling which operates like a clutch, driving the wheels. fire: [1] To start an engine as in "I will fire up this engine." [2] To ignite the air-fuel mixture. fire appliance: A fire engine fireball combustion chamber: A combustion chamber design developed by the Swiss engineer May and introduced on Jaguar's V-12 engine in 1981 fire engine: A vehicle built on a special truck chassis equipped with fire-fighting items such as ladders, pumps, hoses, etc. fire extinguisher: A cylinder filled with a powder, foam, or liquid which can be sprayed on a fire to put it out. fire point: The temperature at which the vapor continues to burn. See flash point. fire ring: The circle of metal in a head gasket just where the piston comes through firewall: The metal partition between the driver's compartment and the engine compartment. On front engine vehicles, it is located below the windshield; but on rear engine vehicles, it is located below the backlight (i.e., back window). It protects the driver and passengers from engine fires, noise, and fumes. The British term is "bulkhead." firing: The process of igniting the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber firing end: Part of the spark plug which extends into the combustion chamber firing order: The sequence or order in which cylinders must be fired: 1, 5, 3, 6, 2, 4, etc. It differs from the cylinder sequence which starts with cylinder number one and goes to the last cylinder: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. firing stroke: The power stroke firm: A business or institution comprising sole proprietorships, partnerships, companies and other forms of organizations. first: The lowest gear in a transmission. In a bicycle, it is the gear ratio where the drive sprocket is the smallest and the driven sprocket is the largest. This gear is the best for starting from a stop or going up a hill. first-aid kit: A box containing bandages, antiseptic ointment, and other basic medical requirements for treating injuries. first gear: The lowest gear in a transmission. In a bicycle, it is the gear ratio where the drive sprocket is the smallest and the driven sprocket is the largest. This gear is the best for starting from a stop or going up a hill. FISA: Acronym for "Fédération Internationale du Sport Automobile" which is the governing body of motor sport fish eye: A small pit that forms in the finish coat of paint, usually due to insufficient or improper cleaning of the old coat. fish eyes: Small pits that form in the finish coat of paint, usually due to insufficient or improper cleaning of the old coat. fit: [1] Contact area between two parts. [2] The way in which two parts come together. [3] To attach or put into place fit and finish: The evaluative standard of a vehicle's cosmetics. Good fit and finish means all the body panels and trim are evenly spaced, aligned, and secure. The paint is evenly applied with no bubbles or pit marks. fitting: A small part that is attached to a larger apparatus. Also see grease fitting. fittings: See fitting five-door: Body design typical of station wagons and most hatchbacks, with four side doors and a tailgate. five-link rear suspension noun: Independent rear suspension layout also used on live rear axles, in which each wheel is guided by two trailing links, two transverse links and a common track rod five speed transmission: See five-speed transmission. five-speed transmission: A manual transmission with five forward gears. Generally the fifth gear is an overdrive to allow the wheels to turn faster than the engine. See overdrive. five-valve head: A cylinder head which has five valves per cylinder, usually three intake valves and two exhaust valves fix: [1] To attach something securely. [2] To repair something fixed-caliper disc brake: A disc brake with a caliper which cannot move, the caliper consisting of two halves which are bolted together and contain at least one cylinder and piston each fixed-cam brake: A drum brake in which the cam is rigidly mounted in the backplate fixed-choke carburetor: A carburetor where the choke tube or venturi is of predetermined size fixed contact: The stationary point in a set of contact breaker points -- the other point moves fixed cup: The right-hand cup of the bottom bracket of a bicycle, ordinarily not loosened or removed during bottom bracket disassembly. Also see adjustable cup. fixed drive: A power transmission without differential action at the driven axle or between the driven axles in a four-wheel drive layout fixed gear: A cog attached to a hub without a freewheel; it always turns as fast as the bicycle's wheel so that you cannot coast. fixed head: A non-removable cylinder head cast in one piece with the cylinder block. These heads were used in early automobile engines and, more recently, in some motorcycle engines. fixed-jet carburetor: This is the most common type of carburetor in which the jets and choke are of a predetermined size. The opposite is a variable-jet carburetor fixed price selling: Published fixed price displayed on a new vehicle eliminating need for negotiation. fixed wheel: Same as fixed gear, the kind of rear wheel found on track bikes. fixing bolt: A bolt used to hold a crankarm on an axle in a cotterless crankset. fixture: Device for holding goods in process while working tools are in operation that does not contain any special arrangements for guiding the working tools. flag down: The action of a pedestrian to stop a vehicle by using a hand signals (usually waving the arms laterally above the head). This is usually a sign of an emergency flagship model: The prestige model or top model of a manufacturer's line of vehicles, e.g., "Cadillac is the flagship model for GM and Lincoln is the flagship model for Ford." flake: The action of paint when it starts to come off the surface in small, thin sections flake off: The action of paint when it starts to come off the surface in small, thin sections flaking: The tendency of paint to lift away from the surface because of poor adhesion. flame cutting: Cutting performed by an oxygen-fuel gas torch flame which has an oxygen jet. flame front: The term used to describe certain aspects of the fuel explosion in the cylinders. The flame front should move in a controlled pattern across the cylinder, rather than simply exploding immediately. See pinging. flame glow plug: A glow plug that preheats the intake air by burning a small quantity of precisely metered fuel flame paint: A popular (during the 1950s) special paint design applied to the front of custom cars. Large flames in yellow, orange, and red were painted on the side of the car from the back of the front wheels toward the back flame trap: A device consisting of a valve or similar, preventing the escape of ignited blowback gases, usually located in the hose or pipe leading from the crankcase to the intake tract flange: [1] A projecting rim or collar on an object for keeping it in place. [2] The parts of a hub shell to which spokes are attached and which secure the tire on the rim base. [3] The circle of metal inside the teeth on a chainring. flange bolt: A bolt with a fillet as part of the bolt head flanged: Something that has a flange flanged head: A bolt head which has a fillet (i.e., it looks as though it already has a washer under the head; but the "washer" is part of the head) flange height: A measurement from the top of the flange to the bead seat, and is the difference between the overall diameter and nominal rim diameter, divided by two. flange joint: A coupling between two shafts formed of two disc-shaped flanges on the ends of the shafts which are bolted to each other flanger: A tool for making a flange flange seal: An L-shaped rubber seal used in some earthmover tubeless tire mountings. It prevents air loss between the tire beads and both the flange and rim base, and the flange and loose taper seat. flange-type puller: A puller with legs that fit behind a flange on a hub flanging: The action of putting on a flange flanging tool: A tool (like pliers) for making a flange by bending the metal flank: [1] The side of a screw thread, rising from the bottom of the groove to the top of the ridge [2] one of the two flat parts of the face of a cam flap: [1] A rubber protector used in tube-type truck tires to prevent injury to the tube by the bead toes and at the valve slot of the rim. [2] A flat piece of material attached along one side, often by a hinge and forming a small door for shutting off an opening flare: [1] A gradual spreading or widening of a tube. See double flare. [2] A sudden burst of flame. flared wheel arch: A wheel arch bent outwards around its circumference, usually to accommodate wider wheels and/or tires flare nut: A nut fitting over the flared end of a brake or fuel pipe at a union flare nut spanner: British term for flare nut wrench flare nut wrench: A wrench which looks almost like an open end wrench except the end curls around the nut further. The opening allows the wrench to slide over a tube or pipe to which a nut is