Dictionary of Automotive Terms Abbreviations

DICTIONARY OF AUTOMOTIVE TERMS

C

[1] Abbreviation for Celsius or centigrade.

[2] Abbreviation for coulomb.

[3] Abbreviation for comfort.

[4] Symbol for the speed of light in a vacuum.

[C]

One of the Fraunhofer lines in the red of the solar spectrum. Its wavelength is 656.3045 nm; it is due to hydrogen.

χ

(chi) Symbol for magnetic susceptibility

C-3

Acronym for a computer command control system

C3I

Acronym for computer controlled coil ignition

C-4 system

Acronym for computer-controlled catalytic converter

CA

API classification for diesel engine oil widely used in the late '40s and '50s.

CAA

Acronym for Civil Aviation Authority

CAAM

Acronym for "China Association of Automobile Manufacturers."

CAB

Acronym for Civil Aeronautics Board

Cab

[1] A taxi or car for hire.

[2] The closed part of a truck (or even a car) where the driver sits.

Also see
chassis cab

Cabbage

Trucker slang for a long steep incline in Eastern Oregon as in "I jammed the brakes pullin' off of Cabbage"

Cab chassis

A truck chassis which includes the driver compartment.

Cab-forward design

A car design in which the front end is short and the footwells extended to the front axle. This design gave more passenger space and pushed the windshield further from the passengers

Cabin

A passenger compartment.

Also see
rear cabin pillar

Cabin altitude

The normal pressure altitude maintained in the cabin of a pressurized aircraft.

Cabin blower

An engine-driven pump, usually of displacement type, for maintaining an aircraft cockpit or cabin above atmospheric pressure. Also called cabin supercharger.

Cabin differential pressure

The pressure in excess of that of the surrounding atmosphere which is needed to maintain comfortable conditions at high altitude. For an aircraft flying at 9000 m this differential would be about 60 kNm^-2.

Cabin forward
< d>See cab-forward design

clear=all>

Cabin-forward design
< d>See cab-forward design

clear=all>

Cabin pillar
< d>See rear cabin pillar

cabin superharger

<	d>See cab-forward design

<	d>See cab-forward design

<	d>See rear cabin pillar

See	cabin blower

Cable

A cord generally made of strands of thin wire. Electrical cables are covered with a protective non-conducting material. Control cables are housed within an outer sleeve.

Also see
booster cable bowden cable brake cable clutch cable control cable	gearchange cables heavy cable ignition cable jumper cables light cable,	shift cables, spark plug cable, speedo cable, speedometer cable, speedometer drive cable,	starter switch control cable, stirrup cable, straddle cable, transverse cable

Cable activated

A device which is controlled by a cable. As a lever or pedal is engaged, the device is correspondingly moved. The longer the cable the less efficient is the system. Cables tend to stretch and fray with use.

Cable-angle indicator

An indicator showing the vertical angle between the longitudinal axis of a glider and its towing cable, also its yaw and roll attitude relative to the towing aircraft.

Cable brake

A braking device which is activated by a cable

Cable buoy

A buoy attached to an anchor and serving to mark its position.

Cablecar

A tram pulled by a moving underground cable, in the same manner as the cable railway.

Cable clamp

[1] A device for securing a cable end to the point where it connects.

[2] A device which secures the outer sheath of a cable

Cable cover strip

See spark plug cable cover strip

Cable cutter
A tool for severing a cable

Cable ducts

Earthenware, steel, plastic, or concrete pipes containing cables.

Cable form

The normal scheme of cabling between units of apparatus. The bulk of the cable is made up on a board, using nails at the appropriate corners, each wire of the specified color identification being stretched over its individual route with adequate skinner. When the cable is bound with twine and waxed, it is fitted to the apparatus on the racks and the skinners connected, by soldering, to the tag blocks.

Cable grip

A flexible cone of wire which is put on the end of a cable. When the cone is pulled, it tightens and bites into the sheath of the cable, and can be used to pull the cable into a duct.

Cable guide

A tube which is secured in place to channel the cable which runs through it

Cable-laid rope

A rope formed of several strands laid together so that the twist of the rope is in the opposite direction to the twist of the strands. Compare lang lay

Cable lock

A thick cable with a lock at one end and which can be wrapped around a bicycle frame and a post to protect the bike from being stolen.

Cable loom

See spark plug cable loom

Cable marker

See spark plug cable marker

Cable operated

An item which is controlled by a cable

Cable railway

Means of transport whereby carriages are pulled up an incline by an endless overground or underground cable.

Cables

See cable.

Cable separator

See spark plug cable separator

Cable-stayed bridge

A bridge type for medium spans in which the decking is suspended by diagonal cables attached directly to the supporting tower. Can be of fan or harp design. The decking is always in compression and is self-supporting during construction. See bridge

Cable-way

A construction consisting of cables slung over and between two or more towers, so that skips suspended from the cables may be moved often over long distances. It is used for transport of ore etc. Also called blondin.

Cab Plus

A type of pickup truck (by Mazda) which has a second row of seating; but unlike a crew cab (which has four full size doors) it has a "half-door" that can be opened only after the main door is opened. The seating is usually a little more cramped than in a crew cab. Also called club Cab, extended Cab, king Cab, xtracab, access Cab, supercab

Cabriolet

Similar to the sport coupé, it has a provision for converting to an open-type body (i.e., convertible). A rumble seat is a common on older vehicles, but not mandatory feature. Mercedes-Benz distinguishes the cabriolet from the roadster in that the former has a soft-top which folds up while the roadster has a hard-top which is stored in the trunk. Also called a "drophead coupé."

CACIS

Acronym for "Continuous AC Ignition System"

CAD

Acronym for "computer aided design"

Cadastral survey

Land survey, boundary delineation.

Caddy

An euphemistic name for Cadillac

Also see
plug caddy

Cadence

The speed your bicycle pedals turn. Professional bicycle riders have cadence of over 100 rpm

Cadence braking

A braking method in which the driver rapidly depresses and releases the brake pedal to bring a vehicle to an emergency stop

Cadillac
The following Cadillacs are classic cars
All 1925-35 models
All 12-cylinder models
All 16 cylinder models
All 1938-41 60 Special models
All 1936-48 series #67, #70, #72, #75, #80, #85, #90
For a history of Cadillac, see Cadillac History.

Click for books on Cadillac

Cadillac De_Ville
A model of automobile manufactured by General Motors' Cadillac division

Click for books on Cadillac De_Ville

Cadillac Eldorado
A vehicle brand of which the 1953-58, 67-70 Eldorado models are milestone cars. Also see the history of Cadillac Eldorado.

Click for books on Cadillac Eldorado

Cadillac Eldorado Brougham

A vehicle brand of which the 1957-58 models are milestone cars. Also see history of Cadillac Eldorado.

Cadillac Seville
A model of automobile manufactured by General Motors' Cadillac division

Click for books on Cadillac Seville

Cadillac 60 Special

A vehicle brand of which the 1948-49 models are milestone cars. Also see history of Cadillac.

Cadillac 61 Coupe Fastback

A vehicle brand of which the 1948-49 models are milestone cars. Also see history of Cadillac.

Cadillac 62

A vehicle brand of which the Sedanet and Convertible De_Ville for 1948-49 are milestone cars. Also see history of Cadillac.

Cadillac 75

A vehicle brand of which the Sedan/Limo for 1946-70 are milestone cars. Also see history of Cadillac.

Cadmium cell

A reference voltage standard, giving 1.0186 V at 20°C. Also called Weston standard cadmium cell.

Cadmium copper

A variety of copper containing 0.7 to 1.0% cadmium. Used for trolley, telephone, and telegraph wires because it gives high strength in cold-drawn condition combined with good conductivity.

Cadmium photocell

A photoconductive cell using cadmium disulphide or admium selenide as the photosensitive semiconductor. Sensitive to longer wavelengths and infrared. It has a rapid response to changes in light intensity.

Cadmium-plated

Something that is covered with a coating of cadmium. It is usually used to protect aluminum and steel nuts and bolts

Cadmium red line

Spectrum line formerly chosen as a reproducible standard of length, wavelength 643.8496 nm.

CAE

Acronym for Computer Aided Engineering

Caesium

British spelling for cesium

CAFE

Acronym for "Corporate Average Fuel Economy."

Café chop

Converting a stock motorcycle into a café racer is known as doing a café chop on a bike

Café racer

[1] Motorcycle modified to resemble racing motorcycles from the 1950s and 60s. They are called "café racers" because their owners supposedly raced from café to café in London, where the bikes first appeared in the 1960s

[2] An early sportbike motorcycle which originated in Europe. They had a low windshield and the rider was bent forward to optimize the flow of air. Its name came from those who raced from one restaurant (café) to another.

Cage

[1] Any enclosure.

[2] On a front derailleur of a bicycle, it is a pair of parallel plates that push the chain from side to side; on a rear derailleur, it is a set of plates in which pulleys are mounted to hold and guide the chain from cog to cog.

[3] Any device for holding or securing something, e.g., a bottle cage on a bicycle.

[4] When referring to bearings, it is the part which holds the balls or rollers in place. Usually called ball cage.

Also see
bearing cage needle cage roller cage

[5] When referring to a vehicle, it is the safety enclosure called a "roll cage."

See
differential cage integrated roll cage multi-reed cage

[6] The platform on which goods are hoisted up or lowered down a vertical shaft or guides; in mines, the steel box used to raise and lower workers, materials, or tubs. May have two or three decks.

Cage pedal
A bicycle pedal that is surrounded by a cage. It is found on all terrain bikes.

Cage rotor

A form of rotor, used for induction motors, having on it a cage winding. Also called squirrel-cage rotor.

Cage winding

A type of winding used for rotors of some types of induction motors, and for the starting or damping windings of synchronous machines. It consists of a number of bars of copper or other conducting materials, passing along slots in the core and welded to rings at each end. Also called squirrel-cage winding.

Cailletet's process

A method for the liquefaction of gases based on the free expansion of a gas from a higher to a lower pressure.

CAJAD

Acronym for "Canadian Association of Japanese Automobile Dealers"

Cake

The rectangular casting of copper or its alloys before rolling into sheet or strip.

Cal

Abbreviation for calorie

CAL

Acronym for Computer Aided Lighting

Calandria

Closed vessel penetrated by pipes so that liquids in each do not mix. In evaporating plant the tubes carry the heating fluid and in certain types of nuclear reactor, e.g., CANDU reactors, the sealed vessel is called a calandria

Calcium chloride

A chemical (salt) which is added to water in a liquid ballast.

Calcium sulphate

Chemical compound (CaSO₄), which is used as a drying agent or desiccant in liquid line driers

Calcium tungstate screen

A fluorescent screen used in a cathode-ray tube; it gives a blue and ultraviolet luminescence.

Calculation

See load distribution calculation

Calendering

A thin layer of rubber inside the tire casing which covers the carcass cords to protect them from moisture and to protect the tube from chafing by the cord body. In tubeless tires, calendering consists of a layer of air proof butyl rubber.

Caliber

[1] The internal diameter or bore of a pipe, esp. the barrel of a fire-arm.

[2] The arrangement of the various components of a watch or clock. Also spelled calibre.

Calibrate

As applied to test instruments it is the procedure of adjusting the dial needle to the correct zero or load setting to determine accurate measurements.

Calibrated airspeed

(CAS) Indicated airspeed corrected for position error and instrument error only. Not to be confused with equivalent airspeed or true airspeed. Also called rectified airspeed

Calibration

[1] Marking the measuring units on an instrument or checking their accuracy

Calibration oil

Oil which is used in a tester for checking injection nozzles, meeting SAE J967D specifications

Calibre

See caliber

California wheel

A name given to a spoked wheel produced by particular manufacturer. Although the wheel is popular in the East and Midwest of United States, it is not common in California or other Western states.

Caliper
[1] The apparatus on disc brakes which hold the disc pads and straddles the disc. When actuated the pads press against the disc to stop or slow the vehicle.

Also see
brake caliper
floating caliper disc brake

pin slider caliper disc brake
swinging caliper

Also see
brake caliper	floating caliper disc brake
pin slider caliper disc brake	swinging caliper

[2] On bicycles, the brake arms that reach around the sides of a wheel to press brake pads against the wheel rim.

[3] (British spelling is calliper). An adjustable measuring tool that is placed around (outside caliper) or within (inside caliper) an object and adjusted until it just contacts. It is then withdrawn and the distance measured between the contacting points.

Also see
dial caliper digital caliper inside spring caliper machinists' caliper	outside spring caliper pocket caliper pocket slide caliper vernier caliper

Caliper disc

See
floating caliper disc brake pin slider caliper disc brake

Caliper disc brake

See
floating caliper disc brake pin slider caliper disc brake

Caliper gauge

A caliper (definition #3)

Caliper mounting bracket

The component that connects a brake caliper to the steering knuckle, hub carrier, or rear axle

Calk

To fill seams in a wood deck with oakum or hammer the adjoining edges of metal together to stop leaks. Also spelled "caulk"

Calking

See caulking

Call

See close call

Calliper

Alternate spelling for caliper

Cal-look

A style modification of small vehicles which first started in California. Most of the chrome is removed and the vehicle is painted a bright color like yellow, light blue, and red.

Calorescence

The absorption of radiation of a certain wavelength by a body, and its re-emission as radiation of shorter wavelength. The effect is familiar in the emission of visible rays by a body which has been heated to redness by focusing infrared heat rays onto it.

Calorie

Two different calorie units are used by scientists. The calorie used by medical science is a small heat unit. It equals the heat required to raise the them of one gram of water one degree Celsius. The calorie used by engineering science is a large heat unit. It is equal to the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one kilogram of water one degree C. In the SI system it is recommended that the Joule unit of energy be used in place of the calorie

Calorific value

A measure of heating value of fuel

Calorimeter

An instrument to measure amount of heat given off by a substance when burned

CAM

Acronym for "Computer Aided Manufacturing"

Cam

[1] A designed bump on a shaft or disc which causes a rocking motion in an adjacent part.

[2] A metal disc with irregularly shaped lobes used in the camshaft to activate the opening and closing of the valves and in the distributor, to force the points to open.

[3] A colloquial name for the camshaft.

[4] A name for the breaker cam.

Also see
adjuster cam closing cam distributor cam	double overhead cam dual overhead cam engine exhaust cam	fast idle cam floating cam inlet cam	intake cam overhead cam single-overhead cam

Cam-and-lever steering

A steering system in which a conical peg mounted on a lever engages in a helically cut groove on a cylindrical drum. Also called "cam-and-peg steering"

Cam-and-peg steering

See cam-and-lever steering

Cam-and-roller steering

A steering system in which a tapered disc or a set of discs or rollers engage with a helically cut, tapered groove on a cylindrical drum

Cam angle

See dwell.

Camaro
A series of pony cars from the Chevrolet division of General Motors. It is often misspelled as "Camero" because of a mispronunciation. The 1967-69 SS/RS V-8 and Z-28 models are milestone cars. Also see Chevrolet Camaro

Click for books on Camaro

Cam belt

See timing belt

Camber
[1] A wheel alignment adjustment of the inward or outward tilt on the top of the wheel when viewed from the front of the vehicle. Tipping the top of the wheel center line outward produces positive camber. Tipping the wheel center line inward at the top produces negative camber. When the camber is positive, the tops of the tires are further apart than the bottom. Correct camber improves handling and cuts tire wear. Camber is measured in degrees. See wheel camber.

[2] The rise of a deck of a ship, athwartship

Cambered axle

An axle that has a slight arch which curves upward at the center so that the wheels can tilt outward at the top. In this way it is better than an axle which might sag under load.

Camber thrust

The side force generated when a tire rolls with camber. Camber thrust can add to or subtract from the side force a tire generates.

Cam chain

A timing chain which controls the overhead camshaft.

Cam design

See cam profile

Camel

A padded fender to keep a vessel away from a pier or quay to prevent damage to the hull or pier

Camelback

[1] Uncured retread rubber in crescent shape, available in various widths and depths according to size and type of tire being retreaded.

[2] A container for supplying water for cyclists

Also see
die size

Camel Grand Touring Prototype

(GTP) An International Motorsports Association's (IMSA) premier racing category until 1993 when it was replaced by the controlled cars World Sports Car Championship. GTP cars were the most powerful and the fastest on most road racing circuits in North America at that time. Over the years, many automakers fielded factory teams in this series including Ford, Toyota, Jaguar, Nissan, and Porsche.

Cam engine

See
dual overhead cam engine twin cam engine

Camera

Trucker slang for Police radar unit as in "There's a local yokal with a camera just ahead."

Camero

See Camaro

Cam face

The surface of a cam lobe

Cam follower
The unit that contacts the end of the valve stem and the camshaft. The follower rides on the camshaft and when the cam lobes move it upward, it opens the valve. Also called "valve lifter" or "tappet."

Cam ground piston

See cam-ground piston.

Cam-ground piston

A piston with a skirt that is ground slightly egg-shaped or oval-shaped. The widest diameter of the skirt is at right angles to the piston-pin axis. When it is heated, it becomes round. The design allows for a closer fit in the cylinder so that there is a reduction of blowby gas, cylinder scuffing, and
piston slap.

Cam heel

The lowest point of a cam opposite the lobe. Also called base circle

Cam lobe

See cam lobes.

Cam lobes

The bumps on a cam that contact and activate such devices as the lifters, which operate the valves, and the rubbing block, which causes the points to open and close, as the cam spins with the distributor shaft.

Cam lubricator

A device, often in the form of a wick, for lubricating the contact breaker cam in the distributor

Campaigning

Racing a particular vehicle for an entire season.

Camper
A structure which fits into a truck bed for camping purposes. It usually has beds and possibly cooking and washing facilities. Also called a "truck camper" or slide-in camper.
Also see
van camper

Camping

See folding camping trailer

Camping trailer

A trailer containing camping equipment.

Also see
folding camping trailer soft-top trailer hard-top trailer trailer

Cam profile

The shape of each lobe on a camshaft. These shapes determine when the valves open or close.

Cam/rocker

See opening cam/rocker

Cam/rocker

See opening cam/rocker

Cam roller

Rotating wheel acting as a cam follower

Camry
A model of automobile manufactured by Toyota

Click for books on Camry

Camshaft
A shaft with cam lobes (bumps) which is driven by gears, a belt, or a chain from the crankshaft. The lobes push on the valve lifters to cause the valves to open and close. The camshaft turns at half the speed of the crankshaft.

Also see
double-overhead cam
double overhead camshaft
exhaust camshaft
inlet camshaft
intake camshaft
overhead cam
overhead camshaft
race camshaft
three-quarter race camshaft
single-overhead camshaft
twin camshaft
twin overhead camshaft

Camshaft bearing

Also see
double-overhead cam double overhead camshaft exhaust camshaft	inlet camshaft intake camshaft overhead cam	overhead camshaft race camshaft three-quarter race camshaft	single-overhead camshaft twin camshaft twin overhead camshaft

Usually a plain bearing which supports the camshaft

Camshaft drive

A connection between the crankshaft and camshaft by means of gears, chain, drive belt, shaft, or eccentric shaft to maintain the ratio of 12.

Camshaft drive belt

A timing belt

Camshaft drive sprocket

A sprocket attached to a crankshaft (either at one end or somewhere in the middle) which drives the camshaft with the use of a chain

Camshaft end play

The amount of lateral movement of the camshaft once it is installed

Camshaft engine

See twin camshaft engine

Camshaft gear

A gear that is used to drive the camshaft.

Camshaft housing

That part of the engine which encloses the camshaft and often other parts of the valve train.

Camshaft journal

That part of the camshaft that runs in one of its bearings

Camshaft pulley

The pulley on the end of the camshaft for the camshaft drive belt

Camshaft sprocket

The sprocket on the camshaft which (through a chain) is driven by the camshaft drive sprocket

Can

[1] A tube in a canned motor pump which insulates the motor winding.

[2] A muffler.

[3] A container for liquid or other substances.

Also see
oil can

Canada-U.S. Free Trade Agreement

(FTA) Implemented in January 1989 to eliminate all tariffs on U.S. and Canadian goods by January 1998 and to reduce or eliminate many non-tariff barriers.

Canadian Automotive Repair and Service Council

(CARS) A not-for-profit organization established to serve the human resource and training needs of the Canadian car and truck repair and service industry.

Canadian cross border shopping

Cross border shopping describes the purchasing by Canadian consumers of products in the United States. Of particular interest is the decision by these buyers to obtain their products in the U.S., even though similar products are available in the Canadian market.

Canadian Environmental Protection Act

(CEPA) act where the goal is pollution prevention and protection of Canadians from toxic substances.

Cancellation

See noise cancellation

Candela

(cd) A basic unit of luminous intensity. If, in a given direction, a source emits monochromatic radiation of frequency 540 x 10¹² Hz, and the radiant intensity in that direction is 1/683 watt per steradian, then the luminous intensity of the source is 1 candela.

Candle

See candle power.

Candle power

A measurement of the light producing ability of a light bulb.

Candy apple paint

A bright color (usually red) paint (often with metal flakes) with a transparent clear coat

Candy paint

A bright color (usually red) paint (often with metal flakes) with a transparent clear coat

Canister

A small metal box or can.

Also see
activated carbon canister adsorption canister charcoal canister vapor canister

Canister air filter

A centrifugal force air filter

Canister purge shut-off valve

(CPSOV) a vacuum-operated valve that shuts off canister purge when the air injection diverter valve dumps air downstream

Canister purge solenoid

An electrical solenoid that opens the canister purge valve between the fuel vapor canister line and the intake manifold when energized

Canister purge valve

Valve used to regulate the flow of vapors from the evaporative canister to the engine

Canned motor pump

A glandless pump with a special type of submersible or "canned" motor, whose stator winding is insulated from the fluid pumped by a tube, the so-called can

Cannibalize

The action of removing good parts from one vehicle in order to put them into another vehicle.

Canning

The insertion of the catalyst element into the converter shell of a catalytic converter

Cannular combustion chamber

A gas turbine combustion system with individual flame tubes inside an annular casing.

Canonical assembly

Term used in statistical thermodynamics to designate a single assembly of a large number of systems which are such that the number of systems with energies lying between E and E+d_E is proportional to e^-Eθ, where θ is a parameter characteristic of the assembly

Canopy

[1] The transparent cover of a cockpit.

[2] The fabric (nylon, silk, or cotton) body of a parachute, which provides high air drag. Usually hemispherical, but may be lobed or rectangular in shape.

Also see
ribbon parachute

Cant

Slope of rail or road curve whereby outer radius is superelevated, to counteract centrifugal thrust of traffic.

Cant beam

Beams supporting the deck plating in the overhanging portion of the stern.

Canted deck

The flight deck of an aircraft carrier prolonged diagonally from one side of the ship, so that aircraft may fly off and land on without interference to or from aircraft parked at the bows. The British term is angled deck

Cant frame

A frame connected at the upper end to the cant beams

Cantilever

An arm that projects from a source and supports cables.

Also see
cantilever brake

Cantilever brake

[1] A bicycle rim brake with pivoting arms mounted on fork blades or seatstays at or below rim level. The two brake arms are connected by a straddle cable with the brake cable attached to the midpoint of the straddle cable.

[2] A type of ATB brake characterized by having the two brake arms connected by a straddle cable with the brake cable attached to the midpoint of the straddle cable. This type of brake was used on ATB bicycles (as well as tandems, touring, and cyclocross bicycles) before the invention of the V-Brake

Cantilever brakes

See cantilever brake.

Cantilever bridge

A bridge formed of self-supporting projecting arms built outward from the piers and meeting in the middle of the span, where they are connected together.

Also see
suspended span

Cantilever deck

A bridge where the deck slab is fixed above the main beams or trusses and is cantilevered beyond the outer beams or trusses.

Cantilever spring

[1] A leaf spring which is mounted upside down and attached to the vehicle at its mid-point. This system is no longer in use in modern vehicles.

[2] A quarter-elliptic leaf spring

Cantrail

The roof rail

Canvas top

The convertible top.

Canyon

A nuclear energy term for a long narrow space often partly underground with heavy shielding for essential processing of wastes from reactors.

Cap

[1] A protective round cover which is secured to something.

[2] A covering over the bed of a truck.

[3] The base of a light bulb which fits into a socket.

[4] Cleaner air package system of reducing the amount of unburned hydrocarbons in the automobile exhaust.

Also see
air cap battery cap bayonet cap bearing cap big-end cap car cap cold cap distributor cap double cap nut	dust cap end cap external mix air cap filler cap flip-top filler cap fuel cap full cap hot cap hubcap	inner cap nut insulating cap internal mix air cap net cap cost oil filler cap outer cap nut plug cap pressure cap pressure radiator cap	radiatorcap radiator pressure cap roto cap safety pressure cap spark plug cap spindle cap top cap valve cap valve spring cap

Capacitance (c)

[1] The property which opposes any change in voltage in an electrical circuit. The property of a nonconductor by which it stores electrical energy when separated surfaces of the nonconductor are maintained at a difference of potential. Capacitance is measured by the ratio of the charge induced to the potential difference and is proportional to the area of the conducting plates and the dielectric constant of the nonconducting material, and inversely proportional to the separation of the plates (mks unit farad).

[2] Property of a nonconductor (condenser or capacitor) that permits storage of electrical energy in an electrostatic field.

[3] Of an isolated conductor, the ratio of the total charge on it to its potential; C=Q/V.

Also see
farad stray capacitance

Capacitance bridge

An ac bridge network for the measurement of capacitance.

Also see
Schering bridge Wien bridge

Capacitance coefficients

Charges (q₁, ..., q_n) of a system of conductors can be expressed in terms of coefficients of electric induction (C_ĳ) by the following equations
q₁ = C_1∞V₁ + C₁₂(V₁-V₂) + ... + C_1n(V₁ - V_n)
q₂ = C₂₁(V₂ - V₁) + C_2∞V₂ + ... + C_2n(V₂ - V_n)
q_n = C_n1(V_n - V₁) + C_n2(V_n - V₂) + ... + C_n∞V_n
where
C_km = C_km(m ≠ k)
and
C_m∞ = C_m1 + C_m2 + ... + C_m(n-1) + C_mn
They are the fundamental relations for partial capacitances of a number of conductors, e.g., electrodes in valves, conductors in cables, variable air-capacitors.

