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COMING
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SESSIONS.....WATCH OUT FOR DETAILS Official Driving School for The Civil Protection Department. Cell: 79693511 |
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seat cluster: On a bicycle, the conjunction of top tube, seat tube, and seatstays near the top of the seat. seat cushion: The part of the seat upon which one sits or leans against. seatpost: On a bicycle, the part to which the saddle clamps and which runs down inside the seat tube. seatstay: On a bicycle, one of the two parallel tubes that run from the top of the seat tube back to the rear axle. seatstays: On a bicycle, the two parallel tubes that run from the top of the seat tube back to the rear axle. seat tube: On a bicycle, the tube that runs from just below the saddle down to the bottom bracket. secondary brake shoe: See primary brake shoe and trailing brake shoe. secondary circuit: The high voltage part of the ignition system. secondary compression: A term that is used in two-stroke engines. Primary compression takes place in the crankcase and is then pushed up into the combustion chamber where secondary compression takes place as the piston squeezes the mixture. If the crankcase seals are poor, primary compression will be reduced resulting in reduced secondary compression so that it may be difficult to start the engine. secondary failure: The failure which occurs as a result of a primary failure (e.g., the primary failure is a nail hole; but as the tire is run flat, the secondary failure may be a tire roll-off. secondary, reverse shoe: The brake shoe that is installed facing the rear of the vehicle. See trailing brake shoe. secondary wire: See secondary wires. secondary wires: The high voltage wire from the coil to the distributor tower and from the tower to the spark plugs. section height: The vertical measurement from the bead seat of a tire to the top of the crown when it is mounted, inflated and not under load. (Overall diameter less nominal rim diameter, divided by two.) section repair: [1] Reinforcement made to the casing when an injury has extended through the tread or sidewall of a tire. The damaged cord is removed and a new cord is replaced in the form of a repair unit or patch. [2] A major repair in the sidewall or tread of a tire. This repair unit must have cord material for reinforcement, made specifically for the type tire-bias-ply or radial. section width: The measurement across the tire width at the widest point when mounted and inflated (not under load), excluding any decorative mouldings. sector: See worm and sector. security system: See anti-theft system sedan: An enclosed four-door body type, it has permanent back panels and top with full-width cross seats front and rear, and passenger capacity from five to seven depending on wheelbase. Longer-wheelbase models accept extra passengers in fold-down auxiliary seats. Sedans usually have quarter windows in the rear quarter in addition to windows in all four doors. Trunk racks often were standard offerings. Called saloon in U.K. According to Car and Diver, the term "sedan" refers to a fixed-roof car with at least four doors or any fixed-roof two-door car with at least 33 cubic feet (934 liters) of rear interior volume, according to measurements based on SAE standard J1100. Also see close-coupled sedan, convertible sedan, imperial sedan, and Landaulet sedan. sediment: An accumulation of matter which settles to the bottom of a liquid. seize: [1] The condition when two items bond together so that they cannot be removed easily. [2] The condition when a piston bonds itself to the sides of the cylinder wall because of the lack of lubricant. See freezing. selective transmission: The conventional manual transmission of today in which any gear may be selected at will as opposed to the very early progressive transmission in which the gears had to be selected in order. self-aligning torque: A torque which is created by the tire when the vehicle corners. The force created at the tire patch acts toward the rear of the actual center of the wheel. This action is called "pneumatic trail." It has the same effect as positive caster and can be increased by increasing the positive caster. Thus the trail distance (distance from the point at which the cornering force acts to the center of the wheel or steering axis) is a moment arm that results in a torque that tends to decrease the existing slip angle and force the wheel back to the straight-ahead position. This self-aligning torque is transmitted through the steering mechanism to the steering wheel and can be felt as steering effort or road feel. self-cleaning tread: A tread pattern with tapered grooves and ribs, bars, etc., arranged in a manner that resists packing loose materials, (mud, etc.) in the grooves. self-energizing brake shoe: A brake shoe (sometimes both shoes) that when applied develops a wedging action that actually assists or boosts the braking force applied by the wheel cylinder. Also see primary brake shoe. self-induction back-voltage: back-voltage produced by self-induction. This induced electromotive force opposes the change in current, restricting it if the current is increasing and enhancing it if the current is decreasing. self-levelling suspension: See automatic levelling. self-tapping screw: A screw which cuts its own thread into the hole. self-vulcanization: Vulcanization at room temperature or above, activated by chemical agents without the application of heat from an outside source. SEMA: Acronym for "Specialty Equipment Market Association," the aftermarket and reproduction vehicle parts organization. semi: See tractor. semi-centrifugal release finger: See clutch semi-centrifugal release fingers. semi-centrifugal release fingers: See clutch semi-centrifugal release fingers. semi-drop center rim: (SDC) A rim having a demountable flange, for use on light commercial application. A slight depression in the center of the rim facilitates tire mounting and removal. semi-drop center rim taper: A rim where both bead seats are tapered 5°. semi-elliptic leaf spring: See semi-elliptic springs. semi-elliptic spring: See semi-elliptic springs. semi-elliptic springs: A type of leaf spring that takes its name from the shape which is part of an ellipse. semi-floating axle: Type of axle commonly used in modern car. The outer end of the axle shaft does two things: (1) it supports the weight of the vehicle and (2) it is the means of propulsion. The inner end of the axle shaft which is splined, "floats" in the differential gear. In this design a single bearing is placed between the axle shaft and the axle bearing; to remove the axle the wheel must first be removed. semi-tractor: See tractor. semi-trailer: See trailer. semi-trailing arm: A type of independent rear suspension where the pivot axes are usually at about 25 degrees to a line running straight across the car. This arrangement gives rear-wheel camber somewhere between that of a pure trailing arm (which has no camber change relative to the body) and a swing axle (which has large camber change). semi-trailing arm suspension: See semi-trailing arm. sending unit: A device used for transmitting a signal to a gauge. sensor: An electronic detection device. See oxygen sensor. sensing device: See electronic sensing device. separation: The parting of retread rubber from the buffed casing or the parting or debonding of any adjacent parts of the tire (ply to ply, ply to rubber, etc.), usually due to excessive heat. separation solid tire: Rubber pulling away from steel bands. separators: Wood, rubber or plastic sheets inserted between the positive and negative plates in a battery to prevent contact. Also see vapor separator and water separator. sequence: The order in which events take place. See cylinder sequence. serial number: The individual, consecutive numbering of a product during production. It may be a combination of letters and numbers. Also see batch number. series: [1] A particular type of an automobile make and model. For instance, in 1952 Cadillac fielded three series: a 62 (with a 126 inch wheelbase); a 60 (with a 130 inch wheelbase); and a 75 (with a 147 inch wheelbase). [2] The alignment of electrical components. See series circuit. [3] A numerical representation of a tire's aspect ratio. A 50-series tire has an aspect ratio of 0.50. series circuit: A circuit with two or more resistance units so wired that the current must pass through one unit before reaching the other. In contrast with parallel circuit. series parallel circuit: See series-parallel circuit. series-parallel circuit: A circuit of three or more resistance units in which a series and a parallel circuit are combined. service manual: A handbook published by a vehicle manufacturer or a specialized publishing company that contains instructions and specifications for the maintenance and repair of specific cars. They also include wiring diagrams and troubleshooting guides. Most service manuals deal with only one make, model, or