attached, but not directly over the nut. Thus you have to slide it over the pipe first and then bring it up to the nut. The wrench has more faces than an open end wrench thus giving better gripping. flaring tool: A tool used to form flare connections on tubing. flash: [1] The first stage of the drying process of paint where most of the solvents evaporates. [2] A sudden burst of energy. [3] When crude oil is heated the lighter or more volatile vapor is separated and travels to the top of the tank. This travelling is called flash. [4] The impact of electric arc rays against the human eye. [5] The fin of surplus metal formed at the seam of a resistance weld. [6] To use your signal lights as in "My car was flashing left." [7] To rapidly switch the headlights off and on -- usually to indicate a warning. If you are behind someone and you flash your headlights, it means that you want him to pull over so you can pass. If you see someone flashing his lights, it could mean that there is a police car ahead so slow down; or it could mean there is danger ahead (e.g., deer on the road, an accident ahead, etc.). flashback: Another term for blowback flasher: [1] A flashing signal light. [2] An electronic switch apparatus controlling the operation of the signal lights, including their rate of flash; self-cancelling when the steering wheel is returned to the straight-ahead position. [3] An electronic relay which regulates the signal lights and emits a clicking or chiming sound flashover: Tendency of electrical current to travel down the outside of a spark plug instead of through the center electrode. flash point: The point in the temperature range at which a given oil (especially diesel oil) in vapor form will ignite and flash into flame. The higher the flash point, the better the lubricating quality of the oil. The temperature at which the vapor continues to burn is called the "fire point." flash time: The time required for a coat of paint to lose most of its solvent through evaporation. flat: [1] When a battery has completely discharged, so that it cannot turn over the engine then the battery is said to be flat [2] To be completely deflated, especially as the result of a puncture or a leaky valve. See flat tire. [3] An engine having horizontally opposed cylinders. [4] A level area on an otherwise rounded surface. [5] A flat tire. [6] To give a final light rubbing down to (paintwork or filler) with fine grade sandpaper or similar, to prepare the surface for a top coat flat base rim: A truck rim with no center depression. A demountable flange (consisting of 1 or 2 piece side/lock ring) permits the removal of the tire and holds it in place after installation. Also see flat base rim taper. flat base rim taper: An obsolete form of rim with no taper at either bead seat. flat battery: A British term for a dead battery flatbed trailer: A trailer with a flat deck (and no sides or top) so that any size or shape item can be loaded (within reason) regardless of height, length, or width flatbed truck: A truck with a flat deck (and no sides or top) so that any size or shape item can be loaded (within reason) regardless of height, length, or width flat-bladed screwdriver: A screwdriver which has a blade at its end to fit slotted screws. This type is the least desirable screw giving the least amount of torquing ability. If the screwdriver does not fit well, the screw is easily damaged. flat crank: A crankshaft having one of the bearing journals out-of-round. flat eight: An eight cylinder engine with four cylinders on each side. The "left" bank of four cylinders is directly opposite the right bank.
flat file: A long, thin rectangular bar (like a blade) with angled grooves cut into the top and bottom of the larger sides and used to shape metal flat four: A four cylinder engine with two cylinders on each side. The "left" bank of two cylinders is directly opposite the right bank.
flat hump: A raised and flattened portion on the bead seat of some wheel rims which retains the beads of an insufficiently inflated tire on the bead seat, thereby preventing the tire beads from jumping into the rim well flat key: A small bar of any length but its width is greater than its height. flat-nose pliers: A common pair of pliers where the ends of the jaws do not extend to a point (like long-nose pliers); but are cut short. Also called "flat-nosed pliers." flat-nosed pliers: A common pair of pliers where the ends of the jaws do not extend to a point (like long-nose pliers); but are cut short. Also called "flat-nose pliers." flat pente: A raised portion on the bead seat of some wheel rims which retains the tire beads of an insufficiently inflated tire on the bead seat, thereby preventing the beads from jumping into the rim well. This is a compromise between the contre pente and the flat hump contours and is mainly used on passenger cars made in France. flat position: A horizontal weld on the upper side of a horizontal surface. flat position welding: Creating a horizontal weld on the upper side of a horizontal surface. Also called "downhand welding" flat rate: A pre-determined length of time set down by the manufacturer that a particular repair job will take and is listed in the flat rate manual. If the flat rate is two hours, but the mechanic completes the job in more or less time, you will be charged for two hours. For the shop, flat rate encourages mechanics to work harder to beat the prescribed time, thus earning more for the shop and the mechanic; but it also hurts the shop when the mechanic cannot complete the job because of other contributing factors (i.e., a bolt which should have taken 10 seconds to remove breaks off and requires 30 minutes to remove). For the customer, flat rate means fair pricing for the same job no matter how long it actually took. Thus both Sam's labor bill and my labor bill to do the same work is the same cost. It can be unfair if the mechanic worked faster on my vehicle (because I keep it in excellent shape) than on Sam's vehicle (because his involved a lot more cleaning, etc. to do the job). Also, there is the danger that a mechanic may take shortcuts in order to beat the flat rate, but which may cause mechanical problems later. Charging by the actual time the mechanic takes is called straight time. flat rate manual: A listing of almost every job that can be done on a vehicle with the time required for a mechanic to do the work. It is used in service shops to determine labor charges. If a mechanic completes the job before the flat rate time, the customer is still charged the flat rate time. If he exceeds the flat rate time, the customer is not charged for straight time, but the lower flat rate time. flat seat: The seat of a spark plug which is sealed by means of a gasket flat six: A six cylinder engine with three cylinders on each side. The "left" bank of three cylinders is directly opposite the right bank. flat spot: [1] Refers to a spot during an acceleration period where the engine seems to lose power for a moment and will then begin to pull again. [2] Irregular wear in an isolated spot or spots around the tire tread. It is usually caused by locking the brakes so that the tire skids on the ground. flat spring: A long bar that is bent in the middle. When pressure is applied to the outside ends, the middle flexes. flat tappet: A tappet with a flat contact surface towards the cam lobe flat tire: A condition where an air-inflated tire is no longer pressured up with air. The problem may be a cut in the casing or tube; or may be caused by a bad valve. When you experience a flat tire, no doubt some wit will tell you that your tire is flat only on the bottom. flat-tip screwdriver: See flat-bladed screwdriver flat-topped piston: A piston with a flat not domed crown flat-top piston: A piston with a flat not domed crown flat twin: A two cylinder engine with one cylinder on each side. The "left" cylinder is directly opposite the right cylinder. flat washer: A disc like a coin with a hole in the middle flaw: A defect usually in the surface of the paint fleet: All the vehicles owned by a company or other organization fleet car: A company will purchase a number of cars at a low price, often basic models, from one manufacturer. When the company decides to sell these cars, it will advertise that it was a flee car. Fleet cars have the advantage of regular maintenance; but the disadvantage of high mileage. fleet sales: The purchase of vehicles by a business that meet a minimum requirement of units sold. flex arm suspension: Rear axle design with torsionally flexible axle beam in line with the rear wheels and trailing links flexibility: [1] Elasticity of a material. [2] The ability of an engine to go down to low speeds in a high gear and pull away smoothly without gearing down, which is governed mainly by its torque characteristics flexible: [1] The ability to bend without breaking. [2] The ability of an engine to go down to low speeds in a high gear and pull away smoothly flexible brake pipe: A pipe connecting the wheel cylinder