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Beginners Guide Tips and Tutorials Archive

Beginner's Guide: What Is a Timing Belt/Chain (and What Does It Do)?

Timing Chain
The timing belt or chain in your car's engine keeps the opening of the valves properly timed with the motions of the pistons so they don't interfere with each other. To understand how it works and why, it may help to review how the typical four stroke engine works. All modern overhead cam...

Beginner’s Guide: What Is an Engine Thermostat and What Does It Do?

What Is an Engine Thermostat (And What Does It Do)?
A thermostat is a device that reacts to temperature to open a valve, or turn on a switch. A car’s engine thermostat is the component in its cooling system that opens and allows coolant to circulate once the motor is warmed up. This gives two main benefits: 1) It allows the engine to heat up to its...

Beginner's Guide: What Is a Brake Caliper and What Does It Do?

What is a brake caliper (and what does it do)?
A brake caliper forms a significant part of a car’s disc brake system. There is usually one per wheel (supercars can have two per wheel) and it houses caliper mounting bolts, bushings, pistons, seals, dust boots, retainers, noise shims, the brake pads and anti-rattle clips. ...

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