Fundamentals of Automotive Technology - Vehicle Chassis

These flashcards cover the key vocabulary terms and concepts related to the vehicle chassis, wheel and tire classification, and alignment from the automotive technology lecture.

Wheel

A component consisting of a tire and rim, which supports the vehicle's weight and allows motion.

Tire

The ring-shaped part made of rubber, metals, and plastic composites that fits around a wheel and serves as the vehicle's contact with the road.

Tyre Construction

The process and materials used to create a tire, including layers such as tread, body carcass, and sidewall.

Tread

The part of the tire that comes in contact with the road, providing traction and stability.

Camber

The inward or outward tilt of a wheel from the vertical when viewed from the front of the vehicle.

Caster

The tilt of the steering axis toward the front or rear of the vehicle, affecting directional stability.

Toe

The measurement of how much the wheels point inwards or outwards from the straight-ahead position.

Rim

The outer circular design of the metal on which the inside edge of the tire is mounted.

Plycord

Layer of cord in the tire casing that provides strength and helps withstand high pressures.

Bead

A rubber-coated loop of high-strength steel that keeps the tire seated on the rim.

Asymmetrical Tire

A tire with a tread pattern that varies across its face, providing improved stability and water dispersion.

Unidirectional Tire

A tire designed to rotate in only one direction, enhancing performance characteristics.

Load Index

A numerical code indicating the maximum load a tire can safely carry.

Speed Index

An alphabetical code assigned to a tire indicating the maximum speed at which it can safely operate.

Tread Wear Indicator

A feature that shows the remaining tread depth and indicates when the tire needs replacement.

Over Inflation

A condition where the tire pressure is too high, resulting in excessive wear at the center of the tread.

Under Inflation

A condition where the tire pressure is too low, causing excessive contact with the road edges.

Performance Tire

A tire designed for high-speed operation and enhanced handling.

All-Terrain Tire

A versatile tire that provides good performance on various surfaces, including off-road.