XaVSSsSSMI
Spark P/L/
83
84 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
all moving parts and cooling those portions liable to become exces-
sively hot by suitable extraneous means.
% Typical Single-Cylinder Engines Described. The gasoline engine
may have any number of cylinders, though the conventional types
used in automobile propulsion seldom use any but an even number
and rarely more than six. At one time single-cylinder motors were
very popular. These were used in both the horizontal and vertical
types. A typical form of horizontal motor is shown at Fig. 33.
Power plants of this type were, for the most part, of low power and
were patterned largely after stationary gasoline engine practice as
far as proportion of parts was concerned. They were heavy and oper-
ated at low speed. Such engines are seldom employed at the present
time, except in cars of ancient construction, many of which are still
in use. Though this type of motor was comparatively slow acting
and considerable vibration existed while it was in operation, they
were strongly constructed and capable of giving very satisfactory
service. Engines of this type are usually installed under the body,
the engine cylinder being parallel with the frame side member while
the crank shaft was at right angles to it. This permitted a very
simple and efficient method of power transmission as the change
speed gearing which was usually carried on the crank shaft extension
could be easily coupled to the rear axle by means of a single chain
and a pair of sprockets.
Owing to the vibration which obtains from the heavy explosion
in the large single-cylinder engine other forms were evolved in which
the cylinder was smaller and power obtained by running the engine
faster. The single-cylinder motor of the vertical type is shown at
Fig. 34. The pattern shown at Fig. 33 is distinctively of American
derivation and was designed to avoid the rapid wearing and noisy
acting single-cylinder motors of the foreign vertical type.
When a single-cylinder engine is employed a very heavy fly wheel
is needed to carry the moving parts through idle strokes necessary to
obtain a power impulse. For this reason modern designers prefer to
use more than one cylinder, and the tendency is to produce power -by
frequently occurring light impulses rather than by a smaller number
of explosions having greater force. When a single-cylinder motor
is employed the construction is heavier than is needed with a multiple-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
85
cylinder form. Using two or more cylinders conduces to steady power
generation and a lessening of vibration. Most modern motor cars
employ four-cylinder engines because a power impulse may be secured
twice every revolution of the crank shaft, or a total of four-power
strokes during two revolutions. The parts are so arranged that while
the charge of gas in one cylinder is exploding, those which come
next in firing order are compressing, discharging the inert gases and
drawing in a fresh charge respectively. When the power stroke is
Piston
Connecting Rod !
Fig. 34. Sectional View of Brush Runabout Motor, a Simple Single-Cylinder
Power Plant of the Vertical Type, Designed to Operate at High Speeds.
completed in one cylinder, the piston in that member in which a
charge of gas has just been compressed has reached the top of its
stroke and when the gas is exploded the piston is reciprocated and
keeps the crank shaft turning. When a four-cylinder engine is used
the fly wheel is much lighter than that of the single-cylinder form.
In fact, many modern four-cylinder engines developing thirty horse
power weigh less than the early single-cylinder forms which developed
but one-third or one-fourth that amount of energy.
Single Cylinder
Two Cylinder Vertical
Crankpins on Same Plane
Two Cylinder, Opposed
Cranhpins At 180 Degrees
Fig. 35. Diagrams Illustrating Sequence of Cycles in One- and Two-Cylinder
Engines Show More Uniform Turning Effort on Crank Shaft with Two-
Cylinder Motors.
86
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 87
Describing Sequence of Operations. Referring to Fig. 35, A, the
sequence of operation in a single-cylinder motor can be easily under-
stood. Assuming that the crank shaft is turning in the direction of the,
arrow, it will be seen that the intake stroke comes first, then the com-
pression, which is followed by the power impulse, and lastly the exhaust
stroke. If two cylinders are used, it is possible to balance the ex-
plosions in such a way that one will occur each revolution. This is
true with either one of two forms of four-cycle motors. At B, a two-
cylinder vertical engine using a crank shaft in which the crank pins are
on the same plane is shown. The two pistons move up and down simul-
taneously. Referring to the diagram describing the strokes, and as-
suming that the outer circle represents the cycle of operations in one
cylinder while the inner circle represents the sequence of events in the
other cylinder, while cylinder No. 1 is taking in a fresh charge of gas,
cylinder No. 2 is exploding. When cylinder No. 1 is compressing,
cylinder No. 2 is exhausting. During the time that the charge in
cylinder No. 1 is exploded, cylinder No. 2 is being filled with fresh gas.
While the exhaust gases are being discharged from cylinder No. 1,
cylinder No. 2 is compressing the gas previously taken in.
The same condition obtains when the crank pins are arranged at
one hundred and eighty degrees and the cylinders are opposed, as
shown at C. The reason that the two-cylinder opposed motor is more
popular than that having two vertical cylinders is that it is difficult
to balance the construction shown at B, so that the vibration will not
be excessive. The two-cylinder opposed motor has much less vibra-
tion than the other form, and as the explosions occur evenly and the
motor is a simple one to construct, it has been very popular in the
past on light cars.
To demonstrate very clearly the advantages of multiple-cylinder
engines the diagrams at Fig. 36 have been prepared. At A, a three-
cylinder motor, having crank pins at one hundred and twenty degrees,
which means that they are spaced at thirds of the circle, we have a
form of construction that gives a more even turning than that pos-
sible with a two-cylinder engine. Instead of one explosion per revo-
lution of the crank shaft, one 'will obtain three explosions in two
revolutions. The manner in which the explosion strokes occur and
the manner they overlap strokes in the other cylinder is shown at A.
88 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
Assuming that the cylinders fire in the following order, first No. 1,
then No. 3, and last No. 2, we will see that while cylinder No. 1,
represented by the outer circle, is on the power stroke, cylinder No.
3 has completed the last two-thirds of its exhaust stroke and has
started on its intake stroke. Cylinder No. 2, represented by the
middle circle, during this same period has completed its intake stroke
and two-thirds of its exhaust stroke. A study of the diagram will
show that there is an appreciable lapse of time between each explosion.
In the four-cylinder engine operation which is shown at Fig. 36,
B, it will be seen that the power strokes follow each other without
loss of time, and one cylinder begins to fire and the piston moves
down just as soon as the member ahead of it has completed its power
stroke. In a four-cylinder motor, the crank pins are placed at one
hundred and eighty degrees, or on the halves of the crank circle. The
crank pins for cylinder No. 1 and No. 4 are on the same plane, while
those for cylinders No. 2 and No. 3 also move in unison. The diagram
describing sequence of operations in each cylinder is based on a firing
order of one, two, four, three. The outer circle, as in previous in-
stances, represents the cycle of operations in cylinder one. The next
one toward the center, cylinder No. 2, the third circle represents the
sequence of events in cylinder No. 3, while the inner circle outlines
the strokes in cylinder four. The various cylinders are working as
follows :
1.
2.
3.
4.
Explosion
Compression
Exhaust
Intake
Exhaust
Explosion
Intake
Compression
Intake
Exhaust
Compression
Explosion
Compression
Intake
Explosion
Exhaust
It will be obvious that regardless of the method of construction, or
the number of cylinders employed, exactly the same number of parts
must be used in each cylinder assembly and one can conveniently com-
pare any multiple-cylinder power plant as a series of single-cylinder
engines joined one behind the other and so coupled that one will de-
liver power and produce useful energy at the crank shaft where the
other leaves off. The same fundamental laws governing the action
of a single cylinder obtain when a number are employed, and the
Firing Order 1,3,2
Three Cylinder, Cranks At 120 Degrees
Firing Order 1.2,4,3
Four Cylinder, Cranks At 180 Degrees
First Revolution Second Revolution
780" 7gQ 780 750
3 4
Fig. 36. Diagrams Demonstrating Clearly Advantages which Obtain when
Multiple-Cylinder Motors are Used as Power Plants.
90 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
sequence of operation is the same in all members, except that the
necessary functions take place at different times. If, for instance, all
the cylinders of a four-cylinder motor were fired at the same time,
one would obtain the same effect as though a one-piston engine was
used, which had a piston displacement equal to that of the four
smaller members. As is the case with a single-cylinder engine the
motor would be out of correct mechanical balance because all the
connecting rods would be placed on crank pins that lie in the same
plane. A very large fly wheel would be necessary to carry the piston
through the idle strokes, and large balance weights would be fitted
to the crank shaft in an effort to compensate for the weight of the
four pistons, and thus reduce vibratory stresses which obtain when
parts are not in correct balance. ,
There would be no advantage gained by using four cylinders in
this manner, and there would be more loss of heat and more power
consumed in friction than in a qne-piston motor of the same capacity.
This is the reason that when four cylinders are used the arrangement
of crank pins is always as shown at Fig. 36, B i. e., two pistons are
up, while the other two are at the bottom of the stroke. "With this
construction, we have seen that it is possible to string out the explo-
sions so that there will always be one cylinder applying power to the
crarik shaft. The explosions are spaced equally. The parts are in
correct mechanical balance because two pistons are on the upstroke
while the other two are descending. Care is taken to have one set
of moving members weigh exactly the same as the other. With a
four-cylinder engine one has correct balance and continuous applica-
tion of energy. This insures a smoother running motor which has
greater efficiency than the simpler one-, two-, and three-cylinder forms
previously described. Eliminating the stresses which- would obtain
if we had an unbalanced mechanism and irregular power application
makes for longer life. Obviously a large number of relatively light
explosions will produce less wear and strain than would a lesser num-
ber of powerful ones. As the parts can be built lighter if the explo-
sions are not heavy, the engine can be operated at higher rotative
speeds than when large and cumbersome members are utilized.
The six-cylinder type of motor, the action of which is shown at
Fig. 36, C, is superior to the four-cylinder, inasmuch as the power
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 91
strokes overlap, and instead of having two explosions each revolution
we have three explosions. The conventional crank-shaft arrangement
with a six-cylinder engine is just the same as though one employed
a three-cylinder crank shaft, having very wide crank pins so that the
two connecting rods are joined to each crank throw. With the cranks
arranged as outlined at Fig. 36,, C, the firing order is one, five,
three, six, two, four. The manner in which the power strokes over-
lap is clearly shown in the diagram. An interesting comparison is
also made in the small diagram in the upper left-hand corner of this
view.
A rectangle is divided into four columns ; each of these correspond
to one hundred and eighty degrees, or half a revolution. Thus the
first revolution of the crank shaft is represented by the first two col-
umns, while the second revolution is represented hy the last two.
Taking the portion of the diagram which shows the power impulse in
a one-cylinder engine, we see that during the first revolution there
has been no power impulse. During the first half of the second revo-
lution, however, an explosion takes place and a power impulse is ob-
tained. The last portion of the second revolution is devoted to ex-
hausting the burned gases, so that there are three idle strokes and but
one power stroke. The effect when two cylinders are employed is
shown immediately below.
Here we have one explosion during the first half of the first revo-
lution in one cylinder and another during the first half of the second
revolution in the other cylinder. With a four-cylinder engine there
is an explosion each half revolution, while in a six-cylinder engine
there is one and one-half explosions during each revolution. When six
cylinders are used there is no lapse of time between power impulses,
as these overlap and a continuous and smooth-turning movement is
imparted to the crank shaft. While the six-cylinder engine has ob-
vious advantages, it will be evident that it must be fifty per cent more
complicated than the four-cylinder, and as one obtains a smooth-
acting engine with the lesser number, the majority of engineers favor
the four-cylinder type of power plant for general service.
Actual Duration of Different Strokes. In the diagrams presented
at Figs. 35 and 36, the writer has assumed, for the sake of simplicity,
that each stroke takes place during half of one revolution of the
92
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
crank shaft, which corresponds to a crank-pin travel of one hundred
and eighty degrees. The actual duration of these strokes is somewhat
different. For example, the inlet stroke is usually a trifle more than
a half revolution, and the exhaust is always considerably more. The
Inlet Value
Opens 1%'Past
Center-Upper^
Exhaust Valve
Closes ' Past
Inlet Value
Closes 5 %'Past
Center-Lower
Exhaust Value
Opens 7"Before
Center-Lower
Fig. 37. Diagram Showing Actual Duration of Different Strokes in Degrees.
diagram showing the comparative duration of the strokes is shown
at Fig. 37. The inlet valve opens ten degrees after the piston starts
to go down and remains open thirty degrees after the piston has
reached the top of its stroke. This means that the suction stroke cor-
responds to a crank-pin travel of two hundred degrees, while the com-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
93
pression stroke is measured by a movement of but one hundred and
sixty degrees. It is common practice to open the exhaust valve before
the piston reaches the end of the power stroke so that the actual dura-
tion of the power stroke is about one hundred and forty degrees,
while the exhaust stroke corresponds to a crank-pin travel of two
hundred and twenty-five degrees. In this diagram, which represents
proper time for the valves to open and close, the dimensions in inches
given are measured on the fly wheel and apply only to the " Model M "
Thomas motor. If the fly wheel were smaller ten degrees would take
up less than the dimensions given, while if the fly wheel was larger
a greater space on its circumference would represent the same crank-
pin travel.
Carburetor
Spark Plug
Value
Cylinder
Connecting Rod
Crankshaft
Piston
Flywheel
Fig. 38. Simple Form of Two-Cylinder Motor Having Opposed Cylinders; a
Very Popular Form of Power Plant for Light Service.
^ Typical Engine Types Described. A very simple and efficient type
of power plant is shown at Fig. 38. In this motor the cylinders are
horizontally disposed and opposed to each other. The valves are car-
ried in a pocket, or chamber, on top of the cylinder and they are oper-
ated by direct push-rod movement from a cam shaft carried just
above the crank shaft. The general arrangement of parts is clearly
94
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
outlined, and as each component is indicated there should be no diffi-
culty in grasping the details of this form of power plant. The motor
illustrated at Fig. 39 is a simple four-cylinder type of modern con-
struction and may be considered representative of standard practice.
In this motor it will be seen that the four cylinders are arranged on
a crank case common to them all. The crank case also acts as a sup-
porting member for the crank shaft and cam shaft. A section of the
crank case is broken away to show the crank-shaft design, and also
to illustrate the method employed of raising the valves from their
Engine Base
Fig. 39. Sectional View of Four-Cylinder Motor, the Most Widely Used Type
of Multiple Engine.
seats by means of cams. The front cylinder is not sectioned. The
second cylinder, which is immediately back of it, is sectioned through
the valve chest in order to show the gas passages and the method of
closing them by mushroom valves. Cylinder No. 3 is divided on its
center line to show the piston and connecting rod assembly, while the
last cylinder is sectioned in such a way that the construction of the
piston, connecting rod, and wrist pin is clearly shown.
Another type of four-cylinder engine sectioned in a somewhat
similar manner with all parts indicated is shown at Fig. 40. A
95
96
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
careful study of this illustration should familiarize one with the gen-
eral arrangement of the parts of conventional power plants. The
views shown at Figs. 39 and 40 are longitudinal sections. In order
Exhaust Valve
Exhaust Pipe
Water Pipe
Water Space
Inlet Value
Inlet Pipe
Magneto
\
Carburetor
Fig. 41. Sectional View of Rear Cylinder of Gasoline Engine with Important
Parts Indicated.
to show the appearance of the parts of an engine when one of the
cylinders is cut in such a manner that it is viewed from the end
rather than from the side, such a section is given at Fig. 41. As is
the case in other illustrations all parts are clearly indicated. This
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 97
view is also valuable in showing the arrangement of some of the aux-
iliary components, such as the water pump, which is used to circulate
the cooling liquid; the carburetor, which is employed to furnish the
explosive mixture; and the magneto, which is supplied to ignite the
compressed gas. The exhaust pipe, which is attached to the side of
the cylinder to carry away the burned gases, and the sump, or oil con-
tainer, which carries a supply of the lubricant to keep the working
surfaces free, are also outlined.
. Features of the Knight Slide Valve Motor. One of the latest ten-
dencies of engineers responsible for the design of motor-car power
plants is toward the elimination of all noises incidental to their opera-
tion. Much of this has been attributed to operation of the valves and
in order to reduce the clatter, types of engines in which the poppet, or
mushroom, valves are replaced by sliding or revolving elements are
being extensively experimented with.
The earliest types of explosion motors, as evolved by Lenoir, Bray-
ton, and Otto, employed simple slide valves which were patterned
after those used in steam engines. Owing to faulty construction these
early forms were not successful, as considerable difficulty was expe-
rienced from warping and in keeping the cylinder tight enough to
retain gas pressure. In several engines of recent development the
mushroom valves are being replaced by sleeves which have a more
gradual motion and which slide by ports in the cylinder instead of
being brought forcibly in contact with the seats by a strong spring.
An advantage of the slide valve motor, which is perhaps even more
important than that of silence, is the increased flexibility and aug-
mented power developed, because the large gas passages permit the
entering stream of fresh vapor, or the departing current of inert gas
to leave the cylinder without being impeded. The disadvantage often
cited against poppet valves is that at high speeds they fail to follow
the contour of their actuating cams accurately and there is consider-
able loss of power because of the irregular gas flow.
The most practical and satisfactory of the valveless motors now in
use was invented by Charles Y. Knight, an American engineer, sev-
eral years ago. When first introduced in this country it was met with
considerable ridicule, and the inventor was forced to take his inven-
tion to Europe, where its advantages met with prompt recognition.
98
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
Fig. 42. Comparing Poppet Valve and Sliding Sleeve Valve Power Plants.
Upper View Shows Knight Engine with Sleeves to Control Gas Ports.
Lower Illustration Shows Gas Passages Controlled by Mushroom Valves.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 99
The Knight valveless motor is now made and used by such celebrated
automobile manufacturers as, Daimler, in England; Panhard-Levas-
sor, in France; Minerva, in Belgium; and Mercedes, in Germany. In
this country it will be found on models of the Columbia, Stearns, and
Stoddard-Dayton.
The operating principles in this engine do not differ materially
from other four-cylinder, four-cycle types, the only difference being in
the method of admitting and expelling gases from the cylinder/ The
illustrations at Fig. 42 show very clearly the difference which exists
between the slide valve and the conventional poppet valve motor.
Both of these are the same in general design, except that changes
have been made in the power. plant to permit the use of reciprocating
sleeves. The upper illustration represents the slide valve motor in
part section, while the lower view shows the conventional poppet valve
type.
The Knight motor has four cylinders cast in pairs. The top of
each cylinder has two lateral slots which communicate respectively
with the inlet and exhaust pipes. The cylinder is water- jacketed,
and inside of this member and interposed between it and the piston
are two thin, hollow cast-iron cylinders, or sleeves, adapted to be
moved up and down by a suitable crank shaft and connecting rod
mechanism or eccentrics. These sleeves have large ports which com-
municate with the orifices in the cylinder wall. They are moved in
such a manner that the slots in the cylinder are opened and closed
by the reciprocating movement of the sleeves. They are operated
by small connecting rods which work from a smaller crank shaft
mounted to one side of, and above the main crank shaft, and driven
by silent chain gearing. The travel of the sleeves is comparatively
small, as their velocity is but one-tenth that of the piston. The open-
ings in the sleeves are so wide that the gases enter and leave the
combustion chamber much more easily than they could through ports
closed by yalves of the conventional type.
The movement of the sleeves is such that the ports in the cylinder
are closed by one or both sleeves during three-quarters of the cycle
of operation, and are kept open during the remaining quarter by a
simultaneous lining up of the openings in both sleeves with that in
the cylinder. As is the case with a four-cycle motor of the conven-
QQ
100
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 101
tional pattern during the first downstroke of the piston the inlet
port is opened and the exhaust orifice closed. During the next two
piston strokes, one up and the other down, corresponding to the com-
pression and explosion of the gas, both ports are kept closed. Then
during the last upstroke, which corresponds to the scavenging period,
the exhaust port is opened and the inlet port closed.
It is claimed that this motor is very silent at high speeds, and it
is more flexible in operation than other forms. It is also said that
this type of motor will retain its compression longer than the poppet
valve type, because there can be no escape of gas through the ports
when they are closed by the sleeves. The moving members are lubri-
cated in the usual manner, the only precaution taken being to insure
an even distribution of oil by cutting a spiral groove and boring a
number of holes in each sleeve. The great advantage of this type
over the poppet valve motor can be very well shown by comparing the
illustrations at Figs. 43 and 44, which show action of the valves used
on the ordinary motor with the views at Figs. 46 and 47. At Fig. 43,
A, the position of the piston, crank shaft, cam, and intake valve are
shown at the beginning of the charging stroke. It will be noticed
that the intake valve has just barely left its seat and that there will
be little space for the gases to flow into the cylinder until the piston
lias reached the position shown at Fig. 43, B, at which point the inlet
valve is fully opened. From this point to that outlined at Fig. 43, C,
the inlet valve closes and the gas passage becomes more and more
restricted as the piston travels down. The same condition obtains
when the exhaust valve is operated. It lifts gradually, and the full
opening is not attained until the parts have assumed the position
shown at Fig. 44, B. From this point to that outlined at Fig. 44, C,
the valve is closing. It will be evident that with mushroom valves
one attains the maximum port opening only during the time that
the cam follower rides on the point of the cam which is but an instant.
The cam roller follows the cam profile only at low and moderate
speeds. When the velocity increases the cam will throw the push
rod instead of lifting it and the action will be erratic. Incidentally,
these views show very clearly the method of valve operation and will
prove valuable in assisting the reader to gain an idea of valve timing
which will be discussed at length in proper sequence.
102
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
103
The view at Fig. 45 is a simplified section which shows the parts
of the Knight type motor to advantage. The diagrams at Figs. 46
and 47 will enable the reader to see the relation of the sleeves at dif-
ferent points in the cycle of opera-
tion. At Fig. 46, A., the position
at the inception of the intake
stroke is clearly shown. At B the
parts have assumed positions that
permit the fresh gas to flow
quickly into the cylinder. At C
the sleeves are closed. It will be
apparent that one obtains a clear
port through which the gases may
flow easily as soon as the intake
stroke begins. This is increased
in value until the maximum open-
ing is reached, just as with a pop-
pet valve. The important point
to observe, however, is that there
is always a straight passage for
the gas to flow through while the
port is open. Even when the pop-
pet valve has been raised to the
highest point there is still diffi-
culty for the gas to leave the
cylinder because of the tortuous
passage and the number of turns
the gas stream must make to enter
and leave the combustion chamber.
Fig. 47 depicts the movement of
the sliding sleeve valves on the ex-
haust stroke.
In order to obtain uniform
power application and a smooth
running engine it is essential that
the gases in each cylinder be com-
pressed to the same value before
Fig. 45. End Sectional View of Knight
Sliding Sleeve Type Motor, Show-
ing Sleeves which Take Place of the
Poppet Valves of Conventional Mo-
tors. A Outer Valve Shell, fi-
lmier Valve Shell. C Operating
Lever for A. D Operating Lever
for B. E Lay Shaft. F Crank
Shaft. G Helical Gears. H
Valve Opening. K Cylinder Head.
L Sparking Plug Holes. O
Cross -Shaft Driving Pump and
Magneto. U Piston.
104 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
ignition takes place. If the compression is less in one cylinder then
that member will be doing less work than the others and the rotative
speed will not be constant. The crank shaft will slow up when it
comes to the weak cylinder, and will accelerate when the three strong
ones are acting on it. It is claimed that in the Knight motor the
absolute constancy of compression makes for uniformity of action
because the intervals between the successive explosions are always
equal and all of the power strokes have the same strength. It is also
advanced that the construction of the Knight motor makes it possible
to obtain combustion chambers which are equal in volume, which con-
dition is difficult to attain with the ordinary construction, because of
the difficulty met in securing perfect equality of castings. As the
cylinders and cylinder heads of the Knight motor are .machined to
the required dimensions and polished, all combustion chambers will
have the same volume. Another advantage is that there will be no
projecting particles of metal such as would be present in castings that
might remain hot and cause premature explosions. It is also difficult
for carbon to adhere to the absolutely smooth walls of the combustion
chamber or piston head.
There is very little strain on the parts, and as the wear of the
sleeves is negligible the motor action improves with service, because
the sleeves become polished and work easier the more they are usec\.