year, and nearly all are intended for professionals or the very experienced amateur. service station: outlets which sell gasoline and are operated by the major oil companies. service writer: At many dealerships, the person responsible for writing repair orders (work orders) is the service writer. He communicates to the mechanic and service manager the problems in your vehicle that you have outlined. He also estimates the nature and cost of repairs and gives you an idea when the work will be finished. servo: An oil operated device used to push or pull another part, such as tightening the transmission brake bands. servo action brake: See servo action brakes. servo action brakes: Brakes so constructed as to have one end of the primary shoe bearing against the end of the secondary shoe. When the brakes are applied, the primary shoe attempts to move in the direction of the rotating drum and in so doing applies force to the secondary shoe. This action, called "servo action," makes less brake pedal pressure necessary and is widely used in brake construction. settling: pigment in the paint collecting at the bottom of the spray gun container. set-up: [1] Premature vulcanization of a rubber compound during processing or storage. [2] The action of a gel-like substance which goes from a liquid to a rubbery solid or when a paste turns solid. sew up tire: See sew-up tire. sew-up tire: A bicycle tire with an inner tube stitched inside the casing; also known as a tubular. SF: Further improved oil for 1980-1988 model years and previous years. SG: Improved oil for 1989 model years and previous years. shackle: A swinging support which is used to attach the ends of a leaf spring to the frame of the vehicle. The shackle is needed to take care of the changes in length of the spring as it moves up and down. shaft: A long smooth-surfaced piece of metal with a circular cross section. See clutch shaft, cross shaft, distributor shaft, halfshaft, input shaft, output shaft, pilot shaft, prop shaft, propeller shaft, rocker arm shaft, and splined shaft. shake: See cowl shake. shallow angle: An angle that positions the bicycle frame tubes relatively farther from vertical and closer to horizontal than do steep angles. shallow angles: Angles that position bicycle frame tubes relatively farther from vertical and closer to horizontal than do steep angles. shammy leather: See chamois. shave: [1] Removal of some chrome or decorative part. [2] Removal of metal from the contact surface of the cylinder head or the block. shear pin: A cylinder shaped item that is made of a substance which will break when subject to great pressure. In this way the main component which is more expensive will not be damaged. The pin can usually be easily replace. Also see spiral wrapped pin. Shelby: The 1965-67 350GT and 500GT are milestone cars. See also AC Shelby Cobra for the AC Shelby Cobra. shelf life: A time limitation for the storage of uncured retread materials (usually 6 months), beyond which certain properties are lost. Storage of materials in a cool, dark, dry environment insures quality. shield: [1] An eye and face protector held in the hand when welding. It enables a person to look directly at the electric arc through a special lens without being harmed. [2] A relatively broad protective device which keeps away unwanted liquid or vapor. See laminated windshield, scatter shield, splash shield, static shield, and windshield. shielded arc: A form of electric welding in which a heavy flux-coated electrode is used. shift down: The action of selecting a lower gear. The British expression is "change down." shifter: A device for changing the gearing on a transmission. See index shifters. shifters: See index shifters. shift fork: See shift forks. shift forks: The devices that straddle slots cut in sliding gears. The fork is used to move the gear back and forth on the shaft. shift gate: The mechanism in a transmission linkage that controls the motion of the gearshift lever. The shift gate is usually an internal mechanism; however, in some transmissions -- including Ferrari five-speeds and Mercedes-Benz automatics -- the shift gate is an exposed guide around the shift lever. shift gear: The action of selecting a different gear. The expression in Britain is "change gear." shift into: The act of shifting into another gear, such as "shift into second" (shift into second gear) or "shift into high" (shift into high gear). In Britain, the expression is "change into." shift lever: See gearshift. shift linkage: The rods, levers, etc. used to transmit motion of the shift lever into movement of the gears in a gearbox. shift on the fly: !!! Definition under construction !!!. shift point: This refers to the point, either in engine rpm or road speed, at which the transmission should be shifted to the next gear. shift rail: shift rails. shift rails: Sliding rods upon which the shift forks are attached. Used for shifting the manual transmission. shift up: A term meaning to shift to a higher gear shift valve: A valve in an automatic transmission which raises the oil pressure as the vehicle speed increases. In Britain it is called the change valve. shim: A thin spacer installed between two units to increase the distance between them. shimmy: The front wheels shaking or vibration from side to side because the front end is out of alignment or the tires are out of balance or the suspension has worn components. Also see caster wobble. shipments, value of: summation of value of shipments produced by establishment, receipts of custom and repair revenue. shock: See shocks. shock absorber: Properly called a damper, this is an oil filled device used to control spring oscillation in the suspension system. At least one shock absorber is found at each wheel. Also see adjustable shocks. shocks: An abbreviation for "shock absorbers." See adjustable shocks. shoe: See brake shoe, pole shoes, and primary brake shoe. short: See short circuit. short arc: A gas metal- arc process which uses a low arc voltage, where the arc is continuously interrupted as the molten electrode metal bridges the arc gap. short block: The lower portion of an engine below the cylinder head. short circuit: An electrical problem in which the "hot" or positive wire touches ground. It takes a "short" path to ground instead of going through the prescribed component. Usually a short circuit (also called a short) will burn out a fuse or a component. short stroke engine: An engine where the length of the stroke is shorter than the diameter of the cylinder bore shoulder: [1] The outer edges of tread. [2] The outer edges of a road. [3] The raised portion of a specialized bolt just under the head. It looks like a collar, but it is not removable shredded wire: Short pieces of fine steel wire mixed into a tread or undertread compound. shrinkage: The shrinking of automotive paint as it dries. All automotive paints shrink, and if scratches or surface imperfections have not been properly filled, they will show up as the paint shrinks into them. shrink fit: A fit between two parts which is very tight. The outer or encircling piece is expanded by heating so it will fit over inner piece. Sometimes the inner piece is contracted by chilling. As the two pieces reach operating temperature or room temperature, the outer piece shrinks and the inner piece (if it was chilled) expands. As a result, the two pieces fit tightly. shrink tube: A thin plastic tube which shrinks in diameter when heated. It is used primarily in covering exposed wire splices. shroud: A metal enclosure around the fan, engine, etc., to guide and facilitate the flow of air. shunt: An alternate or bypass portion of an electrical circuit. shunt winding: A wire coil forming an alternate or bypass circuit through which the current may flow. siamesed: Arrangement of ports when intake or exhaust valves are in pairs which allows two-into-one passages to be cast into the cylinder head. For example, with the usual valve arrangement in a four-cylinder engine the head can be designed so only two ports connect to the intake manifold and only three to the exhaust manifold. Also, when the engine cylinders are connected solidly together (as in the Vega block) instead of being totally surrounded by water jackets, the cylinders are said to be siamesed. SIC: Acronym for "Standard Industrial Classification" on "http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/SSGF/am00655f.html". Industry class that represents a level of organization of production by type of specialization. Currently the 1980 Standard Industrial Classification is in effect identifying each industry at the 4 digit level. Siddeley: See Armstrong-Siddeley. sidedraft carburetor: A carburetor in which the air passes through the carburetor into the intake manifold in a horizontal plane. Contrasts with a downdraft carburetor. side ring: A demountable metal flange to hold the tire on the rim base. It can be self contained, locking into the gutter, or may be held in place by a lock ring, depending on the type. sidewall: That portion of a