to the rest of the system, which has to flex to allow for the up and down movement of the wheel flexible coupling: A simple shaft coupling used where only small angles of misalignment between the two shafts occur, as in a steering column, the drive being transmitted either by tension-stressed fabric discs or pressurized rubber blocks flexible drive: A drive consisting of a cable in an outer sheath, used for mainly light applications such as speedometers, rev counters and windshield wipers flexible drive handle: A socket drive tool with a pivoting head for use with sockets, its length gives good leverage and access to difficult locations because of its ability to bend flexural: A word referring to bending flexural shock: A sharp shock when bending, which can break plastics flexure: Bending flickability: The ease with which the bike can be leaned to the right or left around turns. High flickability means it leans quickly and easily, acting like a sportbike. Low flickability is how a cruiser handles -- not really designed for fast riding through the canyons. Lighter, smaller bikes are generally more flickable through turns. flipper strip: See ply turnup. flip-top filler cap: A quick-release filler cap, as fitted to some sports and racing cars flitch plate: A reinforcing plate for chassis members or wheel arches float: [1] A small hollow tank which is more buoyant than the liquid in which it is immersed. In a carburetor it operates the valve (needle and seat) which controls the amount of fuel entering the carburetor. In the fuel tank, it indicates the amount of fuel. Also see valve float. Older floats were hollow and made of metal, but newer ones were made of a solid synthetic material. [2] The action of the breaker arm when it is pushed out as the cam strikes the rubbing block; and before the arm can return after the cam has passed, the next cam strikes the block and re-opens it. In other words, the breaker arm never has the time to fully close before being opened again. floatation: The ability to float generally referring to large low pressure tires (i.e., the ability of a tire, to pass over soft surfaces without sinking in.) float bowl: That part of a carburetor that acts as a reservoir for gasoline and in which the float is placed. The float controls the amount of fuel moving through the fuel valve. float chamber: British term for float bowl floating caliper disc brake: A disc brake with a single piston, in which the caliper itself can move to bring both pads into contact with the disc floating piston pin: A piston pin which is not locked in the connecting rod or the piston, but is free to turn or oscillate in both the connecting rod and the piston. floating frame: A frame which holds the cylinder assembly and is supported by the mounting frame, usually made of heavy-gauge sheet steel. floating cam: brake cam or other type of expander which is not rigidly mounted in the brake backplate of a drum brake, so that it can exert equal pressure on the two shoes floating piston: a secondary piston float level: [1] Height of the fuel in the carburetor float bowl. [2] The specific float setting that will produce the correct fuel level. float needle: A needle in the carburetor which is activated by the level of fuel in the float bowl. As the level drops, the needle lifts and allows more fuel to enter the bowl flood: [1] To allow too much fuel to enter the carburetor or the engine. [2] A condition where the fuel mixture is overly rich or an excessive amount has reached the cylinders. Starting will be difficult and sometimes impossible until the condition is corrected. flooding: A condition where the fuel mixture is overly rich or an excessive amount has reached the cylinders. Starting will be difficult and sometimes impossible until the condition is corrected. flood the carburetor: [1] An undesirable condition which occurs when the float in the carburetor is set too high. [2] A desired condition which allows extra fuel into older or simpler carburetors by pushing down the float with an extra lever (called a tickler) to give a richer mixture for starting flooded engine: An engine which has too much fuel into the cylinders. It can be caused from trying to repeatedly start a car which refuses to start. If this condition continues, the engine oil could become diluted and should be changed. floor: [1] The flat base panel of a vehicle. [2] A verb meaning to push the accelerator as far as it will go (i.e., to the floor). floorboard: The flat base panel of a vehicle. Originally it was the collection of wood planks which made up the floor of vehicle. The floor of the vehicle under the instrument panel. floor change: [1] A gear shifter on the floor -- usually on the center console. [2] Some coins left on the floor after being negligently dropped there. floor gearchange: A gear shifter on the floor -- usually on the center console. floor pan: The metal structure on the bottom of the car. Almost all cars are unit body (or unibody) construction, and the floor pan provides the foundation for chassis stiffness. Your feet usually rest on a floor pan when you are in a car. floorpan: The large stamped metal part of the car's body over which the carpet is laid. Usually assembled from several smaller stampings, the floorpan forms the floor and fixes the dimensions for most of the car's external and structural panels. It is also the foundation for many of the car's mechanical parts. floor shift: When the shifting lever is placed in a vehicle, it usually occupies one of three primary positions: the dash (usually a pushbutton arrangement); the steering column; and on the center column between the driver and front seat passenger. Also see gearshift. floor shifter: A gear shifter on the floor -- usually on the center console. flow: [1] The passing of liquid or current through something. [2] The amount of liquid or current conveyed. flow control: The regulation of the amount of fluid passing through a pump, especially important under changing operating conditions flow detachment: The deviation of the gas flow into the cylinder from its ideal path, thus losing its stability, caused by swirl and/or improper combustion chamber design etc. flowmeter: A meter indicating the amount of liquid passing through, used for instance to supply information to a fuel consumption indicator flow rate: The amount of liquid conveyed by a pump per unit of time flow through ventilation: See flow-through ventilation. flow-through ventilation: A system which allows (or even forces) outside air into the passenger compartment through the dash and leaves through openings in one of the pillars (usually the C-post) or rear quarter panels. fluid: A substance which flows, e.g., a liquid or a gas. See brake fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid. fluid capacities: The full amount of oil in the crankcase; water in the radiator and cooling system; or fuel in the gas tank; washer fluid in the reservoir tank; etc. fluid clutch: A hydraulically acting coupling by which power can be transmitted, used as an automatic clutch with a driving and a driven rotor revolving in oil which acts as the transmission medium
fluid flywheel: A kind of fluid coupling in which the flywheel is the driving rotor fluid level warning indicator: A warning light on the instrument panel which is illuminated when the level of fluid in the a system is too low flush: [1] To cleanse a system by sending water or other liquid through a system. [2] To align two items so that they fit evenly or level. flushing: To cleanse a system by sending water or other liquid through a system. See brake flushing and flushing the cooling system. flushing the brakes: See brake flushing. flushing the cooling system: The process of circulating water through the cooling system to remove old coolant along with any dirt or rust. Back flushing means circulating the water from the engine to the radiator (reversing the normal direction of flow) in order to clean the system more efficiently. Also see reverse flush. flushing oil: A thin oil used to clean out the sump, oil passageways, etc. flush mounted speaker: A radio or stereo speaker mounted in a cutout in the interior trim so that it does not project out. The opposite of surmounted speakers. flute: A groove in a cutting tool that forms a passageway for the exit of chips removed during the cutting process. flutter: The rapid movement of engine valves. See bounce. flux: [1] The lines of magnetic force moving through a magnetic field. [2] An ingredient placed on metal being soldered or brazed, to remove and prevent the formation of surface oxidization which would make soldering or brazing difficult. Flux promotes the fusion of metals during the welding process. flyer: A fast lap flylead: A short electrical wire with a terminal at each end connect to a component fly nut: A wing nut. flyweight: See flyweights. flyweights: Special weights which react to centrifugal force to provide automatic control of other mechanisms such as accelerators or valves.