As the sleeves are driven by cranks and connecting rods and not by
cams as poppet valves are, they are not liable to go wild at even the
highest motor speeds. The ports, are opened and closed exactly at
the proper time, and the openings or passages for the gas are so
large that the motor capacity augments with an increase of speed.
In a comparative test of two similar motors, one with mushroom
valves and the other with sleeves, the former developed but twenty-
five horse power at 2,000 revolutions per minute, while^tfe sleeve
type generated in excess of thirty horse power 'under the same con-
ditions. The Knight motor has been subjected to severe tests before
adoption in comparison with motors of the poppet valve type. In
one of these an engine rated at thirty-eight horse power which had
cylinders of 5-inch bore and stroke developed 55.3 horse power con-
tinuously during a period of 5 l / 2 days, or 132 hours. The fuel con-
, sumption was but 0.85 pint of gasoline per horse power hour. The
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 105
average fuel consumption of the four-cycle type of motor is placed
at one pint per horse power hour. At the completion of this running
in test the power plant was installed in a car weighing 4,000 pounds.
This was driven over 2,000 miles on Brooklands Motor Track, near
London, England, at a speed which averaged forty-three miles per
hour. At the completion of this test the motor was replaced on a
test stand in the shop where it developed an average of 57.25 horse
power during a run of five hours at 1,200 revolutions per minute.
The fuel consumption was reduced to 0.75 pint of gasoline per horse
power hour and it had gained two horse power, or about four per cent
by use.
This type of valveless motor is considered to be an improvement
over the conventional forms, and it is all the more strange when one
considers that the height of its development has been reached at a time
when all believed the explosion motor had attained its maximum
efficiency. The success attending the use of the Knight motor has
promoted great interest in all forms of valveless motors which are
being actively experimented with at the present time. Some of the
most successful of these types will be described in detail in the fol-
lowing chapters.
Operating Principles of Two-Cycle Engines. While the majority
of automobiles use four-cycle internal combustion engines for propul-
sion there are cases where the simpler two-stroke cycle motor has been
used. Though it has been widely used in marine applications for
years it has not become very popular in motor-car service. If con-
sidered from a theoretical point of view the two-cycle engine has
important advantages, and if ideal conditions were obtained in practice,
motors of this type would develop twice the amount of power obtain-
able from four-cycle engines having the same number of cylinders,
equal piston displacement and operating at the same crank shaft
speed.
The two-cycle motor is much simpler than the other forms, and it
has but three moving ports per cylinder. In this type a power im-
pulse is obtained with each downstroke of the piston instead of every
other downstroke. With the explosion occurring twice as often the
energy delivered is increased in direct proportion and a more even
turning movement of the crank shaft results because of the more
106 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
rapid series of explosions. It has been shown that with the four-
stroke engine three operations are necessary to obtain a useful power
impulse. The first downward movement of the piston dfaws in the
gas. The following upward movement compresses the mixture. The
second down movement of the piston takes place during the expan-
sion or explosion stroke, and is the third and power-producing part
of the cycle. Following this operation the remaining stroke of the
piston, which is upward, clears the cylinder of burned gas.
Obviously all the work is done at the -top of the piston, and the
differing functions take place in the combustion chamber or that por-
tion of the cylinder above the piston. With a two-cycle engine all
this work can be accomplished in half the number of strokes, and it
is- possible to secure an explosion stroke after each idle stroke. There
is a power impulse every revolution of the crank shaft for each cylin-
der instead of every two turns, and energy is created every two strokes
of the piston. To accomplish this, work is performed on both sides of
the piston, as the crank case is utilized as well as the part of the
cylinder above the piston. The top of this member compresses the
charge and receives the pressure of the explosion, as these two essential
functions can only take place in that portion of the cylinder above
the piston. The crank case performs the duty of the inspiration
stroke, as the mixture is drawn into the engine base by the upwardly
moving piston. This is done at the same time that the piston is mov-
ing up to compress the gas above it, previously taken in. The views
at Fig. 48 show the principles of operation of two-port, two-cycle
engines, while those at Fig. 49 define the fundamentals of three-port
two-cycle engine operation. The principle in the main is the same
for both types, the only difference being in the method of introducing
the gas to the crank case.
It will be seen that such engines are very simple, and that the
pistons, connecting rods, and crank shaft are the only moving parts.
Instead of valves and operating mechanism to control the gas flow by
ports, or passages which are cast in the cylinder walls about halfway
down their length are used. The gas is taken into the engine base,
which is air tight, and of small capacity ; in one case through an auto-
matic check valve fitting to which the carburetor is attached. In the
three-port form this valve is eliminated and the carburetor is coupled
&
V
u
3
107
108 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
directly to the cylinder. The gas is transferred from the crank case
to the cylinder through a bypass, or a passage leading from the
engine base to the intake port.
Considering first the action of the two-port, two-cycle type it will
be evident that if the base is air tight an upward movement of the
piston will produce a suction in the engine base, drawing the inlet
valve down from its seat and inspiring a mixture of gasoline and air
from the carburetor. Thus when the piston moves up, the engine
base fills with vapor. On the down movement of the piston the gas
in the crank case is compressed, and when the top of the piston reg-
isters with the inlet port in the side of the cylinder the mixture will
transfer to the cylinder above the piston because of its pressure. The
intake port is opened as the piston side uncovers it. The compres-
sion in the engine base is light compared to that above the piston.
While the compression pressure before ignition may be as high as
eighty pounds per square inch, that in the engine base necessary to
insure prompt transfer of the charge seldom exceeds ten pounds. The
operation of this type engine is not difficult to understand.
Eeferring to Fig. 48, A, we will assume that there is a compressed
charge of gas above the top of the piston, and that the crank case is
full of mixture. The spark occurs at the spark plug and the resulting
explosion forces the piston down on its power stroke, this movement
also compressing the gas already in the engine base. When the piston
uncovers the exhaust port it begins to open before the intake port is
uncovered and the burned gases escape to the air because of their
pressure. After the exhaust port has been open for a small period
the inlet port is uncovered by the piston which is still on its downward
movement. The compressed gas in the case flows through the bypass
and into the cylinder. It cannot escape out of the open exhaust port
opposite, because the deflector directs the gases toward the top of
the cylinder. The fresh gas coming in tends to force out any of the
burned residue which tends to remain. As the piston rises on the
return stroke Tboth ports are closed and the gas in the cylinder is com-
pressed. Simultaneously with the gas compression the partial vacuum
created in the engine base draws in new mixture from the carburetor
through the open check valve.
Three-port engine operation, as shown at Fig. 49, is very similar
J09
110 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
to that previously described, except that the intake port in the cylin-
der to which the carburetor is coupled is uncovered by the piston only
when it has traveled up in the cylinder. There is a pronounced
vacuum in the crank case when this port is uncovered and the rapid
rush of gas insures quick charging. The three-port engine is con-
siderably faster than the two-port type, and is more popular for motor-
car service. In the three-port form of engine the mixture rushes in
to fill the engine base as a body, whereas in the two-port type it is
drawn in gradually during the whole upstroke of the piston.
If the reader compares the views of the simple two-cycle engines
shown, with the four-cycle types previously described, it will be seen
that the former are simpler., because many of the small parts necessary
for the successful action of a four-stroke motor are not needed in
the two-stroke motor. The valves and operating mechanism are dis-
pensed with, which means elimination of the cam shafts, driving gear-
ing, cams, and push rods, incidental to valve operation. As the cylin-
der of the two-cycle engine is charged and cleaned through simple
ports which are but orifices left after cutting away part of the cylinder
wall, the gas can be introduced and discharged with much less mech-
anism. The ports are covered by the piston until the time comes
when they are needed. In the two-port form both openings are
opened fully only when the piston reaches the end of the downstroke,
but in the three-port motor the remaining opening through which the
crank case is charged is uncovered when the piston reaches the end
of its upward movement.
The simple forms of two-cycle motors described have been replaced
in some cases by types in which the preliminary compression of gas
in the crank case has been eliminated. This is accomplished by the
use of a two-diameter piston, as shown at Fig. 50. The cylinder
proper consists of an upper and lower chamber. The small portion
of the piston fits the upper c}dinder while the enlarged part fits the
lower end. Instead of the gas being inspired into the engine base
it is drawn into the enlarged portion of the cylinder. It has been dim-
cult to maintain regularity of two-cycle motor action when crank case
compression was used, because any leakage at the bearings, or pack-
ings in the crank case, meant a reduction in vacuum and made for
uncertain charging.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
111
With the construction outlined at Fig. 50, the gas is taken into
the large portion of the main cylinder, and as the pumping piston
is provided with packing rings just as the working piston is, it is
not difficult to keep a tight charging chamber. The positions of the
pistons in the various cylinders of a four-cylinder motor using a dif-
ferential piston arrangement are shown at Fig. 50. It will be seen that
a rotary distributing valve must be used to permit the gas to enter
the pump cylinder and flow into the working cylinder at the right
time; this is turned by gearing from the crank shaft.
Fig. 50. Explaining Action of Differential Piston Type of Two-Cycle Engine.
At A the piston is going up and a charge of gas is being com-
pressed in both the working cylinder and the pump cylinder. At
B, which represents the section through cylinder No. 2, the piston is
moving down under the influence of the explosion and the pumping
piston is drawing in a charge of gas through the distributing valve
which is in communication with the inlet pipe. At C a section
through cylinder No. 3 is shown. The working piston in this case
has reached the top of its stroke and is ready to receive the impact
due to the explosion of the charge. At D a section through cylinder
No. 1 is outlined. The cylinder valve has made communication with
the pumping chamber of cylinder No. 3, as shown at C, and a charge
of gas is being transferred to the working cylinder No. 1. The
burned gases are expelled through the open exhaust port in the usual
manner and admitted by the customary intake port adjacent to the
deflector plate. The action in this type of engine may be easily un-
112 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
derstood if one considers that the pumping chamber of one cylinder is
employed to draw in gas and compress it prior to transferring it to
the working chamber of another cylinder.
Why Two-Cycle Motor is not Widely Used. It has been previously
stated that the four-cycle motor is almost universally used, and to
properly understand the reason for the preponderance of this type
over the simpler two-cycle forms it is necessary to compare the actual
results obtained from the two-stroke motor in ordinary practice with
the advantages a purely theoretical consideration will give it. There
are a number of problems to be solved before the two-cycle motor will
compare with the other type in efficiency. To obtain maximum power
it is necessary that a full charge of explosive gas enter the cylinder;
that this mixture must be properly proportioned; that it should be
compacted to a certain point before ignition, and that it must be
ignited promptly and at the proper time. In order to obtain a full
charge of pure mixture it is evident that the exhaust gases must be
entirely expelled from the cylinder in order that the incoming fresh
gas will not be contaminated by mixing with the dead products of
combustion.
It is much more difficult to secure a full charge of clean mixture
with a two-cycle engine than with a four-cycle. In the former, the
charging with fresh gases and expulsion of dead gases must take place
in half the time allowed in the latter form, and the piston does not
pump in a charge or force the burned gases out of the cylinder, as is
the case with a four-stroke engine. As the two-cycle motor does not
fully expel the burned products it cannot run. as fast because of a
tendency to choke up at high speeds. In the four-cycle engine a full
stroke of the piston is employed in emptying the cylinder, and the
natural gas pressure is increased by the reduction of cylinder volume
caused by the upwardly moving piston.
In the two-cycle forms the burned gas is discharged through the
open exhaust port by its own pressure. If prompt charging and
clearing of the cylinder was the only problem to be solved in securing
efficient action it would not be difficult to provide large enough ports
to attain this end. The port size must be restricted, however, and
carefully proportioned because as both intake and exhaust passages
are uncovered by the piston at practically the same time a large por-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 113
tion of the incoming gas may be discharged with the burned product,
this making for a large fuel consumption and material reduction of
efficiency. As the gas is not perfectly clean and pure, some difficulty
may be experienced in igniting it. Trouble is also experienced with
the cooling, lubrication, and carburetion groups, as most two-cycle
motors have peculiarities which make proper oiling and gas supply
difficult.
Most automobile designers have adopted the four-cycle power
plant, because it has been perfected to a greater degree than the two-
cycle, and is easier to keep adjusted and in good running condition.
Though the two-cycle motor is undoubtedly the simplest form, it is
liable to be erratic in operation and it is sometimes difficult to locate
the trouble positively. They consume more fuel than the four-cycle
engine of the same power and are not so economical as regards use
of lubricating oil. Various types of two-cycle engines which have
been designed for automobile use will be described in a following
chapter.
Power Plant Installation. The method of installing the power
plant varies on different types of automobiles, though the majority of
cars have the engine placed ' at the extreme front end of the chassis.
In some types of cars where single or double cylinder motors of the
horizontal type are used the motor is placed under the body. This
type of construction is nearly obsolete at this time, and is found only
on early forms of vehicles and one or two commercial cars.
The power plant is sometimes combined with the clutch and
change speed gearing in such a way as to form a unit construction.
This method of joining the parts is widely used at the present time,
and is superior to the other common method where the motor and
change speed gears are independent units. Each method has advan-
tages. As will be seen by inspecting Fig. 51, A, when the gearset
and motor are separate the transmission may be removed from the
chassis frame without disturbing the power plant and vice versa. At
the other hand, when the unit construction, as shown at B, is em-
ployed, it is sometimes difficult to remove one member without having
to take the entire unit from the frame.
The unit construction has the advantage of retaining positive
alignment of the gearset with the engine indefinitely. This relation
114
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
between the parts is obtained when they are first assembled and the
alignment cannot be changed by any condition of operation after the
unit is installed in the frame. This method of mounting also per-
mits the three-point suspension which is very desirable. For in-
stance, the power plant shown at A is supported on four points and
the gearset is supported on another series of four points. While the
tendency of these members is to brace the frame and prevent dis-
B
Fig. 51. Defining Advantages of Unit Power Plant Construction when Sup-
ported on Three Points.
alignment, it is possible on extremely rough roads for the frame
distortion to vary the relation of the transmission and engine shaft
to some extent. Where a three-point suspension is employed, as out-
lined at B, the frame distortion will not impose stress on the indi-
vidual members of the power plant because in a rigid unit construc-
tion all parts must remain in alignment. The advantages of this
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
115
design are becoming better appreciated and it is widely used at the
present time.
Fig. 52. Four-Cylinder Power Plant and Transmission Unit Adapted for Three-
Point Support.
At Fig. 52, a typical four-cylinder power plant and transmission
unit adapted for three-point support is clearly shown, while at Fig. 53
a six-cylinder unit power plant which is designed for attachment .to
the frame at four points is illustrated. To show the method of power-
Fig. 53. Six-Cylinder Unit Power Plant Utilized in Knox Motor Car is Sup-
ported by Four Points.
Fig. 54. Views of Typical Power Plant as Installed in Motor-Car Frame,
The Common Method of Installation in Pleasure Cars.
116
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 117
plant installation that is generally employed, the views at Fig. 54 are
presented, these representing a typical four-cylinder power plant
viewed from the front and rear, showing clearly the method of sup-
porting the engine base by four arms and also outlining the position
of the various auxiliary components. In some types of commercial
vehicles the motor is installed at the front end under the hood as
in pleasure car practice, but in other cases it is placed at practically
the same point but under floor boards or driver's seat.
The advantages of the motor under the seat location may be very
well summed up by saying that it permits more loading space and
less over all or wheel base for a given carrying capacity. The shorter
wheel base vehicle is especially valuable in congested city traffic, be-
cause it may be more easily controlled when driving in narrow thor-
oughfares, taking corners, or backing up to a loading platform. The
main advantage advanced for the motor in front type of commercial
vehicle is accessibility of power plant, which may be easily reached
by raising the hood. This feature is not lost when the motor is placed
under the seat, however, because all average adjustments may be made
by raising the floor boards or by opening a hinged door at the side
of the motor compartment. Some makers who install the motor under
the seat arrange the components in such a manner that they may
be removed as units permitting ready access to the motor and making
for its prompt removal in event of overhauling or serious accident.
Such a construction is shown at Fig. 55, which depicts a light truck
with the seat and dash units removed from the frame. It will be
seen that the dash unit includes the radiator, control levers, fuel tank
and frame, for the support of the floor boards. The seat unit is sep-
arate and is designed to fit over the dash unit when it is in place on
the chassis.
118
CHAPTEK III
The Principal Parts of Gasoline Engines Their Design, Construction, and
Practical Application in Typical Power Plants Treating of the Cylinders,
Valve System and Valve Timing, Rotary Valve Types, Combination Piston
and Sleeve Valve Operation, Ring and Distributor Valve Motor Con-
struction.
THE improvements noted in the modern internal combustion mo-
tors have been due to many conditions. The continual experimenting
by leading mechanical minds could have but one ultimate result. The
parts of the engines have been lightened and strengthened, and
greater power has been obtained without increasing piston displace-
ment. A careful study has been made of the many conditions which
make for efficient motor action, and that the main principles are
well recognized by all engineers is well shown by the standardization
of design noted in modern power plants. There are many different
methods of applying the same principle, and it will be the purpose
of this chapter to define the ways in which the construction may be
changed and still achieve the same results. The various components
may exist in many different forms, and all have their advantages and
disadvantages. That all methods are practical is best shown by the
large number of successful cars which use radically different designs.
Methods of Cylinder Construction. One of the most important
parts of the gasoline engine and one that has material bearing upon
its efficiency is the cylinder unit. Of late there has been a tendency
to depart from the previous methods of casting the cylinders individu-
ally, or in pairs, and make all cylinders a unit or block casting. Some
typical methods of cylinder construction are shown at Fig. 56. The
appearance of individual cylinder castings of two different types are
shown at A and B. In the former, the cylinder and cylinder head
are cast integral and the valves are supported by inserted cages. In
the cylinder design shown at B, the head member is a separate casting
from that forming the cylinder, and the valves seat directly in this
119
Fig. 56. Illustrating Differing Methods of Cyl-
inder Construction Commonly Employed. A
Single or One-Cylinder Casting Used on Jack-
son Cars. B Individual Cylinder Forming
Part of Knox Power Plant. C Typical Twin
Casting Generally Used on Motor Car Engines.
D Four Cylinders Cast in One Block, a Fea-
ture of the Chalmers " 30 Motor.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 121
member. It is held to the cylinder by means of four bolts. The
casting shown at C comprises two cylinders and is the usual form.
That at D is a block casting in which the four cylinders are cast
together and conforms to up-to-date practice.
Considered from a purely theoretical point of view the individual
cylinder casting has much in its favor. It is advanced that more
uniform cooling is possible than- where the cylinders are cast either
in pairs or three or four in one casting. More uniform cooling in-
sures that the expansion or change of form due to heating will be
more equal. This is an important condition because the cylinder bore
must remain true under all conditions of operation. If the heating
effect is not uniform, which condition is liable to obtain if metal is
not evenly distributed, the cylinder may become distorted by heat
and the bore be out of truth. When separate cylinders are used it is
possible to make a uniform water space and have the cooling liquid
evenly distributed around the cylinder. In multiple cylinder castings
this is not always the rule, as in many instances, especially in four-
cylinder block motors where compactness is the main feature, there is
no space between the cylinders for the passage of water. Under such
circumstances the cooling effect is not even, and the stresses which
obtain because of unequal expansion may distort the cylinder to some
extent.
The advantage of casting the cylinders in blocks is that a motor
may be much shorter than it would be if individual castings were
used. It is admitted that when the cylinders are cast together
a more compact, rigid, and stronger power plant is obtained than
when cast separately. There is a disadvantage, however, in that if one
cylinder becomes damaged it will be necessary to replace the entire
unit, which means scrapping three good cylinders because one of the
four has failed. When the cylinders are cast separately one need
only replace that one that has become damaged. The casting of four
cylinders in one unit is made possible by improved foundry methods,
and when proper provision is made for holding the cores when the
metal is poured and the cylinder casts are good, the construction is
one of distinct merit. It is sometimes the case that the proportion
of sound castings is less when cylinders are cast in block, but if the
proper precautions are observed in molding and the proper mixtures
122 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
of cast iron used, the ratio of defective castings is no more than when
cylinders are molded individually. As an example of the courage of
modern motor-car engineers in departing from old-established rules,
the cylinder casting shown at Fig. 57 may be considered typical. This
is a remarkable departure from standard construction, because not only
Fig. 57. Block Casting of Everitt " Six," a Remarkable Innovation in Motor
Design Because Six Cylinders, Upper Part of Crank Case and Inlet and
Exhaust Manifolds are Included in One Casting.
the six cylinders are cast in a block but the upper part of the engine
base and the inlet and exhaust manifold are also included in the one
casting.
A method of construction which is attracting some attention at
the present time is that shown at Fig. 58. This is a four-cylinder
motor in which the four cylinders and the top half of the crank case
are cast together, but it employs a separately cast head member which
is common to all cylinders. This is held to the cylinder casting by
means of a series of bolts, and a copper-asbestos gasket, or packing,
is utilized in making a gas- and water-tight joint between the parts
The advantage of this construction is that it permits ready access to
pistons and valves without dismantling the entire motor as is neces-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
123
sary when the conventional form of cylinder casting is employed.
This type of construction is also used on some motors having indi-
vidually cast cylinders. The member shown at Fig. 56, B, which
forms a part of Knox power plant, has a separately cast head, and
this construction is also followed in the sleeve valve motors of the
Knight type previously described, and in the Argyle motor which is
illustrated at Fig. 59.
Fig. 58. Example of Four-Cylinder Block Motor having One Separately Cast
Head Member Common to All Cylinders. A Copper-Asbestos Gasket is
Utilized in Making a Gas- and Water-Tight Joint Between the Parts. Note
Accessibility of Pistons and Valves.
It is common practice to cast the water jackets integral with the
cylinders, and this is also the most economical method of applying it
because it gives good results in practice. An important detail is that
the water spaces must be proportioned so that they are equal around
124 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
the cylinders whether these members are cast individually, in pairs,
threes or fours. When cylinders are cast in block form it is good prac-
tice to leave a large opening in the jacket wall which will assist in
supporting the core and make for uniform water space. It will be
noticed that the casting shown at Fig. 56, D, has a large opening in
the side of the cylinder block. These openings are closed after the
interior of the casting is thoroughly cleaned of all sand, core wire, etc.,
by brass, cast iron or aluminum plates. These also have particular
value in that they may be removed after the motor has been in use,
thus permitting one to clean out the interior of the water jacket and
dispose of the rust, sediment, and incrustation which are always present
after the engine has been in active service for a time.
Among the advantages claimed for the practice of casting cylinders
in blocks may be mentioned compactness, lightness, rigidity, simplic-
ity of water piping, as well as permitting the use of simple forms of
inlet and exhaust manifolds. The light weight is not only due to the
reduction of the cylinder mass but because the block construction per-
mits one to lighten the entire motor. The fact that all cylinders are
cast together decreases vibration, and as the construction is very rigid,
disalignment of working 'parts is practically eliminated. When inlet
and exhaust manifolds are cored in the block casting, as is sometimes
the case, but one joint is needed on each of these instead of the multi-
plicity of joints which obtain when the cylinders are individual cast-
ings. The water piping is also simplified. In the case of a four-
cylinder block motor but two pipes are used; one for the water to
enter the cylinder jacket, the other for the cooling liquid to discharge
through.
* Influence on Crank-Shaft Design. The method of casting the cylin-
ders has a material influence on the design of the crank shaft as will
be shown in proper sequence. When four cylinders are combined in
one block it is possible to use a two-bearing crank shaft. Where cylin-
ders are cast in pairs a three-bearing crank shaft is commonly sup-
plied, and when cylinders are cast as individual units it is thought
necessary to supply a five-bearing crank shaft, though sometimes
shafts having but three journals are used successfully. Obviously the
shafts must be stronger and stiffer to withstand the stresses imposed
if two supporting bearings are used than if a larger number are em-'
Inlet Pipe
Detachable'
Cylinctet Head
Exhaust Pips
Fig. 59. Showing Separate Head Construction of Argyl Sleeve Valve Motor,
Made Necessary by Use of Sleeve.
125
126 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
ployed. In this connection it may be stated that there is less difficulty
in securing alignment with a lesser number of bearings and there is
also less friction. At the other hand, the greater the number of points
of support a crank shaft has the lighter the webs can be made and still
have requisite strength.