tire between the tread and bead. See tire sidewall. sigma welding: See gas metal- arc welding signal light: The small lights which blink on either side of the front of the vehicle and either side of the rear of the vehicle. Some early cars (like the Austin and Flying Standard) had small illuminated arms that flipped out from the B-post instead. The purpose of signal lights is to warn other drivers of a change in direction when turning a corner or changing lanes. Also called "direction indicator." In Japan they are called "winkers." signal light warning light: A light on the instrument panel which flashes when the signal lights are operating. Usually this light is in the shape of a green arrow. On some cars, like Cadillac, a secondary light is mounted in a pod on the upper edge of each front fender and in a pod inside the cab above the backlight (i.e., back window). Also called "direction indicator warning light." silencer: A muffler. silicon glove: See barrier cream silver solder: Similar to brazing except that a special silver solder metal is used. It is used primarily on bicycle tubing. SIMA: Acronym for "Special Import Measures Act." single barrel: See single-barrel carburetor. single-barrel: See single-barrel carburetor. single barrel carburetor: See single-barrel carburetor. single-barrel carburetor: A carburetor with one throttle opening or barrel from the carburetor to the intake manifold. Also see carburetor, double-barrel carburetor, and four-barrel carburetor. single bead: A tire built with only one wire bundle in the bead. single coat: A coat of paint, with each stroke overlapping the previous stroke by 50%. single leading brake shoe: The use of a single hydraulic plunger and a common pivot point which expands two shoes against the drum with equal pressure whether braking from forward or reverse direction. The leading brake shoe is usually called the "Primary Shoe" and trailing shoe is called the "Secondary Shoe." Also see double leading brake shoe. single overhead cam: (SOHC) See overhead cam. single-overhead cam: (SOHC) See overhead cam. single rate spring: A spring with a constant spring rate. For example, if a 100-pound force deflects the spring by one inch, an additional 100 pounds will deflect it one more inch, and so on until the spring either bottoms or fails. The opposite of progressive rate spring. sintered bronze: Tiny particles of bronze pressed tightly together so that they form a solid piece. The piece is highly porous and is often used for filtering purposes. sipe: Fine lines or grooves cut into the tread of tires. They allow the tire to flex and give better traction on wet surfaces. six banger: Six cylinder engine. six-speed transmission: A manual transmission with six forward gears. See Hurst six-speed shifter. skewer: A pin with a loop at one end for insertion and removal. See quick-release skewer. skid: A sideways slip or slide of a wheel through failure to grip the ground. Also see anti-skid. skid depth: See tread depth. skid lid: A helmet. skidpad: A large area of smooth, flat pavement used for various handling tests. Roadholding is measured by defining a large-diameter circle (Car and Driver magazine uses 300 feet) on the skidpad and measuring the fastest speed at which the car can negotiate the circle without sliding off. skin: The outer surface or body panel. See skins. skins: [1] Colloquial term for tires. [2] A covering for skis on a snowmobile. skirt: [1] A cover for the rear fender cutout. See fender skirt. [2] The portion of the piston below the rings and bosses. It absorbs the thrust caused by the crankshaft as it makes contact with the cylinder wall. Also see piston skirt. skirt expander: See piston skirt expander. skive: The action of cutting into something or cutting away rubber from an injury in preparation for a section repair. slag inclusions: Non-fused, non-metallic substances in the weld metal. slant engine: This is an in-line engine in which the cylinder block has been tilted from a vertical plane. slap: See piston slap. sleeve: A cylindrical insert. See liner, cylinder sleeve, dry liner, dry sleeve, and wet sleeve. sleeve nut: See inner cap nut. sleeve valve: Consists of metal sleeves located between the piston and cylinder wall. When moved up and down, holes in the sleeves coincide with inlet and exhaust parts to provide passage for the gases at the right time. slewed axles: Axles that are not parallel. slick: A very wide tire, without a tread pattern, designed to provide a maximum amount of traction. It is used for racing on dry surfaces. sliding fit: See running-fit. sliding-fit: See running-fit. sliding gear: A transmission gear that is splined to the shaft. It may be moved back and forth for shifting purposes. slinger: See oil slinger. slingshot: A form of dragster using a rather long thin frame with a very light front axle and wheel assembly. slip angle: The difference in the actual path taken by a vehicle making a turn and the path it would have taken if it had followed exactly as the wheels were pointed. The slip angle is the result of the tire carcass's flexibility and is the angular difference between the direction the wheel is travelling and the direction of the tread. If the slip angles of the rear tires are greater than the slip angles of the front tires, the vehicle is said to be oversteering. Also see tire deviation angle. slip joint: A joint that will transfer driving torque from one shaft to another while allowing longitudinal movement between the two shafts. A variable length connection that permits the driveshaft or axle shaft to change its length as the shaft moves up and down. slip ring: One of several conductive metal rings attached to the rotor shaft in an alternator that periodically changes the direction of current flow. slip stream: a racing technique in which one vehicle tucks in closely behind another (catches a tow). The total aerodynamic drag acting on the two vehicles is actually less than the drag that acts on each vehicle when they are separated by greater lengths; this allows both vehicles to gain straightaway speed. The lead vehicle cuts into the air acting as a wind break for the following vehicle, and the closeness of the second vehicle reduces the turbulence normally generated at the rear of the first vehicle. Also called drafting. slipper piston: a piston with the lower edge cut away so that the piston skirt is short on the two sides not used as thrust surfaces. Such a design lightens the piston making it easier to accelerate and decelerate, wastes less power, and is easier on the bearings. Cutting away the skirt also allows the connecting rod to be made shorter but leaves enough room between the counterweights and the pistons so the overall height of the engine can be reduced. slow leak: A tire which loses its air pressure over a period of time. It is usually caused by a small puncture, a leaking tire valve, or a tire that is not properly seated on the rim. sludge: A thick, black, mushy, greasy deposit found throughout the interior of the engine. Caused from a mixture of dust, oil, gasoline, water, and blowby being whipped together by the moving parts. Some engines oils have detergent to break down sludge. A composition of oxidized petroleum products along with an emulsion of oil and water, forming a pasty substance that clogs oil lines and passages and interferes with engine lubrication. Sludge is formed in engines with neglected oil changes. sluggish acceleration: To increase speed slowly. See acceleration. slush box: A derogatory colloquial term for an automatic transmission used by those who prefer a manual transmission. slushbox: A derogatory colloquial term for an automatic transmission used by those who prefer a manual transmission. small-block engine: During the '60s and '70s, GM, Ford, and Chrysler made two types of V8 engines of the same size: e.g., 350 cu. in. small-block and 350 cu. in. big-block SMMT: Acronym for "Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders" smog: Fog made darker and heavier by chemical fumes and smoke. A fog-like layer, often brown in color, that hangs over many areas under certain atmospheric conditions. Smog, a contraction of the words smoke and fog, is compounded from smoke, moisture and numerous chemicals produced by combustion (from power plants, automotive engines, etc.) and from natural and industrial processes. Formation of smog is aided by the presence of sunlight which reacts with many chemicals and combustion products such as hydrocarbons and oxides of nitrogen to form other more noxious compounds. SMPI: Acronym for "sequential multi-point electronic fuel injection." snap ring: A split ring or clip that is snapped into a groove in a shaft or in a groove in a hole. It is used to hold bearings, thrust washers, gears, etc., in place. An internal snap ring is used in a groove in a housing; an external snap ring fits in a groove cut on the outside of a cylindrical piece such as a shaft. snipe: A long extension applied to the handle of a wrench in order to increase the leverage in