flywheel generator: A small alternator of the rotating magnet type attached to one end of the crankshaft and spinning with it, acting as an additional flywheel; now used only in mopeds or scooters flywheel magneto: A magneto mounted in the flywheel of a small engine, often a two-stroke flywheel puller: A specially designed tool with three arms and a center stud usedto removing the flywheel. The three arms are attached to three mounting points (either on the rim of the flywheel or into three threaded holes in the flywheel). The center stud is screwed into the center of the flywheel and pushes against the end of the crankshaft. As the stud pushes in, the flywheel is forced away from the crankshaft. flywheel ring gear: A gear on the outer circumference of the flywheel. The starter drive gear engages the ring gear and cranks the engine. flywheel turner: A special tool used for hand cranking the engine while working on clutches, gearboxes, etc. or doing jobs that require that the crankshaft be in a specific position. It consists of a handle and lever to hook into the starter ring teeth FM: Frequency modulation. A term used to describe a type of radio frequency in which the frequency of the wave changes rather than the amplitude. Also see AM/FM. FN: The 1925-1948 models with required application are classic cars. foaming: The formation of bubbles in the oil of a transmission, differential, or shock absorber, etc. Foettinger coupling: A torque-converting fluid coupling. FOB: [1] Acronym for "Freight on Board." Used to describe when goods are loaded for free on a delivery vehicle at the seller's place of business, but the buyer has to pay transportation charges to the delivery destination. [2] When not an acronym, it refers to the device on a key chain which may contain your name or a company name, etc. See fob. fob: A device to hold keys; sometimes called a "key fob." fog coat: A fully reduced (thinned) paint that is sprayed at higher than normal air pressure or with the gun held at a greater distance than normal from the work. The object is to obtain a fast flash-off (evaporation) of thinner with minimum penetration of thinner into the old paint. fog lamp: See fog light fog light: [1] A light (usually in pairs) mounted at the front of a vehicle which is designed to give a wide low beam which penetrates fog and rain, etc. and illuminates the sides of the road [2] A red light mounted at the back of a vehicle which has the same intensity as a brake light to help following vehicles to see your vehicle. foil: A light, thin, blunt-edged sword from which an air foil is named. See hydrofoil. folding camping trailer: A lightweight unit used for camping. The ends fold out and the top is raised to reveal a camping unit. When being pulled, the ends fold down to make a compact unit. The lightweight allows it to be towed by most cars. The trailer can be unhitched from the car for easier parking or for leaving it at the campground while you go to town for supplies. The interior contains kitchen, dining room, and sleeping facilities. Often there is a stove and refrigerator. folding rear seats: Rear seats in a hatchback, station wagon, or van which fold forward into the footwells to give a more or less flat loading area folding top: The soft top of a convertible which can be folded away follower: See cam follower. follow-up spark: secondary spark occurring when a spark is extinguished and re-ignited in the course of the spark duration, especially if the mixture is turbulent Fomoco: Abbreviation for "Ford Motor Co." foot brake: The main braking system operated by a foot pedal foot pedal: One of four possible pedal located on the floor in front of the driver: gas pedal (accelerator), brake pedal, clutch pedal, or emergency brake pedal footpedal Cluster: The gas and brake pedals in a vehicle with automatic transmission and the gas, brake and clutch pedals in a manual. footpeg: The metal post (usually covered in rubber) found on either side of a motorcycle upon which the rider or his passenger places his feet. foot pound: See foot-pound. foot-pound: (ft-lb) A measurement of the work involved in lifting one pound one foot. In tightening, it is one pound pull one foot from the center of an object. Torque, or the twisting motion of an engine, is expressed in terms of foot-pounds at a certain rpm. footprint: The area of a tire that makes contact with the ground foot pump: A tire pump which is operated by pushing down a lever with a foot. footrest: A place to rest the left foot when driving. See dead pedal. footwell: A recess in the floor below the feet of the rear seat occupants, but may also be used for the space used by the feet of people in the front seats footwell Intrusion: A situation where an engine, for instance, occupies some of the space normally allocated for the feet of the driver and his passengers. force: A push or a pull, it causes objects to change their motion. It is a vector quantity, with a particular direction and forces must be combined with special vector rules. In the SI (international system of units), it is measured in newtons (N); but the older measurement recorded force in pounds, ounces, and feet. Also see centrifugal force. forced circulation: A cooling system which uses a pump to circulate the coolant. Also see thermosyphon cooling forced downshift: An automatic transmission system that enables a driver to accelerate rapidly. When the accelerator pedal is fully depressed, the transmission engages a lower gear to give this extra boost. Also called, "passing gear." The British term is "kickdown." forced-feed lubrication: A lubrication system used in all modern four-stroke engines, in which an engine-driven pump forces the oil through passages in the engine castings, or through external pipes, to the main areas of stress in the engine forced-induction system: A system in which either a conventional supercharger or a turbocharger, or even a combination of both, is used to increase intake pressure and force the mixture into the cylinders. Compare naturally aspirated engine force-fit: See force fit. force fit: A force fit occurs when two items are hammered together to make them secure. See drive fit, interference fit, and press fit. Ford: [1] The second largest car manufacturer after GM. [2] The 1954 Crestline Skyliner is a milestone car. [3] The 1957-59 Skyliner Retractable models are milestone cars. [4] The 1955-56 Crown Vic Skyliner models are milestone cars. [5] The 1946-48 Sportsman models are milestone cars. [6] The 1955-57 and 1958-60 Thunderbird models are milestone cars. Ford Mustang: [1] The 1965-67 GT/GTA V-8 models are milestone cars. [2] The 1969-70 Boss 302/Mach 1 models are milestone cars. Fordism: The Encyclopedia Britannica first called the process of mass production by this name. However, mass production simply evolved in almost every industry at the beginning of the 20th century. fordor: A word coined by Ford for a 4-door sedan. Ford-type lug: A special type of battery connection consisting of a flat lug with nut and bolt between the battery cables and terminal posts. Also called "Ford-type terminal" Ford-type terminal: A special type of battery connection consisting of a flat lug with nut and bolt between the battery cables and terminal posts. Also called "Ford-type lug" fore and aft adjustment: The ability to move, for example, a seat forward and backward forecast: Prediction of future production or sales in the automotive industry. forge: To force a piece of