, Combustion Chamber Design. Another point of importance in the
design of the cylinder and one which has considerable influence upon
the power developed, is the shape of the combustion chamber. The
endeavor of designers is to obtain maximum power from a cylinder of
certain proportions, and the greater energy obtained without increas-
ing piston displacement or fuel consumption the higher the efficiency
of the motor. To prevent troubles due to preignition it is necessary
that the combustion chamber be made so that there will be no rough-
ness, sharp corners, or edges of metal which may remain incandescent
when heated or which will serve to collect carbon deposits by provid-
ing point of anchorage. With the object of providing an absolutely
clean combustion chamber some makers use a separable head unit
such as shown at Fig. 56, B, and Figs. 58 and 59. These permit one
to machine the entire interior of the cylinder and combustion chamber.
The relation of valve location and combustion chamber design will be
considered in proper sequence.
- Bore and Stroke Ratio. A question that has been a vexed one and
which has been the subject of considerable controversy is the proper
proportion of the bore to the stroke. The early gas engines had a
certain well-defined bore to stroke ratio, as it was usual at that time
to make the stroke twice as long as the bore was wide, but this cannot
be done when high speed is desired. With the development of the
present-day motor the stroke or piston travel has been gradually short-
ened so that the relative proportions of bore and stroke have become
nearly equal. Of late there seems to be a tendency among designers
to return to the proportions which formerly obtained and the stroke
is -sometimes one and a half or one and three-quarter times the bore.
Engines designed for high speed should have the stroke not much
longer than the diameter of the bore. The disadvantage of short-
stroke engines is that they will not pull well at low speeds, though
tliey run with great regularity and smoothness at high velocity. The
long-stroke engine is much superior for slow speed work, and it will
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
127
pull steadily and with increasing power at low speed. It was formerly
thought that such engines should never turn more than a moderate
number of revolutions in order not to exceed the safe piston speed.
Water Space
Combustion Chamber
Spark Plug
Valve Gap
Exhaust
Manifold
Flywheel
Fig. 60. Section Through Sheffield Simplex (English) Engine, Presented to
Show Excellent Proportions of Water-jacket Spaces and Easy Gas Passages
Leading to Valve Chest.
While both short- and long-stroke motors have their advantages it
would seem desirable to average between the two. That is wjiy
a proportion of four to five or six seems to be more general than that
128
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
of four to seven or eight, which would be a long-stroke ratio. At Fig.
61 a section through the cylinder of a Sizaire-Naudin motor is shown.
Fig. 61. Section Through Sizaire-Naudin (French) Motor, Showing a Typical
Small-Bore, Long-Stroke Cylinder.
This illustrates a typical small-bore,, long-stroke design which has
worked very well even at high speeds. That at Fig. 62 is also a long-
stroke type.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
129
Value
Piston
Connecting Rod
Meaning of Piston Speed. The factor which limits the stroke and
makes the speed of rotation so dependent upon the travel of the piston
is piston speed. Heretofore, it has been considered desirable not to
exceed a speed of one thousand feet per minute., which has been de-
iermined to make for
greatest efficiency, com-
bined with endurance,
by many authorities on
design and construction
of internal combustion
motors. During the past
few years there have
been instances where en-
gines were giving satis-
factory service with pis-
ton speed of 1,200 to
1,500 feet per minute.
Lubrication is the main
factor which determines
piston speed, and the
higher the rate of piston
travel the greater care
must be taken to insure
proper oiling. Let us
fully consider what is
meant by piston speed.
Assume that a motor
has a piston travel or
stroke of six inches,
for the sake of illustra-
tion. It would take two
strokes of the piston to
cover one foot, or twelve
inches, and as there are
two strokes to a revo-
Fig. 62. End View Humber (English) Motor,
Depicting Off-set Cylinder Construction.
lution it will be seen that this permits of a normal speed of 1,000
revolutions per minute for an engine with a six-inch stroke. If the
130 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
stroke was only four inches, a normal speed of 1,500 revolutions per
minute would be possible without exceeding the prescribed limit. The
crank shaft of a small engine, having three-inch stroke, could turn at
a speed of 2,000 revolutions per minute without danger of exceeding
the safe speed limit. It will be seen that the longer the stroke the
slower the speed of the engine, if one desires to keep the piston speed
within the bounds as recommended.
Advantages of Off-Set Cylinders. Another point upon which con-
siderable difference of opinion exists relates to the method of placing
the cylinder upon the crank case i. e., whether its center line should be
placed directly over the center of the crank shaft, or to one side of
center. The motor shown at Fig. 62 is an off-set type, in that the cen-
ter line of the cylinder is a little to one side of the center of the
crank shaft. Diagrams are presented at Fig. 63 which show the ad-
vantages of off-set crank-shaft construction. The view at A is a sec-
tion through a simple motor with the conventional cylinder placing,
the center line of both crank shaft and cylinder coinciding. The view
at B shows the cylinder placed to one side of center so that its center
line is distinct from that of the crank shaft and at some distance from
it. The amount of offset allowed is a point of contention, the usual
amount being from fifteen to twenty-five per cent of the stroke. The
advantages of the offset are shown at Fig. 63, C. If the crank turns
in direction of the arrow there is a certain resistance to motion which
is proportional to the amount of energy exerted by the engine and the
resistance offered by the load. There are two thrusts acting against
the cylinder wall to be considered, that due to explosion or expansion
of the gas and that which resists the motion of the piston. These
thrusts may be represented by arrows, one which acts directly in a
vertical direction on the piston top, the other along a straight line
through the center of the connecting rod. Between these two thrusts
one can draw a line representing a resultant force which serves to
bring the piston in forcible contact with one side of the cylinder wall,
this being known as side thrust. As shown at C, the crank shaft is at
90 degrees or about one-half stroke and the connecting rod is at 20 de-
grees angle. The shorter connecting rod would increase the diagona
resultant and side thrusts while a longer one would reduce the angl
and the connecting rod and the side thrust of the piston would
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
131
less. With the off-set construction, as shown at D, it will be noticed
that with the same connecting rod length as' shown at C and with the
crank shaft at 90 degrees of the circle that the connecting rod angle is
14 degrees and the side thrust is reduced proportionately.
nun
mj
Thrust Due to Explosion
of Side
Thrust Against
Cylinder Wall,
Which Increase
With Angularity
of Connecting
Rod ,
I Resistance to /
Motion Center Line of
Crunk
Note Decreased
Side Thrust
Because of Lesser
Angle of
Connecting Rod
Center Line of
Cylinder
Fig. 63. Diagrams Demonstrating Advantages of Off-set Crank-Shaft Con-
struction.
Another important advantage is that greater efficiency is obtained
from the explosion with an off-set crank shaft, because the crank is
already inclined when the piston is at top center and all the energy
imparted to the piston by the burning mixture can be exerted .directly
into producing a useful turning effort. When a cylinder is placed di-
rectly on a line with the crank shaft, as shown at A, it will be evident
that some of the force produced by the expansion of the gas will be
132
Tlie Modern Gasoline Automobile
133
exerted in a direct line and until the crank moves the crank throw
and connecting rod are practically a solid member. The pressure
which might be employed in obtaining useful turning effort is wasted
by causing a direct pressure upon the lower half of the main bearing
and the upper half of the crank-pin bushing.
Very good and easily understood illustrations showing advantages
of the off-set construction are shown at E and F. This is a bicycle
Inlet Value
Exhaust Valve
Center Bearing
Fig. 65. Section Through Typical Four-Cylinder Block Motor with Three-
Bearing Crank Shaft.
crank hanger. It is advanced that the effort of the rider is not as well
applied when the crank is at position E as when it is at position F.
Position E corresponds to the position of the parts when the cylinder
is placed directly over the crank-shaft center. Position F may be
compared to the condition which is present when the off-set cylinder
construction is used.
Influence of Cylinder Construction on Engine Design. To show the
manner in which the various methods of casting cylinders previously
134
The Modern Gasoline Au-tomobile
135
defined may alter engine design some views of typical power plants are
presented. That at Fig. 64 is a part sectional view of the Sheffield
Simplex, an English six-cylinder motor. In this the cylinders are
cast in blocks of three,, and the motor is composed of two blocks. A
seven-bearing crank shaft is used, there being a journal between each
pair of cylinders in addition to the two end members. A feature of
this power plant that may be commended is the exceptionally good
water jacketing of the cylinders. The water spaces are large and all
parts of the cylinder are surrounded by cooling liquid.
Water Pipe
Breather Pipe
Individual Cylinder
ther Pipe
Main Bearing
Rear Bearing
Fig. 67. Sectional View of Typical Four-Cylinder Motor Using Individual Cylin-
der Castings with Cylinder Heads Cast Integral. General Design Fair,
Excepting that of Connecting Rods.
At Fig. 65 a section through a typical four-cylinder block motor
is given. In this power plant a short crank case is used, but the crank
shaft is supported on three bearings instead of two journals as is com-
mon practice with four-cylinder motors. To show the use of indi-
136 Tlie Modern Gasoline Automobile
vidual castings the motors shown at Figs. 66 and 67 are valuable. It
will be evident if these are compared to Fig. 65 that the motor will
have a greater overall length than when all cylinders are cast in
one block. In the motor shown at Fig 66 a five-bearing crank shaft
is employed while that at Fig. 67 uses a three-bearing crank shaft.
There are a number of other constructional details dependent upon
cylinder design which merit detailed description such as valve placing
and operation, crank case design, etc., but these are of sufficient im-
portance to be discussed in a more comprehensive manner and will be
considered separately.
Valve Location of Vital Import. It has often been said that a chain
is no stronger than its weakest link and this is as true of the explosive
motor as it is of any other piece of mechanism. Many motors which
appeared to be excellently designed and which were well constructed
did not prove satisfactory, because some minor detail or part had not
been properly considered by the . designer. A factor having material
bearing upon the efficiency of the internal combustion motor is the
location of the valves and the shape of the combustion chamber which
is largely influenced by their placing. The fundamental consideration
of valve design is that the gases be admitted and discharged from the
cylinder as quickly as possible in order that the speed of gas flow will
not be impeded and produce back pressure. This is imperative in ob-
taining satisfactory operation in any form of motor. If the inlet
passages are constricted the cylinder will not fill with explosive mix-
ture promptly, whereas if the exhaust gases are not fully expelled the
parts of the inert products of combustion retained dilute the fresh
charge, making it slow burning and causing lost power and overheat-
ing. When an engine employs water as a cooling medium this sub-
stance will absorb the surplus heat readily, and the effects of over-
heating are not noticed as quickly as when air-cooled cylinders are
employed. Valve sizes have a decided bearing upon the speed of mo-
tors and some valve locations permit the use of larger members than do
other positions.
While piston velocity is an important factor in determinations of
power output it must be considered from the aspect of the wear pro-
duced upon the various parts of the motor. It is evident that engines
which run very fast, especially of high power, must be under a greater
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 137
strain than those operating at lower speeds. The valve-operating
mechanism is especially susceptible to the influence of rapid move-
ment, and the slower the engine the longer the parts will wear and the
more reliable the valve action.
As will be seen by reference to the accompanying illustrations,
there are many ways in which valves may be placed in the cylinder.
Each method outlined possesses some point of advantage because
all of the types illustrated are used by reputable automobile manu-
facturers. The method outlined at Fig. 68, A, is widely used and
because of its shape the cylinder is known as the " T " form. It
is approved for several reasons, the most important being that large
valves can be employed and a well-balanced and symmetrical cylinder
casting obtained. Two independent cam shafts are needed, one op-
erating the inlet valves, the other the exhaust members. The valve-
operating meclianism can be very simple in form, consisting of a
plunger actuated by the cam which transmits the cam motion to the
valve stem, raising the valve as the cam follower rides on the point of
the cam. Piping may be placed without crowding, and larger mani-
folds can be fitted than in some other constructions. This has special
value, as it permits the use of an adequate discharge pipe on the ex-
haust side with its obvious advantages.
At the other hand, if considered from a viewpoint of actual heat
efficiency, it is theoretically the worst form of combustion chamber.
This disadvantage is probably compensated for by uniformity of ex-
pansion of the cylinder because of balanced design. The ignition
spark plug may be located directly over the inlet valve in the path of
the incoming fresh gases, and both valves may be easily removed and
inspected by unscrewing the valve caps without taking off the mani-
folds.
The valve installation shown at D is somewhat unusual, though it
provides for the use of valves of large diameter. Easy charging is
insured because of the large inlet valve directly in the top of the cyl-.
inder. Conditions may be reversed if necessary, and the gases dis-
charged through this large valve. Both methods are used, though it
would seem that the free exhaust provided by allowing the gases to
escape directly from the combustion chamber through the overhead
valve to the exhaust manifold would make for more power. The
138
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
139
incoming fresh gas cannot fail to flow into the cylinder easily, because
it is drawn into the cylinder by the pumping action of the piston,
whereas if the inert gas is not expelled promptly the factor of back
Rocker Arm
Rocker Arm
Valve Cage
Fig. 69. Benz Racing Motor, Presented to Show Method of Valve Placing so
these Members Open Directly into the Cylinder Head.
140 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
pressure is of some importance. The method outlined at Fig. 69 is
one that has been widely employed on large racing motors where ex-
treme power as required as well as in engines constructed for regular
service. The inclination of the valve cages permits the use of large
valves and these open directly into the combustion chamber. There
are no pockets to retain heat or dead gas, and free intake and outlet of
gas is obtained. This form is quite satisfactory from a theoretical
point of view because of the almost ideal combustion chamber form.
Some difficulty is experienced, however, in properly water- jacketing
the valve chamber which experience has shown to be necessary if the
engine is to have high power.
The motor shown at Fig. 62 employs a cylinder of the " L " type.
Both valves are placed in a common extension from the combustion
chamber, and being located side by side both are actuated from a com-
mon cam shaft. The inlet and exhaust pipes are placed on the same
side of the engine and a very compact assemblage is obtained. The
valves may be easily removed if desired, and the construction is fairly
good from the viewpoint of both foundry man and machinist. The
chief disadvantage is the limited area of the valves and the loss of
heat efficiency due to the 'pocket. This form of combustion chamber,
however, is more efficient than the " T " head construction, though
with the latter the use of larger valves probably compensates for the
greater heat loss. It has been stated as an advantage of this construc-
tion that both manifolds can be placed at the same side of the engine
and a compact assembly secured. At the other hand, the disadvantage
may be cited that in order to put both pipes on the same side they
must be of smaller size than can be used when the valves are oppo-
sitely placed. The " L " form cylinder may be made more efficient if
but one valve is, placed in the pocket while the other is placed in the
cylinder head. This construction is well shown at Fig. 70, which is
a side sectional view of the same motor depicted in end section at Fig.
68, B. The large valves one can use are well emphasized in this illus-
tration.
The method of valve application shown at Fig. 71 is an ingenious
method of overcoming some of the disadvantages inherent with valve-
in-the-head motors. In the first place it is possible to water-jacket the
valves thoroughly, which is difficult to accomplish when they are
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
141
mounted in cages. The water circulates directly around the walls of
the valve chambers which is superior to a. construction where separate
cages are used, as there are two thicknesses of metal with the latter,
Rocher Arm
Tappet Rod
Exhaust
Valve
Fig. 70. Part Sectional View of Bergdoll Motor, Showing Placing of Valves.
The Exhaust Member is Fitted in a Side Pocket of the L Cylinder. The
Inlet Valve is Placed Directly in the Center of the Combustion Chamber.
that of the valve cage proper and the wall of the cylinder. The cool-
ing medium is in contact only with the outer wall, and as there is
always a loss of heat conductivity at a joint it is practically impossi-
ble to keep the exhaust valves and their seats at a uniform temper-
142 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
ature. The valves may be of larger size without the use of pockets
when seating directly in the head. In fact, they could be equal in
diameter to almost half the bore of the cylinder, which provides an
ideal condition of charge placement and exhaust.
ROCKffi
ARM
VALVE
Fig. 71. Cylinder Head of Knox Engine Cut in Two to Show Method of Valve
Placing and Seating Directly in Separately Cast Member. Valves Operated
by Rocker Arms. Note Exceptionally Good Water Spaces Around Valve
Seats.
When valve grinding is necessary the entire head is easily removed
by taking off four nuts and loosening inlet and exhaust manifold con-
nections, which operation would be necessary even if cages were
employed. The cylinder is easily cast and machined, and as the head
is separately water- jacketed there is no water joint between the head
and cylinder which must be made tight with a packing capable of
resisting both water and hot gas. The sole function of the copper
asbestos washer which fits in the annular groove in the cylinder head
is to prevent escape of gas. The ease with* which the head and cylin-
der may be machined and smooth combustion chamber obtained has
been previously dealt with.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
143
The form shown at Fig. 72 shows an ingenious application of the
valve-in-the-head idea which permits one to obtain large valves. It
has been used on some of the Franklin air-cooled cars. The inlet pas-
sage is controlled by the sliding sleeve which is hollow and slotted so
as to permit the exhaust gases to leave the cylinder and out through
the regular type poppet valve which seats in the inlet sleeve. When
EXHAUST
TAPPET,
EXHAUST
SPRING
Fig. 72. Section Through Concentric Valve Used on Some Franklin Models.
The Exhaust Valve, which is a Regular Poppet Type, Seats in the Inlet Mem-
ber, which is a Hollow Shell of Metal. Both Valves Open Directly into
the Combustion Chamber.
the inlet sleeve is operated by the tappet rod and rocker arm the ex-
haust valve is also carried down with it. The exhaust gas passage is
closed, however, and the fresh gases are taken in through the large
annular passage surrounding the inlet sleeve. When the inlet valve
144
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
Value Cap
Value Pocket
Fig. 73. Section Through Cylinder of Hudson Car. A Typical Form Having
L-shaped Cylinder with Inlet and Exhaust Valves on Same Side of Cylinder
and Actuated from Common Cam Shaft. Note Plate Used to Enclose
Valve Springs.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 145
leaves its seat in the cylinder the passage of cool gas around the sleeve
keeps the temperature of both valves to a low point and the danger of
warping is minimized. A dome-shaped combustion chamber may be
used which is an ideal form in conserving heat efficiency and as large
valves may be installed the flow of both fresh and exhaust gases may
be obtained with minimum resistance.
At Fig. 73 a section through a typical "L "-shaped cylinder is
depicted. It will be evident that where a pocket construction is em-
ployed in addition to its faculty for absorbing heat, the passage of
gas would be impeded. For example, the inlet gas rushing in through
the open valve would impinge sharply upon the valve cap directly
over the valve and then must turn at a sharp angle to enter the com-
bustion chamber and then at another sharp angle to fill the cylinders.
The same conditions apply to the exhaust gases, though they are re-
versed. When the valve-in-the-head type of cylinder is employed the
only resistance offered the gas is in the manifold. As far as the pas-
sage of the gases in and out of the cylinder is concerned ideal condi-
tions obtain. It is claimed that valve-in-the-head motors are more
flexible and responsive than other forms but the construction has the
disadvantage in that the valves must be opened through a rather
complicated system of push rods and rocker arms instead of the sim-
pler and direct plunger which can be used with either the " T " or
" L " head cylinders.
Valve Design and Construction. Valve dimensions are an im-
portant detail to be considered and can be determined by several con-
ditions, among which may be cited method of installation, operating
mechanism, material employed, engine speed desired, manner of cyl-
inder cooling, and degree of lift desired. A review of various methods
of valve location has shown that when the valves are placed directly in
the head, we can obtain the ideal cylinder form though larger valves
may be used if housed in a separate pocket, as afforded by the " T '*'
head construction. The method of operation has much to do with
the size of the valves. For example, if an automatic inlet valve is
employed it is good practice to limit the lift and obtain the required
area of port opening by augmenting the diameter. Because of this a
valve of the automatic type is usually made twenty per cent larger
than one mechanically operated. When both are actuated by cam
146
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
mechanism, as is now common practice, they are usually made the
same size and are interchangeable, which greatly simplifies manufac-
ture. The relation of valve diameter to cylinder bore is one that has
been discussed for some time by engineers. The writer's experience
would indicate that they should be. at least half the bore, if possible.
The larger the area of the valve the less lift required, and this is an
important factor where high rotative speeds are desired. A valve with
a small lift will reach its maximum opening sooner and close quicker
than one with a high lift and small diameter. This will produce less
wear on the parts and tend to more silent operation.
At the other hand, a large diameter valve is more apt to warp than
a narrower one, and greater care is needed in securing positive cooling
Cast Iron Head
Flat Siat
Key Slot
A
Fig. 74. Type of Valves in Common Use. A One-Piece Steel Valve of Good
Design which Permits Easy Gas Flow. B Steel Valve Made by Electric-
ally Welding a Nickel Steel Head to a Carbon Steel Stem. C A Con-
struction Often Employed for Exhaust Valves, a Two-Piece Built-Up Mem-
ber. D Valve with Flat Seat, Often Used to Admit Mixture to Cylinder.
when large diameter members are used. While the mushroom type or
poppet valve has become standard and is the most widely used form at
the -present time, there is some difference of opinion among designers
as to the materials employed and the angle of the seat. Most valves
have a bevel seat, though some have a flat seating, as shown at Kig.
74, D. The flat seat valve has the distinctive advantage of providing a
clear opening with lesser lift, this conducing to free gas flow. It also
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 147
has value because it is silent in operation, but the disadvantage is pres-
ent that best material and workmanship must be used in their con-
struction to obtain satisfactory results. As it can be made very light
it is particularly well adapted for use as an automatic inlet valve.
Among other disadvantages cited is the claim that it is more sus-
ceptible to derangement owing to the particles of foreign matter get-
ting under the seat. With a bevel seat valve it is argued that the
foreign matter would be more easily dislodged by the gas flow, and
that the valve would close tighter because it is drawn positively against
the bevel seat.
Several methods of valve construction are the vogue, the most
popular form being the one-piece type; though those which are com-
pose;! of a head of one material and stem of another are often used.
If the built-up construction is favored the head is usually of high
nickel steel, Monel metal, or cast iron, which metals possess good heat
resisting qualities. Heads made of these materials are not likely to
warp, scale, or pit, as is sometimes the case when ordinary grades of
machinery steel are used. The cast-iron head construction is not
popular because it is often difficult to keep the head tight on the stem.
There is a slight difference in expansion ratio between the head and
the stem, and as the stem is either screwed or riveted to the cast-iron
head the constant hammering of the valve against its seat may loosen
the joint. As soon as the head is loose on the stem the action of the
valve becomes erratic.
The valve shown at Fig. 74, A, is made from a forging of thirty-five
per-cent nickel steel in the large sizes, and is often machined from the
bar by automatic machinery in making the smaller sizes. Among the
factors considered in design are to make the stems of ample size so that
they will not be likely to bend, and to leave enough metal between the
stem and the head so that the gases may be directed toward the periph-
ery of the head. This has a tendency to make a slightly heavier valve
than that shown at Fig. 74, B. It is also considered good practice to
use a domed or arched head instead of one that is perfectly flat, and it
is advisable to leave the head smooth and without a slotted boss which
is often left on so that a screw-driver blade can be used to turn the
valve when grinding it. When the arched head construction is used
two small holes may be drilled into it. These have the advantage of
148 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
leaving no sharp edges exposed to retain heat and cause too early ex-
plosions of gas. If desired, a slot may be cut directly in the head and
the valve turned with a screw-driver.
The form of valve shown at B is a common one, and its only
advantage is that the design permits of light construction. The
slotted boss is not desirable for the reason previously outlined, the
valve head is not as strong as that shown at A and it will warp sooner.
The point of weakness where the stem joins the head may cause
trouble. As the gases strike the under surface and are sharply de-
flected at a sharp angle instead of having an easy flow the passage is
somewhat impeded. The form of construction is a nickel steel head
electrically welded to a machinery steel stem. The former material
is a better heat-resisting substance while the softer steel makes a bet-
ter bearing. The joint is indistinguishable because the metals are'
fused together, and that point is as strong as any other part of the
stem. The valve shown at C is composed of a cast-iron head member
screwed on to a steel stem. The construction at D is a good example
of flat seat inlet valve.