removing a stubborn bolt or nut. soapstone: Lubricant used to prevent sticking between tire and tube. society of Automotive Engineers: (SAE) See SAE. socket: A hollow part or piece adapted or contrived to receive and hold something. As a tool, it is usually barrel-shaped. See ball joint, cigar lighter, socket wrench, and spark plug socket. socket wrench: A socket wrench is made up of a ratchet and a variety of sockets. The ratchet end fits into the sockets. The end is usually one of three common sizes: 0.25" (6.35 mm), 0.375" (9.5 mm), and 0.5" (13 mm). The socket (a cylinder) completely covers all the corners of the head of a bolt or nut. Some sockets have six faces while others have twelve. sodium cooled valve: See sodium-cooled valve. sodium-cooled valve: An exhaust valve with a hollow stem that is partially filled with metallic sodium. When the valve gets hot enough (138°C), the sodium melts and moves up and down in the valve stem. The sodium absorbs heat from the hot valve head and carries it away to the outer part of the stem and then into the valve guide in the cylinder head and next to the cylinder head itself. This circulation cools the valve head and thus the valve is allowed to run at a lower temperature. soft-top trailer: !!! Definition under construction !!! SOHC: Refers to an engine with a single overhead camshaft to operate both intake and exhaust valves. See overhead camshaft and engine type. solder: A compound of two or more metals (such as lead and tin) which have a relatively low melting point. With the application of heat, it is used to join wires or two pieces of metal together. Also see braze, flux, silver solder, sweating, and tinning. soldering: Joining two pieces of metal together with a lead-tin mixture. Both pieces of metal must be heated to insure proper adhesion of the melted solder. Also see silver solder. solenoid: An electrically operated magnetic device used to operate some unit. A movable iron core is placed inside a coil of wire which moves because of magnetic attraction when electric current is fed to the coil. When current flows through the coil, the core will attempt to center itself in the coil. In so doing, the core will exert considerable force on anything it is connected to. Also see clutch solenoid, idle stop solenoid, and starter solenoid. solid: Anything which does not have a tendency to flow (such as vapor or fluid). See solids. solids: [1] The ingredients ( pigments and binders) of the paint that remain on the surface after the solvents evaporate. [2] Industrial tires made without an air chamber. solid state controller: An electronic controller which uses transistors, diodes, and other semiconductor devices. solvent: A fluid that dilutes, liquefies or dilutes another liquid or solid. Solvents include thinners, reducers and cleaners. Examples: Alcohol thins shellac; gasoline dissolves grease. sone: A measurement of the noise level of a fan. The lower the sone rating, the lower the noise level. souped up: A vehicle is souped up when it is tuned to produce the maximum amount of power. souping: Hopping up or increasing engine performance through various modifications. south pole: The magnetic pole in a magnet toward which the lines of force emanate; travel is from North to South pole. space frame: A type of frame construction which has high rigidity for its low weight. It is used with some racing and low production cars. It is made up of several lengths of tubing welded into a strong, light web-like structure to which the engine, suspension, and other components are attached. spacer: [1] A component which moves two items further apart. Sometimes it is just a washer and at others it is a metal or plastic cylinder or a block of rubber or plastic. [2] A band on demountable rims which fits between two rims in dual mounting to provide clearance between the duals. [3] An obsolete circular metal plate having a bolt hole circle and center bore and fitting between the faces of disc wheels to provide additional dual clearance. space saver wheel: !!! space saving tire: A spare tire which is smaller than normal and has limited use only when a flat tire occurs. spanner: Although a British term for a wrench, it is also used for many bicycle tools in the U.S.A. and Canada. Also see pin spanner, C-spanner, and chainring nut spanner. spare tire: An extra wheel and tire assembly which is stored in the vehicle in the event of a flat tire. See space saving tire. spark: The bridging or jumping of a gap between two electrodes by a current of electricity. One of the essential factors in a combustion engine (Fuel, Air, Proper proportion of mixture, compression, timing, Spark). Also see jump spark. spark advance: Causing the spark plug to fire earlier by altering the position of the distributor breaker points in relation to the distributor shaft. Also see advance. spark arrester: A device which hinders flames from exiting the exhaust pipe. spark gap: The space between the center and side electrode tips on a spark plug. Also see gap. spark knock: See preignition. spark plug: A device containing two electrodes across which electricity jumps to produce a spark to fire the fuel charge. The center electrode is insulated from the spark plug shell by means of a molded insulator resembling porcelain. The side electrode protrudes from the bottom edge of the spark plug shell and is so positioned that there is a gap between it and the center electrode. Also see resistor spark plug. spark plug gap: The space between the center and side electrodes of a spark plug across which the spark must jump to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. spark plug socket: A tool used to remove or install spark plugs. spark retard: The action of changing the ignition timing so that the spark occurs after what is specified by the manufacturer. See retard. sparkplug: See spark plug. spd: Abbreviation for "speed," as in 4-spd. transmission. speaker: A sound device which contains a magnet and a relatively large vibrating diaphragm which translates electrical impulses into sound vibrations. speaker grill: A covering over the speaker which protects the sensitive diaphragm and yet permits the maximum output of sound. speaker enclosure: The housing for the speaker (i.e., its box) which may enhance the output of sound. spec: Abbreviation for "special," as in spec. paint colors. Speciale: See Alfa Romeo. special Import Measures Act: (SIMA) Helps to protect Canadian producers from harm or injury caused by the dumping of goods into Canada by foreign exporters or the subsidizing of goods by foreign governments. special mileage tire: B>SPECIAL MILEAGE TIRE: A tire manufactured with an extra layer of rubber between the cord body and the original tread design. This extra layer is designed for the purpose of recutting and regrooving, and is specifically labelled as a special mileage commercial tire. Also called "regrooveable tire." special services: a category that describes plants which add value to automotive parts manufactured by others by using process such as painting, plating, heat treatment, etc. specialty repair shop: retail outlet which offers specialized vehicle products and service. specific gravity: The relative weight of liquid (battery electrolyte) as compared to the weight of an equal volume of water. specification: See specifications. specifications: A list of the measurements of each component of a vehicle and the requirements for proper installation. The size, description, or part numbers for various items needed to maintain or repair a vehicle. specs: Abbreviation for "specifications." speed: [1] The average rate at which an object is travelling. Measured as a relationship of distance per time -- e.g., meters per second (m/s), kilometers per hour (kph), feet per second (ft/sec.), miles per hour (mph), or revolutions per minute (rpm). [2] The number of gears in a transmission. See three-speed transmission, four-speed transmission, five-speed transmission. speed control: Another name for cruise control. speed limit: The maximum speed that the law allows on a particular road. A speed limit is set for various factors: school and playground zones; safety in negotiating curves and off ramps; national limits; fuel conservation; divided highways vs two-way traffic; construction zones; and city ordinances. speedo: Abbreviation for "speedometer." speedo cable: See speedometer cable. speedometer: Instrument usually found on the dashboard which is used to determine forward speed of a vehicle in kilometers per hour or miles per hour. Also see HUD. speedometer cable: A long specially constructed wire inside a housing. The one end of the speedometer cable is inserted into the back of the speedometer head and the other end is usually attached to the transmission. When the speedometer needle moves erratically or the cable makes noise, the cable needs to be lubricated with specially formulated compound. Oil will cause it to stick. speedometer head: The instrument cluster which displays the road speed. speed screw: See idle speed screw.
