iii 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 field of automotive technology as well as introduces students to the various career pathways available to them in the vast automotive industry. The automotive theory 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. The textbook is also meant to establish a foundational knowledge in students of the overall automotive industry and the different career opportunities it offers. To accomplish this, the textbook begins with insight into how to get an automotive-centered education or training, either as a service technician or in another automotive-related field. Deciding on a career path in the automotive industry and the steps necessary to secure a job position in your chosen path are discussed. The textbook progresses into automotive theory and technology and covers every major automotive system, starting with a discussion of basic system functions and progressing to more detailed explanations of the design and opera- tion of individual system components. 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 the automotive theory and technology 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 specifically 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