This is a non-independent suspension [link to independent suspension], usually on the rear wheels where the differential and wheel hubs are all one unit, thus they move together or are “live.” Today this is most common on rear drive trucks and SUVs, although that is changing as ride and handling becomes more important for even those vehicles. Read More »
Normally Aspirated Engine
Sometimes called a “free breather.” An engine where all the air to the cylinders is not forced in, as with turbo chargers or super chargers. Read More »
Parts Car
A car used for transplanting its working parts into other cars. Read More »
Power Steering
Steering that has been designed to make the wheel move more easily than in a manual steering system. Hydraulic power assists the process utilizing hydraulic fluid. The fluid increases pressure in the power steering pump and aids in the movement of the steering mechanism. This fluid, called power steering fluid, is what is replaced at regular intervals to keep steering ... Read More »
Rev Range
Automotive jargon for the range of speeds (expressed as revolutions per minute) in which an engine is designed to operate. The lowest point in the rev range is the idle speed; the highest point is the redline. Read More »
Salvaged
A vehicle totalled in an accident and then repaired. There is no guarantee of street worthiness for a salvaged vehicle. It may look good, but be hazardous to drive. Read More »
Spinout
A race car that spins around due to being tapped, racing too close to another car, or clipping another while attempting a pass. Read More »
Saw The Elephant
To 49ers and those who followed, no expression characterized the rush to California better. They announced they were “going to see the elephant,” an unusual experience in those days before zoos and wild animal parks. Those returning from the west claimed they had seen the “elephant’s tracks” or the “elephant’s tail” but not the elephant — meaning they had seen ... Read More »
Tachometer
Gauge that reads the revolutions per minute of the engine. It is equivalent to speed of the engine. It also tells how fast the engine is running so that if you have a manual transmission you know when to shift gears. Read More »
Transverse Mount
The engine is mounted sideways. The fan belt will be over one of the tires rather than in the very front of the vehicle. This is common in front-wheel-drive cars. This enables the car to be more compact because the space under the hood is used more efficiently and provides better weight distribution. Read More »