Fig. 75. Forms of Valve-Lifting Cams Generally Employed. A Cam Profile
for Long Dwell and Quick Lift. B Typical Inlet Cam Used with Mush-
room Type Follower. C Average Form of Cam. D Designed to Give
Quick Lift and Gradual Closing.
Valve Operation. The methods of valve operation commonly used
vary according to the type of cylinder construction employed. In all
cases the valves are lifted from their seats by cam actuated mechan-
ism. Various forms of valve-lifting cams are shown at Fig. 75. As
will be seen, a cam consists of a circle to which a raised, approximately
triangular member has been added at one point. When the cam fol-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
149
lower rides on the circle, as shown at Fig. 76, there is no difference in
height between the cam center and its periphery and there is no move-
ment of the plunger. As soon as the raised portion of the cam strikes
the plunger it will lift it, and this reciprocating movement is trans-
mitted to the valve stem by suitable mechanical connections.
The cam forms outlined at Fig. 75 are those commonly used. That
at A is used on engines where it is desired to obtain a quick lift and
to keep the valve fully opened as long as possible. It is a noisy form,
however, and is not very widely employed. That at B is utilized more
often as an inlet cam while the profile shown at C is generally de-
pended on to operate exhaust valves. The cam shown at D is a com-
posite form which has some of the features of the other three types.
It will give the quick opening of form A, the gradual closing of form
B, and the time of maximum valve opening provided by cam profile C.
Plunger
Fig. 76. Showing Principal Types of Cam Followers which Have Received
General Application.
The various types of valve plungers used are shown at Fig^ 76.
That shown at A is the simplest form, consisting of a simple cylindri-
cal member having a rounded end which follows the cam profile.
These are sometimes made of square stock or kept from rotating by
150 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
means of a key or pin. A line contact is possible when the plunger is
kept from turning whereas but a single point bearing is obtained
when the plunger is cylindrical and free to revolve. The plunger
shown at A will follow only cam profiles which have gradual lifts.
The plunger shown at B is left free to revolve in the guide bushing
and is provided with a flat mushroom head which serves as a cam fol-
lower. The type shown at C carries a roller at its lower end and may
follow very irregular cam profiles if abrupt lifts are desired. While
forms A and B are the simplest, that outlined at C in its various forms
is more widely used.
The illustrations at Fig. 77 show some of the different possible
methods of valve operation. At A the application of a rocker arm
and tappet rod to operate an overhead valve is clearly depicted. The
rocker arm is interposed in order that the upward movement of the
tappet rod will 'produce a down movement of the valve stem. The
method of valve operation shown at B is possible when it is desired
to operate both valves of a " T " head cylinder from a common cam
shaft. One of the valves is lifted directly by the usual cam actuated
plunger, while the other member is raised from its seat by a plunger
operated from the cam through a centrally pivoted simple lever. At
C the simplest method of valve operation is shown. The cylinder cast-
ing is a twin " L " form, and the valves are placed side by side in the
pocket at one side of center. They are operated directly by means of
simple mushroom head plungers guided in bushings secured in bosses
formed integrally with the cylinder base. These plungers bear against
the lower end of the valve stems.
All the methods in which levers are used to operate valves are more
or less noisy because clearance must be left between the valve stem and
the top of the plunger. The space must be taken up before the valve
will leave its seat, and when the engine is operated at high speeds the
forcible contact between the plunger and valve stem produces a pro-
nounced hammering sound. At D a method of indirect valve opera-
tion -is shown. The main purpose is to obtain silent working and to
permit the valves being arranged in any convenient position. Instead
of using direct cam action against the end of the valves, the valves are
lifted from their seats by a liquid under pressure. The cams are
placed across the front of the engine, though they could be placed at
Rocker Arm,
Tappet Rod
B
Fig, 77. Defining Different Possible Methods of Valve Operation. A Over-
head Valve Actuated by Rocker Arm, Tappet Rod and Roller Type Cam
Follower. B Both Valves Operated from One Cam, " T " Head Cylinder.
C Valves of " L " Type Twin Cylinder Casting Operated by Mushroom
Type Cam Followers. D Suggested Method of Indirect Valve Operation.
151
152 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
any other point so long as they could be conveniently driven from the
crank shaft.
There are eight cams, one for each valve, and under each cam an
oil force pump is placed. This is connected by a tube to a plunger
under the valve stem. Each pipe is filled with oil, and when the cam
operates its particular pump the incompressible liquid in the pipe is
forced against the plunger under the valve and the valve is lifted. In-
stead of the cam pushing the tappet and the plunger pushing the
valve, as in other constructions described, the cam works a pump and
this in turn a tappet. The return of the valve stem is effected by the
valve springs in the usual way. Each oil pump is also provided with
a return spring which keeps the roller on top of the pump plunger
bearing against the cam. The whole of the cam action is in an oil
bath and any leakage of liquid from the pipes is automatically com-
pensated for through a simple form of ball valve. Each pipe is
always full of oil as long as there is any in the bath.
As it is not possible to compress the liquid } it may be stated broadly
that the driving effect is the same as though the oil pipes were filled
with steel balls. The simile is not a correct one, because the fluid
pressure provides a softness and silence of action which could not be
very well obtained by direct operation. It is also expected that clear-
ance between the valve stem and operating plungers will not be neces-
sary because the slight leakage of working fluid will compensate for
any expansion of the valves and the resulting lengthening of the stems
automatically. It is not expected that this method of valve operation
will be used to any extent because the mechanism is more complicated
than when simple direct lift plungers are employed. With modern
forms of plungers which are provided with suitable adjusting features
which make it possible to maintain a minimum clearance between valve
stem and lifting member, the valve action is silent enough so that it
would not pay to introduce a complicated hydraulic system as that
described. This has been presented mainly to show that valves may be
operated by other means than direct cam and plunger action.
We have seen that the method of valve placing has material bear-
ing on the system of valve-actuating mechanism employed. At Fig.
78 the various methods of valve installation are presented in diagram-
matic form and will assist the reader in obtaining a clear idea of the
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
153
valve placings most commonly used. With the " T " head cylinder as
shown at A separate cam shafts are usually employed and the valves,
are raised by direct lift plungers. The "L" head cylinder as de-
Fig. 78. Diagram Showing Forms of Cylinder Demanded by Different Valve
Placings. A T Head Type, Valves on Opposite Sides. B L Head
Cylinder, Valves Side by Side. C L Head Cylinder, One Valve in Head,
Other in Pocket. D Inlet Valve Over Exhaust Member, Both in Side
Pocket. E Valve-in-the-Head Type with Vertical Valves. F Inclined
Valves Placed to Open Directly into Combustion Chamber.
154
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
picted at B calls for but one cam shaft, and as is true of the previous
case the valves may be lifted directly from their seats by a simple cam
follower. At C the valve location demands the use of an overhead
rocker arm which may be actuated from the same cam shaft which is
employed to raise the exhaust valve from its seat. At D a method
of valve placing is shown which is very popular on small motors used
for motorcycle propulsion. The inlet valve is placed directly over
the exhaust member and may be automatically operated or may be de-
pressed by the conventional form of rocker arm. When overhead valves
are used, as shown at E, two rocker arm assemblies are needed and
both valves are operated from a common cam shaft. With the form
shown at F having inclined valves two sets of rocker arms may be
Fig. 79. Cam Shaft and Valve Operating Plunger Case of Hupp Motor, a Separ-
ate Member. Note Simple Type of Cam Follower.
used actuated by two cam shafts, one on each side of the motor.
Sometimes a single rocker arm is fulcrumed at the center, having
one extremity bearing on each valve stem. The lever is rocked by a
special form of cam provided with a depression as well as a raised
portion. When the tappet rod is raised it may depress one of the
valves, whereas when the cam follower drops in the depression of
the cam the other end of the rocker arm will fall and open the other
valve.
A cam case assembly, such as used on the Hupp motor, is shown at
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 155
Fig. 79. This is bolted to the side of the engine base and the large gear
attached to the cam shaft is driven from a suitable gear on the crank
shaft at .half the engine speed. The cam followers are the simple form
shown at Fig. 76, A. They are provided with a fiber inset at their top
end which comes into contact with the valve stem. The use of this
material tends to reduce noise which would be present if two metals
came in contact.
Methods of Driving Cam Shaft. Two systems of cam shaft opera-
tion are used. The most common of these is by means of gearing of
some form. If the cam shaft is at right angles to the crank shaft it
may be driven by worm, spiral, or bevel gearing. If the cam shaft is
parallel to the crank shaft, simple spur gear or chain connection may
be used to turn it. At Fig. 80 a conventional system of cam gears
is shown. The front of the gear case has been removed,, this exposing
the gear train which drives the cam shaft and accessory mechanism.
A small gear having thirty-two teeth is placed on the crank shaft.
This engages a larger member having sixty-four teeth turning it at
one-half its speed. This large gear is securely fastened to a flange
on the cam shaft by three bolts. At the right an idler gear meshes
with the crank-shaft gear and serves to transmit motion from that
member to the small gear at the extreme right which is utilized to
drive the circulating pump shaft and the magneto employed for
ignition.
While gearing is more commonly used, considerable attention has
been directed of late to silent . chains for cam shaft operation. The
ordinary forms of block or roller chain have not proven successful in
this application, but the silent chain, which is in reality a link belt
operating over toothed pulleys, has demonstrated its worth. The
tendency to its use is more noted on foreign motors than those of
American design. It first came to public notice when employed on
the Daimler-Knight engine for driving the small auxiliary crank
shafts which reciprocated the sleeve valves.
At Fig. 81 two efficient cam shaft drives are illustrated. That at
A is furnished on the Wolseley 1912 motors. It will be observed that
the small gear on the crank shaft is coupled to a larger gear on the
cam shaft by one chain, while a separate gear wheel and chain drives
the magneto from the cam shaft. The sprockets are so proper-
156
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
tioned that the cam shaft revolves at half the engine speed, while
the magneto is speeded up so it will have the same speed as the
crank shaft.
r
CAMSHAFT
GEAR
CRANKSHAFT
GEAR
Fig. 80. Front View of Warren-Detroit ' 30 " Motor with Timing Gear Case
Cover Removed to Show Arrangement of Cam Shafts and Water Pump
Driving Gears.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
157
At Fig. 81, B, the silent chain drive on the White & Poppe engines
is shown. This installation is similar in the main to that previously
described, and further description is not needed. The advan-
tages cited for the application of chains are, first, silent operation
which obtains even after the chains have worn considerably: second,
in designing it is not necessary to figure on maintaining certain abso-
lute center distances between the crank shaft and cam shaft sprockets,
Silent
np
Shaft
Fig. 81. Showing Use of Silent Chain Connection Between Crank Shaft and
Cam Shaft, and also for Driving Water Pump and Magneto Shafts.
A Chain Drive on Wolseley (English) 1912 Motor. B Method of
Using Silent Chains on White & Poppe (English) Power Plant.
as would be the case if conventional forms of gearing were used. On
some forms of motor employing gears, three and even four members
are needed to turn the cam shaft. With a chain drive but two sprock-
ets are necessary, the chain forming a flexible connection which per-
mits the driving and driven members to be placed at any distance
apart that the exigencies of the design demand. When chains are
used it is advised that some means for compensating chain slack be
provided or the valve timing will lag when chains are worn. Many
combination drives may be worked out with chains that would not be
possible with other forms of gearing. It is expected that there will be
a gradual tendency on the part of American designers to incorporate
the silent chain drive in their product.
158 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
Valve Springs. Another consideration of importance is the use
of proper valve springs, and particular care should be taken with those
of automatic valves. The spring must be weak enough to allow the
valve to open when the suction is light and must be of sufficient
strength to close it in time at high speeds. It should be made as large
as possible in diameter and with a large number of convolutions, in
order that fatigue of the metal be obviated, and it is imperative that
all springs be of the same strength when used on a multiple-cylinder
engine. On the exhaust valve the spring must be strong enough so
that the valve will not be sucked in on the inlet stroke. It should
be borne in mind that if the spring is too strong a strain will be
imposed on the valve-operating mechanism and a hammering action
produced which may cause deformation of the valve seat. Only pres-
sure enough to insure that the operating mechanism will follow the
cam is required. It is common practice to make the inlet and exhaust
valve springs of the same tension when the valves are of the same size
and both mechanically operated. This is done merely to simplify
manufacture and not because it is necessary for the inlet valve spring
to be as strong as the other.
Piston and Rotary Valve Motors. Mention has been previously
made of the interest obtaining in various forms of valves which permit
more silent operation than the conventional poppet type. The main
features of the Knight engine and its advantages have been considered,
but a more complete description of the valve action may be timely.
The sectional view through the cylinder at Fig. 82 shows the Knight
sliding sleeves and their actuating means very clearly. The diagrams
at Fig. 83 show graphically the sleeve movements and their relation
to the crank shaft and piston travel. At A the piston has reached the
top of the exhaust stroke and the exhaust port is barely open. The
inlet port is just beginning to open. At B the piston is about two-
thirds down on the inlet stroke and the inner sleeve has moved down,
this bringing the two ports in alignment. This movement of the
sleeve Jias closed off the exhaust port. At C the position of the sleeves
at the end of the intake stroke is shown. The inner sleeve continues
to go up, the outer sleeve is still moving down. Here we see the inlet
port is almost closed; the exhaust port entirely so. D represents the
position assumed by the sleeves at the end of the compression stroke,
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
159
both ports are closed and the compressed charge is ready for ignition.
At E the piston has covered about three-quarters of the power stroke
Spark p/ ug
Relief Cock
Cylinder Head
Sleeue
Fig. 82. Section Through Cylinder of Knight Motor, Showing Important Parts
of Valve Motion.
and the exhaust port begins to open. Both sleeves are now traveling
down. At F the piston has reached the bottom of the power stroke
160
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
and the exhaust port is almost fully opened. At G the piston is mov-
ing upward and the hurned gas is being discharged through the fully
opened exhaust port. At H the piston has started down on the intake
stroke. The exhaust port is fully closed and the inlet port is just be-
tnlet
Fig. 83. Diagram Showing Relative Movement of Sleeves and Cam Shaft of
Knight Type Motor. Note Port Opening at Various Piston Positions.
Shaded Portions of Sleeves Represent Ports.
ginning to open. The action may be summed up as follows : The inlet
port begins to open when the lower edge of the opening of the outside
sleeve which is moving down passes the top of the slot in the inner
member also moving downwardly. The inlet port is closed when the
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 161
lower edge of the slot in the inner sleeve which is moving up passes
the top edge of the port in the outer sleeve which is also moving
toward the top of the cylinder. The inlet opening extends over two
hundred degrees of crank motion. The exhaust port is uncovered
slightly when the lower edge of the port in the inner sleeve which is
moving down passes the lower edge of the portion of the cylinder head
which protrudes in the cylinder. When the top of the port in the outer
sleeve traveling toward the bottom of the cylinder passes the lower
edge of the slot in the cylinder wall the exhaust passage is closed.
The exhaust opening extends over a period corresponding to about two
hundred and forty degrees of crank motion.
The Valveless Miesse Engine. The title given to this engine is
hardly correct as it is not a valveless engine, but, as a glance at the
illustration Fig. 84 will show, it is a combination of the single sleeve
and piston valve forms. In the views presented, B is the single sleeve
in which the port D is formed ; A is the inlet and E the exhaust open-
ing. The part designated by C is termed the " distribution " piston.
Both the inlet and exhaust passages open into and lead from the small
cylinder in which the piston C reciprocates. This, as well as the sleeve
B, derives its motion from the cam or valve shaft through connecting
rods. But little explanation is necessary to describe the operation of
the valves and their effect. At A the relative positions of the sleeve
and piston valve during the induction stroke are shown. It will be
seen that the port D in the sleeve coincides with the slot in the cylinder
proper, and the pjston valve C is in such position that while the mix-
ture has free access from A to the cylinder the exhaust port E is cut
off therefrom. At B the relative positions of the sleeve and piston
valve during the explosion stroke are shown. The port D in the
sleeve has moved up above the opening in the cylinder wall while the
latter is there closed against any possible escape of gas by the cylin-
drical head of the piston valve C. The position of the parts on the
exhaust stroke are shown at C. The piston valve has risen still fur-
ther, closing the induction passage A which leads the fresh gases to the
cylinder and at the same time has made it possible for the exhaust
products to be discharged beneath it through the opening E which is
in connection with the exhaust manifold.
The advantages claimed for this design are the use of a single
162
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
sleeve, cooling of the sleeve cylinder ports and piston valve by the
incoming mixture on the induction stroke and the protection of the
B
Fig. 84. Sectional Views Showing Action of Miesse Combination Sleeve and
Piston Valve at Different Points in Cycle of Engine Operation.
piston valve from contact with the exploded charge during the power
stroke. It is said that the exhaust gases are discharged through the
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 163
lower orifice rather than the upper one in order that no pressure be
exerted upon the head of the piston and upon its connecting rod and
crank pin bearings. By passing the exhaust gases which have con-
siderable pressure between the upper and lower portions of the piston
valve the latter is balanced during exhaust period by the products of
the combustion under pressure. The valve shaft, which is the small
auxiliary crank shaft reciprocating the sleeve and piston, is supported
on five bearings and is driven by a silent chain connection from the
main crank shaft.
The Itala Rotary Valve Motor. A type of rotary valve which is
said to be efficient is depicted at Fig. 85. This is used in the Itala
engine and has features of merit. This motor does not differ much
in appearance from the ordinary poppet valve type. The cylinders are
cast in pairs with a projection at one side which acts as a cylinder
for the valve. Provision is made for water circulation around this
chamber and the valve is also formed in such a way that water may
be circulated through it. But two valves are employed, one for each
pair of cylinders, and these two members take the place of the eight
valves used on the poppet engine. The valve driving shaft, which is
placed similar to the conventional cam shaft, turns the vertical shaft
to which the valves are attached by helical gears. There is but one
port in each cylinder which provides the means of communication
between the valves and combustion chamber, this alternately serving
the purpose of inlet and exhaust port. The manifolds are on opposite
sides of the engine. The gas enters the base of each valve chest and
the inert products pass from the top of the valve chamber by a pecu-
]iar cored passage in the cylinder casting. The rotary valve is made
of cast iron and carries a number of packing rings. Each valve has
four vertical openings; two for the fresh gases, the others for the
burned product. These openings are arranged so that there is one
inlet and one exhaust port registering with the openings in the re-
spective cylinders. The exhaust ports are wider than the inlet open-
ings, because a longer period of opening is required for the exhaust.
The views at Fig. 85 show the operation of the valve clearly. A
depicts its position at the beginning of the intake stroke, the fresh gas
entering from the bottom passes through the interior of the valve and
into the combustion chamber. The smaller sectional views show a
Fig. 85. Defining Action of Peculiar Rotary Valve Used in Latest Itala (Italian
Motor.
164
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
165
plan of the cylinder and valve chest. Referring to these it will be seen
that the valve which is rotating in the direction of the arrow is just
beginning to uncover the port in the cylinder. At B conditions dur-
ing the compression stroke are shown. The port in the cylinder is
Value Gear
Driving Pinion
Port
Value Shaft
Fig. 86. Partial Section of Reynolds Rotary Valve Motor Cylinder, Showing
Method of Rotating Simple Disk Valve and Ports in Cylinder Head.
closed by the solid wall of the valve. At C the position of the valve
during the power stroke is shown. It will be observed that the open-
ing in the cylinder is still closed by the valve wall. At D the condi-
166 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
tions during the exhaust stroke are outlined. The valve has revolved
so that the exhaust port therein is in communication with the exhaust
pipe at the top of the cylinder and the port of the comhustion cham-
her. This permits the inert gases to leave the cylinder freely. Careful
study of the drawings will show that the gas flow is easy and that there
are no sharp corners to impede the gases as they enter or leave the
cylinders.
The Reynolds Rotary Valve Motor. The Eeynolds motor, a sec-
tional view through one of its cylinders being shown at Fig. 86, has
not been used to any extent in automobile service, but has proven
thoroughly practical in marine applications. The valve consists of a
flat disk seating directly against the top of the combustion chamber.
It is turned by a shaft which extends through a boss on top of the
cylinder head and which is driven direct from the crank shaft by gear-
ing at half the motor speed. The valve has a port cut into it of the
keystone shape, clearly shown in illustration, this registering suc-
cessively with openings in the cylinder head. The valve mechanism
is said to be very quiet, and, as will be seen at Fig. 87, the motor is a
very compact design. A disadvantage is cited that the force of the
explosion keeps the valve disk tight against the seat, this tending to
cause considerable resistance to its motion. It is claimed that no
difficulty is experienced from this source, and that an oil film is main-
tained positively between the valve disk and its seat so that it turns
with minimum friction.
Other Rotary Valve Types. Various other forms employing rotary
valves have been devised, and some of these which are said to have
been used in a practical way are shown at Fig. 88. That at A is
known as the Mead. This is a four-cylinder motor with two long
cylindrical valves extending along opposite sides of the cylinders in
close connection with the combustion chamber. These cylinders have
ports cut through them at distances equal to the center line of tho
cylinders and are suitably spaced so that the ports in the cylinders are
uncovered in proper succession. One of the drums serves to control
the inlet ports ; the other regulates the exhaust openings. The valves
are driven at one-quarter crank-shaft speed by suitable gearing.
The type shown at B is a French design which differs from the
Reynolds motor previously described only in the shape of the rotary
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
167
valve member which is conical instead of flat. The parts are shown
as follows : A is the rotary valve member ; B is the gas passage, and D
is a port in the valve member. The small view presented below the
vertical section is a plan showing the disposition of the ports. The
Value Gear
Driving Pinion
Fig. 87. Part Section of Reynolds Rotary Valve Motor, Showing Practical
Application of Ported Disk in Controlling Gas Passages. Note Compact
Design of Cylinder Block and Two-Bearing, Four-Throw Crank Shaft.
same lettering applies as above. If the cone turns in the direction of
the arrow, B is the exhaust port and C the intake port, while D repre-
sents the opening in the valve. The form shown at C is a modification
of that depicted at B. Two conical valves are used instead of one,
168
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
Exhaust
Driving Gear
Driven Gear
Gas Passage
Fig. 88. Unconventional Forms of Rotary Valve Motors Designed to Meet the
Present Day Demand for Silent Valve Action. A Mead Motor Using Two
Revolving Cylindrical Valves, One at Each Side of Cylinder. B Single
Ported Cone Valve. C Application of Two Single Ported Cones, One
Superposed. D Use of Distinct Valves, One for Inlet Port, the Other to
Govern Exhaust Passage.
"
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 169
these being turned in opposite directions by suitable gears. It is
claimed that this gives a more rapid port opening than when a single
valve is employed. Sometimes when two conical valve members are
used they are placed side by side, as shown at D, one of these serving
exclusively for the exhaust ; the other for the inlet. The objection to
this construction is that owing to the smaller size of the cone the ports
are more limited in area than when a single valve member is employed.
The Sphinx Ring Valve Motor. One of the designs which has been
used successfully and which employs a ring valve in place of the usual
poppet valves is called the Sphinx motor. It is claimed that all the
advantages of the sliding sleeve types are obtained with much less com-
plication. In this motor a split ring reciprocated by a bell crank
serves to uncover the intake and exhaust ports. The construction of
this member, as well as the actuating bell crank, return spring and
cam shaft are clearly shown at Fig. 89. In the cylinder walls, and
near the head, two annular chambers are provided, these forming the
intake and exhaust ports. Within the cylinder is a split ring having
sufficient face depth to cover both the intake and exhaust ports, but
having the necessary reciprocating motion t allow it to uncover either
one or the other of the ports as required to insure the admission of
the fuel and the discharge of the spent gases. In its central position,
shown at Fig. 89, B and C, the split ring covers the two ports, pro-
viding a gas-tight chamber ; on being moved down, as depicted at A, it
uncovers the intake port and closes the exhaust, and on being raised,
outlined at D, it opens the exhaust and closes the intake.
