[N] [O] [P] [Q] [R] [S] [T] [U] [V] [W] [X] [Y] [Z]
[Fa] [Fe] [Fh] [Fi] [Fl] [Fn] [Fo] [Fr] [Fu]
fabric fatigue: A term used with tires in that the fabric degrades and results in tire cord breakdown due to repeated flexing and heat.
face: To shave the outer edges of a bottom bracket shell or the upper and lower ends of a head tube to make them parallel with one another and square to the tube's centerline. Also see valve face.
Facel Vega: The 1954-64 V-8 models are milestone cars.
face of weld: The exposed surface of the weld.
facia: A front protective panel. Also spelled "fascia."
fact: Abbreviation for "factory."
factory options: Optional features which may be installed by the manufacturer upon request. Aftermarket options are those which are installed by a garage or consumer after the vehicle has been built and delivered to the selling dealership.
fade: A gradual reduction in efficiency. See brake fade.
fahrenheit: Thermometer on which the boiling point of water is 212 deg. and the freezing point is 32 deg. above zero. To convert from Fahrenheit to Celsius, subtract 32 then multiply the result by 5 and divide by 9. To convert from Celsius to Fahrenheit, multiply by 9, then divide by 5. Now add 32 to the result.
fairing: A protective shield at the front of a motorcycle which may house the headlights and signal lights.
| fan: [1] A fan is a rotating device with curved blades like a propeller. The primary fan in a vehicle is located behind the radiator. Some electric fans may be placed in front of the radiator. It draws air through the radiator so that the coolant looses its heat through the fins of the radiator. It is especially needed when the vehicle is idling or moving slowly. When the vehicle moves quickly, there may be no need for the fan. In some cases, the fan is automatically disengaged. The fan may be driven by a fan belt driven by the engine, or by electricity independent of the engine itself. [2] Other fans are located throughout the vehicle to push air from one location to another, especially for heating and ventilation. | |
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.
farewell tour: !!! Definition under construction !!!.
Farman: The 1925-1948 models with required application are classic car.
fascia: A front protective panel. Also spelled "facia."
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.
fastback: A design of car where the roof gently slopes to the rear end of the car.
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.
FCAI: Acronym for "Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries" (Australia).
feather edge: See feather-edge.
feather-edge: 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.
FEBIAC: Acronym for "Fédération Belge des Industries de L'Automobile et du Cycle 'réunies'" (Belgium)
federal side impact standard: !!! Definition under construction !!!.
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."
federation International De Automobile: (FIA).
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.
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 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.
FEMA: Acronym for "The Federation of European Motorcyclists Associations" on http://mag-uk.org/fema/.
fender: A covering over the wheels to prevent mud from splattering.
fender bender: A car accident in which only minor damage is done to body panels.
fender rail: !!! Definition under construction !!!.
fender skirt: A plate designed to cover a portion of the rear fender wheel opening.
Ferrari: The V-12 (All Front Engined) (1947-70) models are milestone cars.
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.
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.
| f-head engine: An engine having one valve in the head and the other in the block. The position of the valves create an "F" shape in combination with the combustion chambers. Also see engine type | |
F.I.: Abbreviation for "fuel injection."
FI: Acronym for "fuel injection."
FIA: Acronym for "Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile"
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."
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."
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.
FIEV: Acronym for "Fédération des Industries des Equipements pour Véhicules" (i.e., The French Vehicle Equipment Industries Association)
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.
filament: A fine wire inside a light bulb that heats to incandescence when current passes through it. The filament produces the light.
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.
film: A thin layer of something. See paint film.
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.
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 or possibly aesthetics.
final drive: !!! Definition under construction !!!.
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.
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.
finger: A protruding piece which engages or triggers something. See clutch semi-centrifugal release fingers.
fingers: See clutch semi-centrifugal release 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.
finishing stone: A fine grain stone used at the completion of the honing process to give a smooth surface.
fins: !!! Definition under construction !!!.
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.
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.
firm: a business or institution comprising sole proprietorships, partnerships, companies and other forms of organizations.
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: Contact area between two parts.
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.
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.
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 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 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.
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.
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 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 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.
flap: 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.
flare: [1] A gradual spreading or widening of a tube. See double flare. [2] A sudden burst of flame.
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.
flasher: !!! Definition under construction !!!.
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.
flashover: Tendency of electrical current to travel down the outside of a spark plug instead of through the center electrode.
flat: See flat tire.
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
flat crank: A crankshaft having one of the bearing journals out-of-round.
| flat engine: An engine where opposite cylinders are 180 degrees apart. This engine type is found on the following: VW Beetle, Corvair, Porsche six-cylinder, Subaru "quadrazontal," and BMW motorcycle engines. | |
| flathead: An engine with all the valves in the block on one side of the cylinder. Also called "L-head" because the combustion chamber is L-shaped. | |
flat key: A small bar of any length but its width is greater than its height.
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 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.
flat spring: A long bar that is bent in the middle. When pressure is applied to the outside ends, the middle flexes.
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.
fleet sales: the purchase of vehicles by a business that meet a minimum requirement of units sold.
flickability: !!! Definition under construction !!!.
flipper strip: See ply turnup.
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 level: [1] Height of the fuel in the carburetor float bowl. [2] The specific float setting that will produce the correct fuel level.
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.
flood: 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.
floor: A verb meaning to push the accelerator as far as it will go (i.e., to the floor).
floorboard: !!! Definition under construction !!!.
floor Pan: !!! Definition under construction !!!.
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.
floorboard: The floor of the vehicle under the instrument panel.