spider gear: A small gear (usually in a set of two to four gears) mounted on a shaft pinned to the differential case. They mesh with the bevel gear on the ends of the axles and drive them. Also see pinion gear. spindle: [1] The machined shaft upon which the inside races of the front wheel bearings rest. The spindle is an integral part of the steering knuckle. Also see steering spindle. [2] Another term for an axle, such as a pedal axle or a bottom bracket axle.
spiral bevel gear: A ring and pinion setup widely used in automobile differentials. The teeth of both the ring and the pinion are tapered and are cut on a spiral so that they are at an angle to the center line of the pinion shaft. See bevel gear. spiral wrapped pin: A tube-like pin that is made by rolling a sheet of metal tightly together. Used as a shear pin. spkrs: Abbreviation for "speakers," as in dual rear spkrs. splash: See oil-combin ation splash and pressure system, oil-splash system, and splash shield. splash guard: See splash shield and mud flap. splash shield: A removable device found on disc brakes to keep water and dirt from fouling the brakes. spline: In order to secure one object on a shaft, longitudinal grooves or splines are cut all around the shaft with matching grooves in the object. In this way the object slides on the shaft for installation so that both the object and the shaft rotate together. splined joint: A joint between two parts in which each part has a series of splines cut along the contact area. The splines on each part slide into the grooves between the splines on the other part. splined shaft: A shaft having multiple grooves, or keyseats, cut around its circumference. split bench seat: A front seat arrangement in which the left side is independent from the right side. While a bucket seat is shaped for an individual, split bench seats can still hold three people. Most are split 60/40 where the smaller portion is for the driver. It avoids the disadvantage of the bench seat in that the driver can position his seat differently from the passenger. split manifold: An exhaust manifold that has a longitudinal baffle placed near its center. An exhaust pipe leads out of each half. split pin: See cotter pin split rim: A rim which is made of two or three pieces and uses a demountable flange.
splitting lanes: The action of straddling the center line between two lanes of traffic so that following vehicles cannot pass on either side. This is a discourteous procedure unless it is the action of a police officer to slow down traffic because of an accident some distance ahead. spoiler: An aerodynamic device attached to a vehicle (usually under the front bumper or on the decklid) to either reduce drag or induce downforce on the vehicle. So called because it spoils the normal flow of air over or under the vehicle. spoke: One of several wires used to hold the hub in the center of a wheel rim and to transfer the load from the perimeter of the wheel to the hub and on to the frame. spoke steel type: See motor wheel type. spoke wrench: A tool for securing or removing spokes by turning the nipple. spokes: See spoke. spongy brake pedal: See spongy pedal spongy pedal: When there is air in the brake lines, or shoes that are not properly centered in the brake drums, the brake pedal will have a springy or spongy feeling when the brakes are applied. The pedal should normally feel hard when applied. spool balance valve: A hydraulic valve in automatic transmissions that balances incoming oil pressure against spring control pressure to produce a steady pressure to some control unit. spool valve: A hydraulic control value shaped somewhat like a spool upon which thread is wound. spoon: A tire-iron tool used to remove a tire (especially a bicycle or motorcycle tire) from its rim. Usually two or three spoons are necessary to do the job. Using a flat blade screwdriver instead of a spoon may puncture the tube. sport and Imperial phaeton: Similar to the phaeton, but with extra equipment or refinements, such as wire wheels, trunk rack, and ultra-modish paint treatments and finish. The Imperial type indicates a tonneau or second windshield in front of the rear seat passengers. sportbike: A motorcycle type which originally began as a cafe racer. The rider is bent forward for better flow of the air (as opposed to the upright position of a touring bike). Also called a "crotch rocket" because of the strain it places on the rider's crotch and because of its very fast speed. sport coupe: In other respects similar to the coupe, it has a rumble seat in the rear deck and a small compartment for storage of golf clubs. sport roadster: In addition to being a roadster, it has provision for a rumble seat in the rear deck, along with a golf locker for storage. sports car: Term commonly used to describe a relative small, low slung car with a high performance engine. sports tourer: A bicycle whose structure, geometry, and components are designed to make it a compromise between one suitable for racing and one suitable for loaded touring -- good for general pleasure riding. sporty driving style: A manner of handling a vehicle in which the driver turns corners fast, brakes and accelerates hard, uses high revs in every gear, and shifts down before corners. spot glazing: Filling minor imperfections (sand scratches). spotlight: An auxiliary light used to shine a narrow beam of light. spot weld: Fastening parts together by fusing, at various spots. Heavy surge of electricity is passed through the parts held in firm contact by electrodes. spotting: See water spotting. sprag clutch: A clutch that will allow rotation in one direction but that will lock up and prevent any movement in the other direction. spray arc: Gas metal arc process which has an arc voltage high enough to continuously transfer the electrode metal across the arc in small globules. spread axle: Trailer axle, usually 6 to 9 feet ahead of another axle and located near the center of the trailer. spreader: See tire spreader and anti-rattle spring spreader spring: See anti-rattle spring
spring balance: An instrument for measuring weight or force which does so by the elasticity of a spiral spring. spring booster: A device used to "beef up" sagging springs or to increase the load capacity of standard springs. spring brake: Emergency or auxiliary brake system utilizing a spring load as a force for braking. May be automatically actuated by low air pressure or mechanically controlled for use as a parking brake. spring clip: Small metal brackets insuring proper alignment of spring leaves. spring loaded: A device held in place, or under pressure from a spring or springs. spring rate: Rate of deflection versus amount of load applied. In other words, how much force is needed to bend a spring a given distance. springs: See spring. spring seat: Support on which the spring is anchored. spring steel: A heat treated steel having the ability to stand a great amount of deflection and yet return to its original shape or position. spring windup: The curved shape assumed by the rear leaf springs during acceleration or braking. springing: A term for suspension. Also see air suspension. sprint: See Alfa Romeo. sprocket: A disc with teeth on its circumference for driving a chain, a general term that applies both to chainrings and to freewheel cogs. sprung weight: This refers to the weight of all the parts of the vehicle that are supported by the suspension system. Unsprung weight includes wheels and tires, brake assemblies, the rear axle assembly and other structural members not supported by the springs. Unsprung weight can be reduced with independent rear suspension because the differential, and in some cases the brakes, can be attached to the body. spur gear: A gear on which the teeth are cut parallel to the shaft. They are not used very often in modern gearboxes because they are noisier than helical gears. Also called straight-cut gear. spurt hole: A small hole in the connecting rod big end that indexes (aligns) with the oil hole in the crank journal. When the holes index, oil spurts out to lubricate the cylinder walls. Spyder: In the early 1900s, a light two-seater car. In the 1950s the word was revived by some Italian manufacturers for an open two seater sports car. Also spelled "spider." SQ: Acronym for "Sound Quality." sq. ft.: Abbreviation for "square foot." sq. in.: Abbreviation for "square inch." square engine: An engine in which the bore diameter and the length of the stroke are the same. square key: A small bar of any length but its height and width are the same. squat: The action of the rear end of the vehicle to point downward during hard acceleration. Squat is caused by a load transfer from the front to the rear suspension. Also see anti-squat system. squeak: An expression used particularly with two-stroke engines where the pistons have run without sufficient lubrication. It is caused by a poor injection system or a pre-mix that is too lean (not enough oil in the gasoline). Squire: The 1925-1948 models are classic cars. squirt hole: See spurt hole. squish: An area in the combustion chamber of some engines where the piston squishes or squeezes part of the