Capacitance coupling

Interstage coupling through a series capacitance or by a capacitor in a common branch of a circuit.

Capacitance grading

Grading of the properties of a dielectric, so that the variation of stress from conductor to sheath is reduced. The inner dielectric has the higher permitivity. Ideally, the grading is continuous and the permittivity varies as the reciprocal of the distance from the center. See condenser bushing

Capacitance integrator

Resistance-capacitance circuit whose output voltage is approximately equal to the time integral of the input voltage.

Capacitative load

Terminating impedance which is markedly capacitative, taking an ac leading in phase on the source emf, e.g., electrostatic loudspeaker.

Capacitative reactance

Impedance associated with a capacitor. Has a magnitude in ohms equal to the reciprocal of the product of the capacitance (in farads) and the angular frequency of the supply (in rads s^-1). Also introduces a 90° phase angle such that the current through the device leads the applied voltage.

Capacities

See fluid capacities

Capacitive discharge

(CD) A type of ignition system. It can be either all-electronic or breaker point controlled. The primary power is drawn from the engine's battery and put into the CD power supply, where it is changed from 12 volts direct current to about 300 volts of pulsating direct current that is stored in a capacitor (condenser). The release of this energy through the coil is governed by a silicon-controlled rectifier (SCR). When the SCR switch is closed, the voltage stored in the capacitor is supplied to the coil, which acts as a voltage step-up transformer boosting firing voltage to around 30,000 volts to fire the plugs.

Capacitive reactance

The opposition or resistance to an alternating current as a result of capacitance; expressed in ohms

Capacitor

[1] A device which gives capacitance, usually consisting of conducting plates or foil separated by layers of a dielectric. A potential difference applied across the plates induces a separation of charge centers in the dielectric, thus storing electrical energy.

[2] Type of electrical storage device used in starting and/or running circuits on many electric motors

Also see
absorption capacitor condenser ignition capacitor

Capacitor bushing

See condenser bushing

Capacitor controlled electronic ignition

See
electronic ignition system capacitive discharge

Capacitor discharge ignition

(CDI) See capacitive discharge

Capacitor loudspeaker

See electrostatic loudspeaker

Capacitor microphone

See electrostatic microphone

Capacitor modulator

Capacitor microphone, or similar transducer, which, by variation in capacitance, modulates an oscillation either in amplitude or frequency

Capacitor motor

Single-phase induction motor with an auxiliary starting winding connected in series with a condenser (capacitor) for better starting characteristics.

Capacitor-resistance law

(C-R law) Law relating to exponential rise or decay of charge on capacitor in series with a resistor, and, by extension, to signal distortion on long submarine cables.

Capacitor start

Starting unit for electric motor using series capacitance to advance phase of current.

Capacitor-start motor

Motor which has a capacitor in the starting circuit

Capacitor terminal

See condenser bushing

Capacitron

See band ignitor tube

Capacity

[1] The ability to contain or hold something.

[2] Maximum production attainable under normal conditions. With regard to normal conditions, the company's operating practices are to be followed with respect to the use of production facilities, overtime, workshifts, holidays, etc.

[3] The output of an electric motor or other electrical equipment.

[4] The volume of fluid which a pump can handle.

[5] A measure of the theoretical maximum amount of refrigeration-produced output, measured in tons or BTUs per hour

[6] Refrigeration rating system. Usually measured in BTU per hour or watts.

[7] Sometimes used to mean capacitance

Also see
air capacity ampere hour capacity battery capacity breathing capacity carrying capacity	cubic capacity energy engine capacity fuse fuse capacity	load capacity net capacity nominal capacity passenger capacity ply rating	rated capacity reserve capacity seating capacity top off work capacity

Capacity plan

A plan outlining the spaces available for fuel, cargo, ballast, fresh water, etc, with guides on weight and volume for spaces at various drafts and displacements

Capacity rating

See rated capacity

Cap-and-pin type insulator

A special form of the suspension insulator

Cap cost

See
capitalized cost net cap cost

Cap cost reduction

See capitalized cost reduction

Cape chisel

A metal cutting chisel shaped to cut or work in channels or grooves

Capillarity

A phenomenon associated with surface tension, which occurs in fine bore tubes or channels.

Capillary

A tube with a very small bore used for temperature gauges

Capillary action

The property of a liquid to move into small spaces if it has the ability to "wet" these surfaces

Capillary tube

A tube usually gas-filled, with a precisely calibrated length and inside diameter, used to connect the remote bulb or coil to the expansion valve or thermostat. A tube with a very small bore used for temperature gauges. Also called pressure sensing line

Capitalized

See net capitalized cost

Capitalized cost

The total price of the vehicle, in effect, its purchase price. In theory, the cap cost should equal the amount you would pay for the vehicle if you were purchasing the vehicle. When a lease is made, the dealer sells that vehicle to the leasing company (for the cap cost), which then leases the the vehicle to you.

Also see
net capitalized cost

Capitalized cost reduction

A fancy name for a cash down payment, money you pay up front that is applied to the final purchase price of a lease. A large cap cost reduction will, of course reduce the monthly payments, but it will also negate one of the big advantages of leasing. However, if you own your present car, you may be able to use it, as a trade-in, to satisfy the cap cost reduction to start the lease. Remember, you must pay sales tax on any cap cost reduction you make. Another source of capital cost reduction may be dealer or manufacturer participation. Dealers and manufacturers will sometimes lower the cap cost or offer a rebate that reduces the cap cost. A dealer or manufacturer cap cost reduction does lower your total out-of-pocket dollars, unlike a cap cost reduction that you must pay.

Capital expenditures

Expenditures to acquire or add to capital assets that will yield benefits over several accounting periods. Included are cost of procuring, construction, installing new durable plants, machinery and equipment where for replacement, addition or for lease or rent to other companies including subsidies.

Cap nut
A nut that is closed at the threaded end often with a dome. Also called box nut or dome nut.

Also see
double cap nut
inner cap nut
outer cap nut

Capping

Also see
double cap nut inner cap nut outer cap nut

[1] Installing a new tread on a tire carcass.

Also see
retreading.

[2] Door molding or capping

Cap screw

See socket head screw

Capstan

[1] A stump with a vertical axis used for handling mooring and other lines.

[2] A vertical drum or spindle on which rope is wound, it is rotated by manpower or by hydraulic or electric motor.

[3] Roller providing the constant speed drive in a magnetic tape recorder.

Capstan-head screw

A screw having a cylindrical head provided with radial holes in its circumference. It is tightened by a tommy bar inserted in these holes.

Capstan lathe

A lathe in which the tools required for successive operations are mounted radially in a tool-holder resembling a capstan; by revolving this, each tool in turn may be brought into position in exact location.

Capstan nut

A nut which is tightened in the same way as a capstan-head screw

Capstan screw

A screw or bolt with a round head and one or more holes through it into which a bar may be inserted for securing or removing it

Capstat

A wax-type thermostat at the base of the jet of a SU carburetor, which expands and reduces fuel flow when the underhood temperature rises.

Also see
temperature compensator

Capsule

See
advance capsule vacuum capsule

Captive

Something that is permanently located in the desired position

Captive balloon

A balloon anchored or towed by a line. Usually the term refers only to spherical balloons. Special shapes (e.g., for stability) are called kite balloons

Captive finance company

A leasing or finance company which is affiliated with an automobile manufacturer or distributor.

Captive import

An imported motor vehicle or part manufactured by another automaker usually for sale under the brand name of the importer.

Captive nut

A nut which fits into a cage and is welded in place. This is done where the nut is not easily accessible.

Capture

Any process in which an atomic or nuclear system acquires an additional particle. In a nuclear radiative capture process there is an emission of electromagnetic radiation only, e.g., the emission of gamma rays subsequent to the capture of a neutron by a nucleus.

Car

[1] A wheeled vehicle such as an automobile, a section of a train, or a streetcar. The word is an abbreviation of "carriage" -- a device to carry people or goods.

[2] In an airship, the part intended for the carrying of the load (crew, passengers, goods, engines, etc.). It may be suspended below, or may be inside the hull of envelope.

Also see
49-state car bubble car champ car city car classic car collector car compact car company car competition car concept car cult car cycle car	donor car dream car edwardian car electric car estate car executive car family car fleet car forty-nine state car full-size car funny car	hybrid car intermediate car kit car luxury car mass-produced car mid-size car milestone Car Society milestone cars motor car multi-storey car park new car dealer	open car pace car parts car passenger car wheel passenger car pony car production car program cars recycling car shopping car solar car	spares car sports car stock car street car sun car super car touring car town car veteran car vintage car volume car

Car accident

A collision between two or more vehicles (or between a vehicle and a stationary object), whether the vehicles are cars or trucks. Some are minor like a fender bender while others are totalled.

Also see
written off

Caravan

[1] A group of vehicles (belonging to one organization) which follows after one another.

[2] A British term for camping trailer or a mobile home.

[3] The name of a minivan produced by Chrysler (Daimler_Chrysler) from 1983.

Caravanning

A British term for travelling with a camping trailer

Carb

An abbreviation for "carburetor."

Car banger

A British term for a person or organization which fakes a car accident in order to defraud an insurance company

Car banging

The act of faking a car accident in order to defraud an insurance company

Carbide

A binary combound of metals with carbon. Carbides of group IV to VI metals (e.g., silicon, iron, tungsten) are exceptionally hard and refractory. In group I and II, calcium carbide (ethynide) is the most useful. See cemented carbides and cementite

See silicon carbide

Carbide tools

Cutting and forming tools used for hard materials or at high temperatures. They are made of carbides of tungsten, tantalium, and other metals held in a matrix of cobalt, nickel, etc., and are very hard with good compressive strength.

Carb kit

A collection of gaskets, O-rings, jets, etc. to rebuild a carburetor

Car blind

A curtain or pull-down covering for the backlight (i.e., rear window) to obscure the bright headlights of a following vehicle. Some are also used for side windows for privacy. It is generally illegal to use them on the driver's side window or the windshield.

Carbon

[1] The hard or soft, black deposits found in the combustion chamber, on the plugs, under the rings, on and under the valve heads, etc. Although it is not a metal, it is a good conductor of electricity.

[2] An element which forms various kinds of steel when combined with iron. In steel, it is the changing carbon content which changes the physical properties of the steel.

[3] Carbon is used in a solid form as an electrode for arc welding, as a mold to hold weld metal, or for motor brushes.

Also see
activated carbon high carbon steel low carbon steel medium carbon

Carbon arc

An arc between carbon electrodes, usually limited to pure carbon rather than flame carbon electrodes

Carbon-arc lamp

Obsolete light source from the arc between carbon electrodes.

Carbon-arc welding

Arc welding carried out by means of an arc between a carbon electrode and the material to be welded.

Carbon black

A by-product of the petroleum industry used as a pigment and to give body in the manufacture of rubber products, both natural and synthetic. Carbon is the black residue from burning petroleum.

Carbon brush

A block of carbon to which a copper wire (or braided cable) is attached at one end and the other end rubs against a commutator, collector ring, or slip ring to transmit electricity

Carbon brush spring

See brush spring

Carbon build-up

A deposit of burned oil which collects in the combustion chamber on the top of the piston and the head. Too much carbon build-up can lead to an inefficient engine and sticky valves.

Carbon button

See carbon microphone

Carbon canister

See activated carbon canister

Carbon contact

In a switch, an auxiliary contact designed to break contact after and to make contact before the main contact to prevent burning of the latter; it is of carbon and designed to be easily removable.

Carbon-core leads

High tension wire going from the distributor to the coil or the spark plugs. Each wire has a core of carbon or graphite rather than copper wire to conduct the electricity. Carbon-core wire is not recommended for most small engines such as motorcycle engines.

Carbon dating

Dating method which uses the fact that atmospheric carbon dioxide contains a constant proportion of radioactive ¹⁴C, formed by cosmic radiation. Living organisms absorb this isotope in the same proportion. After death it decays with a half-life 5.57x10³ years. The proportion of ¹²C to the residual ¹⁴C indicates the period elapsed since death. Also called radiocarbon dating

Carbon dioxide

(CO₂) A colorless, odorless, non-toxic gas which is a product of breathing and the combustion process. Sometimes used as refrigerant Refrigerant # is R-744

Carbon dioxide laser

Laser in which the active gaseous medium is a mixture of carbon dioxide and other gases. It is excited by glow-discharge and operates at a wavelength of 10.6 μm. Carbon dioxide lasers are capable of pulsed output with peak power up to 100 MW or continuous output up to 60 k_W.

Carbon-dioxide welding

Metal arc welding using CO₂ as the shielding gas.

Carbon gland

A type of gland used to prevent leakage along a shaft. It consists of carbon rings cut into segments and pressed into contact with the shaft by an encircling helical spring or garter spring

Carboned up

Covered with a thick deposit of carbon. In Britain it is called "coked up"

Carbon fiber

Threadlike strands of pure carbon that are strong and flexible. Carbon fiber can be bound in a plastic resin matrix to form a strong composite. It is light-weight and stronger than steel. Can also be spelled "carbon fibre."

Carbon fibre

A high-tech material favored in many motorcycle applications because it is extremely strong, light and expensive. The distinctive look of carbon fiber has become trendy. Also see carbon fiber.

Carbon filter

Air filter using activated carbon as a cleansing agent

Carbon fouling

The situation that occurs when the two electrical terminals of the spark plug are coated with carbon causing a reduction in efficiency leading to intermittent firing or complete failure.

Carbonization

The steeping of wool in a dilute solution of sulphuric acid, or its treatment by hydrochloric acid gas (dry process). This converts any cellulosic impurities into carbon dust and thereby facilitates their removal.

Carbonize

Building up of carbon on objects such as spark plugs, pistons, heads, etc.

Carbonized filament

Thoriated tungsten filament coated with tungsten carbide to reduce loss of thorium from the surface.

Carbonizing

Another term for carburizing or reducing

Carbon knock

When there is a build-up of carbon in the combustion chamber, uncontrolled ignition will take place causing a knocking noise.

Carbon microphone

A microphone in which a normally dc## energizing current is modulated by changes in the resistance of a cavity filled by granulated carbon which is compressed by the movement of the diaphragm. The diameter of the cavity is frequently very much less than that of the diaphragm, and it is then known as a carbon button.

Carbon monoxide

(CO) A deadly, colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas found in the engine exhaust. Toxic even in relatively small concentrations. Formed by incomplete burning of hydrocarbons. Thus at its greatest with a rich mixture.

Carbon pile voltage transformer

Variable electrical resistor made from disks or plates of carbon arranged to form a pile.

Carbon pin

A thin cylinder of carbon located in the distributor cap to transfer high tension electricity from the coil to the rotor to the high tension leads going to the spark plugs.

Carbon resistor

Negative temperature coefficient, non-inductive resistor formed of powdered carbon with ceramic binding material. Used for low-temperature measurements because of the large increase in resistance as temperature decreases.

Carbon steel

A steel whose properties are determined principally by the amount of carbon present and contains no other deliberate alloying ingredient except those necessary to ensure deoxidation and physical quality. Also called plain carbon steel. See steel

See
high carbon steel low carbon steel

Carbon tetrachloride

A liquid often used in fire extinguishers. The fumes are toxic -- avoid inhaling.

Carbon tracking

A trace of carbon found inside the distributor cap which leads away some electricity, thus causing the engine to misfire.

Carbonyl powders

Metal powders produced by reacting carbon monoxide with the metal to form the gaseous carbonyl. This is then decomposed by heat to yield powder of high purity.

Carborundum

Trade name for silicon carbide abrasives.

Carborundum wheel

See grinding wheel

Carboy

Large, narrow-necked container, usually of balloon shape, having a capacity of 201 or more.

Carbs

Abbreviation for carburetors.

Also see
dual carbs

Carburation

British term for carburetion

Carburetion

The mixture of vaporized fuel and air in the proper proportions for combustion in an engine

Carburetor
Optionally spelled "carburetter" or "carburettor." A device that vaporizes fuel and mixes it with air in proper quantities and proportions to suit the varying needs of the engine. A filter screens the air which is drawn into the carburetor. Here the gasoline mixes with the air and this fuel vapor enters the combustion chamber through the intake valve where it is compressed and burned.

Also see
air-valve carburetor
air valve carburetor
barrel carburetor
compound carburetor
cross-draft carburetor
double-barrel carburetor
downdraft carburetor
dual carbs
dual carburetors
feedback carburetor
fixed-choke carburetor
fixed-jet carburetor
flood the carburetor
four-barrel carburetor
four barrel carburetor
hif carburetor
horizontal draft carburetor
progressive carburetor
sidedraft carburetor
single-barrel carburetor
slide carburetor
starting carburetor
stromberg carburetor
su carburetor
tamperproof carburetor
twin-choke carburetor
twin barrel carburetor
twin carburetors
two-stage carburetor
updraft carburetor
variable-choke carburetor
variable-venturi carburetor
vv carburetor

Carburetor adapter

An adapter that is used to fit or place one type of carburetor on an intake manifold that may not be originally designed for it. Also used to adapt four-barrel carburetors to two-barrel manifolds.

Carburetor barrel

The tube-like part of the vehicle through which air flows and is mixed with vaporized fuel. The choke butterfly valve is located at the top of the carburetor barrel, and the throttle valve is located at the bottom. Midway through, the barrel narrows, and this part is called the "venturi." Carburetors can have one, two, or four barrels.

Carburetor circuit

A series of passageways and units designed to perform a specific function idle circuit, full power circuit, etc.

Carburetor circuits

See carburetor circuit.

Carburetor engine

A combustion engine which uses a carburetor instead of fuel injection.

Carburetor icing

The formation of ice on the throttle plate or valve during certain atmospheric conditions. As the fuel nozzles feed fuel into the air horn it turns to a vapor. This robs heat from the air and when weather conditions are just right (fairly cool and quite humid) ice may form.

Also see
icing

Carburetor kit

A collection of gaskets, O-rings, jets, etc. to rebuild a carburetor. Also called a "carb kit."

Carburetor throat

See venturi

Carburetor venturi

See venturi

Carburetter

British spelling for carburetor.

Carburettor

See carburetor.

Car burglar

A person who steals object from a car, but does not steal the car itself.

Also see
car thief

Carburization

The process of creating carbon steel by increasing the carbon content of steel to reach the desired degree of hardness

Carburizing

[1] A carburizing flame in welding terms is an oxygen-fuel gas flame with a slight excess of the fuel gas.

[2] A method of case-hardening low carbon steel in which the metal component is heated above its ferrite-austenite transition in a suitable carbonaceous atmosphere. Carbon diffuses into the surface and establishes a concentration gradient. The steel can subsequently be hardened by quenching either directly or after re-heating to refine the grain structure. It is usually lightly tempered afterwards, producing a hard case over a tough core.

Car cap

A waterproof cover which encloses just the greenhouse (i.e., the roof, windshield, side glass, and backlight)

Car care product

One of several items for taking care of the outward finish of the car (i.e., cleaners, polish, wax, preservers) as well as the interior pieces (e.g., dash cleaners, upholstery cleaners and sealers)

Carcass

The primary structure of a tire body with its cords, plies, rim wires, etc. apart from the tread itself. Structurally the carcass should hold air and provide strength to the tire, but would not wear well without the tread.

Car Club of America

See Classic Car Club of America

Car cover

A cover which encloses the entire vehicle to protect the finish from the elements.

Car crash

A car accident

Card

The graduated dial or face of a magnetic compass to which the card and needle are firmly connected.

See file card brush

Cardan

See cardan joint.

Cardan joint
A type of universal joint named after the Italian Cardan who developed the concept in the 16th century. In the 17th century, Robert Hooke of England developed and patented the conventional universal joint. Sometimes it is called the "Cardan universal" or the "Hooke universal." It has two yokes at right angles to each other.

Cardan mount

Type of gimbal mount used for compasses and gyroscopes.

Cardan shaft

A shaft with universal joints at each end

Cardan universal

See cardan joint.

Card brush

See file card brush

Car dealer

See new car dealer

Cardinal planes

In a lens, planes perpendicular to the principal axis, and passing through the cardinal points of the lens.

Cardinal points

For a lens system, the two principal foci, the two nodal points and the two principal points. For a lens used in air, the principal points coincide with the corresponding nodal points. For a lens of negligible thickness the principal points and the nodal points all coalesce at a single point at the optical center of the lens.

Cardioid

A heart-shaped curve with polar equation r=2a(1+cosθ). An epicycloid in which the rolling circle equals the fixed circle.

Cardioid directivity

Special shape of a directivity. It is produced by superimposing the fields of a monopole and a dipole, and has the shape of a cardioid.

Care product

See car care product

Car-floor contact

A contact attached to the false floor of an electrically controlled lift; it is usually arranged to prevent operation of the lift by anyone outside the car while a passenger is in the lift.

Cargo

See
bulk cargo general cargo

Cargo area

The space within a station wagon or van for carrying goods or the bed of a pickup truck for carrying goods

Cargo battens

Strips of wood fitted inside the frames to keep cargo away from hull steelwork. Also called sparring

Cargo box
A type of container mounted on the roof of a vehicle

Cargo net
A type of bungee net usually found in the trunk of a car to secure packages from moving around; but also found behind or beside a seat.

Cargo port

Opening in a ship's side for loading and unloading cargo.

Cargo shifting

Movements or changing positions of cargo from one place to another which can easily endanger the seaworthiness of the ship

Cargo ship

See dry cargo ship

Cargo trailer

A trailer with sides.

Carina
A model of automobile manufactured by Toyota

Click for books on Carina

Car insurance

An insurance policy (mandatory in most states and all of Canada) to cover possible damage to the vehicle or property or passengers, etc. Sometimes basic insurance is abbreviated PL&PD (public liability and property damage). Also called "motor insurance"

Car jacker

A person who steals a car at gunpoint.

Car jacking

A process of stealing a car while the driver is still in it. The car may be stopped at a traffic light when a car jacker appears with a gun and demands that the driver get out, then he drives away with the car. If it happens to you, give him the car -- your life is worth more than the vehicle.

Car key

An unlocking device for the ignition switch, doors, trunk, gas cap, etc.

Car lot

A place where vehicles are sold by an independent dealer

Car mechanic

See mechanic

Carnot cycle

An ideal heat engine cycle of maximum thermal efficiency. It consists of isothermal expansion, adiabatic expansion, isothermal compression, and adiabatic compression to the initial state.

Carnot's theorem

Theorem stating that no heat engine can be more efficient than a reversible engine working between the same temperatures. It follows that the efficiency of a reversible engine is independent of the working substance and depends only on the temperatures between which it is working.

Car park

A parking area usually located within a building.

Also see
multi-storey car park

Carpeting

The action of covering the passenger compartment floor (and sometimes the trunk floor) with a form-fitting rug or carpet.

Car phone

A telephone that is installed in a vehicle, but has recently been replaced by personal cell phones.

Also see
cellular phone

Car polish

A product which enhances the shine of the paintwork of a vehicle

Car radio

A radio receiver which is installed (usually in the dash) in a vehicle

Carrene

Refrigerant in Group One (R-11). Chemical combination of carbon, chlorine, and fluorine

Carriage

[1] A horse-drawn vehicle for people to ride in.

[2] A railroad vehicle for passengers.

Carriage bolt
A bolt that has a smooth dome head (like a mushroom) so that no screwdriver or wrench can remove it from the dome-side.

Carriage spring

See laminated spring

Carriage-type switchgear

See truck-type switchgear

Carriageway

See dual carriageway

Carrier

[1] A real or imaginary particle responsible for the transport of electric charge in a material. In oxide ceramics, electrons hopping between ions, diffusing oxygen ions and mobile cations can also transport charge. See carriers.

[2] A device for conveying the drive of a face-plate of a lathe to a piece of work which is being turned between centers. It is clamped to the work and driven by a pin projecting from the face-plate.

[3] A frame for holding a negative in an enlarger or slides in a projector.

[4] Non-active material mixed with, and chemically identical to, a radioactive compound. Carrier is sometimes added to carrier-free material.

[5] A vehicle for communicating in formation, when the chosen medium itself cannot convey the information but can convey a carrier, on to which the information is impressed by modulation.

[6] In radio transmission, the output of the transmitter before it is modulated. See frequency modulation.

[7] The frequencies chosen for sending many signals simultaneously along a single communication channel by frequency-division multiplex.

[8] A thin substance that helps another substance to reach its goal. For example, a spray grease may have a carrier which transports the grease to its destination. Then the carrier dries up leaving the grease behind.

See
barge carriers bicycle carrier bulk carrier carrier bearing	contract carrier differential carrier hub carrier jet carrier	lng carrier luggage carrier ore-bulk-oil carrier ore carrier	pinion carrier planet carrier product carrier spare tire carrier

Carrier bearing

The bearings upon which the differential case is mounted.

Carrier bearings

See carrier bearing.

Carrier mobility

The mean drift velocity of the charge carriers in a material per unit electric field.

Carrier noise

Noise which has been introduced into the carrier of a transmitter before modulation.

Carrier, pinion

See pinion carrier.

Carrier, planet

See planet carrier.

Carrier power

Power radiated by a transmitter in absence of modulation.

Carriers

In a crystal of semiconductor material thermal agitation will cause a number of electrons to dissociate from their parent atoms; in moving about the crystal they act as carriers of negative charge. Other electrons will move from neighboring atoms to fill the space left behind, thus causing the holes where no electrons exist in the lattice to be transferred from one atom to another. As these holes move around they can be considered as carriers of positive charge. See impurity.

See
barge carriers top carriers

Carrier wave

An unmodulated radio wave produced by a transmitter on which information is carried by amplitude or frequency modulation.

Carrosserie

French term for coachwork.

Carrozzeria

Italian term for coachwork.

Carrying capacity

The maximum load that a tire is allowed to carry with a particular wheel and rim. Also called "load capacity."

Carrying-current

See instantaneous carrying-current

CARS

Acronym for "Canadian Automotive Repair and Service Council"

Car society

See milestone Car Society

Car sponge

A large sponge for washing the exterior of a vehicle

Car stereo

A listening device in an automobile which usually has an AM/FM radio and often a cassette player, CD player, and/or CD changer. It also includes at least a pair of speakers.

Car tax

A government imposed tax which is added to the price of a new car. Some governments charge a road-use tax and call it a car tax.