hot metal into the desired shape by hammering it. Also see drop forged. forging: [1] A process (usually involving hammering or squeezing) that transforms solid metal into shapes of varying cross-sectional material thickness, often involving heating. [2] A piece of forged metal alloy forgiving: A characteristic of a component or vehicle which overlooks problems or mistakes that a driver might make. For example, a vehicle's handling may be forgiving in that even if the driver makes small inadvertent steering wheel movements, the vehicle continues to go straight. fork: [1] The part of the bicycle frame that fits inside the head tube and holds the front wheel. Generally called the front fork. [2] The part of the bicycle frame where chainstays and seatstays join to hold the rear axle. [3] A shifting device that is U-shaped and moves gears back and forth on the shaft. See shift forks. fork blade: One of the two parallel curved tubes that hold the front wheel of a bicycle. fork blades: The two parallel curved tubes that hold the front wheel of a bicycle. fork crown: The horizontal piece on the upper part of the front fork to which the fork blades attach on a bicycle. fork ear: !!! Definition under construction !!!. forked: A device which has one end in the shape of a Y forked con rod: A special split connecting rod to take two pistons for uniflow-scavenging two-stroke engines with two pistons per cylinder forked rocker: A rocker arm operating two valves with its forked end forked rocker arm: A rocker arm operating two valves with its forked end fork lift: (Lift truck) A vehicle having metal arms extended in front for picking up and moving pallets or skids. fork-lift truck: A small vehicle used tor loading in factories, warehouses, docks, etc., with two arms at the front projecting forward which fit into pallets and can be raised and lowered fork rake: On a bicycle, the shortest distance between the front axle and an imaginary line extending through the head tube downward toward the ground. See rake. fork tip: One of the slotted ends of the fork blades into which the front wheel axle fits on a bicycle. fork tips: The slotted ends of the fork blades into which the front wheel axle fits on a bicycle. former: A shaped wooden block for use in panel beating, on which a desired shape is produced by hammering formula: A detailed specification, e.g., for a particular class of motor racing Formula I: A formula according to which racing cars are built for the major Grand Prix races counting for the World Championship formula One: A formula according to which racing cars are built for the major Grand Prix races counting for the World Championship 49-state car: A car that complies with U.S. emission standards which are less restrictive than the standards in California. See federal version. 49 state car: A car that complies with U.S. emission standards which are less restrictive than the standards in California. See federal version. forty-nine state car: A car that complies with U.S. emission standards which are less restrictive than the standards in California. See federal version. forward brake shoe: See primary forward brake shoe. forward welding: Fusing metal in the same direction as the torch flame points. Föttinger coupling: See Foettinger foul: [1] to clog or cover (a spark plug) with oil or soot/carbon deposits which can cause a loss of performance and engine misfire. [2] to get in the way of another part or obstruct it. four banger: Four cylinder engine. four barrel: See four-barrel carburetor. four barrel carburetor: See four-barrel carburetor. four-barrel carburetor: A carburetor with four barrels that work like dual carburetors, with the second carburetor (third and fourth barrels) cutting in only at high speeds. Usually found on large V-8 engines. Also see double-barrel carburetor and single-barrel carburetor. 4/C: Abbreviation for "four-color," usually referring to color photographs or slides. A term used in classified advertisements to indicate the availability of pictures of a vehicle. four color: (4/C) Usually referring to color photographs or slides. A term used in classified advertisements to indicate the availability of pictures of a vehicle. four cycle engine: See four-stroke cycle engine. four-cycle engine: See four-stroke cycle engine. four-cylinder engine: An engine with four cylinders usually in line; but can also be V-type or horizontally opposed. The in-line type is the most common in most small cars and in larger motorcycles. four-door: A vehicle which has two doors on each side. This is the typical layout for family sedans four-link rear suspension: An independent rear suspension layout, also used on live rear axles, in which each wheel is guided by two control arms, one mounted longitudinally, the other mounted transversely or almost transversely, thus providing lateral location for the axle four on the floor: A four-speed manual transmission with floor mounted shift. four-on-the-floor: A four-speed manual transmission with floor mounted shift. fours: !!! Definition under construction !!!. four-spark ignition coil: An ignition coil with two primary windings and one secondary winding 4-spd: Abbreviation for "four-speed," either manual transmission or automatic transmission. four speed: A transmission which has four forward gears. four-speed: A transmission which has four forward gears. four-speed gearbox: A British term for a four-speed transmission four-speed transmission: A manual or automatic transmission which has four forward gears. In most instances, the top gear is an overdrive. four stroke cycle engine: See four-stroke cycle engine. four-stroke cycle engine: An engine requiring two complete revolutions of the crankshaft to fire each piston once. The first stroke down (intake stroke) pulls fuel and air into the combustion chamber. The second stroke up (compression stroke) compresses the mixture. The third stroke down (power stroke) comes about through the rapid burning of the compressed fuel mixture. The fourth stroke up (exhaust stroke) expels the exhaust gases from the cylinder. It is also called the "Otto cycle." four stroke power cycle: See four-stroke cycle engine. four-stroke power cycle: See four-stroke cycle engine. four-stroking: A two-stroke engine which is running faultily as it fires only on every second cycle fourth: The highest gear in a four-speed transmission or the second highest in a five-speed transmission. fourth gear: The highest gear in a four-speed transmission or the second highest in a five-speed transmission. four valve: An engine which has four valves (two intake and two exhaust) for each cylinder. Multiple valve systems offer better breathing. four-way wheel wrench: A lug wrench shaped in the form an "X" with a socket at each end. Also called a "wheel nut spider." four wheel alignment: See four-wheel alignment. four-wheel alignment: In most rear-drive vehicles only the front wheels need to have their wheels aligned because the rear wheels are on a fixed axle. However with front-drive vehicles and rear-drive vehicles with independent suspension, all four wheels need to be aligned. See alignment. four wheel disc brakes: Disc brakes fitted to both front and rear wheels four-wheel drift: A term that describes a cornering situation in which all four tires are operating at large slip angles so that a car gets into a sideways slide. 4WD: Acronym for "four-wheel drive." This term should be distinguished from FWD which is front-wheel drive.