fuel-air mixture at the end of the compression stroke. As the piston approaches top dead center, the mixture is pushed out of the squish area and this promotes turbulence, further mixing of the fuel-air mixture and more efficient combustion. SR&ED: Acronym for " Scientific Research and Experimental Development Program." SRS: Acronym for "Supplemental Restraint System," or "Supplemental Restraint inflatable air-bag System." The letters appear on the steering wheel and/or instrument panel. In fact, dual airbags are standard in all of the 1998 cars, except for some sub-compacts and very small models. SS: The SS and SS Jaguar models for 1932-1940 except the 4-cyl. are classic cars. SSAE: Acronym for "Stamped, self-addressed envelope." stability: The quality or state of a vehicle to remain controllable. See directional stability. stabilizer: A variety of devices used to keep the passenger compartment of a vehicle from swaying and lurching on sharp curves and turns. Also see stabilizer bar. stabilizer bar: A transverse mounted spring steel bar that controls and minimizes body lean or tipping on corners. Also see anti-roll bar. stabilizing plies: Two or more plies, of steel, fiberglass, etc., forming a belt around the circumference of a tire, between carcass and tread rubber. It reduces tread distortion of radial and bias belted tires. stagger: To place items (like carburetors, pistons) so that every second item is offset from the previous one. stamping: A sheet metal part formed or shaped by pressing rolled sheet metal between metal dies (hardened metal blocks). standard Industrial Classification: (SIC) industry class that represents a level of organization of production by type of specialization. Currently the 1980 Standard Industrial Classification is in effect identifying each industry at the 4 digit level. standard rim: A rim that has been calibrated and found to meet the precise measurements specified by Tire and Rim Association, Inc. or, where applicable, by European Tire & Rim Association. standard transmission: A transmission that must be shifted manually to effect a change in gearing. Also called "conventional transmission" or "manual transmission." standard work week: average number of hours worked normally scheduled in a work week. standing start: A race which begins with none of the vehicles in motion. start: See jump start, standing start, and starting system. starter: A small electrical motor that causes the engine crankshaft to begin to turn, which starts the engine running and so starts the vehicle. Also called the "cranking motor." Also see Bendix type starter drive and overrunning clutch starter drive. starter drive: Also see Bendix type starter drive. starter motor: See starter. starter solenoid: A device that uses electrical current to start and engage the starter. Also see solenoid. starting system: The portion of the electrical system that starts the vehicle. Consists of the ignition switch which closes the circuit and allows current to flow from the battery to the starter by way of the starter solenoid. Also called the "cranking circuit." state of charge: See battery charge static balance: When a tire, flywheel, crankshaft, etc., has an absolutely even distribution of the weight mass around the axis of rotation, it will be in static balance. For example, if a front wheel is jacked up and the tire, regardless of where it is placed, always slowly turns and stops with the same spot down, it would not be in static balance. If, however, the wheel remains in any position in which it is placed, it would be in static balance, (bearings must be free, no brake drag, etc.). Also called "kinetic balance." Also see dynamic balance. static electricity: Electricity generated by friction between two objects. It will remain in one object until discharged. static loaded radius: See loaded radius. static pressure: A certain amount of pressure that always exists in the brake lines even with the brake pedal released. Static pressure is maintained by a check valve. static shield: A device found on some distributors that reduces radio interference caused by the working of the vehicle's ignition system. station wagon: (SW) Originally this was a car with an enclosed wooden body of paneled design with several rows of folding or removable seats behind the driver. It became a different and popular vehicle after 1945. There is usually a tailgate but no separate luggage compartment. Early station wagons and compact station wagons had only two doors while the larger ones had four doors. stator: [1] A small hub, upon which a series of vanes are affixed in a radial position, that is so placed that oil leaving the torque converter turbine strikes the stator vanes and is redirected into the pump at an angle conducive to high efficiency. The stator makes torque multiplication possible. Torque multiplication is highest at stall when the engine speed is at its highest and the turbine is standing still. [2] The fixed electrical windings on a magneto, alternator, or generator. It turns within the rotor. Also see variable pitch stator and thermal reactor. stay: An arm or brace use to support another component. See seatstay and chainstay. std: Abbreviation for "standard," as in std. transmission. See standard transmission. steam engine: An external combustion engine where water is converted to steam in a boiler outside the cylinder. The steam is then admitted to the cylinder where it expands against a piston. As the steam expands it cools and begins to condense. This mixture of water droplets and steam is forced out of the cylinder on the return stroke and into the condenser where the remaining steam is condensed into water. This water is forced into the boiler by a pump and the cycle is repeated. Steam engines have some notable drawbacks: slow warm up, freezing of the water system in cold weather, and contamination of the water by scale, oil, and sludge which can wreak havoc with the boiler, pumps, and condenser. But they also offer certain advantages: the potential for high fuel economy with low emissions, the ability to start from rest against a load so a clutch is not needed, and the torque developed is greatest at low rpm so in some applications a multiple-ratio gearbox is not necessary. steel pack muffler: A straight through (no baffles) muffler using metal shavings surrounding a perforated pipe. Quiets exhaust sound.
steep angle: See steep angles. steep angles: Angles that position frame tubes relatively closer to vertical than do shallow angles. steer: See bump steer and roll steer. steerer tube: The tube that forms the top of the fork and rotates inside the head tube of a bicycle. steering: A mechanism for controlling the direction of a vehicle. Also see Ackermann steering, center steering linkage, manual steering, negative offset steering, parallelogram steering linkage, power steering, and recirculating-ball-an d-nut steering. steering, Ackermann: See Ackermann steering. steering arm: Arms, either bolted to, or forged as an integral part of the steering knuckles. They transmit the steering force from tie rod to the knuckles, thus causing the wheels to pivot. Also called tie rod arm. steering axis: The line through the center of the ball joints in a front suspension system. The line that intersects the upper and lower steering pivots on a steered wheel. steering axis inclination: See kingpin inclination. steering axle: An axle that directs control of the vehicle. It can be powered or non-powered and more than one steering axle can be present. steering column: A shaft connecting the steering wheel to the steering gear assembly. Also called the steering shaft. See energy absorbing steering column. steering feel: Steering feel is the general relationship between forces at the steering wheel and handling. Ideally, the steering effort should increase smoothly as the wheel is rotated away from center. In addition, the steering effort should build as the cornering forces at the steered wheels increase. Finally, the friction built into the steering mechanism should be small in comparison with the handling-related steering forces. steering gain: The relationship between yaw and the steering wheel's position and effort. All three should be proportional and should build up smoothly. steering gear: The gears, mounted on the lower end of the steering column, that are used to multiply driver turning force. It converts the rotary motion of the steering wheel into straight-line motion. This straight-line motion then moves the linkage connected to the steering arms and attached to the steering knuckles and this causes the front wheels to move to the right or the left in response to the steering wheel direction. steering geometry: A term sometimes used to describe the various angles assumed by the components making up the front wheel turning arrangement, camber, caster, toe-in, etc. Also used to describe the related angles assumed by the front wheels when the vehicle is negotiating a curve. steering head: !!! Definition under construction !!!. steering knuckle: The inner portion of the spindle that is affixed to and pivots on either a kingpin or on upper and