Cartesian diver

See diver

Car test

A test of a vehicle's roadworthiness, reliability, and performance.

Car theft

Unauthorized removal (i.e., stealing) of a car or the items in or on a car.

Also see
car jacking

Car thief

A person who steals a car. If someone steals just the objects from a car, he is a car burglar.

Also see
car jacker

Car tire

An automotive tire which is used exclusively on a passenger car, not a light truck, etc.

Cartography

The preparation and drawing of maps which show, generally, a considerable extent of the Earth's surface.

Cartridge

See
can	filter cartridge oil filter cartridge

Cartridge bottom bracket

A bottom bracket with protective seals to keep water and grime from penetrating to the bearings. Also called "sealed bottom bracket"

Cartridge brass

Copper-zinc alloy containing approximately 30% zinc. Possesses high ductility; capable of being heavily cold-worked. Widely used for cold pressings, cartridges, tubes, etc. See copper alloys.

Cartridge starter

A device for starting aero-engines in which a slow-burning cartridge is used to operate a piston or turbine unit which is geared to the engine shaft.

Cart spring

A leaf spring used in small trailers.

Carvac

A small, hand-held vacuum cleaner which is either battery-operated or which is plugged into the accessory outlet or cigarette lighter socket.

Car wash

[1] A place where you can get your car cleaned. Some are automatic (you drive through and large brushes clean the car) while others provide a bay with spray wands and brushes for you to do the labor.

Also see
automatic car wash

[2] A product like soap which is added to water for the purpose of cleaning a vehicle.

Car wax

A polish which may be in a paste or a cream and used in protecting the finish of a car.

Car wheel

See passenger car wheel

CAS

Acronym for "cleaner air system"

Cascade

The arrangement of stages in an enrichment or reprocessing plant in which the products of one stage are fed either forward to the next closely similar or identical stage or backward to a previous stage, eventually resulting in two more or less pure products at each end of the cascade. The classic examples are gaseous or centrifugal enrichment plants. An ideal cascade is the arrangement of stages in series and in parallel which gives the highest yield for a given number of units (e.g., centrifuges) and a given separation factor.

Cascade generator

High-voltage generator using a series of voltage-multiplying stages, esp. when designed for X-ray tubes or low-energy accelerators.

cascade particle Particle formed by a cosmic ray in a cascade shower

Cascades

Fixed airfoil blades which turn the airflow around a bend in a duct, e.g., in wind tunnels or engine intakes.

Cascade shower

Manifestations of cosmic rays in which high-energy mesons, protons, and electrons create high-energy photons, which produce further electrons and positrons, thus increasing the number of particles until the energy is dissipated. Also called air shower.

Cascade systems

Arrangement in which two or more refrigerating systems are used in series; uses evaporator of one machine to cool condenser of other machine. Produces ultra-low temps

Cascading of insulators

Flashover of a string of suspension insulators; initiated by the voltage across one unit exceeding its safe value and flashing over, thereby imposing additional stress across the other units, and resulting in a complete flashover of the string.

Case

That part near the surface of a ferrous alloy which as been so altered as to allow case-hardening.

See
basket case battery case chain case converter case differential case top case transfer case

Case harden

The action of hardening the surface of steel.

Casehardened

A piece of steel that has had the outer surface hardened while the inner portion remains relatively soft.

Casehardening

The action of adding carbon to the surface of a mild steel object and heat treating to produce a hard surface.

Cases

The two clam-shell-like halves in the bottom end of the engine surrounded by a metal shell

Cash register

Trucker slang for Toll booth as in "I'm comin' up on a cash register at highway 88"

Cash value

See actual cash value

Casing

[1] The outside shell of something such as the shell of an alternator or starter motor.

Also see
axle casing differential casing spiral casing turbine casing volute casing

[2] The tire casing.

Casing factor

That portion of the load supported by tire casing stiffness instead of air pressure.

Casing head gasoline

A term used to describe the lighter parts of petroleum products, which were obtained from natural gasoline by condensing natural gas from an oil well

Cask

See flask

Casket

See flask

Cassette

[1] A type of bicycle gear cluster that slides on a freehub rather than threads on it. The freehub body is attached to the rear hub.

[2] A cartridge containing magnetic tape that can be inserted into a player for listening or viewing (e.g., an audio cassette or video cassette).

Cassette cogs

The individual cogs that make up a bicycle cassette.

Cassette compartment

A storage place for audio cassettes

Cassette hub

More recent type of rear hub designed to accept the cassette type of gear cluster. The cassette hub has the rotating, ratcheting freehub body attached to the hub for the cassette to slide onto and be secured by a lockring.

Cassette player

A unit which plays (but does not record) audio cassettes and is often linked with a stereo unit in an automobile

Cassette size

The size of a bicycle cassette is described by the number of teeth on the smallest cog and the number of teeth on the largest cog. An example of a common size for road racing would be 12 x 21.

Cast

[1] To shape molten metal by pouring it into a mold.

[2] A model or result made by pouring metal into a mold.

See
cast iron casting die cast

Castellate

Formed to resemble a castle battlement e.g., a castellated nut

Castellated

See castellated nut.

Castellated nut
A nut with several lugs protruding from one end making it look like the turrets on the top of the wall of a castle. This nut is used on a shaft with a hole drilled in it. It is secured to the shaft by passing a cotter pin through an opening in the nut and through the shaft hole.

Caster
A wheel alignment adjustment that positions the wheels like the casters on a chair or shopping cart, so the tires follow naturally in a forward straight line. In a truck or older car, the top of the kingpin is either forward (negative) or toward the rear of the vehicle (positive). On a turn, the wheels will tend to straighten out when the steering wheel is released. If the car has independent front suspension, the upper ball joint is set forward or rearward in relation to the lower ball joint. Caster is measured in degrees.

Also see
trail distance

Caster action

The self-centering action which causes a caster wheel to move into a straight-ahead position.

Caster angle

The inclination or angle that a wheel makes when measuring the distance between the vertical post and the offset of the wheel placement.

Caster offset

The distance on the ground between where the vertical post would touch the ground if it were extended and the point where the wheel touches the ground. Also called caster trail

Caster trail

The distance on the ground between where the vertical post would touch the ground if it were extended and the point where the wheel touches the ground. Also called caster offset

Caster wobble

A condition generally produced in the front wheels when they are attached to the ends of a beam axle. It is particularly noticeable on rough roads and the shimmy at the steering wheel makes it difficult to control the vehicle. You have probably seen this condition in a shopping cart that has caster wheels that wiggle or fluctuate back and forth and will not roll in a straight line.

Cast holes

Holes made in cast objects by the use of cores, in order to reduce the time necessary for machining, and to avoid metal wastage.

Casting

[1] A process technology that delivers a liquid molten metal into a purpose-built mold. After cooling, the solid metal surface has the shape of the mold cavity.

[2] Pouring metal into a mold to form an object.

[3] A metallic article cast in the shape required, as distinct from one shaped by working.

Also see
die casting lost-foam casting process malleable castings monobloc casting sand casting thin-wall casting

Casting copper

Metal of lower purity than best selected copper. Generally contains about 99.4% of copper.

Casting ladle

A steel ladle, lined with refractory material, in which molten metal is carried from the furnace to the mold in which the casting is to be made.

Casting number

The number cast into a block, head, or other component when the part is cast. Casting numbers can be helpful when identifying an engine or its parts, but they are not completely accurate, because castings are sometimes machined differently

Casting process

See lost-foam casting process

Castings

Metallic forms which are produced by pouring molten metal into a shaped container or mold.

Also see
malleable castings

Casting wheel

Large wheel on which ingot molds are arranged peripherally and filled from stream of molten metal issuing from furnace or pouring ladle.

Cast-in-situ concrete piles

A type of pile formed by driving a steel pipe into the ground and filling it with concrete, using the pipe as a mold, or by a similar method.

Cast iron

[1] An alloy of iron and more than 2% carbon. It is used for engine blocks and transmission and differential cases because it is relatively cheap and easy to mold into complex shapes.

[2] Any iron-carbon alloy in which the carbon content exceeds the solubility of carbon in austenite at the eutectic temperature. Widely used in engineering on account of their high fluidity and excellent casting characteristics. Carbon content usually in the range of 2-2.3%. Some kinds are brittle and others difficult to machine. See ductile cast-iron, grey iron, spherulitic graphite cast-iron.

Cast-iron

See cast iron

Castle

See castellated nut.

Castle nut

British term for castellated nut -- a six-sided nut in the top of which six radial slots are cut. Two of these line up with a hole drilled in the bolt or screw, a split pin can be inserted to prevent turning.

Castle section

A panel with humps or ribs which strengthen the panel. They are called "castle" because from the end they look like the turrets of a castle

Castor

British spelling of caster.

Cast spoke assembly

That part of the vehicle consisting of the brake drum and wheel spider, having 3, 5 or 6 spokes.

Cast spoke type

A type of dual mounting wheels where two demountable rims are mounted directly on the spoke wheel and drum assembly held apart by a spacer band and locked in place by clamps and nuts which attach to studs in the spoke face.

Cast steel

Shapes that have been formed directly from liquid by casting into a mold. Formerly applied to wrought objects produced by working steel made by the crucible process to distinguish from that made by cementation of wrought-iron, but both of these methods are long obsolete.

Cast welded rail joint

A joint between the ends of two adjacent rails made in position using the thermite process.

Cat

An abbreviation for catalytic converter

Catadioptric

An optical system using a combination of refracting and reflecting surfaces designed to reduce aberrations in a telescope.

Catalan process

Reduction of haematite to wrought-iron by smelting with charcoal.

Catalog

See parts catalog

Catalyst

[1] A substance that changes the rate of a chemical reaction without itself being used up.

[2] A special agent which is added to a plastic body filler or resin or paint to speed up the hardening process.

Also see
aged catalyst fresh catalyst metal catalyst oxidizing catalyst particulate catalyst pellet catalyst reducing catalyst three-way catalyst two-way catalyst

Catalyst bed

A layer of catalyst-coated material such as pellets or ceramic in a catalytic converter through which the gases pass.

Catalyst charge

A catalyst-coated material such as pellets or ceramic in a catalytic converter.

Catalyst coating

A catalytic layer

Catalyst container

A housing of a catalytic converter. Also called a "converter shell"

Catalyst contamination

A reduction of efficiency because of impurity deposits

Catalyst degradation

A reduction of efficiency because of impurities or overheating. Also called catalyst deterioration

Catalyst deterioration

A reduction of efficiency because of impurities or overheating. Also called catalyst degradation

Catalyst efficiency

See catalytic efficiency

Catalyst indicator

A light on the instrument panel which glows when a prescribed distance has passed in order to remind the driver to have the catalytic converter replaced.

Catalyst substrate

A base material which carries the catalytic layer or coating. Also called catalyst support

Catalyst support

A base material which carries the catalytic layer or coating. Also called catalyst substrate

Catalytic

See
catalytic converter dual-bed catalytic converter mini catalytic converter open-loop catalytic converter pellet-type catalytic converter primary catalytic converter three-way catalytic converter

Catalytic activity

The rate a catalytic converter purifies the exhaust system

Catalytic converter

A pollution-control device found on the exhaust system of all cars since its introduction in 1974 which acts like an afterburner to reburn unburned gas in the tail pipe. It looks like a small muffler and is usually made of stainless steel. It contains platinum, rhodium, or palladium which is a catalyst for the chemical reaction needed to burn off any unburned hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide by turning them into water vapor, carbon dioxide and other less toxic gases.

Also see
dual-bed catalytic converter lean burn engine mini catalytic converter open-loop catalytic converter pellet-type catalytic converter primary catalytic converter single-bed 3-way catalytic converter three-way catalytic converter two-way catalytic converter

Catalytic efficiency

The effectiveness of a catalyst in purifying exhaust gases

Catalytic layer

A thin layer of catalyst such as platinum and supported by a ceramic or metal carrier material

Catamaran

A double hulled vessel

Cataphoretic painting

A process of applying the first coat of paint to the body of a car by positively charging the paint particles and then dunking the metal into the paint. A current is turned on so that the positively charged paint is attracted to the negative metal panel. Also called cathodic electropainting

Catapult

an accelerating device for launching an aircraft in a short distance. It may be fixed or rotatable to face the wind. It is usually used on ships which have no landing deck, having been superseded on aircraft carriers by the accelerator. During World War II, fighters were carried on (catapult armed merchant ships) for defence against long-range bombers. Land catapults hae been tried but have been superseded by RATOG and STOL aircraft.

Catback

A performance exhaust system upgrade which consists of new pipes from the catalytic converter to the tail pipe which increases horsepower. These new pipes are larger, thus, more exhaust can exit the system. The faster the exhaust can exit, the more horsepower you gain.

Catch

See safety catch

Catch basin

See catch pit

Catcher

The element in a velocity-modulated ultrahigh frequency or microwave beam tube which abstracts, or catches, the energy in a bunced electron stream as it passes through it. See buncher

Catcher foil

Aluminum sheet used for measuring power levels in nuclear reactor by absorption of fission fragments.

Catching diode

Diode used to clamp a voltage or current at a predetermined value. When it becomes forward-biased it prevents the applied potential from increasing any further.

Catchment area

The area from which water runs off to any given river valley or collecting reservoir. Also called catchment basin

Catchment basin

The area from which water runs off to any given river valley or collecting reservoir. Also called catchment area

Catch net

See cradle

Catch pit

A small pit constructed at the entrance to a length of sewer or drain pipe to catch and retain matter which would not easily pass through the pipes. Also called catch basin. See sump

Catch plate

A disk on the spindle nose of a lathe, driving a carrier locked to the work.

Catch points

Trailing points placed on an up-gradient for the perpose of derailing rolling stock accidentally descending the gradient. See spring points

Catch-water drain

A drain to catch water on a hillside, with open joints or multiple perforations to take in water in as many places as possible.

Cat E

Category E damage to an aircraft; equivalent to a total loss or "write off."

Category

See speed category

Catenary construction

A method of construction used for overhead contact wires of traction systems. A wire is suspended, in the form of catenary, between two supports, and the contact wire is supported from this by droppers of different lengths, arranged so that the contact wire is horizontal. See compound catenary construction

Cathead

[1] The sheave assembly on the top of crane jib.

[2] A lathe accessory consisting of a turned sleeve having four or more radial screws at each end; used for clamping on to rough work of small diameter and running in the steady while centering. Also called spider

Cathetometer

An optical instrument for measuring vertical distances not exceeding a few decimeters. A small telescope, held horizontally can move up and down a vertical pillar. The difference in position of the telescope when the images of the two points whose separation is being measured are lined up with the cross-wires of the telescope, is obtained from the difference in vernier readings on a scale marked on the pillar. Also called reading microscope and reading telescope

Cathode

[1] In an electric circuit, the negative terminal. Electrons leave at this terminal.

[2] In an electronic tube or valve, an electrode through which a primary stream of electrons enters the inter-electrode space. During conduction, the cathode is negative with respect to the anode. Such a cathode may be cold, electron emission being due to electric fields, photo-emission, or impact by other particles, or thermionic, where the cathode is heated by some means.

[3] In a semiconductor diode, the electrode to which the forward current flows.

[4] In a thyristor, the electrode by which current leaves the thyristor when it is in the ON state.

[5] In a light-emitting diode, the electrode to which forward current flows within the devie.

[6] In electrolytic applications, the electrode at which positive ions are discharged, or negative ions formed.

Cathode coating

A low-work function surface layer applied to a thermionic or photocathode in order to enhance electron emission or to control spectral characteristics. The cathode coating impedance is between the base metal and this layer.

Cathode copper

The product of electrolytic refining, after which the cathodes are melted, oxidized, poled, and cast into wire-bars, cakes, billets, etc.

Cathode efficiency

Ratio of emission current to energy supplied to cathode. Also called emission efficiency

Cathode follower

A valve circuit in which the input is connected between the grid and ground, and the output is taken from between the cathode and ground, the anode being grounded to signal frequencies. It has a high input impedance, low output impedance, and unity voltage gain. See common-collector connection

Cahode glow

Glow near the surface of a cathode, its color depending on the gas or vapor is the tukbe. If an arc takes place in a partial vacuum, it may fill the greater part of the discharge tube.

Cathode luminous sensitivity

Ratio of cathode current of photoelectric cell to luminous intensity.

Cathode modulation

Modulation produced by signal applied to cathode of valve through which carrier wave passes.

Cathode poisoning

Reduction of thermionic emission from a cathode as a result of minute traces of adsorbed impurities.

Cathode ray

A stream of negatively charged particles (electrons) emitted normally from the surface of a cathode in a vacuum or low-pressure gas. The velocity of the electrons is proportional to the square root of the accelerating potential, being 6x10⁵ms^-1 for one volt. They can be deflected and formed into beams by the application of electric or magnetic fields, or a combination of both, and are widely used in oscilloscopes and TV (in cathode-ray tubes), electron microscopes and electron-beam welding, and electron-beam tubes for high frequency amplifiers and oscillators.

Cathode-ray oscillograph

An oscillograph in which a permanent (photographic or other) record of a transient or time-varying phenomenon is produced by means of an electron beam in a cathode-ray tube. Deprecated term for cathode-ray oscilloscope

Cathode oscilloscope

(CRT) Device for displaying electronic signals by modulating a beam of electrons before it impinges on a fluorescent screen

Cathode ray tube

A sealed tube on which graphs or pictures are displayed like a TV screen

Cathodic electropainting

Cathode spot

Area on a cathode where electrons are emitted into an arc, the current density being much higher than with simple thermionic emision

Cathodic chalk

A coating of magnesium and calcium compounds formed on a steel surface during cathodic protection in sea water

Cathodic etching

Erosion of a cathode by a glow discharge through positive-ion bombardment, in order to show microstructure

Cathodic protection

[1] The action of protecting metal from electrochemical corrosion by using it as the cathode of a cell with a sacrificial anode.

[2] In ships and offshore structures, corrosion can be prevented by passing sufficient direct current through the sea water to make the metal hull a cathode. See sacrificial anode

Cathodoluminescence

The emission of light, with a possible afterglow, from a material when irradiated by an electron beam, such as occurs in the phosphor of a cathod-ray tube

Cathodophone

Microphone utilizing the silent discharge between a heated oxide-coated filament in air and another electrode. The discharge is modulated directly by the motion of the air particles in a passing sound wave. Also called ionophone

Catholyte

See catolyt

Cation

Ion in an electrolyte which carries a positive charge and which migrates toward the cathode under the influence of a potential gradient in electrolysis. It is the deposition of the cation in a primary cell which determines the positive terminal. Compare anion

Catolyte

That portion of the electrolyte of an electrolytic cell which is in the immediate neighborhood of the cathode. Also called catholyte

Cation

Catolyte

That portion of the electrolyte of an electrolytic cell which is in the immediate neighborhood of the cathode. Also called catholyte

Catoptric element

A component of an optical system that uses reflection, not refraction, in the formation of an image

Cauchy's dispersion formula

μ= A + (B/λ²) + (C/λ²¹) + ...
An empirical expression for the relation between the refractive index μ of a medium and the wavelength λ of light; A, B, and C are the constants for a given medium.

Catwalk
[1] A raised walkway running fore and aft from the midship.
[2] An obsolete term for the section between the fender and the hood. On modern cars, this section does not exist at all. But on older cars (like the 1937 Cadillac), the fender was spaced a little way apart from the hood. The headlights were mounted toward the front of the catwalk or above it.

Caulk

To fill seams in a wood deck with oakum or hammer the adjoining edges of metal together to stop leaks. Also spelled "calk"

Caulking

The process of closing the spaces between overlapping riveted plates or other joints by hammering the exposed edge of one plate into intimate contact with the other. A filler material is also used esp. for clsing (e.g., deck planking). Also called calking

Caulking tool

A tool, similar in form to a cold chisel but having a blunt edge, for deforming the metal rather than cutting it.

Causality

[1] The principle that an event cannot precede its cause.

[2] See determinism

Caustic curve

A curve to which rays of light are tangential after reflection or refraction at another curve

Caustic embrittlement

The intergranular corrosion of steel in hot alkaline solutions, e.g., in boilers

Caustic etching

The removal of metal by dipping aluminum parts in caustic soda

Caution

A period in racing in which track conditions are too hazardous for racing due to an accident or debris on the racing surface. The cars remain in their racing positions behind the pace car until it is determined that it is safe to resume the race.

Caved

Dented inward as in When the car hit me, it caved in the door.

Cavitation

A condition in which a partial vacuum forms around the blades or impeller wheels of a pump, reducing the pump's output because part of the pump blades lose contact with the liquid. It can be a problem in fuel and water pump, fluid couplings, torque converters. When severe, it can result in the erosion of the pump blades and other internal surfaces.

Cavity

[1] An empty space in a body structure, either in a box section or a double-skinned area.

[2] A holder and contact for fuses

Cavity sealant

A product made of oil, wax, and rust inhibitors which is painted or sprayed into a cavity to prevent rust and corrosion.

CB

[1] diesel engine oil introduced in 1949.

[2] An acronym for Contact Breaker.

[3] An acronym for Citizens' Band.

Also see
CB radio

CB radio

A two-way radio which is limited to specific frequencies. Initially used by truck drivers and later by both mobile vehicles and stationary sites; but more recently it has declined in use with the advent of cell phones.

CBR process

Acronym for Controlled Burn Rate process. It is a method of improving fuel economy by increasing or decreasing the rate which the fuel burns

CBU

Acronym for "Completely Built-Up."

CC

[1] Cruise control.

[2] A type of diesel engine oil introduced in 1961.

[3] (cc) Cubic centimeter.

CCC

Acronym for computer command control

CCCA

Acronym for "Classic Car Club of America."

CCEC

Acronym for "constant current electronic circuit"

CCEGR

Acronym for coolant controlled exhaust gas recirculation

CCFA

Acronym for "Comité Des Constructeurs Français d'Automobiles"

C-clamp
A tool which is in the shape of the letter "C". A screw at one end of the clamp forces the end of the screw against the object to be secured.

Also see
long-reach C-clamp

CCOT

Acronym for "cycling clutch orifice tube system" or "Cycling clutch orifice tube air conditioning system"

CCP

Acronym for controlled canister purge

CCS

Acronym for "controlled combustion system" of reducing unburned hydrocarbon emission from the engine exhaust.

CCT

Acronym for computer controlled timing

Cd

Abbreviation for "Drag Coefficient," a measurement of air resistance (drag). The lower the number, the less drag that a vehicle or shape has.

CD

[1] Diesel engine oil introduced in 1955.

[2] See capacitive discharge.

[3] (Cd) A measurement of drag coefficient.

CD changer

A device which is connected to a stereo system and allows several music CDs to be played.

CDI

Acronym for "Capacitor discharge ignition";

Also see
CDI box

CDI box

Acronym for "capacitive discharge Ignition" device sometimes controlled by a computer. It is designed to help the spark plug fire at a rate consistent with the rpms of the engine.

CD player

A device which plays music compact discs. Usually combined with a stereo radio receiver and sometimes with a CD changer.

CDR

Acronym for crankcase depression regulator

CDV

Acronym for "Car-Derived Van" (e.g., Renault Kangoo).

Cd value

A number representing the coefficient of drag which is the amount of resistance that a moving vehicle makes in a wind tunnel

CEC

Acronym for "combination emission control"

Ceiling

See
absolute ceiling hold ceiling joiner work ceiling

Celebrity
A model of small car produced by Chevrolet

Click for books on Celebrity

Celica
A model of automobile manufactured by Toyota

Click for books on Celica

Cell

[1] A compartment or chamber in a battery which contain positive and negative plates suspended in electrolyte. A six-volt battery has three cells, a twelve-volt battery six cells.

[2] The combustion chamber in a rotary engine.

Also see
battery cell dry cell electrolytic cell fuel cell	galvanic cell local cell microgalvanic cell passenger cell	primary cell roller cell pump seam sealing cell secondary cell	storage cell

Cell battery

See gel cell battery

Cell connector

The lead bar or strap connecting battery cell groups.

Cell phone

See cellular phone

Cell pump

See roller cell pump

Cellular phone

A portable, wireless telephone which was first introduced in 1983 in the US. Currently it is used both as a car phone and a personal phone. Commonly called "cell phone."

Cellular telephone

A portable, wireless telephone which was first introduced in 1983 in the US. Currently it is used both as a car phone and a personal phone. Commonly called "cell phone."

Cellulose

A popular term for nitrocellulose -- a universal automotive finish, which is thin and therefore suitable for spraying, fast drying, and gives a hard and brilliant finish

Cellulose putty

A filler used to cover minor body imperfections.

Celsius

Thermometer on which the boiling point of water is 100 deg and the freezing point is 0 deg. The term replaces the word "centigrade." 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.

CEMA

Acronym for "Consumer Electronics Manufacturers Association."

Cement

An adhesive rubber compound dissolved in solvent used to provide building tack and cured adhesion for tires. May be brushed or sprayed on the buffed surface. Also called contact cement

Cementite

FE₃C Iron carbide. A hard substance found in cast iron.

Census value added

Residual representing the difference between the value of goods and industrial services produced and the direct material costs associated with the production of goods.

Center

To place something in a central place in relation to other items.

Also see
after bottom dead center after top dead center before bottom dead center before top dead center before upper dead center	bottom dead center dead center diagnostic center Driver and Vehicle Licensing Center drop center rim taper	drop center rim gravity, center high center rim inner dead center lower dead center	message center outer dead center roll center top dead center upper dead center

Center bore

See wheel center bore.

Center console
A section of the dash which is mounted between the driver and passenger sections. It often houses the shifter, cup holders, storage space, and possibly the stereo.

Center differential

A differential which is used in a four-wheel-drive vehicle to distribute the power to both the front and rear differentials.

Also see
variable limited-slip axle/center differential

Center drive

Most engines have the power take-off at the end of the crankshaft. A center drive has the power take-off between the cylinders.

Center drive plate

The disc between the driven plates in a twin plate clutch.

Centered

See high-centered

Center electrode

[1] Electrode which protrudes out of the insulator nose of a spark plug.

[2] A center terminal.

Also see
compound center electrode

Center gear

The sun gear of a planetary gearset.

Center girder

A vertical plate on the ship's centerline between the flat keel and inner bottom extending the length of the ship. Also called center vertical keel.

