SUPPLY LINE--A line that conveys fluid from the
SPRINGS--Flexible or elastic members that support
reservoir to the pump.
the weight of a vehicle.
SUPPRESSION--In electrical systems, the elimina-
SPUR GEAR--A gear with radial teeth parallel to the
tion of stray electromagnetic waves/signals so that
axis.
they cannot be detected by radio.
SURGE--A momentary rise of pressure in a circuit.
deliver electrical power to the starting motor.
SWITCH--In electrical systems, a device used to
STARTER--The motor in an automotive electrical
open or complete an electrical circuit.
system that cranks the engine to get it started.
SYNCHRONIZE--To make two or more events or
STATIC ELECTRICITY--Accumulated electrical
operations occur at the same time.
charges, usually considered to be those produced
by friction.
SYNTHETIC MATERIAL--A complex chemical
compound that is artificially formed by the combin-
STATOR--(1) The part of a torque converter that
ing of two or more simpler compounds or elements.
stands still as torque is being multiplied, then
rotates as the turbine approaches impeller speed.
TACHOMETER--A device for measuring revolu-
(2) The stationary armature of an ac generator
tions per minute.
(alternator).
TAILPIPE--The exhaust piping running from the
STEADY FLOW--A flow in which the velocity,
muffler to the rear of the vehicle.
pressure, and temperature at any point in the fluid
TAPPET--A screw used to adjust clearance between
do not vary with time.
the valve stem and lifter or rocker arm.
STEERING GEAR--That part of the steering system,
TANK--A container for the storage of fluid in a fluid
located at the lower end of the steering shaft, that
power system.
carries the rotary motion of the steering wheel to
the vehicle wheels for steering.
TDC (TOP DEAD CENTER)--The position of an
engine piston when it is at the top of its stroke.
STEERING GEOMETRY--Refers to camber,
caster, pivot inclination, toe-in, and toe-out.
TEFLON--A plastic with excellent self-lubricating
(slippery) bearing properties.
STEERING LINKAGE--Linkage between steering
gear and vehicle wheels.
TEMPER--To effect a change in hardness and
strength of steel through heating and cooling.
STEERING SYSTEM--The system of gears and
linkage in the vehicle that permits the driver to turn
TEMPERATURE GAGE--An indicating device in
the wheels for changing the direction of vehicle
the cooling system that indicates the temperature of
movement.
the coolant and gives warning if excessive engine
temperatures develop.
STOPLIGHT--A red light illuminated upon applica-
tion of the brake cable.
TENSION--A stress caused by a pulling force.
STORAGE BATTERY--A lead-acid electrochemical
THEORY--A scientific explanation, tested by ob-
device that changes chemical energy into electrical
servations and experiments.
energy. The action is reversible; electric energy
THERMAL EFFICIENCY--The ratio between the
supplied to the battery stores chemical energy.
power output and the energy in the fuel burned to
STRAINER--A coarse filter.
produce the output.
STROKE--The movement, or the distance of the
THERMAL EXPANSION--The increase in volume
movement, in either direction, of the piston travel
of a substance due to temperature change.
in an engine.
THERMISTOR--A resistor whose value varies with
SUN GEAR--In a planetary gear set, the central gear.
temperature.
SUPER HEAT--Heat added to a vapor above the
THERMOSTAT--A device for automatic regulation
temperature that caused the vapor.
of temperature.
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