lower ball joints. Also see ball joint steering knuckle and grease fittings. steering knuckle angle: The angle formed between the steering axis and the center line of the spindle. This angle is sometimes referred to as the included angle. steering linkage: The system that connects the steering wheel to the front wheels and allows the wheels to change direction in response to commands from the driver. Contains grease fitting to cushion against wear and friction. Also see alignment. and idler arm. steering lock: [1] The number of degrees that the front wheels can be turned from straight ahead before they are physically restrained from turning any further. Generally, the more lock designed into the front geometry, the smaller the turning circle but the more the tires scrub as the wheels approach the extreme lock positions. Turns lock-to-lock refers to the number of rotations of the steering wheel required to go from one extreme lock position to the other. [2] Can also refer to the locking mechanism usually contained in the steering column that locks the steering wheel when the ignition switch is turned off or the key is removed from the switch. [3] A lock on a motorcycle which prevents the front wheel from being turned left or right. steering overall ratio: The ratio of the degrees you must turn the steering wheel to turn the road wheels one degree from their straight ahead position. steering rack: The device by which the movement of the steering wheel is transferred to the front wheels of an automobile. steering ratio: The ratio of the gearing within a steering system such as the rack to the pinion or the worm gear to the recirculating nut. steering response: A subjective term that combines steering feel and steering gain. steering rod: One of two metal rods on each end of the steering rack that connect it to the front wheels via ball joints (tie rod ends). steering shaft: See steering column. steering spindle: A shaft-like projection from the steering knuckle to which the wheel is mounted. See spindle. steering system: The mechanism that allows the driver to guide the vehicle down the road and turn the wheels as he desires. The system includes the steering wheel, steering column, steering, linkages, and the front wheel supports. steering wheel: The device that the operator uses to control the direction of the front wheels. Most are circular with spokes that attach to the steering column. Also see drag wheel. stem: See valve stem. stereo: An abbreviation for "stereophonic." It indicates sounds which appear to have their source distributed in space even when they are emitted by the vehicle's speakers. Stearns-Knight: The 1925-1948 models are classic cars. step on it: To increase the speed of a vehicle. step on the accelerator: The action of pressing down on the gas pedal (accelerator) to cause more fuel to enter the engine thus making the vehicle go faster. Opposite to "ease up on the accelerator." step on the gas pedal: The action of pressing down on the gas pedal (accelerator) to cause more fuel to enter the engine thus making the vehicle go faster. Opposite to "ease up on the gas pedal." step on the throttle pedal: The action of pressing down on the throttle pedal (accelerator) to cause more fuel to enter the engine thus making the vehicle go faster. Opposite to "ease up on the throttle pedal." stethoscope: A device (such as used by doctors) to detect and locate abnormal engine noises. A very handy tool for the trouble-shooter. Stevens Duryea: The 1925-1948 models are classic cars. Steyr: The 1925-1948 models with required application are classic cars. sticker: See decal stick shift: This refers to a transmission that is shifted manually through the use of various forms of linkage. Often refers to the upright gearshift stick that protrudes through the floor. Also see four on the floor. stiffness: See roll stiffness. stirrup cable: On bicycle centerpull brakes, a short cable, each end of which attaches to a brake arm and which is pulled up at the center to activate the brakes. stirling engine: An external combustion engine in which heat is applied through the wall of a chamber within which a gas is successively heated and cooled, alternately expanding and contracting to power a piston inside the chamber. Its advantages include: exceptional silence, lack of vibration, long life, high efficiency, extremely low emissions and adaptability to many different kinds of fuel. Its main drawbacks are the need for extremely effective seals, inflexible control systems, and cost. stitching: A hard rolling method used to both remove trapped air and improve rubber contact for better adhesion, during repair, and retreading. stock car: A car as built by the factory. Usually one that is raced without any modifications beyond factory installed equipment. Also see super stock. stocker: !!! Definition under construction !!!. stone: See finishing stone and roughing stone. stop: See air stop, bump stop, sealer, idle stop solenoid. stop leak: See sealer. stop-leak: See sealer. stop light: See brake light stop solenoid: See idle stop solenoid. storage battery: See battery. stormer: A hot car that really moves out (i.e., accelerates rapidly). stove: See choke stove. stovebolt: Generally refers to Chevrolet (GMC) 6-cylinder, in-line, valve-in-head (push rod operated) engine. straddle cable: See stirrup cable. straight cut gears: See straight-cut gear. straight-cut gear: A gear that has teeth cut in the edge of the circumference of the gear. Unlike helical gears, the teeth are cut in line with the shaft on which it fits. See spur gear and helical gear. straight engine: See in-line engine. straight-line tracking: The ability of a car to resist road irregularities and run in a straight line without steering corrections. straight polarity: (Electrode negative-cathode) connecting DC to cause electrons to flow from the electrode to the base metal. straight time: The actual time that a mechanic takes to complete a repair job. In contrast with flat rate. straight weight: Term designating motor oil as suitable for use within a narrow range of temperatures. Outside the narrow temperature range its flow characteristics will not adequately lubricate. strain: Reaction of an object to a stress. strap: A long flexible strip (usually of leather or rubber) used to connect two items. stratified charge engine: An internal combustion engine in which a small portion of extremely rich fuel and air is ignited and in turn ignites a much leaner fuel-air mixture. The lean mixture might not fire by itself unless it is ignited by the flame of the burning rich mixture. Its advantage is lower peak combustion temperatures, greater fuel economy, and a decrease in pollutant emissions. The Honda CVCC engine which initiates combustion in a small auxiliary prechamber is one type of stratified charge engine (to be precise, the CVCC should actually be called a dual-combustion engine). Another type is Texaco's which uses turbulence in the incoming mixture to induce stratification. stream: See slip stream. street bike: A motorcycle which is permitted to be ridden on public roads and must be licensed. In contrast with an off-road bike. street rod: A slightly modified rod (car) that will give good day-to-day performance on the streets. stress: Load imposed on an object. stressed body: A vehicle body designed so that the outer body panels share a proportion of the total load or stresses in the whole structure instead of the frame taking all the loads. The Jaguar E-Type is one example. stress line: See stress lines. stress lines: Low areas in a damaged panel, usually starting at the point of impact and travelling outward. stress relieving: Even heating of a structure to a temperature below the critical temperature followed by a slow, even cooling. string: A thin length of twisted fiber. strip: [1] Area used for drag racing. [2] Removing tires and wheels, battery, hubcaps and other items of value as done by thieves. See gut. [3] To remove the insulation from a wire. striping tool: A tool used to apply paint in long narrow lines. stripped down: See Base Model. stripper: See Base Model. stripping stock: Rubber stock used to extend the wing of tread rubber when retreading a tire. stroboscope: See timing light. stroke: The distance the piston moves when travelling from bottom dead center (BDC) to top dead center (TDC) or vice versa. Also see compression stroke, exhaust stroke, intake stroke, and power stroke. stroked: The action of lengthening the stroke on an engine. Sometimes an engine manufacturer will produce an identical engine as he did in the previous year, but this time the stroke is longer. Thus it has been stroked. If the bore is also increased, it is bored and stroked. stroked crankshaft: A crankshaft, either a special new one or a stock crank reworked, that has the connecting rod throws offset so that the length of the stroke is increased. stroker: An engine using a crankshaft that has been stroked. stroking: A method for increasing the displacement of an engine by lengthening the crankshaft throws so that the piston stroke is increased. strut: A single, self contained pivoting suspension unit