Being split, its extensibility assures gas-tightness, the degree of
tightness being in proportion to the pressure in the cylinder, while
leakage around the ports is impossible at any time. Its movement is
slight, being less than one inch for a motor of 3. 9-inch by 5.5-inch bore
and stroke, and the intake port being above the ring, this latter is
swept by the fresh, cool gases at every induction stroke and conse-
quently maintained at a moderate temperature.
This design particularly lends itself to an easily produced and
clean monobloc casting, and has the further advantage of giving a
compact combustion chamber without pockets and with unusually
large valve area. On the ordinary type of motor with valves on one
or both sides any increase in the valve diameter involves a proper-
170
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
tional increase in the size of the pocket with a decrease of thermal
efficiency.
The split sliding ring, or sleeve, which in the " Sphinx " replaces
the pair of poppet valves of the ordinary motor, and the costly concen-
Value Return Spring
Inlet Port
Split Ring
Exhaust Port
Distribution Gears
Piston
Compression.
Reduction
Gears
Explosion
Oil Pump
Fig. 89. Part Section of Sphinx Valveless Motor in which Poppet Valves are
Replaced by a Split Ring which Reciprocates in the Cylinder Head, Opening
and Closing the Gas Ports as it Moves Up and Down. A Inlet Ports Open.
B and C All Ports Closed. D Exhaust Ports Open.
trie sleeves in motors of the sliding valve type, is shown in Fig. 89. It is
a gray iron casting, having a face depth of one and a half inches for a
motor of 3.9-inch by 5.5-inch bore and stroke, and provided with a hoi-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 171
low spindle or bearing block for the rocker arm. As will be seen from the
illustration, the depth of the ring is greater around the hollow spindle
than at any other point, this increased depth being necessary to cover
the port through which the rocker arm is passed from the outside
to the inside of the cylinder. The face depth at this point is suffi-
cient to assure the covering of this port whatever the position of
the split ring; in other words, this slot in the cylinder wall is never
uncovered.
By means of a bell crank, the long arm of which operates in the
socket of the ring valve, and an ordinary type of cam shaft the neces-
sary reciprocating motion of the ring is obtained to allow the different
phases of a four-cycle motor. One of the most valuable features of
this motor is the large valve area obtainable without the complication
attending the use of large diameter poppet valves and without the big
pockets necessary with motors of the " L " or " T " type.
The poppet valve spring must be of sufficient strength to correctly
seat the valve at high motor speeds. If a weak spring is used it will
not have time to return the valve to its siting before it will be again
lifted by the cam and there is loss of power. The spring used on the
" Sphinx " motor need only be strong enough to balance the weight of
the split ring, for it is only responsible for its return and in no way
for its proper seating. Further, as each upward movement of the
ring is followed by the induction stroke of the motor, the work of the
spring is relieved by the inrushing of the gases. In other words, the
suction of the gas around the ring tends to draw it down, just as an
automatic intake valve is drawn down on the suction stroke of the
motor. The spring, then, need only be sufficiently strong to keep the
roller in contact with the face of the cam, and as it is carried in an
independent housing and not subjected to a high temperature, its life
is practically indefinite.
Darracq Rotary Distributor Motor. In the Darracq power plant
which is shown at Fig. 90, the gases enter through a rotary member of
D section, which is placed horizontally along the side of the cylinder
head and parallel with the crank shaft. This distributor is approxi-
mately two-thirds the diameter of the cylinder and revolves on large
annular ball bearings, one placed at each end. One member serves to
control both intake and exhaust openings. This is accomplished by
172
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
providing the barrel-shaped chamber in which the valve revolves with
three ports for each cylinder. One of these provides communication
between the valve case and. the combustion chamber, the others serve
for intake and exhaust passages.
Spark Plug
Inlet
Piston
Connecting
Rod
Rotary Valve
Fig. 90. Diagram Illustrating Action of Darracq (French) D Form Rotary Valve
Motor. A Piston at Beginning of Induction Stroke. B Piston at Incep-
tion of Compression Stroke. C Piston in Position for Receiving Explosion
Impact. D Valve Position at Start of Exhaust Period.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 173
As the valve rotates the cylinder is placed in communication with
either the intake or exhaust passages and the valve is driven by suit-
able gearing at one-half the engine speed, as is the case with the con-
ventional cam shaft. The various valve positions are clearly shown at
Fig. 90. A corresponds to the suction stroke; and the piston is shown
starting to uncover the port leading from the valve chamber into the
cylinder. The rotary valve is also uncovering the intake port. By the
time the top of the piston reaches the bottom of the passage communi-
cating between combustion and valve chambers, the inlet opening is
uncovered and the gas rushes into the cylinder. At B it will be seen
that the valve has closed the passage leading from the cylinder, and as
the piston rises, the gas previously inspired is compressed. The posi-
tion of the piston when it has reached the end of the compression
stroke is shown at C. At this position the compressed charge is
ignited. It will be noted that the piston covers the port leading into
the valve chamber, and that the valve is thus protected from the direct
heat of combustion. At D the position of the valve at the inception of
the exhaust stroke is shown, and it is about to uncover the port lead-
ing from the cylinder to the valve chamber and permit the exhaust
gases to flow out through suitable openings. The heat evolved during
the first intervals of the explosion, at which point the maximum tem-
perature obtains, is kept from the valve and simplifies the problem of
lubrication. It will be evident that with this construction a small por-
tion of the inert gases are retained in the combustion chamber, but it
is claimed by those favoring this construction that this does not con-
stitute as serious defect in practice as theoretical considerations might
indicate.
The Hewitt Piston Valve Motor. A type of motor in which true
piston valves are used successfully is shown in section at Fig. 91. This
is the Hewitt, a pioneer form of English derivation. Two piston
valves are provided for each cylinder; one for the intake, the other to
regulate the exhaust passage. They are placed adjacent to each other
on the same side of the motor, and are inclined toward the top. A
small crank shaft revolving at one-half the speed of the main crank
shaft is employed to operate the piston. Each of these piston valves
are simply smaller trunk pistons similar in type to those used in the
cylinder proper, reciprocating in their distinct small water-cooled cyl-
174
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
Exhaust Piston
Main Piston
inder. Piston rings of the conventional pattern are used to maintain
a gas-tight joint, as is the case with the main piston. The fresh gas
manifold is coupled to the side of one valve cylinder and the exhaust
piping with the
side of the other
valve chamber.
The timing of
both intake and
exhaust valves is
such that they
receive a portion
of the explosive
impulse, which
drives them
downward and
tends to make
them partially
self - operating.
When the explo-
sion occurs, both
valve pistons are
at the top of
their cylinders
Main
Connecting Rod
Crankshaft
Value Shaft
Fig. 91. Section of Hewitt Piston Valve, Motor Cylinder
and Valve Chest.
and receive part
of the impact. On the compression stroke both pistons move up, the
exhaust member moving ahead of the other. The piston valves are
lubricated by splash just as the main piston chamber. These pistons
have comparatively long stroke, about two-thirds that of the working
piston. The various piston positions during the cycle of operation are
clearly shown in diagrams at Fig. 92, the valves being shown at oppo-
site sides of the cylinder to make their action clearer. At A the main
piston is part way down on the intake stroke, and the inlet piston lias
uncovered the slots leading from the gas manifold to the combustion
chamber. The exhaust is fully closed. At B the rrfain piston is start-
ing to go up on the compression stroke and both inlet and exhaust
ports are fully closed by their respective pistons. At C the explosion
has taken place and the three pistons are being driven down in the
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
175
directions indicated by the arrow. At D the exhaust piston has un-
covered the series of holes which provide communication between the
combustion chamber and the manifold, while the inlet piston covers
fully the slots it controls. It is claimed that this four-cylinder piston
valve motor has superior torque to that obtained from a similar power
plant using poppet valves.
Inlet -
Exhaust
Fig. 92. Hewitt Piston Valve Motor Action Outlined Graphically. A Suction
Stroke. B Compression. C Explosion. D Exhaust.
Valve Timing. It is in valve timing that the greatest difference
of opinion prevails among engineers and it is rare that one will see the
same formula in different motors. It is true that the same timing
could not be used with motors of different construction, as there are
many factors which determine the amount of lead to be given to the
176 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
valves. The most important of these is the relative size of the valve
to the cylinder bore, the speed of rotation it is desired to obtain,
the fuel efficiency, the location of the valves, and other factors too
numerous to mention.
Most of the readers should be familiar with the cycle of operation
of the internal combustion motor of the four-stroke type, and it seems
unnecessary to go into detail except to present a review. The first
stroke of the piston is one in which a charge of gas is taken into the
motor; the second stroke which is in reverse direction to the first is
a compression stroke, at the end of which the spark takes place, ex-
ploding the charge and driving the piston down on the third or expan-
sion stroke, which is in the same direction as the intake stroke, and
finally, after the piston has nearly reached the end of this stroke,
another valve opens to allow the burned gases to escape, and remains
open until the piston has reached the end of the fourth stroke and is
in a position to begin the series over again. The ends of the strokes
are reached when the piston comes to a stop at either top or bottom of
the cylinder and reverses its motion. That point is known as a center
and there are two for each cylinder, top and bottom centers, re-
spectively.
All circles may be divided into 360 parts, each of which is known
as a degree, and in turn each of these degrees may be again divided into
minutes and seconds, though we need not concern ourselves with any-
Ihing less than the degree. Each stroke of the piston represents 180
degrees travel of the crank, because two strokes represent one complete
revolution or three hundred and sixty degrees. The top and bottom
centers are therefore separated by 180 degrees. Theoretically each
phase of a four-cycle engine begins and ends at a center, though in
actual practice the inertia or movement of the gases makes it neces-
sary to allow a lead or lag to the valve, as the case, may be. If a
valve opens before a center, the distance is called " lead " ; if it closes
after a center, this distance is known as "lag." The profile of the
cams ordinarily used to open or close the valves represents a consider-
able time in relation to the 180 degrees of the crank-shaft travel,
and the area of the passages through which the gases are admitted
or exhausted is quite small owing to the necessity of having to
open or close the valves at stated times; therefore, to open an ade-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 177
quately large passage for the gases it is necessary to open the valves
earlier and close them later than at centers.
That advancing the opening of the exhaust valve was of value was
discovered on the early motors and is explained by the necessity of
releasing a large amount of gas, the volume of which has been greatly
raised by the heat of combustion. When the inlet valves were mechan-
ically operated it was found that allowing them to lag at closing en-
abled the inspiration of a greater volume of gas. Disregarding the
inertia or flow of the gases, opening the exhaust at center would enable
one to obtain full value of the expanding gases the entire length of the
piston stroke, and it would not be necessary to keep the valve open
after the top center, as the reverse stroke would produce a suction
effect which might draw some of the inert charge back into the cylin-
der. On the other hand, giving full consideration to the inertia of the
gas, opening the valve before center is reached will provide for quick
expulsion of the gases, which have sufficient velocity at the end of the
stroke, so that if the valve is allowed to remain open a little longer,
the amount of lag varying with the opinions of the designer, the
cylinder is cleared in a more thorough manner.
Blowing Back. When the factor of retarded opening is considered
without reckoning the inertia of the gases it would appear that, if the
valve were allowed to remain open after center had passed say on the
closing of the inlet, the piston having reversed its motion would
have the effect of expelling part of the fresh charge through the still
open valve as it passed inward at its compression stroke. This effect
is called blowing back and is often noted with motors where the valve
settings are not absolutely correct, or where the valve springs or seats
are defective and prevent proper closing.
This factor is not of as much import as might appear, as on closer
consideration it will be seen that the movement of the piston as the
crank reaches either end of the stroke is less per degree of angular
movement than it is when the angle of the connecting rod is greater.
Then again a certain length of time is required for the reversal of
motion of the piston, during which time the crank is in motion but
the piston practically at a standstill. If the valves are allowed to
remain open during this period, the passage of the gas in or out of
the cylinder will be by its own momentum.
178 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
Lead Gives Exhaust Valve. The faster a motor turns, all other
things being equal, the greater the amount of lead or advance it is
necessary to give the opening of the exhaust valve. It is self-evident
truth that if the speed of a motor is doubled, it travels twice as many
degrees in the time necessary to lower the pressure. As most designers
are cognizant of this fact the valves are proportioned accordingly. It
is well to consider in this respect that the cam profile has much to do
with the manner in which the valve is opened, that is, the lift may
be abrupt and the gas allowed to escape in a body, or the opening may
be gradual, the gas issuing from the cylinder in thin streams. An
analogy may be made with the opening of any bottle which contains
liquid highly carbonated. If the cork is removed suddenly the gas
escapes with a loud pop, but on the other hand, if the bottle is un-
corked gradually, the gas escapes from the receptacle in thin streams
around the cork, and passage of the gases to the air is accomplished
without noise. While the second plan is not harsh, it is slower than
the former, as must be evident.
Exhaust Closing, Inlet Opening. A point which has been much
discussed by engineers is the proper relation of the closing of the ex-
haust valve and the opening of the inlet. Theoretically they should
succeed each other, the exhaust closing at upper dead center and the
inlet opening immediately afterward. The reason why a certain
amount of lag is given the exhaust closing in practice is that the
piston cannot drive the gases out of the cylinder unless they are com-
pressed to a degree in excess of that existing in the manifold or pas-
sages, and while toward the end of the stroke this pressure may be
feeble, it is nevertheless indispensable. At the end of the piston's
stroke, as marked by the upper dead center, this compression still exists,
no matter how little it may be, so that if the exhaust valve is closed and
the inlet opened immediately afterward, the pressure which exists in
the cylinder may retard the entrance of the fresh gas and a certain por-
tion of the inert gas may penetrate into the manifold. As the piston im-
mediately begins to aspirate this may not be serious, but as these gases
are drawn back into the cylinder the fresh charge will be diluted and
weakened in value. If the spark plug is in a pocket the points may be
surrounded by this weak gas, and the explosion will not be nearly as
energetic as when the ignition spark takes place in pure mixture.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 179
It is a well-known fact that the exhaust valve should close after
dead center and that a certain amount of lag should be given to open-
ing of the inlet. The lag given the closing of the exhaust valve should
not be as great as that given the closing of the inlet valve. Assuming
that the excess pressure of the exhaust will equal the depression during
aspiration, the time necessary to complete the emptying of the cylinder
will be proportional to the volume of the gas within it. At the end
of the suction stroke the volume of gas contained in the cylinder is
equal to the cylindrical volume plus the space of the combustion cham-
ber. At the end of the exhaust stroke the volume is but that of the
dead space, and from one-third to one-fifth its volume before compres-
sion. While it is natural to assume that this excess of burned gas will
escape faster than the fresh gas will enter the cylinder, it will be seen
that if the inlet valve were allowed to lag twenty degrees, the exhaust
valve lag need not be more than five degrees, providing that the ca-
pacity of the combustion chamber was such that the gases occupied
one-quarter of their former volume.
It is evident that no absolute rule can be given, as back pressure
will vary with the design of the valve passages, the manifolds, and the
construction of the muffler. The more direct the opening, the sooner
the valve can be closed and the better the cylinder cleared. Ten de-
grees represent an appreciable angle of the crank and the time re-
quired for the crank to cover this angular motion is not inconsiderable
and an important quantity of the exhaust may escape, but the piston
is still very close to the dead center after the distance has been covered.
Before the inlet valve opens there should be a certain depression
in the cylinder, and considerable lag may be allowed before the de-
pression is appreciable. So far as the volume of fresh gas introduced
during the admission stroke is concerned, this is determined by the
displacement of the piston between the point where the inlet valve
opens and the point of closing, assuming that sufficient gas has been
inspired so that an equilibrium of pressure has been established be-
tween the interior of the cylinder and the outer air. The point of
inlet opening varies with different motors. It would appear that a
fair amount of lag would be fifteen degrees past top center for the
inlet opening, as a certain depression will exist in the cylinder, assum-
ing that the exhaust valve has closed five or ten degrees after center,
180 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
,and at the same time the piston has not gone down far enough on its
stroke to materially decrease the amount of gas which will be taken
into the cylinder.
Closing the Inlet Valve. As is the case with the other points of
opening and closing, there is a wide diversity of practice a,s relates to
closing the inlet valve. Some of the designers olose this exactly at
bottom center, but this practice cannot be commended, as there is a
considerable portion of time, at least ten or fifteen degrees angular
motion of the crank, before the piston will commence to travel any
extent on its compression stroke. The gases rushing into the cylinder
have considerable velocity, and unless an equilibrium is obtained
between the pressure inside and that of the atmosphere outside, they
will continue to rush into the cylinder even after the piston ceases to
exert any suction effect.
For this reason, if the valve is closed exactly on center, a full
charge may not be inspired into the cylinder, though if the time of
closing is delayed, this momentum or inertia of the gas will be enough
to insure that a maximum charge is taken into the cylinder. The
writer considers that nothing will be gained if the valve is allowed to
remain open longer than twenty degrees, and an analysis of practice
in this respect would seem to confirm this opinion. From that point
in the crank movement the piston travel increases and the compressive
effect is appreciable, and it would appear that a considerable propor-
tion of the charge might be exhausted into the manifold and carbu-
retor if the valve were allowed to remain open beyond a point cor-
responding to twenty degrees angular movement of the crank.
Time of Ignition. In this country engineers unite in providing
a variable time of ignition, though abroad some difference of opinion
is noted on this point. The practice of advancing the time of ignition,
when affected electrically, was severely condemned by early makers,
these maintaining that it was necessary because of insufficient heat
and volume of the spark, and it was thought that advancing ignition
was injurious. The engineers of to-day appreciate the fact that the
heat of the electric spark, especially when from a mechanical generator
of electrical energy, is the only means by which we can obtain prac-
tically instantaneous explosion, as required by the operation of motors
at high speeds, and for the combustion of large volumes of gas.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 181
It is apparent that a motor with a fixed point of ignition is
not as desirable, in every way, as one in which the ignition can
be advanced to best meet different requirements, and the writer does
not readily perceive any advantage outside of simplicity of control in
establishing a fixed point of ignition. In fact, there seems to be some
difference of opinion among those designers who favor fixed ignition,
and in one case this is located forty-three degrees ahead of center, and
in another motor the point is fixed at twenty degrees, so that it may
be said that this will vary as much as one hundred per cent in various
forms. This point will vary with different methods of ignition, as
well as the location of the spark plug or igniter. The writer favors
a variable point of ignition, as this offers advantages which cannot be
obtained with fixed ignition, and enables one to best gauge the require-
ments of the time of firing the charge by conditions of operation from
time to time. The range may be as desired, varying from a point
after center for starting to one forty-five degrees advanced for maxi-
mum speed. Then again, flexibility of control is greatly increased
when spark time may be varied to suit requirements.
It is obvious by consideration of the foregoing that there can be
no arbitrary rules established for timing, because of the many condi-
tions which determine the best times for opening and closing the
valves. It is customary to try various settings when a new motor is
designed until the most satisfactory points are determined, and the
setting which will be very suitable for one motor is not always right
for one of different design.
A series of valve-timing diagrams are presented at Fig. 93, these
showing the timing employed on four different engines of about the
same size. In that outlined at A the inlet valve begins to open eight
degrees after center and closes exactly on the bottom center. The
exhaust opens thirty degrees before bottom center and closes five
degrees after top center. This motor employs large valves placed
in the head and does not need much lead of the exhaust opening.
In the diagram shown at B the inlet valve has a lag of fourteen
degrees on the opening and closes six degrees after bottom center.
The exhaust valve opens forty-one degrees before bottom center.
The timing method outlined at C gives a greater lead to the ex-
haust than any of the others shown. The exhaust valve starting
182
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
to open forty-seven degrees before center and closing twelve degrees
after top center. The inlet valve begins to open nine degrees after
top center and lags seventeen degrees after bottom center. It will be
Fig. 93. Diagrams Showing Different Valve Timing Methods.
noticed that the exhaust valve is just closing while the inlet is open-
ing, the closing of one member being coincident with the opening of
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 183
the other. This is not very often followed, because there is danger of
the admixture of gases should anything interfere with prompt valve
action.
The diagram shown at D does not differ very much from that
shown at B, except in the lag of the inlet valve. This opens at thir-
teen degrees after top center and does not close until twenty-two de-
grees after bottom center. The exhaust valve opens thirty-nine de-
grees before bottom center and closes ten degrees after top center. It
will be seen that at A there is a lapse of three degrees between exhaust
valve closing and inlet valve opening. At B the lapse is two 'degrees.
At C the timing arrangement is such that there is no lapse between
exhaust closing and inlet opening. Practically as soon as the exhaust
valve is closed fully the inlet valve has opened materially. At D the
lapse between exhaust valve closing and inlet opening is three degrees.
These methods of timing may be considered representative, though
almost every designer follows his own preferences. Sometimes con-
siderable experimenting is necessary before the point is reached where
the motor runs with the maximum power and without noise.
The diagram at Fig. 94 shows clearly the method utilized in mark-
ing the fly wheel of a typical four-cylinder engine so that the valves
may be properly timed without following piston or crank-shaft move-
ment directly. The fly wheel, which is 15^4 inches in circumference,
has been marked off as indicated. As this is a four-cylinder engine,
the marks on the fly wheel enable one to time all cylinders, as one of
two will fire when one mark corresponding to upper center coincides
with the fixed indicating device on the center line of the crank case.
The others explode in turn when the mark indicating the lower center
registers with the trammel point, as the little indicating device on the
crank case is called. When the diameter of a fly wheel is 15^4 inches,
'.()(> 2 inches measured from one of the center lines indicate the crank-
pin travel of fifteen degrees. The lag of inlet closing which in this
motor is thirty-three degrees is represented by a distance of 4.536
inches on the circumference of the fly wheel. The exhaust valve lead
which is fifty-three degrees and thirty minutes is determined by meas-
uring 7.353 inches ahead of the center lines. The point where the
exhaust valve closes which is twelve degrees after center is represented
by a distance of 1.649 inches on the fly wheel. It will be noted that in
184
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
this case there is a lapse of three degrees between the exhaust closing
and the inlet opening. The exhaust valve is kept open considerably
longer than is usually the case, as it lags thirty-three degrees after the
piston is started to go up on its compression stroke. The exhaust
Trammel
Inlet Opens 15= 2. 062"
Late on Circumference.
Inlet Closes 33 =4. 536"
Late on Circumference.
Exhaust Opens 5330'=7.353
Early on Circumference.
Exhaust Closes 12= 1.649
Late on Circumference.
Motor Fires 1-3-4-2
HUDSON
Fig. 94. Diagram Showing Method of Marking Fly-wheel Circumference to
Obtain Proper Timing of Typical Four-Cylinder Motor.
valve opens much, earlier, i. e., it is given a greater lead than an analy-
sis of common practice shows to he desirable. The exhaust valve is
opened considerably longer than is usually the case, as the average
lead given to exhaust is about forty degrees.
In timing a motor from the marks on the fly-wheel rim it is neces-
sary to regulate the valves of but one cylinder at a time. Assuming
that the fly wheel is revolving 'in the direction of the arrow and that
the firing order of the cylinders is 1-3-4-2 the operation of timing
would be carried on as follows : The fly wheel would be revolved until
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 185
the line marked " Exhaust opens 1 and 4 " registered with the trammel
on the motor bed. At this point the exhaust valve of either cylinder
No. 1 or No. 4 should begin to open. This can be easily determined
by noting which of these cylinders holds the compressed charge ready
for ignition when the fly wheel is in the position shown in drawing.
Assuming that the spark has occurred in cylinder No. 1, then when
the fly wheel is turned from the position shown in the sketch to that
in which the line marked " Exhaust opens 1 to 4 " coincides with the
trammel point, the valve plunger under the exhaust valve of cylinder
No. 1 should be adjusted in such a way that there is no clearance
between it and the valve stem. Further movement of the wheel in
the same direction should produce a lift of the exhaust valve. The
fly wheel is turned about two hundred and forty-five degrees or about
three-quarters of a revolution ; then the line marked " Exhaust closes
1 and 4 " will register with the trammel point. At this period the
valve plunger and the valve stem should separate and a certain amount
of clearance obtained between them. The next cylinder to time would
be No. 3. The fly wheel is rotated until mark " Exhaust opens 2 and
3 " comes in line with the trammel. At this point the exhaust valve of
cylinder No. 3 should be just about opening. The closing is deter-
mined by rotating the fly wheel until the line " Exhaust closes 2 and
3 " comes under the trammel.