Center-hung float

This type of carburetor float pivots on an axis that's parallel with the vehicle axles. It's a better float design than a side-hung float during high speed cornering because the float isn't affected by centrifugal force, so it won't pull the inlet valve open in the middle of a corner

Centering

See
self-centering steering wheel centering

Center keelson

See center girder

Centerline

[1] An imaginary line which passes from the front to the rear of a vehicle, half way between the distance between the left and right side of the vehicle.

[2] The middle line of the ship, extending from stem to stern at any level.

Center locking disc

A hub cap which is secured in place with a bolt or other locking device.

Center lock nut

A spinner which secures the wheel to the hub.

Center median

On a divided highway, the area between the two directions of traffic. The British call it the "central reserve."

Center of buoyancy

The position in a floating object where the upthrust appears to act.

Center of gravity

(CG) That point in an object, if through which an imaginary pivot line were drawn, would leave the object in balance. In the vehicle, the closer the weight to the ground, the lower the center of gravity. Cornering, acceleration, and other forces act upon the vehicle's center of gravity, thus affecting body roll and other handling characteristics.

Center of pressure

An aerodynamically determined point at which wind force on the side of a vehicle is assumed to be concentrated for analytical purposes. It is a function of the shape and aerodynamic drag (resistance) of an automobile's body shell, determines the effect of side winds on a vehicle's direction of travel, and is a concept similar to the center of gravity.

Center pillar

The supporting post which is located in the middle of the car and holds up the roof. It is also called the "B-post" or "B-pillar"

Center point steering

A steering geometry where the steering axis cuts the wheel axis in the wheel center plane, with no offset at the road surface.

Center punch

A metal tool that is shaped like a pencil where you can hit the blunt end with a hammer so that the sharp point makes an indentation in some metal. In this way the drill-bit can fit into the indentation when you want to make a hole.

Center rim

See
drop center rim taper drop center rim high center rim semi-drop center rim

Center rim taper

See
drop center rim taper semi-drop center rim taper

Center section damage

A description of a vehicle after it is involved in an accident when it has been hit on the side somewhere between the front and rear wheels. The frame and body are bashed in at the center, but the front and rear of the vehicle may not have sustained any damage.

Centerstand

A stand that supports the motorcycle in an upright position

Centerstand tang

A small lever attached to the centerstand

Center steering linkage

A steering system using two tie rods connected to the steering arms and to a central idler arm, the idler arm is operated by a drag link that connects the idler arm to the pitman arm.

Center terminal

A high tension distributor has a rotor which spins around a center post and transfers electrical energy from the center post or terminal to each of the surrounding terminals located in the distributor cap. In this way the energy from the coil is transferred to the high tension leads going to each spark plug.

Center the clutch

To align the center holes in the clutch plates so that they fit easily on the splines of the crankshaft.

Center tunnel

The hump which runs from front to rear between the left and right passenger (i.e., driver and passenger). It often accommodates the transmission and/or drive shaft. In front wheel drive vehicles it covers the wiring leading to the rear of the vehicle.

Also see
transmission tunnel

Center vertical keel

See center girder

Centigrade

Thermometer on which the boiling point of water is 100° and the freezing point is 0°. The term is no longer in use and is replaced by the word Celsius.

Centimeter

See cubic centimeter

Central fuel injection

(CFI) a computer-controlled fuel metering system which sprays atomized fuel into a throttle body mounted on the intake manifold

Central chassis lubrication

A configuration of the engine and chassis where an oil change and the greasing of grease (zerk) fittings can be made from one spot -- generally underneath the vehicle.

Central gearchange

The usual arrangement with the gear lever in the center of the floor.

Centralized computerized controller

Energy control device, centrally located, which makes control decisions based on operating data, programmed information, and stored data. Can be used to optimize energy consumption of many devices throughout a building.

Central locking

The locking or unlocking of all the doors by locking from one location. This may be done by turning a key in a door lock or using an electronic device.

Also see
central locking hub

Central locking hub

A wheel with splines in the center which match up with the splines on the outside of the hub. This system is usually found on wheels that are attached to the hub with a center attaching nut on older cars -- especially sports cars -- rather than the type that is attached with several studs or bolts in a circular pattern.

Central reservation

A British term for the median which divides the north and southbound lanes (or east and westbound lanes) of a divided highway.

Central reserve

A British term for the median which divides the north and southbound lanes (or east and westbound lanes) of a divided highway.

Central station

Central location of condensing unit with either wet or air-cooled condenser. Evaporator located as needed and connected to the central condensing unit.

Central warm air furnace

Self-contained appliance designed to supply heated air through ducts to spaces remote from or adjacent to the appliance location.

Centre

See center.

Centrifugal advance
A device found on the distributor which, through the action of centrifugal force on two weights, advances or retards the ignition spark to correspond with changes in engine speed and load.

Also see
vacuum advance

Centrifugal clutch

A clutch that uses centrifugal force to expand a friction device on the driving shaft until it is locked to a drum on the driven shaft.

Centrifugal compressor

Pump which compresses gaseous refrigerants by centrifugal force.

Centrifugal force

That force which tends to keep moving objects travelling in a straight line, when a moving vehicle is forced to make a turn, centrifugal force attempts to keep it moving in a straight line, if the vehicle is turning at too high a speed, centrifugal force will be greater than the frictional force between the tires and the road and the vehicle will slide off the road.

Centrifugal force air filter

A type of canister air filter used on the engines of semi-tractor-trailer units which removes the dust before it reaches the filter element.

Centrifugal governor

A device which controls the speed by using centrifugal force. As the speed of a shaft increases, weights are moved outward. When the weights reach a predetermined place, the shaft can no longer increase in speed. This governor may be found in automatic transmissions

Centrifugal oil filter

A filter in the lubrication system which pushes any impurities to the outside of the filter as it rapidly rotates.

Centrifugal pump

[1] A pump which forces liquid from one location to another by the rotation of an impeller.

[2] A pump which produces fluid velocity and converts it to pressure head.

Centrifugal weight

The movable part in a centrifugal clutch or centrifugal advance. The weight (sometimes called a "finger") moves outward as a result of centrifugal force. Changing the mass of the weight will cause the weight to move outward sooner or later. The heavier the weight the later the movement.

Centrifuge brake drums

To combine the strength of steel with the desirable friction characteristics of cast iron, a lining of cast iron is sprayed on the inside of a steel drum. Both metals are handled while hot to encourage the fusion of the two metals

Centripetal force

A force which acts towards a central point, such as Earth's gravity. In a sense it is the opposite of centrifugal force.

Century

A bicycle ride of 100 miles (160.9 km).

Also see
metric century Buick Century

CEPA

Acronym for "Canadian Environmental Protection Act."

Ceramic

A non-organic and non-metallic product made from clay or glass. Currently some manufacturers are trying to develop ceramic cylinders because of its ability to retain its shape when heated in contrast with metal which expands when heated.

Also see
ceramic filter

Ceramic brake pad

A brake pad constructed with ceramics to reduce wear and heat.

Ceramic capacitor

Capacitor using a high-permittivity dielectric such as barium titanate to provide a high capacitance per unit volume.

Ceramic filter

A filtering device using a porous ceramic as the filtering agent.

Ceramic fuel

Nuclear fuel with high resistance for temperature, e.g., uranium dioxide, uranium carbide.

Ceramic honeycomb

The interior of a monolithic converter which supports the catalyst.

Ceramic ignitor

Electric ignition system used in a water glycol solution, forced-air furnace. Electrically heated to create ignition of the gas-air mixture in the combustion chamber.

Ceramic insulator

An insulator made of ceramic material, e.g., porcelain; generally used for outdoor installations.

Ceramics

The art and science of non-organic non-metallic materials. See ceramic.

Ceramics processing

The methods of making ceramic products before final sintering.

Ceramic transducer

Transducer based on the electrical properties of ceramics such as piezoelectricity.

Cerenkov counter

Radiation counter which operates through the detection of Cerenkov radiation.

Cerenkov detector

Device which detects and measures the Cerenkov radiation produced as a result of the incidence of high-energy charged particles; from this the speed and charge of the particles may be calculated.

Cerenkov radiation

Radiation emitted when a charged particle travels through a medium at a speed greater than the speed of light in the medium. This occurs when the refractive index of the medium is high, i.e., much greater than unity, as for water.

Cermet

Ceramic articles bonded with metal. Composite materials combining the hardness and high temperature characteristics of ceramics with the mechanical properties of metal, e.g., cemented carbides and certain reactor fuels.

CERN

Byname for Organisation européene pour la Recherche Nucléaire originally Conseil Europé pour la Recherche Nucléaire; the principal European center in theoretical and experimental research in particle physics, supported by most European countries; located in Geneva. Its facilities include high-energy and low-energy proton and antiproton accelerators, and an electron-positron collider. See Large Hadron Collider

Certificate

See
international load line certificate international tonnage certificate mot certificate seaworthiness certificate type approval certificate

Certificate of registry

A document specifying the country the vessel is registered.

Certification Label

See safety Compliance Certification Label

Cesium cell

Celling having a cathode consisting of a thin layer of cesium deposited on minute globules of silver; particularly sensitive to infrared radiation, but generally approximating to that of the eye. British spelling caesium cell.

Cesium clock

Frequency-determining apparatus used on cesium-ion resonance of 9,192,631,770 Hz.

Cesium-oxygen cell

Cell in which the vacuum is replaced by an atmosphere of oxygen at very low pressure. It is more sensitive to red light than the cesium cell.

Cetane number

A method of rating diesel oil or fuel by measuring the time lapse between fuel injection and ignition to determine how easy it is to ignite and how fast it will burn. The lower the cetane number, the higher the temperature required to burn the oil.

Cetane rating

Ceton filter

A sock-type filter in the fuel tank capable of wicking diesel fuel, but not water; keeps water from the rest of the fuel system until the sock is 90% submerged in water

CFC

Acronym for chlorofluorocarbon.

CFC gases

Chlorofluorocarbon gases.

CFI

Acronym for central fuel injection. A Ford fuel injection system that uses an injector mounted throttle body assembly

CFM

Acronym for "Cubic Feet per Minute." This is the rating of the volume of air moved.

CG

Acronym for center of gravity.

Chafer

The area between the bead and sidewall of a tire.

Chafer strip

The area between the bead and sidewall of a tire.

Chafing plate

A bent plate for minimizing chafing of ropes

Chain
Linked, flexible metal "rope" that connects two sprockets (e.g., the chainwheel to the back wheel cogs, sized differently for different types of bikes.) The teeth of the sprockets fit inside the spaces between the links. Also called a roller chain.

Also see
cam chain
derailleur chain, narrow width
derailleur chains
double roller chain
drive chain
duplex chain
O-ring chains
primary chain
safety chains
silent chain
simplex chain
single roller chain
snow chains
timing chain
tire chains
triplex chain

Chain breaker
A tool for removing the pins in a roller chain so that the links can be removed.

Chaincase

An enclosed metal covering which encircles the drive and driven sprockets as well as the chain.

Chain case

See chaincase.

Chain drive

A system of transferring power from one shaft to another by means of sprockets and an endless chain. This is the system used on a bicycle; but it is also used on an engine to control the timing of valve opening (called "timing chain" or "cam chain").

Chain filter wrench

A chain wrench which encircles the oil filter to assist in its removal.

Chain guard

A metal or plastic covering for the top run of a chain. It is most often found on bicycle chains where the guard keeps your clothing from being caught in the chain or even from getting greasy.

Chain hoist

A lifting device which uses a chain and block and tackle to lift large objects like engines.

Chain locker

A compartment for the stowage of anchor chain

Chain pipe

A pipe for passage of chain from windlass to chain locker

Chain pipe wrench
A chain wrench which circles around a pipe and grips it so that the pipe can be tightened or removed.

Chainring
One of the sprockets attached to the right crankarm of a bicycle to drive the chain. Also called "chainwheel."

Chainring bolt

The 4 or 5 bolts that attach the chainrings to the crankarm of a bicycle

Chainring bolt circle diameter

The configuration of the bolt pattern on a chainring. Draw a circle through the center of all the bolt holes used to connect the chainring to the crankarm and measure the diameter of the circle (in millimeters). On a road crankset with two chainrings, they will both use the same bolt circle diameter. Typical bolt circle diameters are 130 or 135 mm on road bikes.

Chainring nut spanner

A special bicycle tool used to loosen the slotted nuts that fasten a chainring to a crankarm.

Chainring teeth

The number and type of teeth (i.e., pointed projections which are forced between the rollers of a chain) in a chainring sprocket. A typical large road bike chainring has 53 teeth cut into its surface and it is referred to as a size 53.

Chain run

The distance between the front and rear sprockets.

Chains

See chain

Chain scrubber

A device attached to a chain which rubs away the grime while the chain is moving.

Chainstay
One of the two tubes of a bicycle frame that run horizontally from the bottom bracket shell back to the rear dropouts.

Chainstays

The two tubes of a bicycle frame that run from the bottom bracket back to the rear dropouts.

Chain stopper

A device used to secure the chain cable when riding at anchor, thereby relieving the strain on the windlass

Chain switch

See snow chain switch

Chain tensioner

A device which takes up the slack in a chain. Some use an idler wheel which can be adjusted (manually or automatically), others use a flat slide which pushes against the chain to keep it from bouncing around. Most modern units are spring loaded so that the tensioner automatically takes up the slack. Some require that you need to undo a locking nut to allow the spring to push against the chain. Afterward the lock nut needs to be secured again.

Chainwheel
One of the sprockets attached to the right crankarm of a bicycle to drive the chain. Also called "chainring."

Chain whip

A tool consisting of a metal bar and two sections of chain, used in changing cogs on a freewheel. Sometimes called "chain wrench."

Chain wrench
A locking pliers which employs a chain to wrap around an object such as a pipe to secure or remove it.

Also see
chain whip

Chair

Motorcycle sidecar

Chalking

The appearance of a white powder on a paint surface as it weathers and ages.

Chamber

[1] A pressure chamber used to vulcanize pre-cured tread stock to the buffed casing.

[2] A compartment which is basically empty or hollow.

Also see
climatic chamber combustion chamber exhaust chamber fireball combustion chamber float chamber gas chamber	hemispherical combustion chamber humidity chamber main combustion chamber mixing chamber pent-roof combustion chamber plenum chamber	pre-chamber pre-combustion chamber pre-compression chamber pumping chamber salt spray chamber spherical combustion chamber	suction chamber swirl chamber twin swirl combustion chamber vacuum chamber wedge combustionchamber

Chamber recess

See combustion chamber recess

Chamber volume

See combustion chamber volume

Chamfer

To bevel or taper the edge of an object especially the sides of a hole or a sharp corner

Chamfered

A chamfered object is one that has a symmetrically bevelled edge.

Chamois

Pronounced SHAM-mee. A soft piece of animal skin (from a deer, sheep, goat, etc.) used to absorb water after washing the surface of a vehicle. Also called a chamois leather or shammy leather.

Chamois leather

See chamois.

Champ car

When Championship Auto Racing Teams (CART) was co-sponsored by Fed_Ex, the series became known as the Fed_Ex Championship Series for the PPG Cup. The cars in this series, previously known as Indy Cars, are called Champ Cars.

Change

To remove something and replace it with something else.

Also see
climate change downward change floor change oil change range-change upward change

Change down

A British expression meaning to shift to a lower gear.

Change gear

The action of selecting a different gear. This expression is used more in Britain than in North America where the expression is "shift gear."

Change into

A British term for the action of shifting into another gear, such as "change into second" (shift into second gear) or "change into top" (shift into high gear)

Change of state

[1] Rearrangement of the molecular structure of matter as it changes between any two of the three physical states solid, liquid, or gas

[2] Condition in which a substance changes from a solid to a liquid or a liquid to a gas due to addition of heat. Or, the reverse, in which a substance changes from a gas to a liquid, or a liquid to a solid, due to removal of heat.

Changeover

[1] The refitting of equipment to either neutralize the effects of the just completed production or to prepare equipment for production of the next scheduled item, or both.

[2] The removing of new original equipment tires in exchange for a different make, size, or type.

Changer

See
CD changer column changer column gear changer

Change-speed gearbox

A transmission which houses a set of gears which move into various configurations of engagement in order to produce different output ratios.

Change the oil

The act of draining out the old or dirty oil from an engine and replacing it with fresh oil.

Change up

A British term meaning to shift up to another gear

Change valve

A British term for a valve in an automatic transmission which raises the oil pressure as the vehicle speed increases. In North America it is called the shift valve.

Changing

See
charge changing wheel changing

Channel

[1] To lower the vehicle body around the frame.

[2] A route or groove through which anything passes.

[3] The hydraulic routing used by the anti-lock brake system to control the brake pressure at each wheel. A system may have one, three, or four channels

Also see
chassis channel distribution channel glass channel grip channel runabout run channel run channel window channel

Channelled

Vehicle body lowered down around the frame.

Channel section

A long metal U-shaped member used in the chassis.

Chap

See tank chap

Chapman

Anthony Colin Bruce Chapman (1928-1982), the founder of Lotus. One of the most innovative engineer in automotive racing history.

Chapman strut
A type of rear suspension using a lower lateral link and a long spring-shock strut to determine wheel geometry. The basic principle is the same as that of the front Mac_Pherson strut and it is so named because Colin Chapman first used it on the original Elite; it is also used on the Elan models, the new Elite, and the Datsun (Nissan) Z-car.

Characteristic map

A three-dimensional picture showing the relationship between various components of a vehicle. With the help of a computer, engineers can modify one component to see the effect it has on the whole operation of the vehicle.

Characteristics of materials

See performance characteristics of materials

Character line

The design line or bend in the side of the vehicle that separates the upper and lower sections of the fenders and doors

Charcoal

The amorphous form of carbon obtained by the destructive distillation of animal or vegetable matter in a limited supply of air. In automotive use, it is used to purify air or exhaust gases.

Also see
activated carbon activated charcoal

Charcoal canister

Another name for activated carbon canister

Charcoal filter

A filtration system using activated carbon to remove impurities.

Charcoal trap

See activated charcoal trap

Charge

[1] The action of passing an electric current through a battery to restore it to the active (charged) state. Normally the vehicle's generator or alternator takes care of this. If the vehicle is not used much, an external charger is needed to charge the battery.

[2] The definite quantity of electricity usually found in a storage battery.

[3] Refers to the mass of air and fuel that enters a cylinder during the intake stroke.

[4] A refund amount of money. See core charge.

[5] Amount of refrigerant placed in a refrigerating unit.

[6] A specific amount of refrigerant by volume or weight

Also see
air charge temperature battery charge catalyst charge core charge cylinder charge electric charge fuel charge intake charge state of charge stratified charge trickle charge

Charge air

The air/fuel mixture.

Charge air cooling

An intercooler

Charge-air recycling

A device on a turbocharger which maintains the speed of the compressor when there is no boost so that the boost is more instantly available on demand.

Charge changing

In a two-stroke engine, the removal of exhaust gases through the exhaust port in order to introduce a new load of fuel-air into the transfer port. Also called "charge exchange process."

Chargecooler

A radiator that cools and therefore recondenses the intake air that has been compressed and heated by the turbocharger thus allowing a greater amount of air into the engine. With more air in the combustion chamber, the ECM can deliver more fuel and make more power. This radiator can be either cooled by air or by water. Also called intercooler

Charged

See dry charged battery

Charged battery

See dry charged battery

Charge engine

See stratified charge engine

Charge exchange process

Another name for charge changing

Charge indicator

See battery charge indicator

Charge losses

In a two-stroke engine, the exhaust gases are expelled out the exhaust port and the fresh charge is brought in through the transfer port. Sometimes some of the fresh charge is also forced out with the exhaust gases. There is therefore a loss of some of the fresh air-fuel charge.

Also see
scavenging losses

Charger

Common name for a battery charger.

Also see
fast charger trickle charger turbo charger

Charges

See on-the-road charges

Charge temperature

See air charge temperature

Charging

See
battery charging piston charging pump slow charging

Charging board

Specially designed panel or cabinet fitted with gauges, valves, and refrigerant cylinders used for charging refrigerant and oil into refrigerating mechanisms.

Charging characteristic

When a battery is being charged, the charger will reveal how much voltage and/or amperage is being required to bring the battery up to full charge.

Charging circuit

See charging system.

Charging current

The amount of electric current being supplied to the battery from the alternator or from a battery charger.

Charging efficiency

[1] In a vehicle's electrical charging system, its efficiency is the ratio of energy output to energy input, i.e., how well does the alternator work to supply voltage to the electrical components and still charge the battery.

[2] In a two-stroke engine, it is the ratio of the amount of the fresh charge that remains in the cylinder after the two ports are closed and the actual volume.

Charging hose

A small diameter hose constructed to withstand high pressures. It is connected between the air conditioning system and the manifold set

Charging piston

In a two-stroke engine, this is a secondary piston which precompresses the fresh charge and sends it into the cylinders

Charging point

A place where a battery can be charged -- especially for battery-powered electrical vehicles. Also called battery charging station

Charging pressure

See boost pressure.

Charging pump

See piston charging pump

Charging rate

The amount of electrical current which is delivered by the charging system. It is usually measured in amperes.

Charging station

A usually portable unit equipped with a manifold gauge set, charging cylinder, vacuum pump, refrigerant supply, auxiliary gauges, various valves and the plumbing necessary to hook everything together. Used for servicing air conditioning systems.Also see battery charging station

Charging stroke

See induction stroke.

Charging system

A system that, using a fan belt driven by the engine, enables the alternator (or generator) to generate electrical current, which is stored in the battery and delivered to the electrically operated pars of the vehicle chassis The parts of the vehicle which are left when the body and fenders are removed.

Charles's law

Volume of a given mass of gas at a constant pressure varies according to its temperature.

Charpy test

An impact resistance test in which the specimen is supported as a horizontal beam and broken by a single swing of a pendulum with the impact line midway between the supports and directly opposite the notch for notched specimens.

Chart

See color chart

Chase

To repair damaged threads on a bolt or nut with a tap or die

Chassis

Generally, chassis refers to the frame, engine, front and rear axles, springs, steering system, fuel tank. In short, everything but the body or cab and fenders. Because most modern automobiles (apart from trucks) do not have a separate chassis, the body is sometimes called the chassis.

Also see
backbone chassis cab chassis cowl chassis ladder chassis mid-engine chassis configuration punt chassis separate chassis

Chassis bracket set

When the sill panel does not have a jointing flange, a set of securing pieces are welded under the sill before straightening a bent or damaged sill.

Chassis cab

A truck with a cab but no bed. To this system various bodies (ambulance, moving van, flat beds, etc.) can be added by aftermarket suppliers.

Chassis channel

A channel section which makes up a member of the chassis.

Chassis configuration

See mid-engine chassis configuration

Chassis dynamometer

A test stand for a vehicle to determine its power output or emission levels, etc. when the vehicle is placed under a variety of driving conditions.

Also see
dynamometer

Chassis frame

A frame (found on large trucks) which is made up of two long side members which are joined by several crossmembers. The suspension and axles are attached to this frame.

Chassis leg

The short channel or box section which runs along the vehicle's main axle. It is an auxiliary member, not the main side member.

Chassis lubrication

See central chassis lubrication

Chassis number

The serial number of an older vehicle which was originally stamped on a chassis member. Later it became known as a vehicle identification number (VIN)

Chassis section

One of the chassis channels or boxes, whether bolted or welded to the whole.

Chatter

[1] A noise which is caused by an irregular movement of rattling parts.

[2] The jerky movement of two components which may have moved in a systematic way under low speed; but as the speed increases, the components make irregular contact.

Also see
contact bounce contact chatter

Check

[1] An inspection to determine if everything is functional.

[2] A slight slash or marking which may appear in a tire or upholstery.

Also see
checking compression check door check arm door check strap optical check

Check arm

See door check arm

Check ball

A small ball (like a ball bearing) often made of metal or plastic, found in a check valve to halt the progress of fluid in a certain direction.

Check engine light

A light on the instrument panel that lets the driver know of any detectable engine management system malfunctions. Also used as an emission maintenance reminder light on some vehicles. Often when this light is on, a trouble code is stored in the computer

Check engine warning light

An light on the dash which is illuminated when one of the engine sensors or components does not function properly.

Checkered flag

A flag with alternating black and white squares to signal the end of the race.

Checking

[1] Short, very fine crack lines that appear in the paint film.

[2] Small cracks in the surface of rubber (e.g., tires) caused by aging and oxidation.

Also see
ozone checking

Check point

[1] A designated spot on a component where it is possible to determine if there is a malfunction.

[2] A place on the road where vehicles are stopped during a rally.

Check routine

A series items in an inspection which traces a fault or problem or which determines if all the components of a new vehicle meets the required specifications.

Check stop

An action taken by the police to stop vehicles in order to determine if the drivers have been drinking, wearing seat belts, and conforming to the other requirements of operating a vehicle.

Check strap

See door check strap

Check the battery

Determine if the electrolyte is at the correct level and add distilled water to bring it up if necessary

Check the oil

Using a dipstick, determine if there is sufficient oil in the crankcase

Checkup

The process of discovering the reliability of a vehicle or its components. "Give my engine a checkup." Sometimes it means "tune-up."

Check valve

A one-way, in-line valve that permits flow of liquids or gases in one direction only and closes to prevent passage in the opposite direction. Used to control flow of vacuum, refrigerant, coolant, etc.

Also see
residual check valve

Cheese head

A cylindrical head for a screw with a straight slot and straight sides.

Chemical brightening

The improvement of the smoothness of the surface of metal by immersing it into a solution designed to remove any roughness. Also called "chemical polishing."

Chemical cure

Vulcanization at room temperature or above, activated by chemical agents without the application of heat from an outside source.

Chemical curing

The setting or curing of an adhesive, coating or sealer, brought about by the addition of heat, a catalyst, or an accelerator

Chemical polishing

See chemical brightening.

Chemical refrigeration

System of cooling using a disposable refrigerant. Also called an expendable refrigerant system.

Chemical staining

Spotty discoloration of the paint caused by air pollution in industrial areas

Chemical toilet

A portable toilet which is used in campers and motorhomes. They contain chemicals to deal with the feces and its smell until the contents are dumped.