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: Any liquid. See brake fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid.
| fluid coupling: On a manual transmission, there is a mechanical connection between the engine and transmission through the clutch. On an automatic transmission a fluid coupling provides a viscous fluid to connect the engine output and the transmission. It transfers engine torque to the transmission input shaft through the use of two units with vanes (called a "torus") operating very close together in a bath of oil. The engine drives one torus causing it to throw oil outward and into the other torus which then begins to turn the transmission input shaft. A fluid coupling cannot increase torque above that produced by the crankshaft. Buick's Dynaflow is an example of this kind of coupling. | |
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.
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.
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: !!! Definition under construction !!!.
flyweight: See flyweights.
flyweights: Special weights which react to centrifugal force to provide automatic control of other mechanisms such as accelerators or valves.
| flywheel: A relatively large and heavy wheel that is attached to the back of the crankshaft to smooth out the firing impulses. It provides inertia to keep the crankshaft turning smoothly during the periods when no power is being applied. It also forms a base for the starter ring gear and, in manual transmission, for the clutch assembly. Also called "engine flywheel." | |
flywheel puller: !!! Definition under construction !!!.
flywheel ring gear: A gear on the outer circumference of the flywheel. The starter drive gear engages the ring gear and cranks the engine.
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.
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 light: !!! Definition under construction !!!.
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.
follower: See cam follower.
Fomoco: Abbreviation for "Ford Motor Co."
footpedal Cluster: !!! Definition under construction !!!.
footpeg: !!! Definition under construction !!!.
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.
footrest: A place to rest the left foot when driving. See dead pedal.
footwell: !!! Definition under construction !!!.
footwell Intrusion: !!! Definition under construction !!!.
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. Also see centrifugal force.
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: The 1954 Crestline Skyliner is a milestone car. The 1957-59 Skyliner Retractable models are milestone cars. The 1955-56 Crown Vic Skyliner models are milestone cars. The 1946-48 Sportsman models are milestone cars. The 1955-57 and 1958-60 Thunderbird models are milestone cars.
Ford Mustang: The 1965-67 GT/GTA V-8 models are milestone cars. 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.
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: a process (usually involving hammering or squeezing) that transforms solid metal into shapes of varying cross-sectional material thickness, often involving heating.
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 !!!.
fork lift: (Lift truck) A vehicle having metal arms extended in front for picking up and moving pallets or skids.
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.
formula One: !!! Definition under construction !!!.
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.
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 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 !!!.
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 transmission: A manual or automatic transmission which has four forward gears.
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 valve: An engine which has four valves (two intake and two exhaust) for each cylinder. Multiple valve systems offer better breathing.
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.
four-wheel drive: See four-wheel drive.
4WD: Acronym for "four-wheel drive." This term should be distinguished from FWD which is front-wheel drive.
| four-wheel drive: (4WD) A type of drive system in which both front wheels are connected to its own differential and axles, and both back wheels are connected to its own differential and axles. Between these two differentials there is a transfer case which allows you, in the case of part-time four wheel drive, to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. In full-time four-wheel drive power is sent to both differentials. | |
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.
| frame: A bridge-like structural load-carrying members of a vehicle that support the engine and body and are in turn supported by the wheels of the vehicle. Also see backbone frame, diamond frame, ladder frame, ladies' frame, mixte frame, space frame, and sub frame. | |
franchise: establishment that has the right to exercise the powers of a corporation.
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 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 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 rolling wheel: A non-powered wheel position on a vehicle, such as steering axle, tag axle or trailer wheel positions.
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: See clutch pedal free travel.
freeway bar: !!! Definition under construction !!!.
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.
freewheeling: In a motorized vehicle the illegal coasting by putting the transmission in neutral or disengaging the clutch.
freeze: [1] To reach a temperature in which a liquid turns into a solid. See antifreeze [2] To adhere firmly. [3] To stop.
freeze plug: A removable plug on the block which can pop out should the coolant in the block freezes and expands. See expansion 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.
freon: A gas used as the cooling medium in older air conditioning and refrigeration systems. Usually called freon-12.
freon 12: See freon-12.
freon-12: A gas used as the cooling medium in older air conditioning and refrigeration systems.
frequency Modulation: 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.
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.
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.
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: 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 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 shifter: See friction shifters.
friction shifters: Conventional (non-index) levers of a bicycle that retain their position through the use of friction washers.
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.
front end alignment: See front-end alignment.
front-end alignment: The adjustment of the camber and caster of the front wheels. See alignment.
front fork: See fork.
front Forks: See fork.
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 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 wheel drive: See front-wheel drive.
front-wheel drive: 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.
frost heaves: A condition of a roadway in which frost buildup beneath the surface causes the pavement to bulge
FTA: Canada-U.S. Free Trade Agreement.
FTAA: Free Trade Agreement of the Americas.
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 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 cells: !!! Definition under construction !!!.
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 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 injection: (FI) A fuel system that uses no carburetor but sprays fuel either directly into the cylinders or into the intake manifold just ahead of the cylinders. It uses an electronic sensing device to deliver the correct amount into the combustion chamber. Throttle-body injection locates the injector(s) centrally in the throttle-body housing, while port injection allocates at least one injector for each cylinder near its intake port. | |
fuel injector: 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.
fuel line: The hose or pipe through which the fuel passes from the fuel tank to the fuel pump to the carburetor or fuel injector nozzle.
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 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 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."
fueller: See fuel burner.
fulcrum: The support on which a lever pivots in raising an object.
full cap: A condition of retreading where new tread rubber is added to the buffed casing, and covers the crown and shoulder areas.
full face helmet: !!! Definition under construction !!!.
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-size car: 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.
full trailer: See trailer.
full wave rectifier: See rectifier.
full-wave rectifier: See rectifier.
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: A protective device that will break or melt when current draw exceeds the capacity of the fuse. In this way, the circuit is protected from overload.
fuse capacity: See fuse.
fusion: Two metals reaching the melting point and flowing or welding themselves together.