4WS: Acronym for "four-wheel steering." four wheel steering: See four-wheel steering. four-wheel steering: A vehicle where the rear wheels also turn when the front wheels turn to give a sharper and more accurate turn. FPS: An acronym for "foot-pound-second" FPS system: An imperial system of units, superseded by the SI (metric) system
frame damage: A type of damage to the body that involves damage to the structural members of the car, usually resulting from accident impact frame gauge: A measuring instrument for determining the misalignment of a car's body. frameless: A vehicle without a frame such as a unibody construction frameless construction: A unibody or unitary construction frameless window: A door window which does not have a frame around the three sides (left, right, and top). frame member: Any one of the sections of the structural components of the vehicle chassis frame structure: All parts of the vehicle which contribute to the rigidity of the body, both for unibody designs and for vehicles with a separate chassis franchise: Establishment that has the right to exercise the powers of a corporation. franchised dealer: An automotive dealer which sells a particular brand, e.g., Anytown Ford is a franchised dealer for Ford cars and is authorized to sell Ford parts as well as provide service for Ford vehicles. Franklin: All 1925-48 models except the 1933-34 Olympic Six are classic cars. Frazer: The 1947-50 Manhattan models are milestone cars. Frazer Nash: The 1925-1948 models with required application are classic cars. free bend test: Bending the specimen without using a fixture or guide. free electron: See free electrons. free electrons: Electrons in the outer orbits around the nucleus of the atom. They can be moved out of orbit comparatively easy. free length: The length of a spring, especially a valve spring, when no downward pressure is exerted on it free pedal play: The distance the clutch pedal can be depressed before it begins to disengage the clutch. Generally about 19-25 mm (0.5-1 inch) free pedal play is normal to be sure that slight resting of the foot on the pedal will not disengage the clutch. Without free pedal play, the throwout bearings and the clutch might wear out. free play: [1] The amount of looseness in some component before it engages. [2] British term for lash free radius: Measurement in inches (or millimeters) from the wheel axle centerline to the top of the tire when inflated. (The radius that is not under load.) Also called "unloaded radius." free-revving: The ability of an engine to accelerate quickly to high engine speeds free rolling wheel: A non-powered wheel position on a vehicle, such as steering axle, tag axle or trailer wheel positions. free shape: A design shape of a component which is governed only by stylistic or functional requirements. free Trade Agreement of the Americas: (FTAA) An effort to unite the economies of the Western Hemisphere into a single free trade arrangement. The Heads of State of the 34 democracies in the region agreed to construct a "Free Trade Area of the Americas" and to complete negotiations for the agreement by 2005. free travel: The distance a pedal moves before it operates the actuating mechanism. See clutch pedal free travel. freeway: A multiple lane highway without toll charges. All exits and entrances are made through overpasses and cloverleafs. Because there is no direct cross traffic, speeds can be over 60 mph (100 kph) freeway bar: A component on a motorcycle which is a rod with a footrest on each end. The rod is mounted ahead of the engine to provide an alternate place to position the rider's feet. freewheel: [1] Usually refers to the action of a vehicle on a downgrade when the overdrive over-running clutch is slipping with a resultant loss of engine braking. This condition will occur only after the overdrive unit is engaged but before the balk ring has activated the planetary gearset. [2] The removable cluster of gears at the rear wheel of a bicycle. Usually there are five or more gears. It also contains a ratcheting mechanism inside that allows the wheel to rotate forward while the pedals, chain, and gear sprockets remain still or move in reverse. The rear derailleur moves the chain from one gear to the other to change the gear ratio. The other end of the chain wraps around the chainwheel. freewheel hub: A type of hub fitted to the front axle of some four-wheel drive vehicles, in which the drive to the front wheels can be disconnected when the front axle is not being driven freewheeling: In a motorized vehicle, the illegal coasting by putting the transmission in neutral or disengaging the clutch. freewheeling hub: A type of hub fitted to the front axle of some four-wheel drive vehicles, in which the drive to the front wheels can be disconnected when the front axle is not being driven freeze: [1] To reach a temperature in which a liquid turns into a solid. See antifreeze [2] To adhere firmly. [3] To stop. [4] An American (not Canadian) term for an engine which has seized. To an American, "My engine is frozen" means "seized" because it has run out of oil and overheated so that pistons expanded and won't move in the cylinder. To a Canadian, it means the coolant won't flow or the engine won't warm up. freeze plug: A removable plug on the block which can pop out should the coolant in the block freezes and expands. See expansion plug. The British term is "core plug." freezing: When two parts that are rubbing together heat up and force the lubricant out of the area. As they create heat, they will expand and tear bits of metal from each other, then stick and refuse to move. frenching: The customizing process of creating smooth curve shaping around the headlights, tail lights, licence plate frames, etc. so that the actual lights, etc. recede a little towards the interior of the panel opening and the chrome bezel or other surround looks as though it is part of the body panel. Also see tunnelling freon: A gas used as the cooling medium in older air conditioning and refrigeration systems. Usually called freon-12 or R-12. It has been replaced in automobiles with a new coolant designated 134A. freon 12: See freon-12. freon-12: A gas used as the cooling medium in older air conditioning and refrigeration systems. It has been replaced in automobiles with a new coolant designated 134A. frequency: [1] In relation to a radio station, number of cycles per second expressed in hertz at which it broadcasts. [2] The number of times a particular event is repeated. frequency Modulation: (FM) A term used to describe a type of radio frequency where the frequency of the wave changes rather than the amplitude. Also see AM/FM. frequency scan button: A radio button which, when pressed, causes the tuner to scan the frequencies of stations with sufficient signal strength and plays that station for about 5 seconds before going to the next one. When the driver or passenger wants to listen to the currently played selection, he can press the same button (or a different one) to select that station. Often called a "scan button." frequency valve: A valve located in the fuel distributor of some vehicles with a continuous injection system and catalytic converter. This valve continually adjusts the air/fuel ratio to varying engine operating conditions, because it is controlled by a voltage signal supplied by the oxygen sensor and by an ECM fretting corrosion: corrosion occurring where two surfaces are in contact and friction results, e.g., at mechanical joints in vibrating structures friction: The resistance to movement between any two objects when placed in contact with each other. Friction causes wear and heat. In an engine, it robs it of some of its potential power. Friction is not constant but depends on the materials, type of surface finish, amount of pressure holding the two objects together, and the relative amount of movement between the objects. Lubrication like oil, grease, and other materials like graphite reduce friction. Also see antifriction bearing and coefficient of friction. frictional: Caused by the friction between moving parts friction bearing: A bearing made of babbitt, bronze, etc. There are no moving parts (like an antifriction bearing which has ball bearings). The smooth inner surface of the babbitt insert and the smooth surface of the shaft rub or slide against each other. To avoid disintegration, the bearing must use lubrication (i.e., wet friction). Friction bearings are less expensive and cheaper to service than antifriction bearings. Also called "plain bearing." friction clutch: A conventional clutch which transmits the power of the drive by mechanical friction, as opposed to a fluid coupling friction damper: See friction shock absorber friction disc: See clutch disc. friction drive: A method of power transmission used on early cars where power is transmitted from a driving to a driven wheel by means of pressing one wheel against another at a right angle. friction horsepower: (FHP) The amount of power consumed by an engine in driving itself. It includes the power absorbed in mechanical friction and in driving auxiliaries plus, in the case of four-stroke engines, some pumping power. friction lining: wear-resistant friction material used for clutch and brake