Chenard-Walcker

A vehicle brand of which the 1925-1948 models with required application are classic cars.

Cherry

A colloquial term for a vehicle that has been kept in, or restored to, perfect condition. Also called "mint" or "like new."

Cherry condition

A colloquial term for a vehicle that has been kept in, or restored to, perfect condition. Also called "mint condition."

Chest

See sea chest

Chevelle
An intermediate model automobile produced by Chevrolet

Click for books on Chevelle

Chevrolet
A vehicle brand of which the 1955-57 Bel Air V-8 Hardtop and Convertible are milestone cars.

Click for books on Chevrolet

Chevrolet Camaro
A vehicle brand of which the 1967-69 SS/RS V-8 and Z-28 models are milestone cars.

Click for books on Chevrolet Camaro

Chevrolet Celebrity

See Celebrity

Chevrolet Chevelle

See Chevelle

Chevrolet Corvair
A vehicle brand of which the 1960-64 Monza models are milestone cars. The 1962-64 Monza Spyder models are milestone cars. The 1965-69 Monza/Corsa models are milestone cars.

Click for books on Corvair

Chevrolet Corvette
A vehicle brand of which the 1953-70 models are milestone cars. See also a history of the Corvette

Click for books on Corvette

Chevrolet Monte Carlo

See Monte Carlo

Chevrolet Nomad

A vehicle brand of which the 1955-57 models are milestone cars.

Chevrolet Nova

See Nova

Chevrolet type

A dual mounting wheel type consists of one cone locking nut on each stud that holds both wheels in place against the hub.

Chicken coop

Trucker slang for Truck weigh station as in "Are the chicken coops open this morning?"

Chicken lights

Trucker slang for Extra lights on a truck as in "Look at all those chicken lights on that northbound bulldog."

Child bike seat
An accessory which mounts behind the saddle of a bicycle and is designed to hold a small child.

Childproof lock

On the rear doors of a car, a specially designed locking device can be set to normal or to childproof. When set to childproof, the door cannot be opened from the inside.

Child restraint system

A term for a number of items which are designed to protect children from injury during an accident (such as child seats).

Child safety

See integrated child safety seat

Child safety seat

See integrated child safety seat

Child seat

A small safety seat which is mounted on a regular car seat and is held in place by the seat belt.

Also see
integrated child seat

Child step running board
An external step which allows a child to be able to enter or leave a vehicle with a high ground clearance (a van, SUV, truck, etc.)

Chilled iron

cast iron possessing a hardened outer skin.

Chiller

Air conditioning system which circulates chilled water to various cooling coils in an installation.

Chill factor

Calculated number based on temperature and wind velocity.

Chimney

Vertical shaft enclosing one or more flues for carrying flue gases to the outside atmosphere.

See
coil tower coil chimney

Chimney connector

Conduit (pipe) connecting the heating appliance (furnace) with the vertical flue.

Chimney effect

Tendency of air or gas to rise when heated.

Chimney flue

Flue gas passageway in a chimney.

Chip

[1] Small pits in the glass (windshield or headlight) or in the paint caused by small flying stones.

[2] To cut with a chisel.

[3] A collection of sample paint.

Also see
paint chip book

Chip book

See paint chip book

Chip damage

See stone chip damage

Chip hammer
A hammer used to remove slag, etc. from metal because it has a chisel-like end on one side

Chipping

The action of tearing away small bits or flakes of paint or of rubber from the tread of a tire. When larger pieces of rubber tear away, it is called chunking.

Chipping hammer
A hammer used to remove the slag from weld seams.

Chisel
A thick pencil shaped tool with a sharp flat end like a blade screwdriver. When you hit the blunt end with a hammer, it forces the blade end into metal to mark it or even cut through it.

Also see
splitting chisel

Chloride

See
calcium chloride polyvinyl chloride

Chlorofluorocarbons

(CFCs) A gas compound which was used as a propellant in aerosol cans and in refrigerants.

Chmsl

(pronounced CHIM-sel) An abreviation for "center high mounted stop light" an additional brake light as required by federal law whose mounting position is determined by the manufacturer using federal guidelines

Chock

[1] A wedge used to prevent a wheel from rolling -- especially when replacing a tire/wheel. Also called a "wheel chock."

[2] A heavy smooth-surfaced fitting usually located near the edge of the weather deck through which wire ropes or fiber hawsers may be led, usually to piers.

Also see
boat chock

Choke

A butterfly valve or plate located near the top of the carburetor that limits or restricts the amount of air allowed to enter the carburetor, thus enriching the fuel-air mixture and enabling the vehicle to start and run more easily when cold. Automatic chokes have a thermostatic coil or thermostatic spring that activates a butterfly valve at the top of the carburetor barrel. Older cars have manually operated chokes. Some vehicles use an enrichner instead of a choke.

Also see
manual choke radio choke

Choke stove

A flapper near the top of the carburetor which regulates the amount of air entering the carburetor.

Also see
choke

Choke control

A device or system for operating a non-automatic choke. It is usually a cable attached at one end to the choke butterfly and a knob on the dash at the other end.

Choke index

Automatic chokes have index marks. The factory setting closes the choke when the bimetal is about 70° F. If you want less or more choke at this temperature, move the choke index one mark in the direction indicated by the arrows designating a leaner or richer mixture. You will seldom need to move the choke more than one mark

Choke kick

A preset position for the choke valve set by manifold vacuum that is routed through a carburetor body passage to the choke diaphragm

Choke knob

A knob on the dash fascia which is part of the choke control system.

Choke stove

A heating compartment in or on the exhaust manifold from which hot air is drawn to the automatic choke device.

Choke thermal vacuum switch

(CTVS) a switch used on some GM vehicle to deny vacuum to either the front or the auxiliary choke vacuum breaks. Its purpose is to slow the opening of the choke and to provide better driveability when the engine is cold

Choke tube

[1] The part of the carburetor air horn where the choke butterfly is positioned. Also called a carburetor venturi.

[2] Throttling device used to maintain correct pressure difference between high-side and low-side in refrigerating mechanism. Capillary tubes are sometimes called choke tubes.

Choke valve

In a carburetor, it is the choke butterfly.

Chop

Lowering the height of some area of the vehicle roof, hood, top, etc.

Chopped wheel

Lightened flywheel.

Chopper

[1] Once used to describe a custom motorcycle that had all superfluous parts "chopped" off in order to make the bike faster. A chopper today is a type of custom bike that usually has an extended fork, no rear suspension, high handlebars and a lowered seat. Often the original fuel tank is changed to a smaller size.

[2] To travel by motorcycle.

Chop shop

[1] A garage which specializes in turning a two-door car into a convertible by removing the steel top.

[2] An illegal garage which processes stolen cars by removing valued parts and selling them privately or by changing the serial numbers for illegal resale.

Christmas tree

A device, using a series of lights, to start cars on the timed 1/4 mile drag run.

Chromate

[1] A salt or ester of chromic acid which is often used as a paint pigment.

[2] The action of treating metal with a solution of chromium compound to produce a protective metal chromate coating. Also called "chromatize."

Chromate coating

A conversion coating produced by chromating.

Chromate treatment

A solution of chromium compound is applied to metal to produce a protective coating of metal chromate.

Chromatic aberration

[1] An enlargement of the focal spot caused in a cathode tube, by the differences in the electron velocity distribution through the beam.

[2] An enlargement of the focal spot caused in an optical lens system using white light, by the refractive index of the glass varying with the wavelength of the light, resulting in colored fringes surrounding the image.

Chromatize

The action of treating metal with a solution of chromium compound to produce a protective metal chromate coating. Also called "chromate."

Chrome

[1] A short form for chromium.

[2] The chromium plating of metal on a vehicle.

[3] To plate with chromium.

Also see
piston ring, chrome ring, chrome

Chrome-hardened

Steel that has been made harder by adding chromium.

Chrome-plated

In order to prevent iron from rusting and showing bright and shiny, the iron is coated with a layer of chromium by process of electroplating (or electrodeposition).

Chrome ring

A piston ring with a chrome face.

Also see
piston ring, chrome

Chrome steel

In order to improve rust resistance and increase hardness, chrome is added to steel. Also called "chromium steel."

Chrome work

All the metal on a vehicle which has been plated with chrome.

Chromic acid

Electrolyte which is used in anodizing processes for producing non-transparent, non-metallic oxide layers.

Chromium

A very hard grey metal used in electroplating and the production of very hard steel compounds that are also resistant to rust.

Also see
hard chromium plating

Chromium-plated

A coating of metal with chromium to protect the metal from rust.

Chromium plating

The process of coating metal with a layer of chromium to prevent rust.

Also see
black chromium plating hard chromium plating

Chromium steel

In order to improve rust resistance and increase hardness, chrome is added to steel. Also called "chrome steel."

Chrysler
A vehicle brand of which the 1926-30 Imperial 80, 1931 Imperial 8 Series CG, 1932 CG and CH, 1933 CL, 1934-6 CW with required application are classic cars. The 1970 300 Hurst is a milestone car. The 1955-65 300 Letter Series are milestone cars. The 1946-50 Town and Country models are milestone cars.

Click for books on Chrysler

Chubby screwdriver

A British term for a screwdriver with a short handle and blade for reaching into confined spaces. In North America it is called a "stubby screwdriver."

Chug

[1] The short explosive sound of an engine going steadily and rather slowly.

[2] To make the sound of chug.

[3] To drive slowly and steadily.

Chunking

The action which occurs when large pieces of rubber from the tread of tire breaks away. When small pieces break away, it is called chipping.

CI

[1] Acronym for "compression ignition."

[2] Acronym for "coil ignition."

Ciera
A model of automobile manufactured by General Motors' Oldsmobile division

Click for books on Ciera

CIH

Acronym for "camshaft in head"

CIH engine

A type of overhead valve engine (OHV) where the camshaft is enclosed within the cylinder head not placed on top of it. It is not the same as an overhead camshaft (OHC).

CID

Acronym for "cubic inch displacement."

Cigar lighter

A device which heats up an element when engaged. In turn, the lighter can ignite something flammable like a cigarette. The socket can also be used to power other electrical components requiring 12 volts.

Cigar lighter

CIM

Acronym for "computer-integrated manufacturing."

Circle

See
base circle bolt hole circle cam heel hole circle pitch circle diameter pitch circle traffic circle turning circle wheel bolt hole circle

Circle diameter

See pitch circle diameter

Circlip

A flat retaining ring in the shape of an incomplete circle where the ends at the gap may have small holes for inserting special pliers to spread the circlip apart. Also called a snap ring.

Also see
internal circlip pliers piston pin circlip wrist pin circlip

Circlip pliers

See internal circlip pliers

Circuit

[1] A source of electricity (battery), a resistance unit (headlight, etc.) and wires that form a path for the flow of electricity from the source through the unit and back to the source. The path of electrical current through an electrical system. See starting system.

[2] The path of the fuel in the carburetor. See carburetor circuits.

[3] The course over which vehicles are raced particularly if it is somewhat circular.

[4] Tubing, piping, or electrical wire installation which permits flow to and from the energy source

Also see
carburetor circuit charging circuit cranking circuit high-tension circuit HT circuit idle circuit	idling circuit ignition circuits low-speed circuit low speed circuit low voltage circuit LT circuit	open circuit parallel circuit primary circuit printed circuit board printed circuit secondary circuit	series-parallel circuit series circuit series parallel circuit short circuit

Circuit board

See printed circuit board

Circuit breaker

A protective device that will make and break the flow of current when current draw becomes excessive or overloaded. Unlike the fuse, it does not blow out but vibrates on and off thus giving the driver some light to stop by.

Also see
cutout

Circuit diagram

A wiring diagram showing the path of the electrical connections and the various colors of the wires.

Circuiting

See short circuiting

Circuit, parallel

Arrangement of electrical devices in which the current divides and travels through two or more paths and then returns through a common path.

Circuit, pilot

Secondary circuit used to control a main circuit or a device in the main circuit.

Circuit protector

Electrical device which will open an electrical circuit if excessive electrical conditions occur.

Circuitry

See
phase-locked loop circuitry pll circuitry

Circuit, series

Electrical wiring; electrical path (circuit) in which electricity to operate second lamp or device must pass through first; current flow travels, in turn. through all devices connected together.

Circuit tester

A tool which looks like a screwdriver with a light at the end of the handle as well as a long wire with an allegator clip. The pointed end touches the hot wire while the allegator end touches or clips to the ground. If there is continuity and power, the light in the handle will glow.

Circular headlamp

The older type of headlight which may be the larger one (7 inch) with both high and low beam or the smaller one (5.75 inch) dedicated to either low or high beam.

Circular mil

Unit of area equal to the area of a circle one mil in diameter

Circulating pump

A centrifugal pump, like an automotive water pump, which moves the liquid in a closed system.

Circulation

See
forced circulation oil circulation

Circumference

See rolling circumference

Circumferential break

An injury to the tread or sidewall of a tire which encircles the tire.

Circumferential crack

A crack in the grooves of the tread which may be evident around the whole tire.

CIS

Acronym for "continuous injection system." A Bosch fuel injection system which injects a steady stream of pressurized fuel into each intake port. CIS was once widely used throughout the industry

CIS-E

A CIS system with electronic controls

CIS-Lambda

A CIS system with an oxygen sensor

CIS with Lambda

See K-Jetronic with Lambda

Cisitalia

A vehicle brand of which the 1946-49 GT (Pininfarina) models are milestone cars.

Citizens band radio

A CB radio which is used to communicate over a specified frequency. It was particular the domain of truck drivers.

Citroen
A vehicle brand of which the 1955-64 models D8 and ID 19 are milestone cars.

Click for books on Citroen

City car

A compact vehicle used for driving within a city rather than on the highway. It is usually only 10 to 12 feet (300 to 360 cm) long.

City cycle

An adult bicycle or tricycle used for riding within the city. Also called an urban cycle.

City kitty

Trucker slang for Woman city police officer as in "You got a city kitty at the next corner up here."

Civic
A model of automobile manufactured by Honda

Click for books on Honda Civic

CKD

Acronym for "Completely-Knocked Down."

CL

Acronym for "Comfort Luxe" as a designation for a vehicle which is more luxurious than an "L" but not quite as luxurious as a "GL"

Cladding

[1] A process of covering one material with another and gluing them together under high pressure and temperature.

[2] The outer body panels which are attached to the vehicle's frame.

[3] Excessive decorative elements applied to a vehicle.

Claire

See Wills Sainte Claire

Clamp

A fastening device which secures something within its jaws without constant human pressure.

Also see
bar clamp battery clamp battery hold down clamp C-clamp cable clamp distributor clamp	distributor hold-down clamp G-clamp hold-down clamp hose clamp hose clamp installer hose clamp pliers	hose clamps locking bar clamp locking clamp long-reach C-clamp piston ring clamp sheet metal clamp	triple clamp v-band clamp welding clamp wheel clamp

Clamping load

In a clutch, the amount of pressure on the plates.

Clamp installer

See hose clamp installer

Clamp pliers

See hose clamp pliers

Clamshell

A shape which has a bottom and top but is hinged at one end so that it can be opened to expose its interior.

Clapboard

A narrow board which is thicker at one edge than the other edge and used to protect from the weather.

Clark

Clark, Jim -- Winner of 3 Formula One Championships, 25 Grand Prix races and of the 1965 Indianapolis 500

Class A thread

A British term for external thread.

Class B thread

A British term for internal thread.

Classic car

A vehicle that is generally considered to be one of the finest models ever built. Unlike antique cars, classic cars do not have to be extremely old. Mustangs and VW bugs built in the late 1960s are considered to be classics by many people; however, they are really milestone cars. Classic cars are defined by the Classic Car Club of America and are considered to be certain models during the years 1925-1948. They include the following built during those years

A.C.
Adler*
Alfa-Romeo
Alvis Speed 20, 25, and 4.3 litre
Amilcar*
Armstrong-Siddeley*
Aston-Martin*
Auburn
Austro-Daimler
Ballot*
Bentley
Benz*
Blackhawk
BMW (327, 328, 327/328, 335)
Brewster*
Brough Superior*
Bucciali*
Bugatti
Buick (1931-32 series 90)*
Cadillac (1925-35, all 12-cyl and 16-cyl, 1938-41 60 Special, 1936-48 all series 67, 70, 72, 75, 80, 85, 90)
Chenard-Walcker*
Chrysler (1926-30 Imperial 80, 1931 Imperial 8 Series CG, 1932 CG and CH, 1933 CL, 1934-6 CW)*
Cord
Cunningham
Dagmar (25-70 model only)
Daimler*
Darracq (8-cyl. cars and 4-litre, 6-cyl. cars only)
Delage (Model D-8, not 4-cyl.)*
Delahaye (Series 135, 145, 165 not 4-cyl.)*
Delaunay Belleville (6-cyl. cars only)
Doble
Dorris
Duesenberg
DuPont
Excelsior*
Farman*
Fiat*
FN*
Franklin (All models except 1933-34 Olympic Six)
Frazer Nash*
Graham-Paige (Custom body only)*
Hispano Suiza
Horch
Hotchkiss*
Hudson (1929 Series L)
Humber*
Invicta
Isotta-Fraschini
Itala
Jaguar (1946-48 2.5 Litre, 3.5 Litre Mark IV, not 4-cyl.)
Jensen*
Jordan (Speedway Series 'Z' only)
Julian*
Kissel (1925-26 all models, 1927 8-75, 1928 8-90 and 8-90 White Eagle, 1929 8-125 and 8-90 White Eagle, 1930 8-125)
Lagonda (all except Rapier)
Lanchester*
Lancia*
LaSalle (1927-1933)
Lincoln (All L, K, KA, and KB,1941 168H, 1942 268H)
Lincoln Continental
Locomobile (All models 48 and 90; 1927 8-80; 1928 8-80; 1929 8-80)
Marmon (All 16-cyl.; 1925 74; 1926 74; 1927 75; 1928 E75; 1930 Big 8; 1931 88 and Big 8)
Maserati*
Maybach
Mc_Farlan
Mercedes*
Mercedes-Benz (All 230 and up, and K, S, SS, SSK, SSKL, Grosser and Mannheim)*
Mercer
MG (1935-39 SA, 1938-39 WA)*
Minerva (All except 4-cyl)
Moon (Custom bodies only)*
N.A.G.*
Nash (1930 Twin Ignition 8, 1931 Series 900, 1932 Series 990, Advanced 8, Ambassador 8)*
Packard (All sixes and eights 1925-34, all 12-cyl. models, 1935 Models 1200-1208, 1936 Models 1400-1408, 1937 Models 1500-1508, 1938 Models 1603-1608, 1939 Models 1703-1708, 1940 Models 1803-1808, 1941 Models 1903-1908, 1942 Models 2004-2008 plus 2023, 1946-47 Models 2106 and 2126, all Darrin-bodied)*
Peerless (1926-28 Series 69
1930-31 Custom 8
1932 Deluxe Custom 8)
Peugeot*
Pierce-Arrow
Railton*
Raymond-Mays*
Renault (45 HP)*
Reo (1931-33 Royale 8-31, Royale 8-35, Royale 8-52, and Royale Custom 8 and 1934 N1, N2, and 8-52)
Re_Vere
Riley*
Roamer (1925 8-88, 6-54e, 4-75; 1926 4-75e and 8-88; 1927; 1928; 1929 8-88; 1929 8-125; 1930 8125)
Rochet-Schneider*
Rohr
Rolls-Royce
Ruxton
Squire
SS and SS Jaguar (1932-1940 except 4-cyl.)
Stearns-Knight
Stevens Duryea
Steyr*
Studebaker (1929-33 President)
Stutz
Sunbeam (8-cyl. and 3-litre twin-cam only)
Talbot (all 105C and 110C)
Talbot Lago (all 150C)
Tatra*
Triumph (Dolomite 8 and Gloria 6 models only)
Vauxhall (25/70 and 30/98 only)
Voisin
Wills Sainte Claire
Willys-Knight (Series 66)*.

The items marked with an asterisk (*) indicate that these models require application to be a classic car.

Classic Car Club of America

P.O. Box 443, Madison, NJ 07940. Organization which defines which cars are true classics.

Classification

See American Industrial Classification

Classification society

Independent and reputable organizations which verifies and inspects vessels for seaworthiness. As technical experts, they serve to provide the necessary basis for adjusting insurance rates for the vessel.

Classification System

See North American Industrial Classification System

Claw hammer
A hammer with a forked end on the head which is used for removing nails.

Claxton horn

A horn which makes a particular sound "Ah-oo-gah."

Also see
horn

Clay model

When the design department is creating a new model, it will be built in clay to full size to determine its looks etc.

Clean

See steam clean

Cleaner

A product to purify or remove unwanted substances.

Also see
abrasive cleaner air cleaner horn air cleaner air filter bath air cleaner low-profile air cleaner oil bath air cleaner paper air cleaner piston ring groove cleaner thermostatic air cleaner

Cleaner element

See air cleaner element

Cleaner horn

See air cleaner horn

Cleaning

See
blast cleaning self-cleaning

Cleaning unit

See spray gun nozzle cleaning unit

Clean oil

Fresh oil that has not been used in a vehicle before.

Clean oil lubrication

A lubrication system where fresh oil is supplied to the engine as needed -- such as in a two-stroke engine.

Clean shot

Trucker slang for "No highway patrol around" as in "Large Car you got a clean shot all the way to the state line."

Clearance

A given amount of space between two parts such as between piston and cylinder, bearing and journal , etc.

Also see
bearing clearance front wheel tire clearance ground clearance control ground clearance lateral clearance lateral tire clearance longitudinal tire clearance pedal clearance piston clearance piston ring side clearance radial clearance ring side clearance tire clearance valve clearance vertical tire clearance

Clearance control

See ground clearance control

Clearance depression

See valve clearance depression

Clearance fit

Parts that are assembled so that there is clearance between them so that one part can slide in or on the other. Also called "sliding fit"

Clearance height

[1] The distance between the ground and the lowest portion of the bottom of a vehicle (not counting the wheels). Also called ground clearance.

[2] The distance between the top of a vehicle and the bottom of a bridge or tunnel which determines whether the vehicle can pass under it.

Clearance lamp

A light which is mounted on the extreme edges of the roof of a truck to show the maximum height and width of a vehicle. Also called "marker lamp."

Clearance pocket compressor

Small space in a cylinder from which compressed gas is not completely expelled. This space is called the compressor clearance space or pocket. For effective operation, compressors are designed to have as small a clearance space as possible.

Clearance sensor

See ground clearance sensor

Clearance volume

The space above a piston when it is at the top dead center.

Clear coat

A clear paint covering used on modern vehicle bodies. It is the top coat.

Clear system

See base and clear system

Clearwater stern

A stern with a "shoeless" stern frame

Cleat

[1] An attaching bracket

[2] Clips at intervals on the horizontal stiffeners of hatch coamings to secure the hatch covers

CLEPA

Acronym for "Comité de Liaison de la Construction d'Equipements et de Pièces d'Automobiles" (i.e., European Association of Automotive Suppliers).

Clevis

A U-shaped metal piece with holes in each end through which a pin or bolt is run, used for attaching the brake pedal to the power brake booster pushrod, the clutch pedal to the clutch cable or master cylinder pushrod and for various other connections on an automobile.Clevises are sometimes used in other parts of the brake system, like attaching the parking brake cable to the parking brake lever at the rear brakes

Clevis pin

A cylinder with a head at one end and a hole at the other. When the clevis pin is inserted into a hole, the head prevents it from going all the way through. A cotter pin or hitch pin clip is inserted in the other end of the clevis pin to keep it secure.

Click

[1] The action of inserting a bicycle shoe's bracket into the receiving part of a click-in pedal (formerly known as a clipless pedal).

[2] A colloquial term for a kilometer

Click-in pedals
A term for road bike pedals that use a releasable mechanism like that of a ski binding to lock onto cleated shoes and do not use toe clips or straps. Replaces the term clipless pedals Some brands are SPD, Look, Time, and Speedplay.

Click-type torque wrench

A torque wrench which gives out an audible click when the preset torque is reached.

Climate change

The international concern that increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere are changing the climate in ways detrimental to our social and economic well-being.

Climate control

[1] A lever or button which you can move to change the temperature in the passenger compartment of a vehicle. It controls the heater, vent, and/or air conditioner.

[2] A space in which an ideal climate is maintained by some devices.

Climatic chamber

A test area into which an automobile can be placed to see if it will meet the extremes of temperature and humidity.

Climbing ability

While some vehicles may have a high top end speed on a road with no incline, the real test of a vehicle in mountainous terrain is its ability to go up a hill at an adequate speed (i.e., its climbing ability).

Clincher

A tire whose edges hook under the curved-in hooked edge of a special rim, not commonly found anymore on bicycles and often confused with the common wired-on tire.

Clincher rims

Type of wheel rim used with early beaded-edge tires

Clincher tire

A tire whose edges hook under the curved-in hooked edge of a special rim, not commonly found anymore on bicycles and often confused with the common wired-on tire.

Clinometer

An instrument which measures the steepness of a hill.

Clip

See
alligator clip crocodile clip hose clip hose clip installer hose clip pliers jubilee clip rebound clip spring clip

Clip installer

See hose clip installer

Clipless pedal

See clipless pedals.

Clipless pedals
An obsolete term for road bike pedals that use a releasable mechanism like that of a ski binding to lock onto cleated shoes and do not use toe clips or straps. Preferred term is click-in pedals Some brands are SPD, Look, Time, and Speedplay.

Clip-on engine

An engine that is attached to a conventional bicycle frame

Clip-ons

[1] Low racing handlebars for a motorcycle that clamp directly onto the fork legs

[2] Handlebars that attach directly to the fork tubes, rather than to the top yoke, that hold the fork tubes together

Clip-on weight

A wheel weight that is clipped on the rim between the rim and the tire. It is used to balance a wheel.

Clip pliers

See hose clip pliers

Clock

[1] An instrument showing the time.

[2] An odometer as in the statement I want to buy this car, but it has too many miles on the clock.

[3] To record the speed or time that vehicle makes.

[4] To turn the odometer back (an illegal practice)

Clocking

[1] The action of recording the speed of a vehicle.

[2] In Britain, it is the action of turning the odometer back.

C/locking

Abbreviation for "central locking."

