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Preface
Auto Fundamentals provides students with a thorough understanding of the design, construction,
and operation of automotive systems. It contains information on the latest developments in the fi eld
of automotive technology. The material presented in this textbook is applicable to all automobiles and
light trucks.
Auto Fundamentals was written to meet the need for a textbook that presents the how and why
of vehicle construction and operation in a concise, easy-to-understand manner. To accomplish this,
every major automotive system is covered, starting with a discussion of basic system functions and
progressing to more detailed explanations of the design and operation of individual system compo-
nents. By following this model, the purpose of each system is fully explained and its relationship to
the complete vehicle is made clear.
A build-it-yourself approach is used in a number of areas. Students will “build” on paper many
of the systems being described. This provides a thorough understanding of the basic principles that
are necessary to learning automotive technology. Fundamental math, physics, chemistry, electricity,
magnetism, and hydraulics are covered in the textbook where they apply.
Many of the illustrations used in Auto Fundamentals were created specifi cally for this textbook.
Important details are featured in these illustrations and many are exaggerated to place emphasis on
the parts being discussed.
Like all Goodheart-Willcox products, the Auto Fundamentals instructional package is accurate
and thorough, providing both instructors and students with the tools they need to succeed in the
classroom.
Martin T. Stockel
Chris Johanson
About the Authors
Martin W. Stockel was a leader in the fi eld of industrial and vocational education. He graduated
from San Jose University in San Jose, California, with a degree in Industrial Arts and Vocational
Education, and completed additional coursework at Humboldt State University in Arcata, California,
and Gorham Teacher’s College in Gorham, Maine. Mr. Stockel was employed as an industrial arts
instructor for 18 years, teaching automotive technology, welding, drafting, and woodworking before
becoming a school administrator. In addition to writing textbooks, Mr. Stockel was a contributor to
both Popular Mechanics and Popular Science magazines.
Martin T. Stockel received his degree from College of the Redwoods in Eureka, California,
and completed additional automotive-related coursework at Humboldt State University in Arcata,
California. He honed his automotive skills by working as a service technician at independent shops
and automobile dealerships. In addition to Auto Fundamentals, Mr. Stockel is the coauthor of several
automotive technology titles, including Auto Brakes and Auto Suspension and Steering.
Chris Johanson has been involved in the automotive service business for more than 35 years,
as a technician, instructor, and author. He has a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Arts Education and
has written several books on the subject of automotive technology. Mr. Johanson is an ASE-certifi ed
master technician and also has ASE certifi cations in Advanced Engine Performance and Light Vehi-
cle Diesel Engines.