linings friction losses: The loss of power due to friction between the moving parts of the engine friction modifier: A substance which enhances the ability of oil to remain slippery. In most SH and SJ series oil, friction modifiers have been added to improve engine starting and prolong engine life. However, in engines with a wet clutch (i.e., the engine oil lubricates the clutch plates) such as motorcycle engines, oils with friction modifiers can cause the clutch to slip and may force the premature replacement of the clutch plates. friction pad: See brake pad friction plate: A driven plate of a clutch to which the friction lining is attached friction shifter: See friction shifters. friction shifters: Conventional (non-index) levers of a bicycle that retain their position through the use of friction washers. friction shock absorber: A shock absorber in which friction discs are inserted at the point where the two arms are joined, now no longer used in car suspensions friction welding: The type of weld in which the necessary welding heat is generated by revolving one part against another part under very heavy pressure. When melting has occurred at the interface, pressure is maintained to consolidate the weld during cooling of the material frit: Partly fused, vitreous substance, ground up and used as the basis for glazes and enamels frogeye: A nickname for the Series I Austin-Healey Sprite produced from 1958-1962, which had the headlights projecting above the hood line front: [1] The forward end of a vehicle. [2] The seats closest to the front upon which the driver sits. frontal crash: An accident in which the front end of a vehicle is damaged. frontal impact: An accident in which the front end of a vehicle is damaged. front apron: The panel behind and below the front bumper, joining the bottom ends of the front fenders front axle: The axle to which the front wheels are attached front-axle/rear-axle split: A dual-circuit braking system in which one circuit brakes only the front axle while the other circuit brakes only the rear axle. front-axle and rear-axle split: A dual-circuit braking system in which each circuit brakes both the front axle and the rear axle front bumper: A guard which protects the front of a vehicle. See bumper and rear bumper. front differential: differential in the front axle of a four-wheel drive vehicle front end: body area incorporating the leading edge of the wings, the headlights, radiator grille and bumper, i.e., the full area that makes up the frontal appearance of the car front end alignment: See front-end alignment. front-end alignment: The adjustment of the camber and caster of the front wheels. See alignment. front-end impact: An impact as the result of a head-on collision front engine: A vehicle with its engine located at the front of a vehicle above the front suspension. This is the most common layout, which may be combined with either rear-wheel or front-wheel drive. Also see mid-engine car and rear engine front fender: body section covering the front wheels, originally separate; but now in most cars faired in and part of the body shell front fork: See fork. front Forks: See fork. front nose section: The front section of a car's body that uses one single structure to make up the front end, i.e., including the radiator grille surrround, both fenders, front apron, etc. front panel: A panel joining the front fender and forming a mounting for the headlights, grille, and air ducts into the engine compartment, which is often identical with the front apron where no separate apron is fitted below the front panel front pillar: See a-pillar front pipe: The first section of the exhaust system from the exhaust manifold to the silencer (or front silencer where there are two) front seat: seat in the front of passenger cabin for the front seat passenger front seats: The front passenger's and driver's seats front silencer: first and main silencer in an exhaust system where there are two front spoiler: The air deflector on the front of a car, aerodynamically designed to cut the wind resistance around the car, for improved handling control, stability, traction, and better fuel economy front suspension: The springs, shock absorbers, linkages, etc. which support the front wheels. See independent front suspension. front triangle: Actually a quadrilateral with one short side, it is the section of a bicycle frame that consists of the head tube, the top tube, the seat tube, and the down tube. Also called "main triangle." front wheel drive: See front-wheel drive. front-wheel drive: (FWD) A vehicle that is pulled by its front wheels rather than being pushed by its rear wheels. The driveshaft and center floor hump is eliminated in front-wheel drive cars. The engine is located over the driving wheels so that it gains better traction in snow. Wear on the front tires can be severe. front wheel tire clearance: The distance between the tire and the closest point on the vehicle laterally, longitudinally and vertically, checked lock to lock and all intermediate points. front wing: British term for front fender frost heaves: A condition of a roadway in which frost buildup beneath the surface causes the pavement to bulge fsh: An abbreviation used in classified advertisement indicating "full service history" is available. FTA: Canada-U.S. Free Trade Agreement. FTAA: Free Trade Agreement of the Americas. FTP: An acronym for "Federal Test Procedure." FTP test cycle: An American method of testing automotive emissions for compliance with emission standards by simulating typical driving conditions. This system differs from other test cycles such as the European ECE test, so that the results cannot be compared fuel: A combustible material used to produce energy. One of the essential factors in a combustion engine (Fuel, Air, Proper proportion of mixture, compression, timing, spark). fuel accumulator: A device in the K-Jetronic fuel injection system which serves to absorb the initial pressure surge when a fuel pump starts fuel additive: A chemical preparation which is added to fuel to improve its properties fuel air mixture: See fuel-air mixture. fuel-air mixture: A combination of vaporized fuel and air which is brought into the cylinder through the carburetor or fuel injectors. When it is compressed and ignited, it produces the power needed to drive the engine. fuel air ratio: See fuel-air ratio. fuel-air ratio: The amount of fuel in comparison with the amount of air. This is the reciprocal of the air-fuel ratio. fuel burner: Competition vehicle with an engine set up to burn alcohol, nitro, etc. mixture instead of standard pump gasoline. Also called "fueller." fuel cap: A vented covering on the top of the tube leading to the fuel tank. Also called "gas cap." fuel cells: !!! Definition under construction !!!. fuel charge: The air/fuel mixture delivered to the combustion chamber fuel computer: A device which continuously displays the amount of fuel used over the distance since last set. fuel consumption: The amount of fuel used, expressed in miles per gallon in Britain and the USA, whereas the international measure is litres per 100 kilometres. The US term is "fuel mileage" fuel consumption indicator: An instrument using a flowmeter to indicate mpg or liters/100 km at any given moment on a journey fuel cut-off switch: A control device which manually or automatically turns off the flow of fuel. fuel distributor: A device constituting the mixture control unit together with the airflow sensor fuel economy: The number of liters used per 100 kilometers of driving (a lower number is better); or the number of miles driven divided by the number of gallons used (a higher number is better). Also see EPA fuel economy. fuel efficiency: Although this factor is similar to fuel economy, it differs in that fuel efficiency involves getting the most amount of energy from an amount of fuel. It answers the question, "What percent of the fuel does this engine burn?" fuel filler flap: A piece of rubber about 4" square and very thin, which is located behind the filler door. When the door is opened, the flap falls down to protect the body from the fuel nozzle. fuel filler neck: The upper end of the fuel filler tube leading down to the fuel tank, which accepts the fuel hose nozzle at the gas station fuel filler tube: The tube leading down to the fuel tank fuel filter: A device that removes impurities from the fuel before it gets to the carburetor. It is usually found near the carburetor in the fuel line that comes from the fuel pump (in-line fuel filter), or inside the carburetor or fuel pump (integral fuel filter). This unit must be cleaned or replaced on a regular basis, usually once a year or it will become clogged and restrict fuel to the carburetor. Without a filter, the jets and orifices in the carburetor will become clogged. fuel gage: See fuel gauge. fuel gauge: An instrument, usually located on the dashboard or center console, which indicates the amount of fuel in the fuel tank. Most gauges have a needle which fluctuates between "E" (empty) and "F" (full). Others show a digital readout of how many gallons or liters left in the tank. Also called "gas gauge." fuel-injected engine: A gasoline engine with a fuel injection system rather than a carburetor.