Clockwise

Rotation to the right like the direction of clock hands. In most cases it is the direction to secure a nut to a bolt. It is the opposite to counterclockwise.

Clog

To obstruct a passageway or track so that the normal flow or operation of something is hindered.

Close call

In driving it is the near possibility of an accident.

Closed circuit

Electrical circuit in which electrons are flowing.

Close coils

The coils or loops of a spring which are tightly together.

Close coupled sedan

See close-coupled sedan.

Close-coupled sedan

Similar to the sedan, this body style is shorter and thus usually accommodates only five passengers. The rear quarter windows were eliminated.

Closed container

Container sealed by means of a lid or other device so that neither liquid nor vapor will escape from it at ordinary temperatures.

Closed cooling system

See coolant recovery system.

Closed crankcase ventilation

A system in which crankcase vapors are discharged into the engine intake system (usually through the intake manifold) and pass through the engine cylinders rather than being discharged into the atmosphere.

Closed-end connector

Solderless connector shaped like a hat. Used to join two, three, or more wires together. Similar to wire connectors used in home wiring, but installed by crimping instead of twisting

Closed end lease

Most leases offered today are close-end leases, meaning that the residual value is fixed and stated in the lease contract. The lessee's financial obligations are unaffected by what the vehicle is actually worth when the lease ends. In other words, the lessee assumes no risk for the depreciation of the vehicle.

Closed loop

An operating condition or mode which enables modification of programmed instructions based on a feedback system

Closed loop system

A self-adjusting system which keeps conditions stable and is controlled by negative feedback from a sensor.

Closed system

An anti-lock brake system with some means, generally a pump, to restore hydraulic pressure that's bled off during an ABS stop

Close-ratio gearbox

A transmission in which there is very little difference between one gear ratio and the next. This kind of transmission makes it easy for fast shifting.

Closes

See
exhaust valve closes intake valve closes

Closing

See power closing

Closing cam

A cam or rocker which closes a valve in a mechanically operated valve system. Other types close the valve through the operation of the valve spring. Also called "closing rocker."

Closing force

The force needed for the spring to close a valve.

Closing panel

A panel which covers a hole in the body, interior panels, or frame.

Closing rocker

A cam or rocker which closes a valve in a mechanically operated valve system. Other types close the valve through the operation of the valve spring. Also called "closing cam."

Closing system

See automatic closing system

Closure

See road closure

Cloth

See
emery cloth tack cloth

Cloth upholstery

The fabric of the seats made of cloth rather than leather or vinyl.

Cloud point

The temperature at which diesel oil tends to thicken and cloud up (i.e., become cloudy).

Cloverleaf

A highway overpass system which has four basic loops for getting on the highway or leaving it.

Club

See
automobile club Royal Automobile Club

Club Cab
A type of pickup truck (by Dodge) which has a second row of seating; but unlike a crew cab (which has four full size doors) it has a "half-door" that can be opened only after the main door is opened. The seating is usually a little more cramped than in a crew cab. Also called Extended Cab, King Cab, Xtra_Cab, Access Cab, Super_Cab, or Cab Plus.

Club coupe
The club coupe designation seems to come from club car, describing the lounge (or parlor car) in a railroad train. The early postwar club coupe combined a shorter-than-sedan body structure with the convenience of a full back seat, unlike the single-seat business coupe. That name has been used less frequently in the 1976-86 period, as most notchback two-door models (with trunk rather than hatch) have been referred to as just "coupes." Moreover, the distinction between two-door coupes and two-door sedans has grown fuzzy.

Also see
two-door club coupe

Club hammer

A hammer with a short handle but a large, heavy head. It is used to hit the back end of a chisel or drift.

Clunker

A vehicle which might run but is rusty and in need of a lot of repair work.

Cluster

See
analog cluster analogue cluster electronic cluster footpedal cluster instrument cluster lamp cluster rear lamp cluster seat cluster

Cluster gear

The cluster of gears that are all cut on one long gear blank. The cluster gears ride in the bottom of the transmission. The cluster provides a connection between the transmission input shaft and the output shaft. Also called "counter gear."

Cluster panel

The reverse side of the instrument panel or dash where all the wiring or circuit board is located.

Clutch
[1] An electrically operated coupling device that connects or disconnects the compressor pulley and compressor shaft
[2] A device that disconnects the engine from the transmission, to allow the vehicle to change gears, and then allows the engine and transmission to resume contact and turn together at a new speed.

Also see
center the clutch
centrifugal clutch
clutch diaphragm spring
clutch disc
clutch explosion
clutch housing
clutch lever
clutch pedal free travel
clutch pedal
clutch pilot bearing
clutch pressure plate
clutch release bearing
clutch semi-centrifugal release fingers
clutch shaft
clutch solenoid
clutch throwout fork
coil spring clutch
cone clutch
diaphragm spring clutch
diaphragm clutch
disengage the clutch
dog clutch
double clutch
double clutching
dry clutch
electromagnetic clutch
fan clutch
fluid clutch
freewheeling
friction clutch
heavy clutch
hydraulically-activated clutch
hydraulically-assisted clutch
hydrodynamic clutch
light clutch
lock-up clutch
magnetic clutch
multi-plate clutch
multiple-plate clutch
multiple disc clutch
oil-immersed clutch
one-way clutch
one way clutch
overrunning clutch starter drive
overrunning clutch starter
overrunning clutch
positive clutch
pull-type clutch
push-type clutch
reactor one-way clutch
reverse clutch
riding the clutch
roller clutch
self-operating clutch
single-plate clutch
slip the clutch
sprag clutch
stator roller clutch
sticky clutch
torque converter lock-up clutch
twin-plate clutch
wet clutch

Clutch aligning set

A group of tools used to align the clutch plates with the flywheel. Usually there is a shaft, pilot bearing adapters, and tapered universal sleeves

Clutch aligning tool

A tool which looks like a bar or a disc which can be used to line up the clutch plates with the flywheel.

Clutch brake

A device for slowing down the clutch discs (and thus the gears themselves) so that shifting is smoother and quieter.

Clutch cable

A cable (usually a cluster of thin strands within a plastic sheath) which operates the movement of the clutch plates. At the other end is a pedal (in automobiles) or a handlebar lever (left side).

Clutch cover

A metal cover which encases the clutch plates.

Clutch cycling switch

A device that turns the compressor on and off in response to changes in pressure or evaporator temp

Clutch diaphragm spring

A round dish-shaped piece of flat spring steel. It is used to force the pressure plate against the clutch disc in some clutches.

Clutch disc

A spinning plate located at the end of the driveshaft facing the engine flywheel and covered with a friction material such as asbestos. When the clutch is engaged, the disc is squeezed between the flywheel and the clutch pressure plate, causing the engine and the transmission to turn at the same speed. British term is called "clutch plate."

Clutch drag

When the clutch discs do not disengage completely after the clutch pedal is depressed or the clutch lever is pulled in, there is excessive friction so that it is difficult to shift gears because both the driven discs and the input shaft are both rotating.

Clutch explosion

clutches have literally flown apart (exploded) when subjected to high rpm, a scatter shield is used on competition cars to protect the driver and spectators from flying parts in the event the clutch explodes.

Clutch facing

The asbestos-type lining on a clutch plate.

Clutch field

A clutch part on an air condition compressor, consisting of hundreds of windings of wire, that creates a magnetic field when current is applied, pulling in the armature to engage the clutch

Clutch fork

When the clutch pedal (or lever) is depressed, it pulls on a cable which moves the clutch fork which in turn pushes on the release bearing and disengages the clutch discs.

Clutch housing

A cast iron or aluminum housing that surrounds the flywheel and clutch mechanism. Also called "bell housing."

Clutching

See double clutching

Clutch interlock switch

A switch that prevents the vehicle from starting unless the clutch pedal/lever is pressed.

Clutch judder

A British term for "clutch shudder."

Clutch lever

A hand-operated blade located on the left side of the handlebar of a motorcycle. When the clutch lever is pulled in, it disengages the clutch so the engine and the crankshaft can turn independently of the transmission and the rider can change gears.

Also see
clutch release finger

Clutch lining

The friction material on the face of the clutch discs.

Clutch, magnetic

Clutch built into automobile compressor flywheel. operated magnetically. which allows pulley to revolve without driving compressor when refrigerating effect is not required.

Clutch pedal

A foot-operated pedal located on the floor of the vehicle to the left of the brake pedal on cars with manual transmission. When the clutch pedal is depressed, it disengages the clutch so the engine and the crankshaft can turn independently of the transmission and the driver can change gears.

Clutch pedal free travel

The specified distance that the clutch pedal may be depressed before the throwout bearing actually contacts the clutch release fingers.

Clutch pilot bearing

A small bronze bushing, or in some cases a ball bearing, placed in the end of the crankshaft or in the center of the flywheel depending on the vehicle, that is used to support the outboard end of the transmission input shaft.

Clutch plate

The clutch discs.

Clutch pressure plate
That part of a clutch assembly that through spring pressure, squeezes the clutch disc against the flywheel thereby transmitting a driving force through the assembly. To disengage the clutch, the pressure plate is drawn away from the flywheel via linkage.

Clutch pulley

The clutch part turned by the drivebelt. The pulley or rotor "free-wheels" until the clutch is engaged. On rotors which contain the field, the electrical connection is made through brushes similar to alternator and starter motor brushes

Clutch release bearing

See throwout bearing.

Clutch release finger

A flat piece of metal shaped like a curved finger. Through the movement of the throwout fork, the throwout bearing pushes against the clutch release fingers or levers to release pressure against the pressure plate. Also called "clutch release lever."

Clutch release lever

See clutch release finger.

Clutch rotor

Clutch semi-centrifugal release finger

See clutch semi-centrifugal release fingers.

Clutch semi-centrifugal release fingers

Clutch release fingers that have a weight attached to them so that at high rpm the release fingers place additional pressure on the clutch pressure plate.

Clutch shaft

The shaft that takes power from the clutch into the gearbox. Also called the "drive pinion."

Clutch shudder

When the clutch tries to engage (when the pedal or lever is released), but the discs do not mate securely, the discs engage intermittently and slip past each other making a noise like a shudder. In Britain, it is called "clutch judder."

Clutch slip

Clutch slip occurs when the clutch tries to engage (when the pedal or lever is released), but the discs do not mate securely.

Clutch solenoid

In some automotive air conditioners, a solenoid that operates a clutch on the compressor drive pulley. When the clutch is engaged, the compressor is driven and cooling takes place.

Clutch spring

The clutch cover will have several posts over which the clutch spring (shaped like a cylinder) fits and pushes the pressure discs against the driven clutch discs to transmit power.

Clutch starter

See
overrunning clutch starter overrunning clutch starter drive

Clutch starter drive

See overrunning clutch starter drive

Clutch starter interlock

A device which disengages the starter once the engine has started.

Clutch stop

A clutch brake

Clutch throwout bearing

The clutch release bearing.

Clutch throwout fork

The device or fork that straddles the throwout bearing and that is used to force the throwout bearing against the clutch release fingers.

Clutch thrust bearing

The clutch release bearing.

Cluttered engine compartment

An engine compartment or bay in which all the available space around the engine is occupied by other objects (alternator, pumps, air intake system, battery, wiper motor, heater motor, windshield washer motor, starter, radiator, air conditioner, hoses, pipes, wiring, electronic boxes, etc.)

C-matic transmission

Citroen's name for a semi-automatic transmission

C motorhome

See type C motorhome

CNG

Acronym for "Compressed Natural Gas"

CO

Acronym for "carbon monoxide." A deadly, colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas found in the engine exhaust. Toxic even in relatively small concentrations. Formed by incomplete burning of hydrocarbons. Thus at its greatest with a rich mixture.

CO₂ indicator

Instrument used to indicate the percentage of carbon dioxide in stack gases.

Coach

[1] An enclosed two-door type body with permanent back panels and top, it is similar to the coupe, but the seating is different. A full width cross seat in the rear accommodates three passengers. Two separate seats in the front fold out of the way to admit rear passengers. There is no trunk, but trunk racks are frequently provided.

[2] A luxurious bus, a tour bus.

Coach bolt

A bolt with a mushroom head, but just below the head there is a square neck and then the threads. The square neck fits into a matching square hole to keep the bolt from moving.

Coachbuilder

A person or company which manufactures special bodies for automobiles.

Coachbuilt body

A separate body which is not integral with the chassis.

Coachbuilt construction

The process of building an automobile so that the body is separate from the chassis. Often the bodies are built to customer specifications and may differ from one another even though they are built upon the same chassis design.

Also see
skeleton construction unitary construction

Coachlining

Pinstriping along the side of a vehicle or along the side of the fuel tank of a motorcycle.

Coach paint

A slow-drying, high-gloss paint used on cars in the early 1900s. It was painted on car bodies with a brush.

Coachwork

Although it is strictly the body of an automobile, it is particularly the comfort and luxury appointments as distinguished from the operational chassis thus it would include the interior, seats, upholstery, dashes, fenders, etc. -- everything but the mechanicals and the chassis. The French call it Carrosserie, the Germans call it Karosserie, and the Italians call it Carrozzeria. Also called "bodywork."

Coal bucket

Trucker slang for Dump Trailer as in "Goin' up Rte. 61 in PA, better watch for them coal buckets."

Coalescing action

The process of smaller water droplets merging together into larger droplets which takes place in a water separator

Coaming

See hatch coaming

Coarse

See national coarse thread

Coarse-cut file

A file with deep grooves for removing a lot of metal quickly. It leaves rough edges which will need to be cleaned up with a smooth-cut file

Coarse file

A file with deep grooves for removing a lot of metal quickly. It leaves rough edges which will need to be cleaned up with a smooth-cut file

Coarsening

See grain coarsening

Coarse pitch

Gears or screw threads which have wide gaps between each tooth or thread.

Coarse thread

The threads of a screw are wider apart. Opposite to fine thread.

Also see
national coarse thread

Coast

[1] To proceed, usually downhill, on a bicycle without pedalling; or in a motor vehicle without the aid of the engine.

Also see
freewheel.

[2] A designation on a cruise control switch which (when activated) will cause the vehicle to slow down to a lower cruise controlled speed.

Coastal

Domestic shipping routes along the coast.

Coaster

A vehicle, usually a bicycle, which has no means of propulsion (you can't pedal it and it is without any engine).

Coaster brake

A braking system on a bicycle in which the rider stops pedalling forward (thus coasting) and pedals backward to engage the brake within the hub of the rear wheel.

Coat

[1] A covering of paint or similar substance.

Also see
anodize base coat clear coat color coat cross-hatch coat	cross coat finish coat fog coat gel coat guide coat	intermediate coat mist coat prime coat protective coat single coat	tack coat top coat undercoat

[2] To apply a covering of paint, etc.

[3] Single coat means to apply one layer of material on a surface. Double coat -- to apply two coats of adhesive, coating, or sealer to a surface. In spaying, it means to spray first a single coat with vertical strokes and then a second coat across with horizontal strokes, or vice versa

Coat drier

See top coat drier

Coated abrasive

Sandpaper or grinding wheel where an abrasive material such as sand or diamond grit is glued to a backing material and used to reduce or smooth a surface.

Coated electrode

See covered electrode

Coating

A protective covering usually of paint.

Also see
anodic coating anti-chip coating catalytic layer chromate coating coil-coating	conversion coating electrostatic powder coating galvanized coating hard anodic coating manganese phosphate coating	phosphate coating polymer coating protective coating pvc underseal coating roll coating	spray coating underbody coating undercoating zinc phosphate coating

Coat oven

See top coat oven

Cobble

To put something together in a rough or clumsy manner. This is usually done as a temporary measure until more permanent repairs can be made.

Cobbled

The action of putting something together in a rough or clumsy manner. This is usually done as a temporary measure until more permanent repairs can be made.

Cobra

See AC Shelby Cobra

COC

Acronym for conventional oxidation catalyst

Cock

A tap or shut-off valve which controls the flow of liquid.

Also see
fuel cock radiator drain cock

Cockpit

The area, usually in racing cars, in which the driver sits and the instruments in front of him.

Code

A system of symbols (as letters, numbers, or words) used to represent meaning of information.

Also see
highway Code Nordic Anti-Corrosion Code

Coded

See color-coded

Code hopping

A technology which prevents thieves with scanners from either picking up your encoded remote-control signal or from randomly firing numerous codes at your vehicle in order to stumble upon the one that will disarm your security system.

Code installation

Refrigeration or air conditioning installation which conforms to the local code and/or the national code for safe and efficient installations.

Coefficient

See
absorption coefficient block coefficient drag coefficient

Coefficient of apparent expansion

The coefficient of expansion when the expansion of e.g., a dilatometer is neglected. See coefficient of expansion

Coefficient of conductivity

Measure of the relative rate at which different materials conduct heat. Copper is a good conductor of heat and, therefore, has a high coefficient of conductivity.

Coefficient of drag

See drag coefficient.

Coefficient of expansion

[1] Increase in unit length, area, or volume for one degree rise in temperature.

[2] The fractional change in length, area or volume per unit change in tem of a solid, liquid, or gas at a given constant pressure. e.g., an aluminum bar stretches 12 millionths percent of its original length for each degree F rise in temperature. Also referred to as "expansivity"

Coefficient of friction

A measurement of the amount of friction developed between two objects or surfaces in physical contact when one of the objects is drawn across the other. If a book were placed on a table and a measuring scale used to pull the book, the amount of weight or pull registered on the scale would be the coefficient of friction. This coefficient of friction is dependent upon both surfaces in contact. It is large if the surfaces are rough and small if they are smooth.

Coefficient of performance

(COP) Ratio of work performed or accomplished as compared to the energy used.

Cofferdam

Narrow void space between two bulkheads or floors

Cog

Any toothed gear. A sprocket attached directly to the rear wheel hub on a single-speed bike and mounted on a freewheel on a multi-speed bike.

Cog belt
A toothed belt normally of fibreglass-reinforced rubber for driving the camshaft from the crankshaft. In cars, cog belts are primarily used with overhead camshafts but are sometimes used to drive pumps.

Cogeneration

Primary source of energy that is also used to produce a secondary source of energy. Example The use of waste heat from an electrical energy generation system to heat a building.

Cogged belt

See cog belt

Coil

[1] Metal bands or strands of wire wrapped in a circular fashion.
[2] A pulse-type transformer for increasing the voltage to fire the spark plugs.

Also see
booster coil
close coils
exciter coil
field coil
four-spark ignition coil
glow coil
high energy coil
hold-in coil
holding coil
ignition coil resistor
ignition coil
induction coil
multi-spark coil
multi-spark ignition coil
multiple-spark coil
multiple-spark ignition coil
open coil glow plug
pick-up coil
pickup coil
pulser coil
single-spark ignition coil
thermostatic coil choke

Coil binding

Compressing a valve spring to the point at which each coil touches the adjacent coil

Coil chimney

The top of the ignition coil where the high tension leads are attached.

Coil choke

See thermostatic coil choke

Coil glow plug

See open coil glow plug

Coil ignition

The standard ignition system which uses an ignition coil which stores the power from the battery and steps it up. Then the high voltage is sent to the spark plugs.

Also see
transistorized coil ignition

Coil ignition with Hall sensor

See transistorized coil ignition with Hall sensor

Coil lead

A British term for the high tension wire going from the coil to the distributor. In America, it is called the "coil wire."

Coil resistor

See ignition coil resistor

Coils

See close coils

Coil spring
[1] A section of spring steel rod wound in a spiral pattern or shape. Widely used in both front and rear suspension systems. Like large metal bed springs, these coils cushion and absorb the shocks and bumps as the vehicle is driven. They are usually found near the front wheels, but some cars have them in the rear as well. Often the shock absorbers run up the center of the coil springs.
[2] A coiled metal spring used in a suspension fork. Generally considered to be plusher, but heavier, than air springs.

Coil spring clutch

A clutch which has a ring of coil springs which hold the pressure plate in position.

Coil spring compressor

See spring compressor

Coil tester

See spark gap coil tester

Coil tower

The top of the ignition coil where the high tension leads are attached.

Coil wire

The high tension wire going from the coil to the distributor or spark plug.

Coin holder

A device which retains coins for easy access.

Coked up

A British term for "carboned up" to indicate something covered in carbon.

Cold

[1] The relative absence of heat

[2] A temperature considerably below normal.

Cold air

Air that is below the prevailing ambient temperature.

Cold air induction

The induction system forces cold air into the combustion chamber. Because cold air is more dense than warm air, it contains more oxygen molecules. With more oxygen, fuel will burn more effectively and thus increase horsepower.

Cold air intake

Cold cap

A process in retreading a tire where the tire is placed in a pressure chamber in a temperature range of 195°-212° until bonding of the pre-cured tread rubber is achieved.

Also see
hot cap

Cold-condensate corrosion

The corrosion of the inside of an exhaust system by direct chemical attack resulting from an acidic, aqueous solution that condenses from the exhaust gas at relatively low temperatures and collects at the cooler rear portions of the exhaust system.

Cold cranking ability

A measurement in amps of a battery's ability to start a vehicle under cold temperatures. A higher number is better than a lower one. Basic automobile batteries begin around 400 cold-cranking amps (which is only marginally acceptable in most vehicles). The best batteries are around 1000 cold-cranking amps.

Cold cranking amps

See cold cranking ability

Cold-cranking rating

The minimum number of amperes a fully charged 12-volt battery can deliver for 30 seconds at 0° F without falling below 7.2 battery volts

Cold galvanizing

The application of zinc to prevent rusting. It can be applied by a paint with lots of zinc or by electroplating with zinc.

Cold junction

That part of a thermoelectric system which absorbs heat as the system operates.

Cold lash

The valve lash clearance, measured between the rocker arm and valve tip, when the engine is cold.

Cold manifold

An intake manifold not heated by exhaust gas

Cold plug

A spark plug which has a short insulator nose which absorbs less heat and dissipates heat quickly. A colder plug is used in a hot engine while a hot plug is used in a cold engine. Thus if the plugs are fouling too much, try a hotter plug. If the plugs are coming out white, try a colder plug. The ideal color of the center insulator nose should be a light chocolate brown.

Cold solder joint

A poor soldering technique where the solder has not quite melted enough to produce a good electrical contact.

Cold spark plug

See cold plug

Cold spraying

A method of paint spraying where the paint is excessively diluted with solvent. This process makes spraying easy, but the coats are very light.

Cold start

Getting a vehicle started which has been sitting for some time and cooled down to ambient temperature. When temperatures reach -40°, a vehicle may require three or four times as much battery power as it would during the summer. As well, the carburetor or fuel injection system needs to be much richer (more gasoline than air). Because condensation has a tendency to build up in the gas tank during the winter, the liquid going to the carburetor or fuel injectors may be diluted with water -- thus making starting more difficult. The application of isopropyl alcohol (marketed as "gasline antifreeze") removes the water from the tank.

Cold starting

See cold start

Cold start enrichment

A method of providing a higher ratio of fuel to air for starting a cold engine. In some cases, more fuel is fed into the engine with a cold start injector; in other cases, the amount of air is restricted through the use of a choke.

Cold start injector

A device in a fuel injection system which shoots an extra amount of fuel into the cylinder to increase the ratio of fuel to air.

Cold wall

Refrigerator construction which has the inner lining of refrigerator serving as the cooling surface.

Cold weather modulator

(CWM) a vacuum modulator located in the air cleaner on some models. The modulator prevents the air cleaner duct door from opening to non-heated intake air when outside air is below 55° F. Similar to a temperature vacuum switch

Collapse

See piston collapse

Collapsed piston

A piston whose skirt diameter has been reduced due to heat and the forces imposed upon it during service in the engine.

Also see
piston collapse

Collapsible spare tire

A space-saver spare wheel.

Collapsible steering column

When a vehicle is involved in an accident, the driver's chest is forced into the steering wheel. In older cars, the immovable steering column meant that the driver could sustain chest damage. The collapsible steering column telescopes or folds (articulate) so that chest damage is reduced.

Collar

A sleeve that fits over a shaft.

Also see
hexagonal collar split collar underhead collar valve spring collar

Collector

Semiconductor section of transistor, connected to the same polarity as the base. See solar collector

Collector car

An older car which may not fit into the category of a classic car or a milestone car, but it has nostalgic appeal.

Collet

A removable ring or collar which fits into a groove to hold something in place.

Collier

Vessel used for transporting coal.

Collision

See head-on collision

Collision avoidance system

Electronic system used to prevent collisions in inland navigable waterways.

Collision bulkhead

The foremost main transverse watertight bulkhead designed to keep water out of the forward hold in case of bow collision damage. Also called forepeak bulkhead

Collision insurance

Insurance coverage that pays to repair damages to your vehicle when it is involved in an accident.

Colloids

Miniature cells peculiar to meats, fish, and poultry which, If disrupted, cause food to become rancid. Low temperatures minimize this action.

Colonnade hardtop
In architecture, the term colonnade describes a series of columns, set at regular intervals, usually supporting an entablature, roof, or series of arches. To meet US federal rollover standards in 1974 (standards that never emerged), General Motors introduced two-door and four-door pillared body types with arch-like quarter windows and sandwich type roof construction. They looked like a cross between true hardtops and miniature limousines. Both styles proved popular (especially the coupe with louvered coach windows and canopy top) and the term colonnade was applied. As their "true" hardtops disappeared, other manufacturers produced similar bodies with a variety of quarter-window shapes and sizes. These were known by such terms as hardtop coupe, pillared hardtop, or opera-window coupe.

Color

See
four color identification color integral color anodizing off color paint color matching

Color anodizing

See integral color anodizing

Color chart

A listing of paint samples of available exterior paint for a vehicle.

Color coat

A coat of paint with the final color. Sometimes a clear coat is applied over it.

Color-coded

[1] Something that is colored the same as the main part of the bodywork. Also called "color-keyed" or "color-matched."

[2] A series of similar things in which each one is a different color to distinguish one from the other, such as the wiring (e.g., the red wire goes from the battery to the fuse box, the blue wire goes from ... to the ...).

Colored

See body-colored

Color-keyed

See color-coded.

Color-matched

See color-coded.

Color matching

See paint color matching

Color scheme

The combination of exterior colors which harmonize, e.g., A maroon body and a white roof.

Columbus

Italian manufacturer of high quality bicycle frame tubes.

