State and federal governments set standards for automakers developing vehicles that will output lower emission levels. Each state determines their own levels as does the federal government. California and New York have some of the most stringent laws. Once the requirements are met for a specific vehicle, the automaker may call that car or truck a Low Emission Vehicle or ... Read More »
Monocoque
The basic structure of a Champ Car consists of a tub or monocoque, made of a blend of carbon-fiber and aluminum honeycomb. This tub is a one-piece construction which provides the primary protection for the driver. Read More »
Oversteer
the tendency of an automobile to steer into a sharper turn than the driver intends sometimes with a thrusting of the rear (fishtailing) to the outside. Read More »
Pop-Up
A towable tent that pops up when parked to expand its space. These types have a furnace, three way refrigerator, a/c and more options. Read More »
Roadster
A sports car model that generally seats two and has a convertible top. Read More »
Ram Air
In a ram air system, carburetors get fresh air to be mixed with the gasoline via forward facing ducts. The idea is that as the bike moves faster, more air is forced or rammed into the carburetors resulting in improved performance. Read More »
Slack
Motorbikes with chain or belt final drive systems need to have the belt or chain checked for slack. Slack is the amount of free play in the chain or belt: too much slack could cause the chain/belt to slip and jump the sprockets; too little slack (the chain seems tight) causes excessive wear on the final drive system. Check the ... Read More »
Stop-And-Go Penalty
Punishment for a rule infraction during a race (usually speeding down pit road). The driver must come down pit road, stop in his pit stall, usually for 15 seconds, then proceeds back to the track. Read More »
Transmission
A mechanism that includes the gears, linking the power produced by the engine to the drive wheels. Read More »
Tie-Down System
Equipment which secures someone who uses a wheelchair to the floor of the van or bus. There are many kinds of devices used including brackets, straps, wheel locks and belts. Read More »