fuel injection engine: A gasoline engine with a fuel injection system fuel injection pump: A pump which receives fuel from the fuel tank (often through the fuel-feed pump in the case of diesel engines) and delivers it under pressure to the injectors fuel injector: An injector in a fuel injection system which sprays gasoline into the inlet ports, or diesel either directly into the combustion chamber or into a pre-chamber. See fuel injector nozzle. fuel injector nozzle: The device that works like a hypodermic needle to inject the proper amount of fuel into the combustion chamber in response to signals from an electronic sensing device on cars with fuel injection systems. It receive fuel at low pressure and shoot it into the engine cylinders at predetermined intervals under higher pressure. Also called "fuel injector valve" or just "fuel injector." fuel injector valve: See fuel injector nozzle. fuel knock: See detonation. fuelie: Fuel-injected car. fueller: See fuel burner. fuel line: The metal, plastic, or rubber hose or pipe through which the fuel passes from the fuel tank to the fuel pump to the carburetor or fuel injector nozzle. fuel mileage: A measurement or calculation of the number of miles per amount of fuel -- usually measured in miles per gallon. fuel mixture: A mixture of gasoline and air. An average mixture, by weight, would contain 16 parts of air to one part of gasoline. See air-fuel mixture. fuel pressure: The pressure under which fuel is delivered to the injectors by the fuel pump, governed by the pressure regulator fuel pump: A vacuum device, operated either mechanically or electrically, that is used to draw gasoline from the tank and sends it into the carburetor or fuel injector nozzles. Mechanical pumps have a rocker arm that is activated by a cam on the camshaft; the arm causes a diaphragm to move up and down, thus pulling the gas through the pump. Some electrical pumps have a rocker arm which is activated electrically and does the same thing as the mechanical pump. Other electrical pumps are located at the bottom of the fuel tank and push the fuel through the fuel lines. fuel pump shut-off switch: A switch which shuts off the electric fuel pump and fuel to the engine in the event of a major collision fuel pump switch: A switch which shuts off the electric fuel pump and fuel to the engine in the event of a major collision fuel rail: A manifold tube feeding the injectors in a fuel injection system fuel return line: A pipe returning surplus fuel to the tank from the carburetor(s) or an injector fuel starvation: The failure of the fuel system to supply sufficient fuel to allow the engine to run properly, due to a blockage or vapour lock or malfunction of the fuel pump fuel supply: The delivery of fuel to the carburetor or injection system fuel system: A system that stores, cleans, and delivers the fuel to the engine in proper quantities to meet the varying needs that arise as you drive. It is made up of the fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump, fuel filter, and carburetor or the fuel injection system. fuel tank: The storage compartment, under the trunk in most cars, that holds the fuel for the vehicle. Also called the "gas tank." fuel tank sender: A level sensor in the gas tank which sends information about the amount of remaining fuel. fuel vapor: [1] atomized air/fuel mixture heated in the engine, ready for combustion [2] fumes given off by gasoline fuel vapor recirculation system: An emission system which traps the excess gasoline vapor, condenses it back to liquid form, and then sends it back to the gasoline tank. Also called evaporative emission control system fulcrum: The support on which a lever pivots in raising an object. fulcrum pin: A pin which acts as a pivot, such as a kingpin fulcrum ring: One of two rings on either side of a clutch diaphragm spring on which it pivots full bore: A term expressing top speed or full throttle. full cap: A condition of retreading where new tread rubber is added to the buffed casing, and covers the crown and shoulder areas. full dip treatment: A painting process in which the whole body shell is immersed, used for applying protective primers full face helmet: A helmet which covers the whole head including the chin. full floating axle: full-floating axle. full-floating axle: A rear drive axle that does not hold the wheel on nor does it hold the wheel in line or support any weight. It merely drives the wheel. Used primarily on racing cars and trucks. Also see axle. full flow filter: See full-flow oil filter. full-flow filter: See full-flow oil filter. full flow oil filter: See full-flow oil filter. full-flow oil filter: An oil filter that filters all of the oil passing through the engine before it reaches the bearings. full house: An engine that is fully modified and equipped for all-out performance. full leather: A car interior in which the door trim, dash, seats are covered in leather full leather upholstery: A car interior in which the door trim, dash, seats are covered in leather full load: An engine operating conditions where the accelerator is fully depressed, i.e., the throttle is fully open, which does not necessarily mean high engine speed full load enrichment: The provision of a richer mixture when the throttle is fully opened full lock: A condition in which a detachable component (e.g., seat belt buckles) is securely attached full panel: A body part that may be made up of several other subassemblies and is fairly complex and cumbersome, e.g., a complete bulkhead assembly incorporating the windshield pillars full service history: (fsh) The documents which show all the work performed on a vehicle, especially the regular service required by the manufacturer full-size car: The largest type of car according to the American system. It is a designation no longer used because even "full-size cars" are now about the size of what was the compact car. In 1970, for instance, a Chevrolet Impala was a full-size car, a Chevelle was an intermediate, and a Nova was a compact. When cars smaller than the Nova came out (i.e., Chevette), they were called sub-compacts. full-skirt piston: A former piston style which had a full-annulus skirt, without the cutaway section of modern slipper pistons full throttle: The fully open position of the throttle. Also called "wide open throttle" full throttle enrichment: See full load enrichment full-time four-wheel drive: A condition where all four wheels are always being driven by the drivetrain. The British term is "permanent four-wheel drive." full trailer: See trailer. full wave rectifier: See rectifier. full-wave rectifier: See rectifier. fully electronic ignition: (FEI) A distributorless, mapped ignition system with cylinder-selective knock control, dwell-angle control, and digital idling speed stabilization fully floating axle: A live rear axle assembly in which the axle shafts serve only to transmit torque to the wheel. The total vehicle weight and cornering loads are transferred directly from the wheel bearings to the axle housing. Also see semifloating axle fully galvanized body: A body shell which, except for aluminum and plastic parts, is produced entirely of double-sided galvanized steel and galvanized fasteners or which is immersed in galvanizing fluid fumes: Foul-smelling vapors given off by a liquid or a gas, which may be poisonous functional: [1] Capable of working even if it is not working to its peak performance. [2] Practical, designed not for esthetics; but solely with a particular use in mind funnel: A cup-shaped object tapering at the bottom to a small hole and a spout, used for pouring oil, fuel or water into relatively small openings funny car: A car equipped with a powerful engine, used for drag racing. Usually has special body (such as fibreglass) mounted on special lightweight frame and suspension system. fuse: [1] A protective device (usually enclosed in glass or plastic) which has a thin wire between two terminals. The wire will break or melt when the current draw exceeds the capacity of the fuse. In this way, the circuit is protected from overload. [2] The action of melting when a piece of metal turns to a liquid state and sometimes unites itself to a nearby component. [3] A failure of an electrical component because of a blown fuse. fuse box: A contaner with a removable cover that holds the fuses for the various electrical circuits, which are all routed through it fuse capacity: See fuse. fusion: Two metals reaching the melting point and flowing or welding themselves together. FWD: Acronym for "front- wheel drive" FYI: Acronym for "For Your Information." |
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