Column

See
absorbing steering column adjustable steering column collapsible steering column energy absorbing steering column height adjustable steering column safety steering column steering column telescopic steering column tilt column

Column changer

See column shifter

Column controls

See steering column controls

Column gearchange

See steering column gearchange

Column gear changer

See column shifter

Column shifter

A gear changer lever and mechanism which is located on the steering column below the steering wheel. In Britain it is called a "column changer" or "column gear changer."

Combi

Vessel designed for a combination of passengers, and different types of cargo.

Combination

A vehicle like a motorcycle and sidecar or a tractor and trailer.

Combination lamp

A light or group of lights which serves two or more purposes. For example, the rear combination lamp illumines the running lights (i.e., the ones that are turned on when the headlight is turned on) and brake light and/or the signal light

Combination pliers

A British term for a Lineman's pliers or slip-joint pliers

Combination spanner

A British term for combination wrench

Combination valve

[1] A brake system hydraulic control device includes a pressure differential valve, metering valve, and proportioning valve

[2] A hydraulic valve usually incorporating a pressure differential warning switch, a metering valve and a proportioning valve. Not all combination valves contain all of these control valves

Combination weight

See gross combination weight

Combination wrench
A flat wrench with a hex ring at one end and an open end at the other.

Combination valve

A pressure-regulating valve in braking systems incorporating a failure warning switch and comprising two or more of the following valves pressure-differential valve, metering valve, and proportioning valve.

Combined weight rating

See gross Combined Weight Rating

Combiner

See holographic combiner

Combustible liquids

Liquid having a flash point at or above 1400F 1600C1; known as Class 3 liquids.

Combustion

The intense burning of the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber. Some used to think that the fuel-air mixture exploded; but further investigation has shown that it rapidly burns.

Also see
combustion chamber volume combustion chamber combustion space compression ignition controlled combustion system external combustion engine fireball combustion chamber hemispherical combustion chamber internal combustion engine main combustion chamber pent-roof combustion chamber pre-combustion chamber wedge combustion chamber

Combustion chamber
The volume of the space in the cylinder above the piston with the piston at top dead center (Tdc##) in the compression stroke. The head of the piston, the cylinder walls, and the head form the chamber. Combustion of the fuel-air mixture begins here when ignited by a spark plug. The design and shape of the combustion chamber can affect power, fuel efficiency, and emissions of an engine.

Also see
fireball combustion chamber
hemispherical combustion chamber
main combustion chamber
pent-roof combustion chamber
spherical combustion chamber
twin swirl combustion chamber
wedge combustion chamber

Combustion chamber recess

The area where combustion occurs in a rotary piston engine

Combustion chamber volume

volume of combustion chamber (space above piston with piston on Tdc##) measured in cc (cubic centimetres).

Combustion engine

See
external combustion engine internal combustion engine

Combustion pressure

The pressure created during the combustion of the air/fuel mixture in the cylinder, measured in pounds per square inch.

Combustion residue

Carbon and other deposits resulting from combustion.

Combustion space

See combustion chamber.

Combustion system

See controlled combustion system

Comeback

[1] A repair job which has been returned to the dealer because of a repeat problem. Usually the dealer is responsible to repair it properly at no charge to the customer.

[2] Trucker slang for Return call or repeat as in "Can I get a come back on that smokey report."

Comedian

Trucker slang for Median strip as in "You got a smokey in the comedian taking pictures."

CO meter

A device for checking exhaust gases for carbon monoxide, a high level indicates an over-rich mixture as well as causing pollution.

Comet head

A cylinder head with a swirl chamber for indirect injection diesel engines.

Comfort

A designation of some automobiles as a basic or standard line usually abbreviated as "C"

Comfort chart

Chart used in air conditioning to show the dry bulb temperature, humidity, and air movement for human comfort conditions.

Comfort cooler

System used to reduce the temperature in the living space in homes. These systems are not complete air conditioners as they do not provide complete control of heating, humidifying, dehumidification, and air circulation.

Comfort Luxe

An automobile designation (abbreviated as CL) which has more luxury appointments than a "Comfort" but less than a Grand Luxe (GL).

Comfort zone

Area on psychrometric chart which shows conditions of temperature, humidity, and sometimes air movement in which most people are comfortable.

Comic book

Trucker slang for Truck driver's log book as in "The chicken coops checking comic books this morning."

Coming on the cam

The term used when a four stroke reaches its powerband

Coming on the pipe

The term used when a two stroke reaches its powerband

Commercial tire

A tire which is designed for truck and industrial use.

Commercial vehicle

A vehicle (like a truck or bus) used for carrying goods or large numbers of passengers for money.

Commutator

[1] A series or ring of copper bars that are connected to the armature windings. The bars are insulated from each other and from the armature. The brushes (as in the generator or starter) rub against the whirling commutator.

[2] Part of rotor in electric motor which conveys electric current to rotor windings.

Compact

See
compact car sub-compact

Compact 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.

Companionway

An access way in a deck, with a ladder leading below, for the use of the crew

Company logo

An emblem which represents all or part of a company's trademark.

Comparison and identification

See program comparison and identification

Compartment

See
battery compartment cassette compartment cluttered engine compartment crowded engine compartment engine compartment glove compartment passenger compartment

Compartmentation

The subdividing of the hull by transverse watertight bulkheads so that the ship may remain afloat under certain flooding conditions

Compass

An instrument with a magnetic needle which is mounted on the dash to give the driver an idea of where magnetic north might be.

Compass mirror
An inside rear view mirror which incorporates a compass in one corner

Compensating bar

See compensator

Compensating jet
A fuel tube or pipe in the carburetor, into which air is admitted through one or more holes to compensate for a tendency of the main nozzle to deliver too rich a mixture as the air velocity through the carburetor increases. Also called "air bleed."

Compensating port

A small hole in a brake master cylinder to permit fluid to return to the reservoir.

Compensator

A horizontal bar which is pulled forward when the parkbrake is applied at its central point, which is pivoted, while it is connected at each end to the parkbrake cable, enabling equal force to be exerted on each rear brake.

Also see
temperature compensator

Compensator valve

A valve in automatic transmissions designed to increase the pressure on the brake band during heavy acceleration.

Competition

See interchannel competition

Competition car

A vehicle which is designed to compete in races, hill climbs, and rallies.

Compliance

A slight resiliency, or "give," designed into suspension bushings to help absorb bumps. Good compliance allows the wheels to move toward the rear a little as they hit bumps but does not allow them to move laterally (sideways) during cornering.

Compliance Certification Label

See safety Compliance Certification Label

Component

[1] One of the parts that make up the whole system or device, as in The brake pad is a component of the brake system.

[2] A raw material, ingredient, part or subassembly that goes into a higher level assembly, compound, or other item.

Also see
body component primary structure component shared component

Component anti-lock brake system

A type of anti-lock brake system in which the hydraulic control unit is not a part of the master cylinder/power booster assembly.

Component assembly

A combination of two or more parts or sub-components to form an assembly.

Component design

The activity for the design of specific components including responsibility for material, cost, weight, reliability, durability, function, appearance, and serviceability.

Components

The various parts that make up the whole system or device.

Component sharing

The use of the same basic parts used in different models -- even in models from different manufacturers.

Composite

Any material that consists of two or more substances where one or more of them are high strength fibers and another is an adhesive binder. The most common composite is fiberglass, which consists of thin glass fibers bonded together in a plastic matrix. The structural properties of composites can be altered by controlling the orientation and configuration of the high-strength components.

Composite headlamps

Reflector and lens system designed for specific vehicle model

Composite headlight

A headlight system which is unlike the sealed beam headlight. When the bulb fails, you can replace just the bulb, not the whole unit. Because the lens is contoured to the shape of the vehicle, there are many different shapes. Thus each lens is low production and can be very costly to replace.

Composite propeller shaft

A single-piece propeller shaft made of fibre-reinforced epoxy in which the fibres are usually glass and/or carbon.

Compound

[1] Two or more ingredients mixed together.

[2] An abrasive paste or liquid that smooths and polishes the painted surface.

Also see
anti-drum compound anti-ozone compound cutting compound intermetallic compound ozone compound rubbing compound sealing compound sheet molding compound underbody sealing compound valve grinding compound valve lapping compound

Compound carburetor

A carburetor with more than one choke. Usually there are two one for the large throttle opening and one for the small throttle opening, but they fit to a single port

Compound center electrode

Also called compound electrode

Compound electrode

A spark plug with a copper core and a jacket of a nickel-based alloy.

Compound gauge

[1] A gauge that can indicate both pressure and vacuum.

[2] Another name for the low side gauge, because it can indicate both pressure and vacuum

Compound glass

See laminated glass

Compounding

See pre-compounding

Compound motor

A direct current electric motor with two separate field windings, one in parallel and the other in series with the armature circuit; used as a starter motor

Compound refrigerating systems

System which has several compressors or compressor cylinders in series. The system is used to pump low-pressure vapors to condensing pressures.

Comprehensive insurance

Insurance coverage that pays for damages to your car, its accessories, spare parts against loss or damage caused by an accidental collision, fire, theft, vandalism, typhoon, earthquake, and flooding. It will also pay expenses to have the disabled vehicle towed to the repair shop and expenses to return the vehicle back to you when the repairs are completed. It also covers for the death and bodily injury of the insured or driver; loss or damage to someone else's property as a result of the accident; legal liabilities to the death or bodily injury of the third party arising from the accident; legal liabilities to the damage to property of the third party arising from the accident; loss or damage to the property of the spouse(s) or the child(ren) of the insured or driver; and medical expenses of the insured or driver's injury caused by the accident.

Compress

To place under pressure or to squeeze into a small space.

Also see
pre-compress

Compressed-air spray gun

A paint gun which makes a fine spray of paint for coating the surface.

Compressed natural gas

Abbreviated CNG. See natural gas

Compression

[1] Applying pressure to a spring, or any springy substance, thus causing it to reduce its length in the direction of the compressing force.

[2] Applying pressure to a gas, thus causing a reduction in volume.

[3] One of the essential factors in a internal combustion engine (fuel, air, proper proportion of mixture, compression, timing, spark). It is the squeezing of the fuel-air mixture in the cylinder of a spark-ignition engine or the squeezing of the air in a diesel engine. Compression makes the process of combustion more effective and increases engine efficiency.

[4] Term used to denote increase of pressure on a fluid by using mechanical energy.

[5] Reduction in volume and increase in pressure and temperature of a gas caused by squeezing it into a smaller space

Also see
crankcase compression grooved compression ring high compression head piston ring, compression primary compression ratio primary compression ring, compression secondary compression

Compression check

Testing the compression in all the cylinders at cranking speed. All plugs are removed, the compression gauge placed in one plug hole, the throttle cracked wide open and the engine cranked until the gauge no longer climbs. The compression check is a good way in which to determine the condition of the valves, rings, and cylinders.

Compression damping

The control of the movement as the shock compresses as it hits a bump. Rebound damping refers to controlling the movement as the shock extends back to its relaxed position.

Compression gage

See compression gauge.

Compression gauge

[1] A gauge used to test the compression in the cylinders. A poor compression reading can indicate that there is leakage through the valves or the piston rings. In two stroke engines, it could indicate that there is poor primary compression because of a leak in the crankshaft seals.

[2] Instrument used to measure positive pressures (pressures above atmospheric pressures) only. Gauge dial usually runs from 0 to 300 lb. per sq. in. gauge, (psig) (101.3-2 170 k_Pa).

Compression head

See high compression head

Compression ignition

combustion of a fuel-air mixture without spark. In the diesel engine, air is drawn into the cylinder and compressed to a temperature sufficiently high that fuel oil injected at the end of the compression stroke burns in the cylinder without a spark to initiate combustion. A prank played on new employees is to send them on a search for the spark plugs for a diesel engine -- they don't exist.

Compression leakage

In an engine, when some gases escape past the piston because the rings or cylinder walls are worn, the compression is reduced so that there is less efficiency.

Compression molding

The shaping of molding material by softening it under pressure and the action of heat, and forcing it through a hole into a hollow space which it completely fills.

Also see
molding

Compression moulding

British term for compression molding

Compression ratio

[1] When the piston is at the bottom of its travel (Bdc##), the volume of cylinder is measured (suppose the volume is X). Then the piston is placed at the top of its travel (Tdc##) and the volume of the cylinder is measured (suppose this volume is Y). The compression ratio is a comparison of these two values expressed as XY. Then the values are mathematically changed so that the second number is always 1. Thus you hear of ratios like 10.51 or 9.51 or 81. The higher the compression ratio, the more mechanical energy an engine can squeeze from its air-fuel mixture. Higher compression ratios, however, also make detonation more likely.

[2] Ratio of the volume of the clearance space to the total volume of the cylinder. In refrigeration it is also used as the ratio of the absolute low-side pressure to the absolute high-side pressure.

Also see
primary compression ratio

Compression ring

A ring which surrounds the piston and fits in a grove in the piston. It is designed to seal the burning fuel charge above the piston. Generally there are two compression rings per piston and they are located in the two top ring grooves. They also help to transfer heat from the piston into the cylinder walls and subsequently to the water jacket surrounding the cylinder.

Also see
grooved compression ring stepped compression ring tapered compression ring

Compression spring

An open-coil, helical spring that offers resistance to a compressive form.

Compression stroke
The second stroke of the four-stroke cycle, in which the piston moves upward from bottom dead center to top dead center, compressing the fuel-air mixture.

Compression tester

A device which is screwed or pushed into the spark plug hole so that when the engine is turned over, it measures the amount of compression in that cylinder.

Compressor
[1] A mechanism in a refrigerator or air conditioner that pumps vaporized refrigerant out of the evaporator, compresses it to a relatively high pressure and then delivers it to the condenser.

[2] A tool for compressing a coil spring, such as a valve spring.
[3] Pump of a refrigerating mechanism which draws a low pressure on cooling side of refrigerant cycle and squeezes or compresses the gas into the high-pressure or condensing side of the cycle.
[4] An air conditioning component which pumps, circulates, and increases the pressure of refrigerant vapor
Also see
air compressor
coil spring compressor
piston-type compressor
piston compressor
positive displacement compressor
reciprocating compressor
roots compressor
spring compressor
valve spring compressor

[3] A device which produces pressurized air for filling tires and running air-powered tools

Compressor, centrifugal

Pump which compresses gaseous refrigerants by centrifugal force.

Compressor control

See motor control

Compressor cut-off switch

A device used by some manufacturers to prevent compressor operation. Such as the wide open throttle (WOT) cut-off switch, low pressure switch, and high pressure switch

Compressor discharge switch

A device that shuts off the compressor when refrigerant pressure is low. The switch is wired in series between the compressor clutch and the control panel switch

Compressor displacement

Volume, in cubic inches, represented by the area of the compressor piston head or heads multiplied by the length of the stroke.

Compressor, external drive

See compressor, open type

Compressor, hermetic

Compressor in which the driving motor is sealed in the same dome or housing as the compressor.

Compressor impeller

An impeller of a turbocharger driven by the turbine at speeds up to 160,000 rpm, which accelerates by centrifugal force the charge air which enter axially and leaves radially at a very high velocity.

Compressor muffler

Sound absorber chamber in refrigeration system. Used to reduce sound of gas pulsations.

Compressor, multiple stage

Compressor having two or more compressive steps. Discharge from each step is the intake pressure of the next in series.

Compressor, open type

Compressor in which the crankshaft extends through the crankcase and is driven by an outside motor. Commonly called external drive compressor.

Compressor pressure ratio

In a turbocharger system, the ratio between the absolute pressure at the compressor outlet and the compressor inlet

Compressor ratio

In a turbocharger system, the ratio between the volume in the cylinder when the piston is at the bottom of its stroke and the volume in the cylinder when the piston is at the top of its stroke

Compressor, reciprocating

Compressor which uses a piston and cylinder mechanism to provide pumping action.

Compressor, rotary

Compressor which uses vanes, eccentric mechanisms, or other rotating devices to provide pumping action.

Compressor seal

Leakproof seal between crankshaft and compressor body in open type compressors.

Compressor shaft seal

A seal in an air conditioner compressor, surrounding the compressor shaft, that permits the shaft to turn without the loss of refrigerant or oil

Compressor, single-stage

Compressor having only one compressive step between low-side pressure and high-side pressure.

Comprex supercharger

A supercharger using the pressure waves created by the expanding exhaust gases to compress the inlet charge. Also called "pressure wave supercharger."

Computer

[1] A device which calculates information and sends the results to a specific destination. In automobiles, computers are used to regulate fuel flow, control the air conditioner, display speed, time, ETA, etc.

[2] Series of electrical components which accept inputs from an operator and controls outputs.

Also see
diagnostic computer fuel computer on-board computer spark control computer trip computer

Computer-aided

Something which has been helped or designed by a computer.

Computer brake control

See anti-skid.

Computer command control

(CCC) an electronically-controlled fuel metering system used on GM vehicle. Uses an oxygen sensor, a throttle position sensor and other information sensors to provide a computer with the data it needs to alter the air/fuel ratio via mixture control solenoid in the carburetor

Computer command control system

(C-3) an earlier engine management system used on GM vehicles. (C-4) A later engine management system used on GM vehicles

Computer-controlled

Something which is monitored by a computer

Computer controlled coil ignition

(C3I) GM's computerized ignition coil system, used on many different engine applications

Computer controlled timing

(CCT) a system that feeds input from various engine sensors into a computer. The computer then matches spark timing exactly to engine requirements throughout its full range of operations

Computer languages

Specific wording or codes, such as BASIC, FORTRAN, and COBOL, which direct a computer to accept and store information and control outputs.

Con

See
forked con rod master con rod

Concave weld face

A weld having the center of its face below the weld edges

Concealed headlamps

Headlamp doors close to resent a flush fitting sheet metal to reduce air resistance in headlamp area

Concealed headlights
Headlight which (when not lit) is hidden behind a panel. When the headlight switch is turned on vacuum is applied to a controller which opens the panel exposing the light. Also called "hide-away headlights" or "pop-up headlights."

Concentration

See stress concentration

Concentric

Two or more circles so placed as to share a common center but different diameters.

Concept car

A vehicle that is not currently in production, but is still in the design stage. Some are merely paper drawings, but others are clay mock-ups. The ideas in the concept cars sometimes appears in production models.

Also see
prototype

Concept vehicle

A current production vehicle modified for installation of new design concepts for evaluation of environmental functional feasibility.

Concho

A chrome trim disk for saddlebags and leathers.

Concours

Also called "concours d'elegance." This is the term used to describe a show where cars in superb condition are judged against a standard of excellence established by the sponsors, with awards given to winners. Show cars compete in a concours.

Concours d'elegance

See concours.

Cond

Abbreviation for "condition," as in excellent cond.

Condensate

A fluid formed when a gas is cooled to its liquid state. See cold-condensate corrosion

Condensate corrosion

See cold-condensate corrosion

Condensate pump

Device to remove water condensate that collects beneath an evaporator.

Condensation

[1] Moisture, from the air, deposited on a cool surface. The reverse of evaporation.

[2] Liquid or droplets which form when a gas or vapor is cooled below its dew point.

[3] The act or process of reducing a gas or vapor to a liquid or solid form

Condense

Turning a vapor back into a liquid.

Condenser
[1] A small metal cylinder which is usually located in the distributor. It is installed between the breaker points and coil to prevent arcing at the breaker points by absorbing or storing the excess current. A condenser (also called a "capacitor") has the ability to absorb and retain surges of electricity. It is constructed of two metal plates separated by an insulator.

[2] The unit in an air conditioning system that cools the hot compressed refrigerant and turns it from a vapor into a liquid. It is the opposite of an evaporator.

[3] The part of refrigeration mechanism which receives hot, high-pressure refrigerant gas from compressor and cools gaseous refrigerant until it returns to its liquid state.

Also see
steam engine

Condenser, air-cooled

Heat exchanger which transfers heat to surrounding air.

Condenser comb

Comb-like device, metal or plastic, used to straighten the metal fins on condensers or evaporators.

Condenser fan

Forced air device used to move air through air-cooled condenser.

Condenser, water-cooled

Heat exchanger designed to transfer heat from hot gaseous refrigerant to water.

Condensing furnace

High efficiency, gas forced-air furnace that extracts the latent heat lost in conventional gas forced-air furnaces.

Condensing pressure

Pressure inside a condenser at which refrigerant vapor gives up its latent heat of vaporization and becomes a liquid. This varies with the temperature.

Condensing temperature

Temperature inside a condenser at which refrigerant vapor gives up its latent heat of vaporization and becomes a liquid. This varies with the pressure.

Condensing unit

Part of a refrigerating mechanism which pumps vaporized refrigerant from the evaporator, compresses it, liquefies it in the condenser, and returns it to the refrigerant control.

Condensing unit service valves

Shutoff valves mounted on condensing unit to enable service technicians to install and/or service unit.

Condition

See
air conditioner battery charge battery condition cherry condition conditioner mint condition original condition spark plug condition

Conditioned

See air-conditioned

Conditioner

See air conditioner.

Conditioning

See air-conditioning

Condition-latched soft code

A type of trouble code that disengages the ABS and turns on the amber light only as long as the condition, or problem, exists

Conditions

See driving conditions

Conductance

A measure of the ease with which a conductor allows electron flow. In dc## circuits, conductance is the reciprocal of resistance

Conduction

[1] The transfer of heat from one object to another by having the objects in physical contact.

[2] The flow of heat between substances by molecular vibration.

[3] The transfer of heat between the closely packed molecules of a substance or between two substances that are touching, caused by a temperature differential between the 2 molecules or substances

Also see
thermal conduction

Conductive

The ability of something to conduct electricity.

Conductivity

The ability of something to conduct electricity. Opposite of resistivity.

Also see
electrical conductivity heat conductivity

Conductor

[1] A material forming a path for the flow of current, such as silver, copper, and carbon.

[2] Substance or body capable of transmitting electricity or heat.

Also see
semiconductor

Cone

[1] A bearing race that curves to the inside of a circle of ball bearings and works in conjunction with a cup.

[2] In welding, it is the inner visible flame shape of a neutral or near neutral flame.

Also see
bearing cone inner cone

Cone clutch

A clutch using a cone-shaped member that is forced into a cone-shaped depression in the flywheel, or other driving unit, thus locking the two together, although no longer used on cars, the cone clutch finds some applications in small riding tractors, heavy power mowers, etc.

Configuration

The particular arrangement of the parts in relation to each other.

Also see
chassis configuration delta configuration mid-engine chassis configuration Y-configuration

Conformation

The ability of a precision insert bearing to match the shape and contour of a shaft surface even after it has been in use for some time.

Conical

Something in the shape of a cone. It is usually tapered.

Conical seat

A circular, tapered place that something rests. For instance, a spark plug may fit into a tapered hole.

Connecting rod
The connecting link or arm between the piston and the crankshaft. It converts the up-and-down (reciprocating) motion of the piston into the circular (rotary) motion of the spinning crankshaft. Often called "con rod."

Also see
big-end bearing
boxed rod
forked con rod
master con rod
slave con rod
throwing a rod

Connecting rod bearing

A precision insert bearing. Also called "big end bearing"

Connecting rod shank

A longitudinal part of the connecting rod

Connection

The joining of two or more parts which generally conduct electricity.

Also see
axle connection earth connection ground connection rigid axle connection negative connections positive connections

Connections

See
negative connections positive connections

Connector

A device which joins two items.

Also see
adapter battery connector blade connector cell connector engine diagnostic connector eyelet connector helmet connector multicon connector system T-connector Y-connector

Connector system

See multicon connector system

Con rod

See connecting rod.

Con rod bearing

See connecting rod bearing.

Conscious

See environment-conscious

Consistency

The stiffness, or fluid quality of an adhesive coating or sealer compound

Console

[1] A small storage space or fascia between the two front seats in a car with bucket seats. Often it houses the shifter, some instruments, coffee holders, coin holders, etc.

[2] A total unit or system of controls located in one area and enclosed. A window air conditioner is a console air conditioner.

Also see
brake console center console parking brake console seat rail console

Constantan

An alloy made of nickel and copper which is used in resistance wire and in thermocouplers.

Constant depression

See air-valve carburetor.

Constant-depression

See air-valve carburetor.

Constant idle system

An electronically-controlled air bypass around the throttle. Also called idle speed actuator or idle-speed stabilizer

Constant mesh gearbox

A type of transmission in which all or most of the gears are always in mesh with one another, as opposed to a sliding-gear transmission, in which engagement is obtained by sliding some of the gears along a shaft into mesh. In a constant-mesh manual gearbox, gear ratios are selected by small clutches that connect the various gearsets to their shafts so that power is transmitted through them.

Also see
sliding mesh gearbox

Constant mesh gear

One of the gears that is always in mesh with another -- whether it is driving or not (i.e., just idling).

Constant mesh gears

Gears that are always in mesh with each other -- whether it is driving or not (i.e., just idling).

Constant-radius turn

A turn with a steady, non-changing arc. In a decreasing-radius corner, the arc gets sharper as you progress through the curve, while in an increasing radius corner, the arc becomes less sharp

Constant vacuum

See air-valve carburetor.

Constant-vacuum

See air-valve carburetor.

Constant-velocity

A type of carburetor.

Constant velocity joint
(CV joint) A type of universal joint so designed as to create a smooth transfer of torque from the driven shaft to the driving shaft without any fluctuations in the speed of the driven shaft.

Constant velocity universal joint

See constant velocity joint.

Constant voltage regulator

(CVR) a device used to maintain a constant voltage level in a circuit, despite fluctuations in system voltage. CVRs are wired into some gauge circuits so voltage fluctuations won't affect accuracy of the gauge readings

Constant volume sampling

See constant-volume sampling.

Constant-volume sampling

An exhaust-emissions measuring technique in which the exhaust gases produced by a vehicle's engine are collected as it is driven through a test sequence of accelerations, decelerations, and cruise modes on a chassis dynamometer. A quantity of air is added to the exhaust gases until a specific volume (the same for all cars) is obtained. Concentrations of pollutants in the total sample are then analyzed for determination of their actual mass.

Constricted tube

Tubing reduced in diameter.

Constrictor

Tube or orifice used to restrict flow of a gas or a liquid.