This operation is carried on with all the cylinders, it being well to
remember that but one cylinder is working at a time and that a half
revolution of the fly wheel corresponds to a full working stroke of all
the cylinders, and that while one is exhausting, the others are respect-
ively taking in a new charge, compressing and exploding. For in-
stance, if cylinder No. 1 has just completed its power stroke the
piston in cylinder No. 3 has reached the point where the gas may be
ignited to advantage. The piston of cylinder No. 4, which is next to
fire, is at the bottom of its stroke and will have inspired a charge, while
cylinder No. 2, which is the last to fire, will have just finished expelling
a charge of burned gas, and will be starting the intake stroke.
CHAPTER IV
Considering Pistons, Piston Rings, Connecting Rods, Crank Shafts, the Fly
Wheel, and Engine Base Construction Typical Two- and Four-Cycle
Power Plants Described.
Constructional Details of Pistons. The piston is one of the most
important parts of the gasoline motor inasmuch as it is the recipro-
cating member that receives the impact of the explosion and which
transforms the power obtained by the combustion of gas to mechan-
ical motion by means of the connecting rod to which it is attached.
The piston is one of the simplest elements of the motor, and it is one
component which does not vary much in form in different types of
motors. The piston is a cylindrical member provided with a series of
grooves in which packing rings are placed on the outside and two
bosses which serve to hold the wrist pin in its interior. It is usually
made of cast iron, though in some motors where extreme lightness is
desired, such as those used for aeronautic work, it may be made of
steel. The use of the more resisting material enables the engineer to
use lighter sections where it is important that the weight of this mem-
ber be kept as low as possible consistent with strength.
A number of piston types are shown at Fig. 95. That at A has
a round top and is provided with four split packing rings and two
oil grooves. A piston of this type is generally employed in motors
where the combustion chamber is large and where it is desired to
obtain a higher degree of compression than would be possible with a
flat top piston. This construction is also stronger because of the
arched piston top. The most common form of piston is that shown
at B, and it differs from that previously described only in that it has
a flat top. The piston outlined in section at C is a type used on some
of the sleeve-valve motors of the Knight pattern, and has a concave
head instead of the convex form shown at A. The design shown at
D in side and plan views is the conventional form employed in two-
cycle engines. The deflector plate on the top of the cylinder is cast
186
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
187
integral and is utilized to prevent the incoming fresh gases from flow-
ing directly over the piston top and out of the exhaust port which is
usually opposite the inlet opening. On those types of two-cycle en-
gines where a two-diameter cylinder is employed, the piston shown at
E is used. This is known as a " differential piston/' and has an en-
larged portion at its lower end which fits the pumping cylinder. The
Side View
Fig. 95. Forms of Pistons Commonly Employed in Gasoline Engines. A
Dome Head Piston with Three Packing Rings. B Flat Top Form Almost
Universally Used. C Concave Piston Utilized in Knight Motors and Some
Having Overhead Valves. D Two-Cycle Engine Member with Deflector
Plate Cast Integrally. E Differential of Two-Diameter Piston Used in
Some Engines Operating on Two-Cycle Principle.
usual form of deflector plate is provided at the top of the piston and
one may consider it as two pistons in one.
One of the important conditions in piston design is the method of
securing the wrist pin which is used to connect the piston to the upper
end of the connecting rod. Various methods have been devised to
keep the pin in place, the most common of these being shown at Fig.
188 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
96. The wrist pin should be retained by some positive means whicl
is not liable to become loose under the vibratory stresses which obtain
at this point. If the wrist pin was free to move it would work out oJ
the bosses enough so that the end would bear against the cylinder wall.
As it is usually made of steel, which is a harder material than cast
iron used in cylinder construction, the rubbing action would tend to
cut a groove in the cylinder wall which would make for loss of power
because it would permit escape of gas. The wrist pin member is a
simple cylindrical element that fits the bosses closely, and it may be
either hollow or solid stock.
The method of retention shown at A is the simplest and consists
of a set screw having a projecting portion passing into the wrist pin
and holding it in place. The screw is kept from turning or loosening
by means of a check nut. The method outlined at B is similar to that
shown at A, except that the wrist pin is solid and the point of the
set screw engages an annular groove turned in the pin for its recep-
tion. A very positive method is shown at C. Here the retention
screws pass into the wrist pin and are then locked by a piece of steel
wire which passes through suitable holes in the ends. The method
outlined at D is sometimes employed, and it varies from that shown
at C only in that the locking wire, which is made of spring steel, is
passed through the heads of the locking screws. Some designers ma-
chine a large groove around the piston at such a point that when the
wrist pin is put in place a large packing ring may be sprung in the
groove and hold the wrist pin in place.
The system shown at F is not so widely used as the simpler meth-
ods, because it is more costly and does not offer any greater security
when the parts are new than the simple lock shown at A. In this a
hollow wrist pin. is used, having a tapered thread cut at each end. The
wrist pin is slotted at three or four points, for a distance equal to the
length of the boss, and when taper expansion plugs are screwed in
place the ends of the wrist pin are expanded against the bosses. This
method has the advantage of providing a certain degree of adjustment
if the wrist pin should loosen up after it had been in use for some time.
The taper plugs would be screwed in deeper and the ends of the wrist
pin expanded proportionately to take up the loss motion. The method
shown at G is an ingenious one, One of the piston bosses is provided
1
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189
190 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
with a projection which is drilled out to receive a plunger. The wrist
pin is provided with a hole of sufficient size to receive the plunger,
which is kept in place hy means of a spring in back of it. This makes
a 'very positive lock and one that can be easily loosened when it is
desired to remove the wrist pin. To unlock,, a piece of fine rod is
thrust into the hole at the bottom of the boss and pushes the plunger
back against the spring until the wrist pin can be pushed out of the
piston.
Some engineers think it advisable to oscillate the wrist pin in
the piston bosses, instead of in the connecting rod small end. It is
argued that this construction gives more bearing surface at the wrist
pin and also provides for more strength because of. the longer bosses
that can be used. When this system is followed the piston pin is held
in place by locking it to the connecting rod by some means. At H
the simplest method is outlined. This consisted of driving a taper
pin through both rod and wrist pin and then preventing it from back-
ing out by putting a split cotter through the small end of the tapered
locking pin. Another method, which is depicted at I, consists of
clamping the wrist pin by means of a suitable bolt which brings the
slit connecting rod end together as shown.
Piston Ring Construction. As all pistons must be free to move up
and down in the cylinder with minimum friction, they must be less
in diameter than the bore of the cylinder. The amount of freedom or
clearance provided varies with the construction of the engine, but it
is usual to provide from .005 to .010 of an inch to compensate for
the expansion of the piston due to heat and also to leave sufficient
clearance for the introduction of lubricant between the working sur-
faces. Obviously, if the piston were not provided with packing rings,
this amount of clearance would enable a portion of the gases evolved
when the charge is exploded to escape by it into the engine crank case.
The packing members or piston rings, as they are called, are split rings
of cast iron, which are sprung into suitable grooves machined on the
exterior of the piston, three or four of these being the usual number
supplied^ These have sufficient elasticity so that they bear tightly
against the cylinder wall and thus make a gas-tight joint. Owing to
the limited amount of surface in contact with the cylinder wall and the
elasticity of the split rings the amount of friction resulting from the
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
191
contact of properly fitted rings and the cylinder is not of enough mo-
merit to cause any damage and piston is free to slide up and down in
the cylinder bore.
These rings are made in two forms, as outlined at Pig. 97. The
design shown at A is termed a " concentric ring/' because the inner
circle is concentric with the outer one and the ring is of uniform
D
Fig. 97. Types of Piston Rings and Ring Joints. . A Concentric Ring. B Ec-
centrically Machined Form. C Lap Joint Ring. D Butt Joint, Seldom
Used. E Diagonal Cut Member, a Popular Form.
thickness at all points. The ring shown at B is called an " eccentric
ring," and it is thicker at one part than the other. It has theoretical
advantages in that it will make a tighter joint than tHe other form,
as it is claimed its expansion due to heat is more uniform. The piston
rings must be split in order that they may be sprung in place in the
grooves, and also to insure that they will have sufficient elasticity to
take the form of the cylinder at the different points in their travel. If
the cylinder bore varies by small amounts the rings will spring out at
the points where the bore is larger than standard, and spring in at
those portions where it is smaller than standard.
It is important that the joint should be as nearly gas-tight as pos-
sible, because if it were not a portion of the gases would escape through
the slots in the piston rings. The joint shown at C is termed a " lap
joint," because the ends of the ring are cut in such a manner that
they overlap. This is the approved joint. The butt joint shown at
D is seldom used and is a very poor form, the only advantage being
its cheapness. The diagonal cut shown at E is a compromise between
the very good form shown at C and the poor joint depicted at D. It
192
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
is also widely used, though most constructors prefer the lap joint,
because it does not permit the leakage of gas as much as the other two
types.
The illustration at Fig. 98 shows a typical flat top piston, provided
with diagonal cut concentric packing rings. One of these members is
Fig. 98. Showing Flat-Top Piston Provided with Four Concentric Rings, One
of the Packing Members and the Wrist Pin with its Bushing.
shown on top of the piston and the wrist pin and the bushing which
fits it and which is forced into the small end of the connecting rod
are placed at one side. In some cases the piston rings are pinned in
place in their grooves so that they cannot move around until they are
all in such a position that the slots will come in line. In others, it is
believed that they are left free to turn that they will wear in place
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 193
and conform to the bore of the cylinder better than if they are kept
from turning. When the rings are pinned they usually have the diag-
onal cut, while those that are left free are usually provided with the
lap joint.
Connecting Rod Forms. The connecting rod is the simple member
that joins the piston to the crank shaft and which transmits the
Fig. 99. Typical Connecting Rod and its Wrist Pin. Lower Bearing Cap Held
by Four Bolts. White Metal Boxes in Cast Bronze Rod.
power imparted to the piston by the explosion so that it may be use-
fully applied. It transforms the reciprocating movement of the piston
to a rotary motion at the crank shaft. A typical connecting rod and
its wrist pin are shown at Fig. 99. It will be seen that it has two
bearings, one at either end. The small end is bored out to receive
the wrist pin which joins it to the piston, while the large end has
a hole of sufficient size to go on the crank pin. The connecting rod
is usually a steel forging, though it is sometimes made a steel or high
tensile strength bronze casting. In all cases it is desirable to have
softer metals than the crank shaft and wrist pin at the bearing point,
and for this reason the connecting rod is usually provided with bush-
ings of anti-friction or white metal at the lower end, and bronze at
the upper. The upper end of the connecting rod may be one piece,
.because the wrist pin can be introduced after it is in place between
the bosses of the piston. The lower bearing must be made in two
parts in most cases, because the crank shaft cannot be passed through
the bearing owing to its irregular form.
194 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
Some of the various designs of connecting rods that have been
used are shown at Fig. 100. That at A is a simple form often em-
ployed in single-cylinder motors., having built-up crank shafts. Both
ends of the connecting rod are bushed with a one-piece bearing, as it
can be assembled in place before the crank-shaft assembly is built up.
A built-up crank shaft such as this type of connecting rod would be
used with is shown at Fig. 106. The pattern shown at B is one that
has been used to some extent on heavy work, and is known as the
"marine type." It is made in three pieces, the main portion being
a steel forging having a flanged lower end to which the bronze boxes
are secured by bolts. The modified marine type depicted at C is the
form that has received the widest application in automobile construc-
tion. It consists of two pieces, the main member being a steel drop
forging having the wrist-pin bearing and the upper crank-pin bearing
formed integral, while the lower crank-pin bearing member is a sepa-
rate forging secured to the connecting rod by bolts. In this construction
bushings of anti-friction metal are used at the lower end, and a bronze
bushing is forced into the upper- or wrist-pin end. The rod shown
at D has also been widely used. It is similar in construction to the
form shown at C, except that the upper end is split in order to permit
of a degree of adjustment of the wrist-pin bushing, and the lower
bearing cap is a hinged member which is retained by one bolt instead
of two. When it is desired to assemble it on the crank shaft the lower
cap is swung to one side and brought back into place when the con-
necting rod has been properly located. Sometimes the lower bearing
member is split diagonally instead of horizontally, such a construction
being outlined at E.
In a number of instances, instead of plain bushed bearings anti-
friction forms using ball or rollers have been used at the lower end.
A ball-bearing connecting rod is shown at F. The big end may bo
made in one piece, because if it is possible to get the ball bearing
on the crank pins it will be easy to put the connecting rod in
place. Ball bearings are not used very often on connecting rod
big enSs because of difficulty of installation, though when applied
properly they give satisfactory service and reduce friction to a mini- :
mum. One of the advantages of the ball bearing is that it requires fj
no adjustment, whereas the plain bushings depicted in the other con-
lif!
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196
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
necting rods must be taken up from time to time to compensate for
wear.
This can be done in forms shown at B, C, D, and E by bringing
the lower bearing caps closer to the upper one and scraping out the
Fig. 101. Crank Shaft, Piston and Connecting Rod Assembly Used in Reo
Motors.
brasses to fit the shaft. A number of liners or shims of thin brass or
copper stock varying from .002 inch to .005 inch are sometimes inter-
posed between the halves of the bearings when it is first fitted to the
crank pin. .As the brasses wear the shims may be removed and the
portions of the bearings brought close enough together to take up anv
lost motion that may exist.
The various -structural shapes in which connecting rods are formed
are shown in section at G. Of these the I section is most common,
because it is strong and a very easy shape to form by the drop-forging
process. Where extreme lightness is desired, as in small high-speed
motors used for cycle propulsion, the section shown at the extreme
left is often used. If the rod is a cast member the cross, hollow cylin-
der, or U sections are sometimes used. If the sections shown at the
right are employed, advantage is often taken of the opportunity for
passing lubricant through the center of the hollow round section on
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 197
vertical motors or at the bottom of the U section, which would be used
on a horizontal cylinder power plant.
Cam-Shaft Forms. Piston and connecting rod types having been
described, the next component of importance to receive attention
should be the crank shaft. These vary in form according to the de-
signs of the motor and number of cylinders employed. A typical
crank shaft, piston, and connecting rod assembly which forms part of
the Eeo motor is shown at Fig. 101, and the parts are so clearly shown
that no description is necessary.
Before going extensively into the subject of crank-shaft construc-
tion it will be well to consider cam-shaft design, which is properly a.
part of the valve system and which should be considered in connection
Fig. 102. Some of the Components of Corbin " 40 " Motor. A Piston and Con-
necting Rod Assembly. B Inlet and Exhaust Cam Shafts. C Twin-
Cylinder Casting.
with the other elements which have to do directly with cylinder con-
struction. Cam shafts are usually simple members carried at the base
of the cylinder in the engine case by suitable bearings and having the
cams employed to lift the valves attached at intervals. A typical cam-
shaft design is shown at Fig. 102 in connection with one of the twin-
cylinder castings and the piston and connecting rod assembly of the
198 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
Corbin " 40 " motor. Two main methods of cam-shaft construction
are followed that in which the cams are separate members, keyed
and pinned to the shaft, and the other where the cams are formed
integral.
The cam shafts shown at Fig. 102 are of the former type, as the
cams are machined separately and held in place by means of keys and
t
Fig. 103. Typical Cam Shaft with Valve Lifting Cams and Gears to Operate
Auxiliary Devices Forged Integrally.
taper pins. The small gears used to drive some of the accessory mech-
anism, such as the oil pump, timer, etc., are also separately formed
and pinned to the cam shaft. At Fig. 103 the other method of cam-
shaft construction is outlined. In this case not only the cams but also
the gears used in driving the auxiliary shafts are forged integral.
This is a more expensive construction than that shown at Fig. 102,
because of the high initial cost of forging dies as well as the greater
expense of machining. It has the advantage over the other form in
which the cams are keyed in place in that it is stronger, and as the
cams are a part of the shaft they can never become loose, as might be
possible where they are separately formed and assembled on a simple
shaft. As an example of an auxiliary shaft carried at the side of the
motor and driven from the cam shaft the assembly at Fig. 104 is
given. This is driven from one of the small gears shown at Fig. 103
and carries the ignition timer at the upper end and drives the oil
pump through a spring coupling at its lower end.
Crank-shaft Types Outlined, The importance of the crank shaft
has been previously considered, and some of its forms have been shown
in views of the motors presented in earlier portions of this work. The
crank shaft is one of the parts subjected to the greatest strain and
extreme care is needed in its construction and design, because prac-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
199
tically the entire duty of trans-
mitting the power generated by
the motor to the gearset de-
volves upon it. Crank shafts are
usually made of high tensile
strength steel of special composi-
tion. They may be made in four
ways, the most common being
from a drop or machine forg-
ing which is formed approxi-
mately to the shape of the fin-
ished shaft and in rare instances
they may be steel castings.
Sometimes they are made from
machine forgings, where con-
siderably more machine work
is necessary than would be the
case where the shaft is formed
between dies. Some engineers
favor blocking the shaft out of
a solid slab of metal and then
machining this rough blank to
form. In some single-cylinder
motors of the enclosed fly-wheel
type the crank shaft and fly
wheel are built up as a unit.
The form of the shaft de-
pends on the number of cylin-
ders and the form has material
influence on the method of con-
struction. For instance, a one-,
two- or four-cylinder crank shaft
could be made by either of the
methods outlined. On the other
hand, a three- or six-cylinder
shaft is best made by the ma-
chine forging process, because
Fig. 104. Auxiliary Shaft Used in Con-
nection with Cam Shaft Driven from a
Spiral Gear Turns Timer and Oil Pump.
200
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
if drop forged or cut from the blank it will have to be heated and the
crank throws bent around so that the pins will lie in 'three planes one
hundred and twenty degrees apart, while the other types described
need no further attention, as the crank pins lie in planes one hundred
Fig. 105. Showing Method of Making Crank Shaft. A The Rough Steel
Forging Before Machining. B The Finished Six-Throw, Seven-Bearing
Crank Shaft.
and eighty degrees apart. This can be better understood by referring
to Fig. 105, which shows a. six-cylinder shaft in the rough and finished
stages. At A the appearance of the machine forging before any of
the material is removed is shown, while at B the appearance of the
finished crank shaft is clearly depicted. The built-up crank shaft is
seldom used on multiple-cylinder motors, except in some cases where
the crank shafts revolve on ball bearings and the connecting rods are
provided with this form as well.
A typical single-cylinder high-speed motor is shown at Fig. 106,
this being the De Dion-Bouton, a power plant which has been quite
popular in France in the past for " voiturette " or small car use. In
this design the flywheels are enclosed in the crank case and the crank
shaft is a built-up construction formed of five pieces. The two halves
of the crank shaft fit into taper holes in the fly wheels and are held
securely in place by means of keys and clamping nuts. The crank pin
is similarly retained. Brief study of the illustration will show this
method of' 'construction very clearly. It should be stated that this is
seldom used on automobile motors but that it is very common con-
struction in motorcycle power plants.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
201
Flywheel
Fig. 106. Defining Built-up Crank- shaft Construction Sometimes Used in Small
Motors.
202
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
Crank-shaft form will vary with a number of cylinders and it is
possible to use a number of different arrangements of crank pins and
bearings for the same number of cylinders. The simplest form of
Fig. 107. Showing Form of Crank Shaft for Twin-Cylinder Opposed Power
Plant.
crank shaft is that used on a one-cylinder motor, as it would consist
of but one crank pin, two webs, and the crank shaft. As the number
Fig. 108. Two Forms of Four-Cylinder Crank Shaft. A Five-Bearing Type
with Fly-wheel Fastening Key at Front End. B Three-Bearing Type with
Flange for Securing Fly-wheel Formed Integral.
of cylinders increase, as a general rule more crank pins are used. The
crank shaft that would be used on a two-cylinder opposed motor is
shown at Fig. 107. This has two throws and the crank pins are
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
203
spaced 180 degrees apart. The bearings are exceptionally long and a
flange is forged integral at the rear end for fly-wheel retention. Four-
cylinder crank shafts may have two, three or five main bearings and
three or four crank pins. In some forms of two-bearing crank shafts,
such as used when four cylinders are cast in a block, or unit casting,
two of the pistons are attached to one common crank pin, so that in
reality the crank shaft has but three crank pins. Such a form is
shown at Fig. 112, which depicts a four-cylinder two-bearing crank
shaft used on Chalmers' motors.
When the cylinders are cast individually five-bearing crank shafts
are the rule. One of these, which is used on Maxwell engines, is shown
Fig. 109. Representative Three-Bearing Crank Shafts. A For Use with
Cylinders Cast in Pairs. B Used with Individually Cast Cylinders. Note
Round Section Portions Connecting Ends to Center Crank Throws.
at Fig. 108, A. The three-bearing type shown at Fig. 108, B, is used
when the cylinders are cast in pairs. Two other three-bearing shafts
.used in four-cylinder motors are shown at Fig. 109. That at A forms
part of the E. M. F. engine, which has the cylinders cast in pairs,
while the three-bearing four-throw type, shown at B, is used in the
Rambler four-cylinder engine, which has individually cast cylinders.
Six-cylinder crank shafts usually have four or seven main bearings
depending upon the disposition of the crank pins and arrangement of
cylinders. At Fig. 110 the bottom view of a Premier six-cylinder
engine with bottom half of crank case removed is given. This illus-
trates clearly the arrangement of crank pins and main bearings when
204
Tlie Modern Gasoline Automobile
the crank shaft is supported on four journals. The crank shaft shown
at Fig. 105, B, is a six-cylinder seven-bearing type.
Fig. 110. Bottom View of Premier Engine Showing Four-Bearing, Six-Cylinder
Crank Shaft with Connecting Rods in Place.
Ball-Bearing Crank Shafts. While crank shafts are usually sup-
ported in plain journals there seems to be a growing tendency of late
to use anti-friction bearings of the ball type for their support. This is
Retention
Nut
Timing Gear
Fig. 111. Design of Four-Cylinder Crank Shaft Mounted on Two Annular Ball
Bearings. Note Method of Fly-wheel Retention by Key and Taper and
Bearing Housing.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 205
especially noticeable on block motors where but two main bearings are
utilized. When ball bearings are selected with proper relation to the
load which obtains they will give very satisfactory service. They
permit the crank shaft to turn with minimum friction, and if properly
selected will never need adjustment. The drawing at Fig. Ill shows
the usual method of mounting a four-cylinder crank shaft on two
annular ball bearings. The front end is supported by a bearing which
is clamped in such a manner that it will take a certain amount of load
in a direction parallel to the axis of the shaft, while the rear end is
so supported that the outer race of the bearing has a certain amount
Fig. 112. Four-Throw, Two-Bearing Chalmers Crank Shaft Mounted on Anti-
Friction Journals of the Ball-Bearing Type.
of axial freedom or " float/' The inner race or cone of each bearing
is firmly clamped against shoulders on the crank shaft. At the front
end of the crank-shaft timing gear and a suitable check nut are used,
while at the back end the bearing is clamped by a threaded retention
member between the fly wheel and a shoulder on the crank shaft. The
fly wheel is held in place by a taper and key retention. The ball bear-
ings are carried in a housing of bronze or malleable iron, which in
turn are held in the crank case by bolts. The two-bearing crank shaft
shown at Fig. 112 is that used in Chalmers' motors, while a three-
bearing crank shaft supported on anti-friction members of the ball
type which has been used successfully on Lozier cars is shown at Fig.
206
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
113. Figs. Ill and 112 show designs of two-bearing, four-cylinder
crank shafts, such as used in block motors very clearly, while the
form depicted at Fig. 113 forms part of a motor having the cylinders
cast in pairs.
Fig. 113. Four-Throw, Three-Bearing Lozier Crank Shaft and Connecting Rod
Assembly Mounted on Three Large Annular Ball Bearings. Note Con-
necting Rod Design and the Use of Plain Bearings at Both Wrist-pin and
Crank-pin Ends.