that integrates a coil spring with a shock absorber. Struts are used on front wheel drive automobiles. See MacPherson strut, Chapman strut, and steel strut. strut bar: Another name for "sway bar" or anti-roll bar. stubby screwdriver: A screwdriver with a short handle and blade for reaching into confined spaces. In Britain it is called a "chubby screwdriver." stud: [1] A metal rod or shaft with threads on both ends. [2] Metal spikes installed in snow tires to increase traction on ice and hard-packed snow. Studded tires have been banned in many areas because of the damage they inflict upon road surfaces. stud puller: A tool used to install or remove studs. Studebaker: The 1929-33 President models are classic cars. The 1963-64 Avanti models are milestone cars. The 1962-64 Gran Turismo Hawk models are milestone cars. The 1947-49 Starlight Coupe models are milestone cars. The 1953-54 Starliner Hardtop (Six and V-8) models are milestone cars. The 1955 President Speedster is a milestone car. stumble: A driveability-related problem similar to but more severe than hesitation. See bog. Stutz: The 1925-1948 models are classic cars. sub-compact: 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, a Nova was a compact. When cars smaller than the Nova came out (i.e., Chevette), they were called sub-compacts. sub frame: A partial frame that is sometimes bolted to the chassis of unit-body cars. It can be used to support the engine, transmission and suspension instead of having these components directly connected to the main body structure. This more expensive design generally results in better road isolation and less harshness. subsidiary: a subsidiary is an organization operating in a particular country that is owned or controlled by a foreign company which may or may not manufacture in that country. substrate: The surface that is to be finished (painted). It can be anything from an old finish or primer to an unpainted surface. suction: See vacuum. suction throttling valve: Valve placed between the air conditioning evaporator and compressor which controls evaporator pressure to provide maximum cooling without icing evaporator core. suicide door: See suicide doors. suicide doors: Doors that have the hinge toward the back of the vehicle. It's name came from the greater possibility of falling out of the vehicle with a door positioned this way. sump: That part of the oil pan that contains the oil. Also see dry sump. sun and planet gears: See planetary gearset. sun-and-planet gears: See planetary gearset. sun gear: The center gear around which the planet gears revolve. Also see planetary gear. Sunbeam: Only the 8-cyl. and 3-litre twin-cam models for 1925-1948 are classic cars. The 1965-67 Tiger Convertible models are milestone cars. super car: A car with a high horsepower engine that will provide fast acceleration and high speed. supercharger: An air compressor designed to force air, under pressure, into the cylinder. Can be mounted between the carburetor and cylinders or between the carburetor and the atmosphere. It boosts the power of the engine. Also see blower. supercharging: A method of increasing engine power by forcing larger amounts of air into the cylinders. super stock: Factory car (stock) with engine, suspension, running gear, etc., modified to increase horsepower and overall performance. supplemental restraint inflatable air-bag system: See SRS. supplemental restraint system: See SRS. supplier cost reduction effort: (SCORE) A United States program that urges suppliers to develop processes to cut costs. Suppliers are allowed to keep half the savings and pass on the other half to the automakers. surface dry: A condition in which the outer layer (surface) of the finish dries while the underneath remain soft and not thoroughly dried. surge: A drive problem where the vehicle on its own seems to gain power for a brief moment and then back down to the previous speed. The reason the engine will not run at a steady speed and surges is probably due to very lean air-fuel mixture or retarded timing. suspension: The assembly of springs, shock absorbers, torsion bars, joints, arms, etc., that cushions the shock of bumps on the road and serves to keep the wheels in constant contact with the road, thereby improving control and traction. suspension system: A system that cushions the passenger compartment of the vehicle from the bumps and shocks caused by the wheels moving over irregular road surfaces. Includes springs, shock absorbers, steering linkage, upper and lower control arms, torsion bars, stabilizers, etc. Sometimes called "springing." Also see air suspension, hydropneumatic suspension, independent front suspension, independent rear suspension, independent suspension, long and short arm suspension, rising-rate suspension, and torsion bar suspension. SUV: An acronym for "sport utility vehicle" which includes the Ford Bronco, GMC Jimmy, Chevrolet Blazer, Jeep Cherokee, Toyota Forerunner, and Nissan Pathfinder. SW: Acronym for "station wagon." Swansea: The location for the British Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency. Sometimes "Swansea" is a substitute for this agency. sway bar: See anti-roll bar. sweating: Joining two pieces of metal together by placing solder between them and then clamping them tightly together while heat, sufficient to melt the solder, is applied. swelling: See sand scratch swelling. swept volume: that part of the cylinder capacity that is swept by the pistons on their up and down strokes (i.e., the volume through which a piston moves in one stroke) formed by the bore diameter and the piston stroke. Also called "displacement volume." See displacement. swing axle: An independent rear suspension system in which each driving wheel can move up or down independently of the other. The differential unit is bolted to the frame and various forms of linkage are used upon which to mount the wheels. Drive axles, using one or more universal joints, connect the differential to the drive wheels. When cornering hard, cars with swing axles are prone to wheel jacking which can lead to large positive camber at the outside rear wheel and can induce sudden oversteer. Also see low pivot swing axle. switch: A device that opens and closes an electric circuit. Also see ignition switch, kickdown switch, kill switch, and toggle switch. symmetrical: Symmetrical tread is the most common tread design. Both halves of the tread face are the same design. It does not matter which side faces out. See asymmetrical Tread and directional tire. synchromesh: A device in a manual transmission that allows two gears to mesh more smoothly. When a synchronizer gear matches the speed of the transmission main shaft to the speed of the gear being selected, they mesh smoothly and prevent grinding and clashing of gears. It was first introduced by Cadillac in 1928. synchromesh transmission: A transmission using a device (synchromesh) that synchronizes the speeds of gears that are being shifted together. This prevents "gear grinding." Some transmissions use a synchromesh on all shifts while others synchronize second and high gearshifts. synchronize: To bring about a timing that will cause two or more events to occur simultaneously; plug firing when the piston is in the correct position, the speed of two shafts being the same, a valve opening when the piston is in the correct position, etc. Also see synchronizer. synchronizer: A cone or sleeve that slides to and fro on the transmission main shaft and makes the gears rotate at the same speed to prevent clash when the gears are about to mesh. Whenever a vehicle is rolling, the transmission main shaft is turning and the clutch gear is spinning. Even though the clutch is disengaged, the clutch gear continues to spin until friction slows it down or stops it. Thus when the driver shifts into another gear he is trying to mesh gears that may be moving at different speeds. By using synchronizers, the possibility of broken or damaged teeth is reduced and shifting effort is lowered. A transmission using synchronizers is called a synchromesh transmission. synthetic oil: Non-petroleum based oil. synthetic rubber: A man-made elastomer. The raw materials are generally derived from oily by-products. A non-elastic form of rubber. Also see natural rubber. system: An orderly, interconnected, complex arrangement of parts. See air filtration system, air injection reaction system, anti-lock brake system, bleeding a system, brake system, bumper system, charging system, closed loop system, controlled combustion system, coolant recovery system, cooling system, diagonally split system, electrical system, electronic ignition system, engine-control system, exhaust system, flushing the cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, induction system, lubrication system, oil-combination splash and pressure system, oil-full pressure system oil-splash system, open loop system, PCV system, positive crankcase ventilation system, starting system, steering system, supplemental restraint inflatable air-bag system, suspension system, triangle-split system, and vapor recovery system. |
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