Construction

See
body and frame construction body construction coachbuilt construction frameless construction integral body and frame construction monobloc construction palletized construction sandwich construction skeleton construction unibody construction unitary construction unitized construction

Consumer factors

Demographic characteristics of consumers including age, gender, income and geographic location, affordability.

Consumer Products Safety Commission

(CPSC) the certification agency for bicycle helmets.

Consumption

The act of using up an amount of fuel. Actually the fuel is joined with air and merely changed into other substances (Carbon Dioxide, Carbon Monoxide, etc. and energy).

Also see
fuel consumption indicator fuel consumption oil consumption specific fuel consumption

Consumption indicator

See fuel consumption indicator

Contact

[1] The touching of two or more parts.

[2] The parts that actually touch each other when making electrical connection whether permanently or intermittently.

Also see
fixed contact ground contact area moving contact sliding contacts

Contact area

The part of the tire that actually touches the ground at any particular moment.

Also see
ground contact area tire contact area

Contact arm

The movable segment of the points which is moved by the lobe of the distributor.

Contact bounce

The rapid movement of the breaker arm as it opens and closes

Contact breaker

See breaker points.

Contact breaker gap

The distance between the contact points at their furthest opening.

Contact breaker plate

The plate on which the breaker points are mounted. When adjusting the points, the plate and the points are moved apart in relation to each other.

Contact breaker point

The individual contact of the breaker points.

Contact cement

See cement.

Contact chatter

The rapid movement of the breaker arm as it opens and closes

Contact controlled electronic ignition

See electronic ignition system.

Contact gap

See point gap.

Contacting surfaces

Any two surfaces to be brought together and bonded

Contactless electronic ignition

See breakerless transistorized ignition

Contactless ignition

See breakerless.

Contact patch

The area of a tire's tread that touches the ground.

Contact pattern

The visible wear pattern created by two parts which touch each other

Contact point

See contact points.

Contact points

Two movable points or areas that when pressed together, complete a circuit. These points are usually made of tungsten, platinum, or silver.

Also see
breaker points

Contact set

Replacement parts consisting of breaker points and possibly breaker plate and condenser.

Contact spring

A spring which pushes on a contact which holds something in place and maintains contact.

Contact zone

See tire contact zone

Container

A strong steel box of standard dimensions of 8 feet square and length of 20 feet or 40 feet, in which cargo is preloaded.

Also see
catalyst container reefer container

Containerization

A shipping system where cargo is loaded into a large container at the factory and shipped from truck to train to ship, etc. without rehandling of contents within the container.

Container ship

A ship designed to carry containers as cargo.

Contaminant

[1] Some impurity in gasoline or oil or anything else.

[2] Substance such as dirt, moisture, or other matter foreign to refrigerant or refrigerant oil in system.

Contamination

See catalyst contamination

Content

See blood alcohol content

Continental
A vehicle brand of Ford cars of which the 1956-57 Mark II models are milestone cars.

Click for books on Continental

Also see
Lincoln Continental

Continental tire

The bulge in the rear portion of the trunk which resembles a tire or a rear mounted tire

Continental-type fuse

A ceramic fuse with conical end caps. They are color coded for different values.

Continuous AC Ignition System

Abbreviated CACIS. An ignition system where a high-energy alternating current arc burns for the entire power stroke. In this system, the spark plugs don't erode as quickly and the air/fuel mixture is more completely burned. Thus there is no need for a catalytic converter.

Continuous cycle absorption system

System which has a continuous flow of energy input.

Continuous injection system

(CIS) A mechanical fuel injection system designed and manufactured by Bosch, used on many German vehicles. In a CIS system, the fuel injectors are always open (i.e., they emit a continuous spray of fuel into the intake ports). The amount of fuel sprayed is determined by the fuel pressure in the system, which in turn is determined by the position of the throttle.

Also see
K-jetronic

Continuously variable transmission

Abbreviated CVT. See infinitely variable transmission.

Continuous weld

Completing a weld in one operation

Conti tire system

Abbreviated CTS. A run flat tire and wheel combination which allows the tire to be run for up to 400 km (250 miles) at a speed of up to 80 kph (50 mph)

Contour

See
buff contour panel contour

Contract carrier

A shipping company which is transporting goods because of a contract with another shipping company.

Contracting-band brake

A brake in which a band is tightened around a rotating drum

Contraction

A thermal action where the size (mass or dimension) of an object is reduced when cooled; the opposite of expansion.

Contre

See outboard contre pente

Contre pente

Abbreviated CP. A French designed wheel where the raised portion of one of the rim bead seat is designed to hold the tire bead of a nearly flat tire without breaking the bead (i.e., becoming unseated).

Also see
outboard contre pente

Contre pente on both bead seats

Abbreviated CP2. A safety rim contour with a contre pente on both rim bead seats

Control

[1] A device or mechanism for adjusting a component. See cruise control.

[2] The ability of the driver to make a vehicle perform as required.

[3] To regulate.

[4] Automatic or manual device used to stop, start, and/or regulate flow of gas, liquid, and/or electricity.

Also see
air control automatic frequency control automatic level control automatic speed control automatic temperature control automatic volume control balance control choke control clearance control climate control computer brake control corrosion control cruise control digital frequency control dimmer control dwell-angle control electric air control valve	electronic control module electronic control unit electronic engine control electronic ride control electronic spark control electronic tractioncontrol electronic transmission control emission control engine control system evaporation control system evaporative emission control system exhaust emission control feedback control finance and control flow control ground clearance control headlight leveling control	heat control valve height hamper pitch control hydraulic control block ignition control unit illumination control inflation control seam infrared remote control intermittent wiper control IR remote control knock control level control limit cycle control low-speed traction control low speed traction control	manifold heat control valve mirrorcontrol mixture control knob mixture control screw mixture control unit multi-function control stalk oil control ring overrun control valve piston ring, oil control remote control running-on control valve speed control temperature control vacuum control vacuum ignition-timing control vacuum timing control

Control arm

A metal strut on the suspension which is located at the top and bottom of the wheel spindle. The upper and lower control arms allow the front wheels to change direction. Also called a "wishbone" or "A-arm."

Also see
suspension system track control arm

Control arms

See control arm.

Control block

See hydraulic control block

Control box

A container which houses electrical components which regulate the action of something.

Control cable

A wire cable which runs from a knob or lever to a device which operates or regulates. Also called a "control wire."

Also see
starter switch control cable

Control, compressor

See motor control

Control computer

See spark control computer

Control, defrosting

Device to automatically defrost evaporator. It may operate by means of a clock, door cycling mechanism, or during "off" portion of refrigerating cycle.

Contrôle

A checkpoint where randonneur bicycle riders must stop to have their route cards signed and stamped to prove they have kept to the course within the time limits.

Control element

See temperature control element

Control head

The dashboard mounted assembly which houses the mode selector, the blower switch and the temperature control lever of the heating, air conditioner, and ventilation system

Control Information

See Vehicle Emission Control Information

Control knob

See mixture control knob

Controlled burn rate

See CBR process

Controlled canister purge

(CCP) ECM-controlled solenoid valve that permits manifold vacuum to purge the evaporative emissions from the charcoal canister

Controlled combustion system

An emission control term used by General Motors to include the following

modified combustion chamber design
high-temperature coolant systems
thermostatically controlled air cleaners
very lean air/fuel mixtures
high idle speeds
severely retarded ignition timing
TCS (transmission controlled spark) and TVS (thermal vacuum switch)

Controlled electronic

See magnetically controlled electronic ignition

Controlled electronic ignition

See
contact controlled electronic ignition magnetically controlled electronic ignition capacitor controlled electronic ignition

Controlled intersection

A road junction which is controlled by traffic lights (signal lights)

Controlled spark

See transmission controlled spark

Controlled vehicle

A vehicle with a reduced emission system consisting of a catalytic converter, EGR, air injection, fuel evaporative emission control, etc. Also called a "detoxed vehicle."

Controller

A group of controls and circuits used to accurately and automatically operate a device.

See
battery discharge controller solid state controller

Controller, anti-lock brake

CAB Chrysler Corporation's term for the electronic control unit

Control link

See toe control link

Control, low-pressure

Cycling device connected to low-pressure side of system.

Control module

One of several names for a solid-state micro-computer which monitors engine conditions and controls certain engine functions, i.e., air/fuel ratio, injection and ignition timing, etc.

See
electronic control module transmission control module

Control, motor

Temperature or pressure-operated device used to control running of motor.

Control orifice valve

See oil control orifice valve

Control plunger

[1] A device in a fuel injection system which moves up and down to provide the correct amount of fuel to each cylinder.

[2] One of several names for a solid state device which monitors engine conditions and controls certain engine functions, i.e., fuel injection, ignition timing, glow plug system in a diesels engine, etc

Control pressure

[1] The pressure in a fuel injection system.

[2] The pressure coming from line pressure or throttle pressure in the automatic transmission which pushes on the command valves.

[3] In a Bosch CIS, the pressurized fuel used as a hydraulic control fluid to apply a counterforce to the control plunger in Bosch CIS. Control pressure alters the air-fuel ratio through the operation of the control-pressure regulator

Control, pressure motor

High- or low-pressure control connected into the electrical circuit and used to start and stop motor. It is activated by demand for refrigeration or for safety.

Control, refrigerant

Device used to regulate flow of liquid refrigerant into evaporator. Can be a capillary tube, expansion valves, or high-side and low-side float valves.

Control ring

See oil control ring.

Controls

See
dual controls emission controls exhaust emission controls instruments and controls steering column controls

Control screw

See
mixture control screw volume control screw

Control seam

See inflation control seam

Control stalk

A shaft which projects from the steering column just below the steering wheel. It may control lights, cruise control, wipers, windshield washer, signal lights, horn, etc.

Also see
multi-function control stalk

Control switch

See vacuum control switch

Control system

All of the components required for the automatic control of a process variable.

See
active noise control system anti-spin regulation traction control system engine control system evaporation control system evaporative emission control system exhaust emission control system traction control system transmission control system

Control, temperature

Temperature-operated thermostatic device which automatically opens or closes a circuit.

Control unit

See
electronic control unit ignition control unit mixture control unit vacuum control unit warm-up control unit

Control vacuum advance

See speed control vacuum advance

Control valve

[1] A valve which regulates or operates a system, especially a hydraulic or vacuum control system.

[2] Valve which regulates the flow or pressure of a medium which affects a controlled process. Control valves are operated by remote signals from independent devices using any of a number of control media such as pneumatic, electric, or electrohydraulic.

Also see
air control valve boost control valve electric air control valve heat control valve manifold heat control valve oil control orifice valve overrun control valve running-on control valve

Control valve assembly

A casting located in the sump of the automatic transmission. It contains most of the valves for the hydraulic control system.

Control wire

A wire cable which runs from a knob or lever to a device which operates or regulates. Also called a "control cable."

Controlled combustion system

(CCS) A system of reducing unburned hydrocarbon emission from the engine exhaust.

Conv

Abbreviation for "convertible."

Convection

[1] The transfer of heat from one object to another when the hotter object heats the surrounding air and the air in turn heats the other object.

[2] The transfer of heat by the circulation or movement of the heated, or cooled, parts of a vapor or liquid

Also see
thermal convection

Convection, forced

Transfer of heat resulting from forced movement of liquid or gas by means of a fan or pump.

Convection, natural

Circulation of a gas or liquid due to difference in density resulting from temperature differences.

Conventional oxidation catalyst

(COC) a catalyst which acts on the two major pollutants HC and CO

Convenience

See flags of convenience

Conventional cross ply

A tire having two or more carcass plies arranged in a criss-cross manner and diagonally to the beads and travels approximately 1/3 the distance around the circumference before attaching to the other bead. Each cord in the next ply is arranged in the same manner, but in the opposite direction.

Conventional ignition

The transfer of heat from one object to another when the hotter object heats the surrounding air and the air in turn heats the other object.

Conventional ignition system

An ignition system consisting of the battery, ignition switch, ballast resistor, ignition coil, distributor, contact breaker points, condenser, centrifugal or vacuum advance unit, spark plugs, and high tension wires.

Conventional spare tire

A spare tire & rim which is the same size as the other four wheels. Most cars do not have them because they take up too much space in the trunk.

Conventional theory

The direction of current flow was arbitrarily chosen to be from the positive terminal of the voltage source, through the external circuit, then back to the negative terminal of the source

Conventional tire

A bias ply tire.

Conversion

[1] The change from one state to another, e.g., harmful gases into harmless gases.

[2] Altered state of a particular system, or set of parts needed to achieve it.

Also see
manual choke conversion energy conversion tractive conversion

Conversion coating

A coating of some metal which uses the same kind of metal in the coating compound and improves paint adhesion and corrosion resistance

Conversion factors

Force and power may be expressed in more than one way. A horsepower is equivalent to 33,000 ft. lb. of work per minute, 746 watts, or 2546 Btu per hour. These values can be used for changing horsepower into foot pounds, British thermal units, or watts.

Conversion rate

The rate at which a given catalytic converter purifies the exhaust gas stream, governed by various parameters such as operating conditions and converter design

Converter

[1] When used with LPG (propane), it is a device which turns LPG (propane) from liquid to vapor for use in the engine.

[2] Referring to a transmission it is the device that transfers engine torque to the transmission.

Also see
catalytic converter dual-bed catalytic converter hydrodynamic torque converter lock-up torque converter lockup torque converter	mini catalytic converter monolithic converter open-loop catalytic converter oxidizing converter pellet-type catalytic converter	primary catalytic converter rust converter single-bed 3-way catalytic converter single-bed oxidizing converter three-way catalytic converter	three way catalytic converter torque converter two-way catalytic converter

Converter case

An assembly in the automatic transmission encasing the impeller with the converter cover welded to it. It contains the converter fluid and vane wheels and connected to the crankshaft by means of the drive plate and revolving at engine speed.

Converter, catalytic

See
catalytic converter three-way catalytic converter

Converter cover

A part in the automatic transmission that is welded to the pump and makes up the converter case

Converter drive plate

See torque converter drive plate

Converter housing

[1] A stationary outer part of the automatic transmission which encloses the converter case.

Also see
torque converter housing

[2] The housing of a catalytic converter. Also called "converter shell."

Converter lock-up clutch

See torque converter lock-up clutch

Converter preheating

An emission control device which increases catalytic action in cold starts when HC and CO are their highest. Although not in use in current cars, it may become necessary in the future. Thus it may mean the following Take longer to start a vehicle in the morning, require a larger battery, necessitate plugging a vehicle into household circuit, need for frequent replacement of the catalytic converter.

Also see
preheating

Converter shell

See the second definition of converter housing

Convertible
Generally this is a two-door automobile without a fixed roof. Instead, the roof folds up or is removed in some way so that the passenger compartment is exposed to the open air. Some roofs are made of flexible fabric or plastic which folds up behind the passenger compartment. Other roofs are not flexible and retract into the trunk. Some retract automatically while others must be manually removed and placed in the trunk. The term was introduced in the 1930s. In the 1950s, a hardtop convertible was introduced to look like a convertible with its top up; but its fixed roof did not fold or retract. It was also called a "drophead coupé" or "open car."

Also see
hardtop convertible

Convertible sedan

This is similar to the sedan body type, but with provisions of lowering both the all-weather side windows and the fabric top to create a four-door convertible.

Convertible top

The soft foldable canvas or vinyl top of a convertible. It usually has a clear plastic rear window.

Convex weld

A weld with the face above the old edges

Coolant

Liquid in the cooling system. Usually a mixture of water and antifreeze (ethylene glycol). This mixture lowers the freezing point of the water in the cooling system, prevents rust and corrosion, lubricates the water pump, and picks up heat from the engine and transfers it to the air passing through the radiator.

Also see
engine coolant

Coolant controlled exhaust gas recirculation

(CCEGR) a system that prevents exhaust gas recirculation until engine coolant temperature reaches a specific value

Coolant level warning light

A small light on the dash which is illuminated when the radiator is low on coolant

Coolant pump

See water pump

Coolant recovery system

A small bottle that acts as a reservoir for liquid expelled from the cooling system through the overflow pipe and returns the liquid to the system when it cools down. A special radiator pressure cap is also part of the kit. It is also called a "Closed Cooling System" when it is part of the original equipment.

Coolant temperature override switch

CTO A switch that prevents vacuum from reaching a component until coolant temperature reaches a certain value

Coolant temperature sensor

A sensor located at the bottom of the radiator which is connected to the temperature gauge.

Cooled

See
air-cooled air cooled liquid-cooled water-cooled

Cooled engine

See air cooled engine

Cooled valve

See sodium cooled valve

Cooler

[1] A device for cooling hot liquid or air by passing air through the vanes of a heat sink.

[2] Heat exchanger which removes heat from a substance.

Also see
aftercooler oil cooler

Cooler bypass

See oil cooler bypass valve

Cooler bypass valve

See oil cooler bypass valve

Cooling

See
charge air cooling fan cooling flushing the cooling system intercooling thermosyphon cooling

Cooling fan

[1] A large fan designed to suck relatively cool air and force it onto a warm object like an engine.

[2] A large fan designed to pull away the radiant warm air surrounding a hot object.

Cooling fins

The greater the surface area that needs to be cooled, the better you will be able to cool off a hot object, like an engine. By putting a number of fins on a surface, you increase the overall area. On air cooled engines, for instance, you will see a series of closely formed ridges or fins in parallel. As the air passes by them, the engine heat is dissipated.

Cooling jacket

See water jacket

Cooling system

The system that removes heat from the engine. In a water-cooled engine it includes radiator, pressure cap, fan, water pump, thermostat, water jackets; in an air-cooled engine it consists of a fan, cooling fins, and ducting.

Also see
closed cooling system flushing the cooling system water cooling system

Cooling tower

Device which cools by water evaporation in air. Water is cooled to wet bulb temperature of air.

Coolmax

A garment constructed of four channel polyester, naturally hydrophobic fabric. Coolmax is designed to regulate body temperature during physical exertion by increasing air flow and transporting moisture through the fibers to the outside of the fabric where moisture evaporates.

Copolymer

A polymer produced from two different monomers.

Also see
graft copolymer

Copper core

The center electrode of a spark plug or the center wires of a high tension wire which is made of copper.

Copper-faced hammer

A hammer with a round head made of copper or brass. It is used to hit objects without damaging them where hitting them with a steel hammer might.

Copper plating

[1] The application of a thin layer of copper by a process of electrolysis. Primarily it is done to electrical contacts and terminals to give excellent conduction of electricity.

[2] Abnormal condition developing in some units in which copper is electrolytically deposited on some compressor surfaces.

Copy

Trucker slang for "understand" as in "Do you copy?"

Cord

[1] A vehicle brand of which the 1925-1948 model cars are classic cars.

[2] A strand of fabric or steel cable used in the ply of a tire.

[3] A rope.

Also see
bungee cord

Cordura

The brand name for a heavy-duty, synthetic material made by DuPont that feels like canvas. It is often used in the manufacture of lightweight clothing, backpacks, and camping gear.

Core

[1] When referring to casting -- a sand unit placed inside of a mold so that when the metal is poured, the core will leave a hollow shape.

[2] The magnetic center of a coil usually made of iron.

[3] The primary part (engine block, alternator, starter, radiator, etc.) which has malfunctioned, but is still suitable for rebuilding or remanufacturing. You can exchange it for a new or rebuilt part. Thus, instead of paying full price for a new alternator, you can submit your old alternator as a core and pay a lower amount for the new alternator. "CORE" is an acronym for "cash on return."

Also see
bead core copper core laminated iron core timer core valve core

Core, air

Coil of wire not having a metal core.

Core charge

The word "core" is short for "cash on return." When you purchase a part which is rebuildable, you can return your old part and receive a core charge. Generally a core charge is collected for engines, crankshafts, alternators, radiators, brake shoes. If the part is beyond repair, there may be no core charge.

Core hole plug

See
core plug freeze plug

Core hole plugs

See core plug.

Core/insulator

See projected core/insulator nose

Core/insulator nose

See projected core/insulator nose

Core leads

See carbon-core leads

Core, magnetic

Magnetic center of a magnetic field.

Core plug

A metal plug located in the sides of the engine block which can pop out because of excessive pressure or freezing and prevent the engine block from cracking. These plugs are located in the water jacket and can sometimes leak and should then be replaced. Block heaters are installed by removing a core plug and inserting a heating element. Core plugs are also called "freeze plugs" or "expansion plugs."

Core plugs

See core plug.

Core support

The framework that supports the radiator and air conditioner condenser assembly and also serves as the attaching point for the front fenders, grille assembly, hood latch, etc.

Corncob

A bicycle term used to describe a cluster of cogs on a racing freewheel because of the small variation in number of teeth on adjacent cogs.

Corner

See
inside corner weld outside corner weld rear corner valance rear corner panel

Cornering

The negotiation of a curve, bend, or corner of a road. Good cornering ability allows the vehicle to go around a curve at a reasonable speed without body roll and breakaway.

Cornering force

The forces exerted on a tire by the slip angle when moving around a curve.

Also see
ultimate cornering force

Cornering limit

The maximum speed that a vehicle can travel around a particular curve.

Cornering speed

The speed that a vehicle makes when turning. It is relative to the sharpness of the curve and the ability of the vehicle to stay on the road under control.

Corner joint

A junction formed by edges of two pieces of metal touching each other at an angle of about 90°

Corner panel

A panel used to fill a gap between larger panels or frame members meeting at an angle and to serve as a stiffener, such as those at the intersection of sidemembers and crossmembers and the rear corner panels of rear fenders.

Also see
rear corner panel windshield corner panel

Corners

See across corners

Corner steady

A British term for a jack stand used to support and level the corner of a parked travel trailer.

Corner valance

See rear corner valance

Corner weld

See
inside corner weld outside corner weld

Corn flakes

Trucker slang for A Consolidated Freightway truck as in "Can I get a smokey report there corn flakes."

Corolla
A model of automobile manufactured by Toyota

Click for books on Corolla

Corona
A model of automobile manufactured by Toyota

Click for books on Corona

Corporate Average Fuel Economy

(CAFE) Regulation enacted in 1975 which requires a motor vehicle manufacturer to classify its U.S. vehicle fleet sales as either domestic or import for the purpose of fuel economy averaging.

Corporation

Business association endowed by law with the rights and liabilities of an individual

Correction jet

See air correction jet

Corrector

See height corrector

Corrode

To eat away, gradually, the surface material from an object by chemical action, such as rust.

Corrosion

[1] The chemical process in which a metal is eaten away (i.e., rusting).

[2] Deterioration of materials from chemical action.

[3] The eating or wearing away of a substance, such as metal, usually caused by chemical decomposition brought about by an acid.

Also see
anti-corrosion atmospheric corrosion bimetallic corrosion cold-condensate corrosion electrochemical corrosion	electrolytic corrosion fretting corrosion galvanic corrosion general corrosion graphitic corrosion	intercrystalline corrosion intergranular corrosion localized corrosion microbial corrosion oxygen corrosion	pitting corrosion scab corrosion selective corrosion underfilm corrosion uniform corrosion

Corrosion control

The minimizing of corrosion by coating with a protective metal, an oxide, or similar substance, or with protective paint, or by making the metal passive.

Corrosion cracking

See stress corrosion cracking

Corrosion inhibitor

A substance which reduces or prevents corrosion in oils, anti-freeze, paints, etc.

Corrosion prevention

The minimizing of corrosion by coating with a protective metal, an oxide, or similar substance, or with protective paint, or by making the metal passive.

Corrosion product

A substance formed as a result of corrosion (i.e., the rust itself)

Corrosion protection

The minimizing of corrosion by coating with a protective metal, an oxide, or similar substance, or with protective paint, or by making the metal passive.

Corrosion resistance

The ability of metal not to corrode. For example, nickel has a high corrosion resistance while iron does not.

Corrosion warranty

See anti-corrosion warranty

Corrosive

Causing corrosion, e.g., acid is corrosive because it eats away the substance on which it is applied. That's why acid rain is so harmful to the surface of automobiles.

Also see
anti-corrosive

Ford Cortina
A model of automobile manufactured by Ford of England

Click for books on Ford Cortina

Corvair
A vehicle brand of which the 1960-64 Monza models are milestone cars. The 1962-64 Monza Spyder models are milestone cars. The 1965-69 Monza/Corsa models are milestone cars.

Click for books on Corvair

Corvette
A vehicle brand of which the 1953-70 models are milestone cars. See also a history of the Corvette

Click for books on Corvette

Cost

The price that a shop charges for a vehicle or one of its components. To the shop, it is the price they pay for the component (i.e., the net price) to which they add an amount or percentage to arrive at the selling price.

Also see
cap cost capitalized cost net cap cost net capitalized cost opportunity cost total Out-Of-Pocket Cost operating costs

Cost-effective

Worthwhile. Usually a determination of whether repairing a vehicle is worth the expense in comparison with junking or selling it in favor of purchasing a newer vehicle. If you spend a

1000 to repair a vehicle worth $20,000, that is cost effective. If you spend a $1000 to repair a vehicle worth $200, it probably is not. The exception would be a vehicle which has nostalgic or historic value.

Cost of production

Actual cost to the manufacturer of producing a vehicle (does not include mark-up).

Cost option

An optional item for a new vehicle for which extra money must be paid to obtain it.

Cost per kilometer

A ratio which is obtained by dividing the total cost of the tire by the distance the tire has gone. The total cost involves adding up the initial price of the tire, price of retreading, repairs, rotation of tires, balancing tires, and other services. From this total any credits such as warranty, rebates, and trade-in value is subtracted. It must be remembered that when calculating the cost per kilometer of summer tires if winter tires were installed for a few months that only the number of kilometers that the summer tires were actually in use should be determined for this ratio. When purchasing tires, it may be helpful to divide the retail cost by the number of expected kilometers in order to compare one brand or one series against another.

Cost per mile

A ratio which is obtained by dividing the total cost of the tire by the distance the tire has gone. The total cost involves adding up the initial price of the tire, price of retreading, repairs, rotation of tires, balancing tires, and other services. From this total any credits such as warranty, rebates, and trade-in value is subtracted. It must be remembered that when calculating the cost per mile of summer tires if winter tires were installed for a few months that only the number of miles that the summer tires were actually in use should be determined for this ratio. When purchasing tires, it may be helpful to divide the retail cost by the number of expected miles in order to compare one brand or one series against another.

Cost reduction

See