Fly-wheel Construction and Retention. In- explaining the princi-
ple of operation of the internal combustion engine it was made clear
that there were four strokes of the piston necessary to complete the
cycle of operation in any one cylinder, and of these but one* was a
useful or power stroke. The gasoline engine would not be a. practical
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 207
power producer, especially if made in one- and two-cylinder patterns,
without some means of equalizing the uneven power generation. Con-
sidering first the single-cylinder motor, we find that we have but one
explosion every four strokes, and as this represents two revolutions of
the crank shaft it will be evident that it is necessary to store up energy
by some means in order to carry the crank shaft through the idle
strokes. This is accomplished by supplying a heavy wheel which is
secured in a positive manner to the crank shaft and which turns with
it. When the explosion drives the piston down considerable energy
is stored in the fly-wheel rim and it will continue to revolve after the
impulse given it has diminished in value to a considerable extent. In
fact there is enough energy stored in the fly wheel of proper weight
to carry the piston through all the idle strokes and to equalize the
torque produced. This insures an even turning moment and makes
for uniform application of power to the mechanism.
The fly-wheel weight is dictated largely by the number of cylin-
ders employed, it being a general rule that the motors having the least
number of cylinders require the heaviest fly wheels. This means that
a single-cylinder motor will need a heavier equalizing member than
one having a greater number of cylinders and a more even turning
moment at the crank shaft. As an example of how the number of
cylinders directly affects fly-wheel weight, one may say that if a single-
cylinder engine of given power required a fly wheel of two hundred
pounds weight to equalize the power effect, a double-cylinder engine
would need one of about one hundred and sixty pounds, a four-cylin-
der engine would use one weighing but one hundred pounds, while a
six-cylinder motor would furnish a uniform torque with a fly-wheel
member weighing no more than sixty pounds. Fly-wheel weight is
determined by many conditions, some of the important ones being bore
of the cylinder, speed of crank-shaft rotation, degree of compression,
and mode of transmission. It is common practice to provide a fly
wheel somewhat heavier than the actual requirements on multi-cylin-
der motors of large bore so that these may be more easily started by
a person of average strength.
Fly-wheel types vary from simple spoked members resembling a
belt pulley with a heavy rim to others having fan-shaped spokes and
light rims. Where a sliding gear transmission is used it is customary
208
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
to make one of the clutch members integral with the fly wheel. For
instance, at Fig. 114 a typical fan-blade fly wheel adapted for use with
a cone clutch is shown. This has a central web member which forms
Fig. 114. Typical Fly Wheel Showing Female Member of Cone Clutch and Fan-
Blade Spokes. Rim is Light Because of Large Diameter.
the back of a saucer-shaped casting which serves as a female member
of the cone clutch. From the periphery of this, the spokes radiate to
the rim.^ As the fly wheel is of comparatively large diameter the
rim is lighter than would be necessary if the weight were concentrated
nearer the center of the crank shaft. At Fig. 115 the rear view of a
power plant is given showing a simple type of fan-blade fly wheel,
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
209
which is secured to the crank shaft by means of four bolts. As this
member is designed for use with a type of gearset with the clutches
Fig. 115. Rear View of Overland Power Plant Showing Fan-Blade Spoke Fly-
wheel Construction.
incorporated, it is not necessary to provide for part of the clutch in
the fly-wheel casting.
The diameter of a fly wheel must be held to certain limits and
this restricts the useful weight one can put at the rim. If the fly
210 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
wheel is placed low in the car it cannot be of large diameter, because
one must have at least twelve or fourteen inches clearance between the
bottom of the fly wheel and the roadway. Then again, the factor of
centrifugal force must be taken into account, as when a fly wheel re-
volves there is a tendency for the particles of which it is composed to
fly out in a direction tangential to the circle of rotation, and this force
^tends to rupture the rim. If steel is used instead of cast iron, the
fly wheel may be of larger diameter, because the stronger material has
greater resistance to this rupturing stress, but these wheels are not
easy to make because in ordinary motor car sizes they must be steel
castings and are thus quite costly. For a cast-iron fly wheel a safe
value for speed of rotation of a point on the rim is about a mile a
minute. It will be seen that the diameter must be such that the fly
wheel may be run at maximum speeds without danger of bursting.
A fly wheel having a solid web joining the hub and rim is consid-
erably stronger than one of the spoke type. The object of providing
spokes shaped like fan blades is to take advantage of a suction effect
produced to draw air from the motor compartment and exhaust it
under the car. In some cars the draft created by the fly wheel is de-
pended upon to supply the air needed for cooling the engine, either
by applying it directly to the cylinders or by pulling it through the
interstices of a water-cooling radiator. It is considered desirable to
concentrate as much of the weight of the fly wheel at the rim as pos-
sible, because the further away from center the weight is carried the
more effective the fly wheel is as a reservoir of energy and equalizer
of torque.
Positive Fly-wheel Retention Important. Methods of fly-wheel re-
tention vary to some extent, and the main point observed by most
designers is to use as secure a method of attaching it to the crank shaft
as possible. The common systems of retention employed are shown at
Fig. 116. The simplest of these is depicted at A. This consists merely
of forcing the shaft into the fly-wheel hub and keeping the fly wheel
from turning on the shaft by a substantial key which fits keyways
machined , in both shaft and fly-wheel hub. This method was for-
merly used to a greater extent than it is at present, but its use has
been practically abandoned, except on marine engines, because the
means of fastening was not reliable. The intermittent application of
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
211
power to the fly wheel meant that its speed of rotation was accelerated
at a certain point of the crank-shaft travel corresponding to the power
stroke and checked at the other, or idle strokes. This produced stresses
which tended to loosen the fly wheel on the key, and as soon as the
retaining member was slightly loose a very disagreeable knocking
Fig. 116. Outlining Methods of Fly-wheel Retention Commonly Used. A By
Gib Key. B By Woodruff Key, Taper and Clamp Nut. C By Bolting to
Flange Forged Integrally with Crank Shaft.
sound was produced by the hammering action of the loose fly wheel
on its retaining key.
At B a system often employed on types of crank shafts where it
is not practical to use the preferred method shown at C is outlined.
For instance, when ball bearings are applied it is necessary that they
be put on the shaft from each end and if a flange was formed integral
it would not be possible to use ball bearings except of very large bore.
212
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
Then again, some engineers using alloy steel for crank-shaft construc-
tion machine it from a slab of that material, and in order to reduce
cost of manufacture no attempt is made to form the flange integral
with the shaft. In this the end of the shaft designed to support the
Trammel
Fig. 117. Showing Method of Marking Rim of Six-Cylinder Fly Wheel for
Guiding Repairman or Motorist to Retain Correct Valve Timing.
fly wheel is tapered, as is also the fly-wheel hub. In addition to the
taper a Woodruff key is usually let into the shaft and keyway cut into
the fly-wheel hub to receive it. When the fly wheel is forced on the
taper by the clamping nut it is firmly retained by the key, and at the
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 213
same time the wedging effect of the taper and the pressure of the
clamping nut prevents the fly wheel from loosening. The fly wheel at
B has a portion of the rim machined on a taper, so it can receive the
male member of a cone-type clutch.
The fly wheel shown at C is held by the preferred method. In
forging the crank shaft a flange is formed integral and the fly wheel
is secured to this flange by means of suitable retaining screws or bolts.
If these are properly fitted it is practically impossible for the fly
wheel to loosen on the flange, and as the flange is a part of the shaft
it is obviously impossible for it to become separated therefrom. The
fly wheel shown at C is provided with a casing formed integral which
is designed to receive a clutch of the multiple-disk pattern.
The writer has previously explained the action of the valve mech-
anism and diagrams have been presented to show the sequence of the
strokes. Most manufacturers mark the fly wheel with the various
points at which valves should open or close. This not only facili-
tates work at the plant of the producer, but it insures that the timing
will be restored to the proper point in eveiit of taking the engine down
for repair at some garage or machine shop. The various points are
laid out on the fly-wheel periphery by means of steel stamps or letters,
which may be easily interpreted. The position of these lines is deter-
mined by the peculiarities of that specific engine, and will vary in
the different designs. The layout is always made with reference to
some fixed point on the motor bed, this usually being a small metal
pointer attached to a center point and known as a " trammel." The
various points at which valves should open and close for a typical six-
cylinder engine are clearly shown laid out on the fly-wheel rim at
Fig. 117.
Engine-Base Construction. One of the important parts of the
power plant is the substantial casing or bed member, which is em-
ployed to support the cylinders and crank shaft and which is attached
directly to the motor-car frame. This will vary widely in form, but
as a general thing it is an approximately cylindrical member which
may be divided either vertically or horizontally in two or more parts.
Automobile crank cases are usually made of aluminum, a material
which has about the same strength as cast iron, but which only weighs
a third as much. In some cases cast iron is employed, but is not
214
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
favored by most engineers because of its brittle nature and low re-
sistance to tensile stresses. Where exceptional strength is needed al-
loys of bronze are used, and in some cases where cars are produced in
large quantities a portion of the crank case may be a sheet steel or
aluminum stamping.
Crank cases are always large enough to permit the crank shaft and
parts attached to it to turn inside and obviously its length is deter-
Tig. 118. Crank Case of Reo Four-Cylinder Motor, a Barrel Type with Ends
Closed by Plates which Support Crank Shaft.
mined by the number of cylinders and their disposition. The crank
case of the single-cylinder or double-opposed cylinder engine would
be substantially the same in length. That of a four-cylinder will vary
in length with the method of casting the cylinder. When the four
cylinders are cast in one unit and a two-bearing crank shaft is used, the
crank case is a very compact and short member. When a three-bearing
crank shaft is utilized and the cylinders are cast in pairs, the engine
base is longer than it would be to support a block casting, but is
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
215
shorter than one designed to sustain individual cylinder castings and
a five-bearing crank shaft.
A four-cylinder crank case of the barrel type is shown at Fig. 118.
The construction calls for the use of end-bearing plates, which carry
the front and rear main journals. In order to gain access to the in-
terior, large openings are provided at the side of the case and closed
by plates when the assembly is completed. The cylinders are held in
place by a series of stud bolts screwed into the top of the case, and a
similar method of retention is utilized for the end plates. A projec-
tion from the side serves to house the cam shaft, while the motor-
Fig. 119. Crank Case of Corbin " 40 " Power Plant Made in Two Halves.
Crank-Shaft Bearings and Caps Secured to Upper Half, which also Has Sup-
porting Arms Cast Integral. Lower Portion of Crank Case Simply Acts as
Oil Container. This is the Common Construction.
timing gears are protected by a separate casting member, which is
part of the front bearing plate. It is now common construction to
cast an oil container integral with the bottom of the engine base and
to draw the lubricating oil from it by means of a pump. The arms
216
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
by which the motor is supported in the frame are substantial-ribbed
members cast integrally.
The approved method of crank-case construction favored by the
majority of engineers is shown at Fig. 119, bottom side up. The
upper half not only forms a bed for the cylinder but is used to hold
the crank shaft as well. In the illustration the three-bearing crank
shaft is shown resting in the upper main bearing boxes which form
part of the case, while the lower brasses are in the form of separately
cast caps retained by suitable bolts. In the construction outlined the
bottom part of the case serves merely as an oil container and a pro-
tection for the interior mechanism of the motor.
Fig. 120. Bottom View of Inter-State Power Plant. Crank Case a Barrel Form
with Removable Bottom Plate to Permit Access to Engine Interior. Im-
portant Power Plant Parts Clearly Shown.
In some instances where barrel-type crank cases are employed, in-
stead of using hand holes for adjustment in the side, the design is as
shown at Fig. 120. The bottom of the crank case is left open in cast-
ing and is closed by a large plate. The interior parts of the engine
217
218 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
are clearly depicted, as they appear viewed from the bottom, and the
accessibility afforded by this design should be readily perceived. En-
gineers who favor unit power plants often include a portion of the
crank case with the housing for the clutch and gearset. Such a
construction is clearly shown at Fig. 121. It will be seen that a sub-
stantial yoke member which encircles the fly wheel is used to join the
gear case to the engine base. In this view the method of retaining
the five-bearing crank shaft to the upper half of the case is also
shown. In designing crank cases the main thing to be considered is
to have it of ample strength and to arrange the various parts so that
the interior mechanism may be reached without dismantling the entire
engine when adjustments are necessary.
Typical Two-Cycle Motors. As a general rule the two-stroke cycle
engines that have been adapted for automobile propulsion differ ma-
terially from the simple forms previously described. Some makers,
who use the simple form, have been able to secure very satisfactory,
results in practice by careful attention to port design. When a two-
cycle motor is to be used for motor-boat propulsion, it is a moderate
speed proposition and great flexibility or efficiency are not sought. In
the automobile, however, the conditions that obtain make it "necessary
to design the power plant in such a way that it would have a wide
range of speed and so that it can be easily accelerated from its lowest
to its highest speed without missing explosions or running irregularly.
A sectional view through the cylinder of the Amplex two-cycle
motor is shown at Fig. 122, A. This motor is a simple construction
which resembles the marine type in general design, though great care
has been taken in proportioning the ports and gas passages to obtain
the flexibility which is so essential to the motor-car power plant. This
motor is a three-port type and the gas is taken into the engine base
through ports which are uncovered by the piston when it reaches the,
end of its compression stroke. When the parts are in the position
shown at A, the piston has reached the top of its stroke and the com-
pressed gas in the cylinder is ready for ignition. At the same time
the inlet ports just at the bottom of the piston have been uncovered I
and the gas flows through the intake manifold from the carburetor.
In the other view shown at B, the position of the parts when the pis-
ton has completed its power stroke is depicted. The exhaust port is
219
220 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
fully opened and the burned gases are discharged through it. Com-
munication is also made between the engine base where the charge
has received preliminary compression necessary to insure its transfer
through the safety screen and the open ports in the cylinder wall.
The entering fresh gas is deflected to the top of the cylinder by the
deflector plate provided on the top of the piston, as is usual practice.
The Amplex motor is a four-cylinder type and gives very satisfactory
results in practice.
The Legros two-cycle motor, which is of French derivation, em-
bodies a distributor valve and a peculiar arrangement of pistons. In
this construction a stationary member is placed inside of the regular
working piston, and it is the space between these members that is
utilized to store the gas taken in, prior to transferring it from the
pump portion of the engine to the combustion chamber. The action
is very similar to that of the usual form of differential piston motor.
When the piston goes up on the compression stroke it draws in a
charge of gas from the carburetor through the rotary distributor
valve and up through the passage which joins the valve chambers to
the space between the stationary and movable pistons. When the
piston reaches the top of its stroke the rotary valve turns to such a
position that it cuts off the carburetor from the pumping chamber and
provides communication between the pumping chamber and the cylin-
der by means of the usual transfer passage and inlet ports cored into
the cylinder wall. Otherwise the action is just the same as that of
the more simple forms of engines. The construction of this motor is
clearly shown at Fig. 123, and as all parts are clearly indicated the
principle of operation should be easily grasped.
Another differential piston motor designed by a French engineer,
Monsieur Cote, is shown at Fig. 124. In this a double-diameter
piston is used and the cylinder is formed so that the smaller of these
members fits the upper portion while the large end of the piston fits
the correspondingly enlarged lower portion. The functions of com-
pression and explosion of the charge take place in the smaller cylinder,
while the lower member acts as a pump. On every downstroke of the
piston a charge of gas is drawn into the annular space between the
piston and cylinder wall, and on every upward stroke it is compressed
and forced into the working cylinder adjacent. The construction out-
Spark Plug
Combustion Chamber.
Water Outlet
Water Space
Distributor Valve
Carburetor
Balancs Weight
Crankshaft
Flywheel
Cranhcase
Fig. 123. Sectional View Showing Construction of Legros (French) Motor
Defining Peculiar Cylinder Construction.
221
222
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
lined is applicable only to motors having an even numlx-r of cylinders,
and the arrangement must be sucii that they will work in pairs and
that the piston in one cylinder will be at one end of its stroke while
Spark Plug
Compression Relie f Cock
Combustion Chamber
Cylinder
Water Space
Exhaust Pipe
Crankcase
Fig. 124. The Cote (French) Two-Cycle Motor is a Good Example of the Type
Employing a Two-Diameter Piston and Distributor Valve.
that of its mate is in the other extreme position. The peculiar type
of transfer passage depicted is necessary because the pumping por-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
223
tion of one cylinder must be joined to the working portion of the other
member. Outside of peculiarities of construction, the operating cycle
is just the same as other two-stroke engines, and an explosion is ob-
tained in each cylinder every two strokes of the piston.
Sprk Plug
125. The Rayner (English) Two-Cycle Motor Employs Distinctive Double-
Piston Arrangement. A Side View Showing Crank Shaft and Connecting
Rods. B End Section Showing Relative Angularity of Connecting Rods.
C Inner Piston Uncovers Inlet Ports; Outer Piston Covers Exhaust Pas-
sages.
An unconventional two-cycle engine of English design is shown
at Fig. 125. Two pistons are used, one working inside of the other;
the outer member carries an annular flange which fits the enlarged
bore of the cylinder and acts as a pump for taking in the gas and sub-
224 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
jecting it to preliminary compression. The pump chamber is divided
from the crank case by a flange, which also acts as a guiding member
for the bottom of the large piston. At the end of the downstroke
each piston uncovers a ring of ports, the outer member opening the
exhaust while the inner piston controls the inlet openings. A pecu-
liar form of crank shaft having two throws for each cylinder is used,
and the crank to which the inner piston is attached has twice the
amount of throw the crank connected to the larger member has. This
means that both pistons work in the same direction, but that the
inner member travels twice the distance the big piston does. The,
crank which controls the movement of the outer piston is given a lead
of about twenty degrees so that the exhaust ports are opened at the
proper time in relation to the opening of the inlet passages.
When the pistons travel on the upstroke, the inner one is com-
pressing a charge previously supplied the working cylinder and simul-
taneously fresh gas is being inspired into the pump chamber. When
the pistons reach the top of the stroke the spark takes place and
the resulting explosion drives the piston down and imparts power to
the crank shaft in the usual manner. At the same time that the pis-
tons are driven down by the explosion, the new charge which has been
drawn in through the pump chamber is partially compressed. Near the
end of the stroke the outer piston uncovers the exhaust ports, and the
burned gases escape by virtue of their pressure. The inlet ports open
and new gas enters the cylinder in the usual manner and is directed to
the top of the cylinder by the peculiar formation of the outer piston,
which acts as a chimney to direct the gases to the top of the combus-
tion chamber. As the new charge enters at considerable speed the
high velocity of the gas forces out the burned products and insures
thorough scavenging. The view at A is a side section and depicts the
arrangement of the pistons relative to each other and the peculiar
arrangement of the crank shaft. At B an end section is presented,
this to show the angularity of connecting rods, showing how the short
throw crank is given a slight lead over that which works the inner
piston. v The inset at C is given to enable the reader to understand the
principle involved in controlling the intake and exhaust ports.
Typical Four-Cycle Power Plants. The writer has previously men-
tioned the fact that most engineers favor the four-cycle form of power
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
225
plant, and the majority of the descriptive matter presented in this
chapter has dealt specifically with this form of engine. As a fitting
conclusion a brief description of some representative American power
plants will be given. At Fig. 126 the inlet side of a four-cylinder
water-cooled motor is illustrated, while the exhaust side of the same
power plant is depicted at Fig. 127. It will be observed that the
Fig. 126. Inlet Side of Typical Four-Cylinder Power Plant Showing Carburetor
and Magneto Placing.
carburetor and magneto are placed on the side of the motor with the
inlet valves while the water pump is installed on the exhaust side.
The front end of the power plant is supported by a steel member
bolted to the upper part of the crank case, while the rear portion is
fastened to the frame by means of arms cast integral with the upper
half of the engine base. The cjdinders are cast in pairs with water
jackets integral, while the engine base is made in three pieces and is
divided horizontally.
Fig. 127. Exhaust Side of Four-Cylinder Power Plant Showing Water Pump
Location.
Fig. 128. Valve Side Regal Motor Showing Compactness of Design Possible
with L Cylinder Construction. Note Manifold Placing and Magneto and
Carburetor Location.
226
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
227
The valve side of a light four-cylinder power plant used on Regal
motor cars is shown at Fig. 128. This demonstrates clearly the com-
pact design possible with " L " head cylinders, which permits placing
both inlet and exhaust valves on the same side of the motor. The
placing of the magneto and the method of protecting the wires lead-
ing from it to the spark plugs at the top of the cylinders, as well as
Fig. 129. Exhaust Side of Columbia " Mark 85 " Motor. Note Enclosed Valve
Springs and Arrangement of Parts.
the method of retaining the inlet and exhaust manifolds, are clearly
outlined. No water pump is employed on this engine, the natural
or thermo-siphon system of water circulation being depended upon to
adequately cool the cylinders.
The exhaust side of the Columbia Mark 85 four-cylinder motor is
illustrated at Fig. 129. In this the cylinders are of the " T " head
type and are cast in pairs. Attention is called to the method of en-
228 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
closing the valve springs and operating plungers to keep them free of
grit and to minimize noise incidental to the valve mechanism. The
water pump is driven by a shaft extending from the gear case at the
front end of the motor while the oil-circulating pump is suspended
at the rear of the crank case between the oil container and the fly
wheel.
While the greatest number of automobiles use four-cylinder power
plants, there are a number of manufacturers who provide engines hav-
Fig. 130. Inlet Side of Matheson " Silent Six " Power Plant, an Overhead Valve
Type.
ing six cylinders. As a rule these do not differ materially from the
four-cylinder forms, except for the addition of an extra pair of cylin-
ders and the added length to the crank case that this makes necessary.
The six-cylinder motor shown at Fig. 130 is a distinctive construction
in which the cylinders are cast in pairs and have valves in the head.
A very compact power plant is made possible by the peculiar form of
the cylinder castings which have flat ends so that they can be placed
very close together. It is seldom that more than six cylinders are
used, but there have been automobiles made for racing purposes that
had eight and even twelve cylinders.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
229
When an eight-cylinder motor is used it is usually of the " V ' ;
type, i. e., the cylinders are arranged in two sets of four, as shown at
Fig. 131. This view represents a motor which has been designed for
Fig. 131. View of Eight-Cylinder Hendee Motor, a Type Seldom Used on
Motor Cars, but Popular for Aviation. Eight-Cylinder Motors Designed
for Automobile Propulsion are Always of the V Type, which Permits Com-
pactness and no Greater Overall than the Usual Four-Cylinder Power Unit.
aeronautic service, but when eight-cylinder power plants are used for
automobile propulsion they are built very much the same. The reason
that the cylinders are arranged opposite each other and at an angle in-
stead of being placed one after the other is that the " V " construe-
230
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
tion makes it possible to use a crank case which is not much longer or
heavier than would be needed for the conventional four-cylinder mo-
tor. An eight-cylinder engine is rather complicated, and difficult] <
obtain in lubrication, cooling, and ignition, so that this type is no1
apt to become very popular, even though it furnishes power very stead-
ily when all cylinders are working. An eight-cylinder motor of the
four-cycle type will give four explosions every revolution of the crank
shaft or one impulse every quarter turn. A car equipped with such
a motor would be much more flexible than with a lesser number of
cylinders, but as the four- and six-cylinder forms give practically a
uniform and regular turning movement of the crank shaft it is not
considered advisable to use more than six cylinders in touring cars
and four cylinders in motor trucks.
CHAPTER V
Defining the Liquid Fuels Commonly Used and Methods of Vaporizing to
Obtain Explosive Gas Methods of Carrying Fuel in Automobiles De-
velopment of Modern Carburetor from Early Vaporizer Forms Elements
of Carburetor Design Outlined Typical Gasoline Vaporizers Described in
Detail How Kerosene May be Utilized Discussing Fuel Supply by Direct
Injection Inlet and Exhaust Manifold Design Muffler Forms in Common
Use.
THERE is no appliance that has more material value upon the effi-
ciency of the internal combustion motor than the carburetor or vapor-
izer which supplies the explosive gas to the cylinders. It is only in
recent years that engineers have realized the importance of using car-
buretors that are efficient and that are so strongly made that there
will be little liability of derangement. As the power obtained from
the gas engine depends upon the combustion of fuel in the cylinders,
it is evident that if the gas supplied does not have the proper propor-
tions of elements to insure rapid combustion the efficiency of the
engine will be low. When a gas engine is used as a stationary instal-
lation it is possible to use ordinary illuminating or natural gas for
fuel, but when this prime mover is applied to automobile or marine
service it is evident that considerable difficulty would be experienced
in carrying enough compressed coal gas to supply the engine for even
a very short trip. Fortunately, the development of the internal com-
bustion motor was not delayed by the lack of suitable fuel.
