From the monthly archives:

February 2012

Differentials

The differential is a gear system that transfers power from the drive shaft to the driving axles, Fig. 46-4.      It also permits one driving wheel to turn faster than the other to prevent skidding and scuffing of tires on turns, Fig. 46-5.      In tracing the drive train to this point, power is relayed: [...]

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Universal Joints

Although it would be desirable to have the drive shaft in line with the engine crankshaft, this design is not practical. In the first place, the wheels move up and down because of road irregularities. Second, the frame moves up and down in relation to the wheels. How much it moves depends on the amount [...]

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Drive Line, Universal Joints, Differentials

In basic passenger car design, the drive line connects the transmission with the driving axles. In effect, it transmits engine power to the driving wheels. Ordinarily, the engine is mounted on the frame, and the driving wheels are free to move up and down in relation to the frame. In between, the angularity of the [...]

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Diesel Fuel Injection

There are two different methods of fuel injection: air injection and mechanical injection. In the air injection system, a blast of air from an external source forces a measured amount of fuel into the cylinder. In the mechanical injection system (now used almost exclusively), fuel is forced into the cylinder by hydraulic pressure on the [...]

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Fuel Injection

A diesel engine compresses air and, at the point of maximum compression, fuel is injected into the combustion chamber. Ignition takes place as a result of the high temperature created. The fuel is forced into the combustion chamber of a diesel engine by means of a pump and injector. Since high pressures exist in the [...]

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The Drive Line

In basic passenger car design, the drive line connects the transmission with the driving axles. In effect, it transmits engine power to the driving wheels. Ordinarily, the engine is mounted on the frame, and the driving wheels are free to move up and down in relation to the frame. In between, the angularity of the [...]

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The V-8 Powered M56 and M37

During back-to-back stints on the same roads with both cars, it quickly became apparent that the M37 is the weapon of choice for carving up back roads where the M56 felt more ponderous in the twisty sections. Open up the throttle, however, and the V8 delivers a steady power surge that is constant but not [...]

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