Engineers were familiar with the properties of certain liquids
which gave off vapors that could be mixed with air to form an explo-
sive gas which burned very well in the engine cylinders. A very small
quantity of such liquids would suffice for a very satisfactory period of
operation. The problem to be solved before these liquids could be
applied in a practical manner was to evolve suitable apparatus for
vaporizing them without waste. Among the liquids that can be com-
bined with air and burned, gasoline is the most common and is the
231
232 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
fuel utilized by the majority of internal combustion engines employed
in self-propelled conveyances.
The widely increasing scope of usefulness of the internal combus-
tion motor has made it imperative that other fuels be applied in some
instances because the supply of gasoline may in time become inade-
quate to supply the demand. In fact, abroad this fuel sells for fifty to
two hundred per cent more than it does in America because most of
the gasoline used must be imported from this country or Russia.
Because of this foreign engineers have experimented widely with'
other substances, such as alcohol, benzol, and kerosene. The proper-
ties of these fuels, their derivation and use should be considered
fully before describing the types of apparatus utilized for vaporizing
them.
Distillates of Crude Petroleum. Crude petroleum is found in small
quantities in almost all parts of the world, but a large portion of that
produced commercially is derived from American wells. The petro-
leum obtained in this country yields more of the volatile products than
those of foreign production, and for that reason the demand for it is
greater. The oil fields of this country are found in Pennsylvania,
Indiana, and Ohio, and the crude petroleum is usually in association
with natural gas. This mineral oil is an agent from which many
compounds and products are derived, and the products will vary from
heavy sludges, such as asphalt, to the lighter and more volatile com-
ponents, some of which will evaporate very easily at ordinary tem-
peratures.
The compounds derived from crude petroleum are composed prin-
cipally of hydrogen and carbon and are termed " Hrdro-Carbons." In
the crude product one finds many impurities, such as free carbon,
sulphur, and various earthy elements. Before the oil can be utilized
it must be subjected to a process of purifying which is known as re-
fining, and it is during this process, which is one of destructive dis-
tillation, that the various liquids are separated. The oil is broken up
into three main groups of products as follows : Highly volatile, naph-
tha, benzine, gasoline, eight to ten per cent. Light oils, such as kero-
sene and light lubricating oils, seventy to eighty per cent. Heavy oils
or residuum, five to nine per cent. From the foregoing it will be seen
that the available supply of gasoline is determined largely by the de-
The Mo'dern Gasoline Automobile 233
mand existing for the light oils forming the larger part of the prod-
ucts derived from crude petroleum.
As a very small portion of the distillates can be used with ordinary
vaporizing devices any improvements to make possible the use of less
liquid or utilize the cheaper fuels, such as kerosene, will be of great
value in increasing the usefulness of internal combustion motors.
Considerable attention is being given to mixing devices which will
permit the use of kerosene, and many authorities have agreed that this
material or alcohol will be the fuel of the future. To show the enor-
mous consumption of gasoline in this country, it has been said that if
all of the engines in use which depended on this fuel were to be oper-
ated continuously together for a ten-hour day that over five million
gallons of liquid would be consumed. When one considers that the
number of explosive engines is constantly augmenting it will not be
difficult to perceive the reason why the development of devices to use
fuels other than gasoline should be encouraged.
Benzol and Its Properties. In England, where gasoline sells for
fifty cents a gallon or one hundred and fifty per cent more than the
average price in this country, engineers have sought to use benzol,
which is said to be adaptable to the present types of motors without
change, and in cases where it has been used as much power is obtained
as with gasoline. This material is a by-product incidental to the
manufacture of illuminating gas and coke, and while it was formerly
distilled from coal-tar and obtained only in small quantities, improved
methods make it possible to produce about three gallons from every
ton of coal changed into coke or gas. The former material was at one
time produced by a process which permitted the gas to escape, but at
the present time this is retained and condensed to form benzol. The
crude product is a foul-smelling liquid which has about the same con-
sistency and color as heavy ale. When subjected to a refining process
the dirty liquid is converted to one that is about the same color as
water.
Benzol is not so volatile as gasoline, but it is claimed that a motor
may be started without difficulty with this fuel supplied to a carbu-
retor of ordinary construction. Owing to the greater number of heat
units it contains, it is said it will develop more power than gasoline,
and as it will ' not evaporate so readily it does not become stale or
234 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
heavy by the vaporization of the lighter constituents. A disadvantage
incidental to its use has been that owing to it being richer in carbon
than gasoline it would deposit more of this substance on the piston
head and interior of the combustion chamber. While this may be true
of a poorly refined benzol and when mixture proportions are not cor-
rect, it applies equally well when low grades of gasoline are used and
when the mixture of gasoline vapor and air supplied the cylinders is
too rich.
Special Vaporizers Needed for Kerosene. As kerosene forms one
of the larger portions of the distillates of crude oil it is apparent that
if this material could be used as fuel for internal combustion engines
it might replace gasoline to a certain extent. If considered from a
point of view of heat units contained or heating value kerosene would
be a better fuel than gasoline, though considering it with its other
disadvantages in mind it is not so suitable for use in existing types
of motors. The chief difficulty which retards its use is that it will
riot vaporize readily at ordinary temperatures, and before it will evap-
orate sufficiently to form a gas with air it must be heated. This calls
for specially constructed vaporizing devices and jacketed manifolds,
which will be described in proper sequence. Owing to the low rate of
evaporation it is contended that it cannot be used successfully on high-
speed motors where flexibility of control is desired and where the
engine must be accelerated from its minimum to the highest speed in
a short time. On slow and moderate speed motors, such as used for
stationary and marine service, ^kerosene has been employed with some
degree of success. It contains more carbon in its composition, and as
the combustion of kerosene vapor is not so apt to be as complete as
gasoline gas, more carbon will be deposited in the interior of the com-
bustion chamber than when gasoline is burned.
Advantages of Alcohol. Considerable experimenting with alcohol
has been done by French and German engineers, and there are many
points to be considered in its favor when discussing its value as a fuel.
Alcohol, instead of being derived from natural mineral deposits, which
become more and more depleted as the demands increase, is derived
from various plants and vegetables and is the one fuel that can be
produced in quantities that could be augmented as the demand for it
increased. The vegetable substances which are distilled to make alco-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 235
hoi are reproduced each cycle of seasons, and in tropical countries
there is no cessation to the growth of the vegetation. The raw mate-
rials from which alcohol may be manufactured are found in all parts
of the earth. It is derived from any substance which contains either
starch or sugar, and it can profitably be produced from fruits, grains,
and vegetables. It may be made from beets, sugar-cane, rice, barley,
rye, corn, wheat, or potatoes, and decaying fruit or other refuse,
which could not be utilized otherwise, may be subjected to a process
of distillation and alcohol derived therefrom.
Alcohol differs materially from gasoline, and as it is less volatile
it requires more heat to vaporize it. Alcohol vapor can be compressed
to a greater degree than the vapors of gasoline, and as the heat units
liberated from a fuel vary with the degree of compression even though
alcohol gives out less heat when burned under the same conditions,
higher efficiency may be obtained by compressing the alcohol vapor to
a higher degree. While this substance has been used for a decade or
more abroad, in engines designed especially for its use, it has not been
applied with any degree of economy in raotors designed for use with
gasoline.
A motor constructed for use with alcohol must use a higher degree
of compression than a gasoline motor, and a form of carburetor which
will heat the mixture before it is taken into the cylinder should be
used. An engine designed for gasoline will use twice as much alcohol
as it does gasoline to develop the same amount of energy, though in a
special motor the same amount of power will be obtained as when
equal quantities of gasoline are burned in the conventional engine.
One of the disadvantages of alcohol that is shared in common with
kerosene is that it is difficult to start an engine when cold, as alcohol is
not very volatile unless heated.
The amount of air necessary for complete combustion is roughly
estimated at one third that needed with gasoline. Twice the amount
of compression before ignition can be used with alcohol vapor. The
range of explosive mixture proportions of alcohol and air is much
greater than that possible with gasoline and air. Various authorities
have stated that a compression of one hundred and fifty pounds per
square inch is possible with alcohol, but it is doubtful if automobile
engines will ever be built using such high degrees of compression.
236 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
A new process has been recently developed with a view of permit-
ting one to use alcohol in engines of present design with no change
except a special form of vaporizer. In this the alcohol vapor is passed
through calcium carbide before it enters the cylinder. The water
which is present in commercial alcohol and which lowers its efficiency
as a fuel is absorbed by the carbide and the resulting chemical action
liberates acetylene gas. This is very inflammable and increases the ex-
plosive value of the alcohol vapor. When the alcohol-acetylene combi-
nation is used, to obtain the same thermal efficiency as with gasoline
gas, it is necessary to add water to the alcohol until a solution con-
taining seventeen per cent water and eighty-three per cent alcohol is
obtained.
This is no great disadvantage, as water costs nothing to speak of,
and the increase in the bulk of the fuel nearly pays for the carbide.
It is estimated that one pound of carbide is used per gallon of liquid.
As the market price of carbide in lots of one hundred pounds or more
is but four to five cents per pound, the only objection that can be ad-
vanced to the process is the increased complication of the vaporizing
appliance. The combination of alcohol and acetylene has proved effi-
cient on motors employing compressions as low as sixty pounds to the
square inch and running as high as two thousand revolutions per min-
ute, but when used alone the slow burning qualities of alcohol vapor
has made it most efficient on slow-speed high-compression motors.
Alcohol used for fuel purposes must be rendered unfit for drinking
by mixing substances with it which are not palatable, but which do
flot interfere with its use as a fuel. When so treated the substance
is called denatured alcohol. Among the substances which may be
mixed with the ethyl alcohol are wood alcohol, benzine, and benzol,
and various distillates of crude petroleum. Chemists contend that it
is better to use a hydrocarbon, such as benzol, than the wood alcohol,
as a denaturizing substance, because wood alcohol tends to produce
acetone and other compounds which are of corrosive nature and which
might corrode the metal parts of the cylinder which were exposed to
the effects of a by-product resulting from incomplete combustion of
such a vapor.
Alcohol has the advantage in that the fire risk is less than with
gasoline. The latter is a more volatile liquid than alcohol, and is
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 237
more dangerous because it evaporates more readily. The flame of
burning gasoline is one which radiates heat rapidly, whereas the alco-
hol flame does not radiate heat to such an extent. A mass of burning
gasoline will generate sufficient heat to set objects at a considerable
distance from it on fire. The heat from burning alcohol goes upward
and exists mostly in the hot gases evolved by the flame. A gasoline
fire is spread by water, whereas burning alcohol may be extinguished
by it. Gasoline is much lighter than water and floats on its surface,
but alcohol is so nearly the same density that it will mix with the
water.
If one compares the chemical composition of alcohol and gasoline
it will be found that it requires less air to burn a pint of alcohol than
the same amount of gasoline. The oxygen contained in the alcohol
tends to make combustion better, and there is practically no residue
left in an engine burning alcohol gas. The exhaust from any of the
petroleum distillates will smell strong and be smoky if an excess of
fuel in proportion to air is in the mixture. The burned products of
an alcohol mixture are not objectionable even if there is an excess of
alcohol. These exhaust gases besides being more agreeable to the
senses are cooler and cleaner, and as they contain a smaller propor-
tion of free carbon less of this is deposited in the combustion chamber
and muffler.
Among the conditions which are unfavorable to the use of alcohol
and , which militate against its use at the present time can be cited
the present types of engines and carburetors, and the high price of
denatured alcohol. While alcohol has not been extensively experi-
mented with in this country, because the supply of gasoline at the
present time seems adequate, it is expected that, should there be
a shortage of this valuable commodity, forms of vaporizers will be
devised which will permit the use of alcohol in connection with pres-
ent-day forms of motors. Some authorities contend that alcohol will
be the fuel of the future, while others believe that kerosene is more
adaptable for use in the hydrocarbon motor.
Solid Gasoline as a Fuel. Experiments are being conducted in
Europe with gasoline in the solid form, which is said to have some
advantages over the liquid fuels. Solid gasoline is a transparent
product which is in the form of a jelly, having sufficient consistency
238 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
so that it can be handled like any other solid body. It can be cut
into pieces just as gelatine can, and may be conveyed in wooden or
cardboard boxes. If examined under the microscope its structure is
similar to that of a very fine sponge and the theory is that liquid gaso-
line is present in the pores. Its properties in general are the same as
liquid fuels as it evaporates very easily, and has the same heat value.
When solid gasoline is heated it does not melt under ordinary condi-
tions but evaporates. If it is lighted it does not melt, but burns like
wood, and the flame may be easily extinguished by covering with a
piece of cloth.
Solidified gasoline has about eighty per cent the bulk of ordinary
liquid gasoline; whereas a gallon of liquid will occupy a space of 231
cubic inches, the same amount solidified will occupy but about 185
cubic inches. The mixture may be easily obtained, as solid gasoline
dissolves in air at ordinary temperatures and yields a combustible gas
which may be used in explosion motors. Solid gasoline can be used
without first converting it into a liquid and a mixture of gasoline
vapor and air is formed by causing a slightly heated current of air
to pass over the surface of the solid fuel. It is claimed that a very
good mixture is obtained.'. Appliances designed for carbureting solid
gasoline utilize the exhaust gases of the motor as a source of heat for
securing more ready evaporation.
In the experiments made abroad a special form of carburetor was
constructed to use with solid fuel. This was composed of a box with
a series of pipes in its lower portion through which the exhaust gases
from the engine were passed. A plate which formed the bottom of the
fuel compartment which was 28 inches by 17 inches wide by 17 inches
high was placed on these pipes. The solid gasoline was not placed
directly on the .bottom of the box but on a wire mesh screen which
formed a false bottom, raised about two inches from the true bottom
of the fuel compartment. Four cakes of solid fuel, each seven inches
square by three and one half inches thick, were placed on the wire
screen. An air inlet was provided at one end of the box, the air being
drawn through the space between the bottom of the fuel box and
the false bottom of wire mesh on which the fuel rested. As it passed
it brushed by the gasoline which had been forced through the mesh
in a form very much the same as icicles and which offered a very
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 239
large surface for contact. The carbureted air was passed into a mix-
ing box fitted with extra air openings and from thence to the inlet
pipe of the motor. Four gauze screens were interposed between the
mixing and fuel chambers in order to prevent ignition of the gas in
the fuel compartment should the motor back fire.
When the apparatus was cold the motor did not run very well, but
after it had been running for several minutes and the heating pipes
raised in temperature the engine worked very well. This crude ex-
periment showed that the ratio of weight of solid gasoline to the liquid
fuel for equal work done was eighty-three and five tenths per cent,
which meant that considered on a basis of weight that twenty-three
per cent less solid fuel was needed to obtain the same power, and that
eighty-three and five tenths per cent of solid gasoline would do as
much work as one hundred per cent of liquid fuel.
It is not likely that gasoline in this form will ever be used to
any extent because the carburetor used will have to be very bulky and
very much different in construction from that used for the liquid.
The argument that solid gasoline is safer than liquid gasoline is not
borne out by facts because it will evaporate quite readily and give off
vapors at ordinary temperatures. It is open to question whether a
fuel can be handled easier in solid or liquid forms. It would seem to
the writer that it would be as easy to pour fuel out of a can directly
into a suitable container as it would be to handle it in the form of
blocks. The expense of solidifying the liquid would probably be suf-
ficiently large so that any advantages accruing would be more than
balanced by disadvantages of some moment. When one considers that
all motor vehicles now in use are fitted to burn liquid gasoline the diffi-
culty experienced in attempting to put the solid fuel on the market,
even if it was cheaper than the liquid form, will be readily understood.
Principles of Carburetion Outlined. The process of carburetion is
combining the volatile vapors which evaporate from the hydrocarbon
liquids with certain proportions of air to form an inflammable gas.
The quantities of air needed vary with different liquids and some
mixtures burn quicker than do other combinations of air and vapor.
Combustion is simply burning and it may be rapid, moderate, or
slow. Mixtures of gasoline and air burn quickly, in fact, the combus-
tion is so rapid that it is instantaneous and we obtain what is com-
240 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
monly termed an " explosion." Therefore the explosion of gas in the
automobile engine cylinder which produces the power is really a com-
bination of chemical elements which produce heat.
If the gasoline mixture is not properly proportioned the rate of
burning will vary, and if the mixture is either too rich or too weak
the power of the explosion is reduced and the amount of power applied
to the piston is decreased proportionately. In determining the proper
proportions of gasoline and air, one must take the chemical composi-
tion of gasoline into account. The ordinary liquid used for fuel is
said to contain about eighty-four per cent carbon and sixteen per cent
hydrogen. Air is composed of oxygen and nitrogen and the former
has a great affinity, or combining power, with the two constituents of
hydrocarbon liquids. Therefore, what we call an explosion is merely
an indication that oxygen in the air has combined with the carbon and
hydrogen of the gasoline.
In figuring the proper volume of air to mix with a given quantity
of fuel, one takes into account the fact that one pound of hydrogen
requires eight pounds of oxygen to burn it, and one pound of carbon
needs two and one third pounds of oxygen to insure its combustion.
Air is composed of one part of oxygen to three and one half portions
of nitrogen by weight. Therefore for each pound of oxygen one needs
to burn hydrogen or carbon four and one half pounds of air must be
allowed. To insure combustion of one pound of gasoline which is com-
posed of hydrogen and carbon we must furnish about ten pounds of air
to burn the carbon and about six pounds of air to insure combustion of
hydrogen, the other component of gasoline. This means that to burn
one pound of gasoline one must provide about sixteen pounds of air.
While one does not usually consider air as having much weight at
a temperature of sixty-two degrees Fahrenheit, about fourteen cubic
feet of air will weigh a pound, and to burn a pound of gasoline one
would require about two hundred cubic feet of air. This amount will
provide for combustion theoretically, but it is common practice to
allow twice this amount because the element nitrogen, which is the
main constituent of air, is an inert gas and instead of aiding combus-
tion it acts as a deterrent of burning. In order to be explosive, gaso-
line vapor must be combined with definite quantities of air. Mixtures
that are rich in gasoline ignite quicker than those which have more
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 241
air, but these are only suitable when starting or when running slowly,
as a rich mixture ignites much quicker than a weak mixture. The
richer mixture of gasoline and air not only burns quicker but produces
the most heat and the most effective pressure in pounds per square
inch of piston top area.
The amount of compression of the charge before ignition also has
material bearing on the force of the explosion. The higher the degree
of compression the greater the force exerted by the rapid combustion
of the gas. Mixtures varying from one part of gasoline vapor to four
of air to others having one part of gasoline vapor to thirteen of air
can be ignited, but the best results are obtained when the proportions
are one to five or one to seven, as this mixture is the one that will
produce the highest temperature, the quickest explosion, and the
most pressure.
What a Carburetor Should Do. While it is apparent that the chief
function of a carbureting device is to mix hydrocarbon vapors with
air to secure mixtures that will burn, there are a number of factors
which must be considered before describing the principles of vapor-
izing devices. Almost any device which permits a current of air to
pass over or through a volatile liquid will produce a gas which will
explode when compressed and ignited in the motor cylinder. Modern
carburetors are not only called upon to supply certain quantities of gas,
but these must deliver a mixture to the cylinders that is accurately pro-
portioned and which will be of proper composition at all engine speeds.
Flexible control of the engine is sought by varying the engine
speed by regulating the supply of gas to the cylinders. The power
plant should run from its lowest to its highest speed without any
irregularity in torque, i. e., the acceleration should be gradual rather
than spasmodic. As the degree of compression will vary in value with
the amount of throttle opening the conditions necessary to obtain
maximum power differ with varying engine speeds. When the throt-
tle is barety opened the engine speed is low and the gas must be richer
in fuel than when the throttle is wide open and the engine speed high.
When an engine is turning over slowly the compression has low
value and the conditions are not so favorable to rapid combustion as
when the compression is high. At high engine speeds the gas velocity
through the intake piping is higher than at low speeds, and regular
242
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
engine action is not so apt to be disturbed by condensation of liquid
fuel in the manifold due to excessively rich mixture or a superabund-
ance of liquid in the stream of carbureted air.
Fig. 132. Illustrating Method of Storing Fuel in Brush Runabout, which
Permits Short and Direct Gasoline Piping.
Liquid Fuel Storage and Supply. The problem of gasoline stora^
and method of supplying the carburetor is one that is determinec
solely by design of the car. While the object of designers should be to
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
243
Tank
Fig. 133. Defining the Usual Methods of Fuel Storage in Motor Cars. A Oval
Tank Back of Seat. B Round Tank at Rear of Chassis, Common on Rac-
ing Cars. C Container Under Front Seat, the Conventional Method. D
Tank at Rear of Frame, Underslung, which Makes Pressure-Feed Neces-
sary.
244 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
supply the fuel to the carburetor by as simple means as possible the
fuel supply system of some cars is quite complex. The first point to
consider is the location of the gasoline tank. This depends upon the
amount of fuel needed and the space available in the car.
A very simple and compact fuel supply system is shown at Fig.
132, which represents a plan view of the motor compartment of the
Brush Eunabout. The power plant in this little car is a single-cylin-
der engine of comparatively low power and correspondingly low fuel
consumption. As it does not require much gasoline to run a small
engine one can obtain a satisfactory touring radius on one filling of
a comparatively small tank. In this instance the fuel container is
suspended from the dashboard and is placed immediately back of the
engine cylinder. The carburetor which is carried as indicated is
joined to the tank by a short piece of copper tubing. This is the
simplest possible form of fuel supply system.
As the sizes of cars increase and the power plant capacities aug-
ment it is necessary to use more fuel, and to obtain a satisfactory
touring radius without frequent stops for filling the fuel tank it is
necessary to supply large containers. The principal methods of carry-
ing fuel are depicted at Fig. 133. At A the tank is placed back of
the seats and is oval in shape. It can be easily filled, and is carried
high enough above the carburetor so that the fuel will run from the
tank by gravity. The tank shown at B is a cylindrical form of large
capacity, and is mounted at the extreme rear end of the chassis. This
member also is mounted high enough above the carburetor so the gaso-
line will flow to it by gravity.
In some touring cars sufficient space is provided for the recep-
tion of a fair-sized tank under the front seats, as shown at C. In
this the tank is rectangular and is placed on suitable channel members
so it can be supported on top of the frame. When a very powerful
power plant is fitted, as on touring cars of high capacity, it is neces-
sary to carry large quantities of gasoline. With the latest forms of
bodies with low seats it is very difficult to find space enough for the
placing 'of an adequately large tank. The usual method is depicted
at D. In this the large fuel container is carried under the frame
members at the extreme rear of the chassis. When installed in this
manner it is necessary to force fuel out of the tank by air pressure, or
bfl
'>
I
IS
*J
-3*
II
|1
fi
H
245
246
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
to pump it because the gasoline tank is lower than the carburetor it
supplies.
A typical fuel system in which the tank is placed under the seat,
as depicted at Fig. 133,, A, is shown in detail at Fig. 134. The carbu-
retor is shown in section and is attached to the cylinders by means of
a " T " form built-up manifold. The gasoline tank is joined to a
filter by a short length of pipe and after the liquid passes through the
filter it goes to the carburetor through a suitable length of brass or
copper tubing. The filter is an important little device which removes
any water, sediment, or other foreign matter from the fuel before it
reaches the float chamber of the carburetor.
Supply Chamber
From Pump to Carburetor
uerflouf Pipe to Tank Fum P Plunger
Pipe From Driving Gear
Pump to Carburetor
Main Fuel Container
Priming Pipe
Hand Pump
Fig. 135. Unconventional System in which a Pump is Depended Upon to Draw
Fuel from Container and Deliver It to Vaporizer.
The fuel system shown at Fig. 135 shows how the gasoline may be
raised to the carburetor when the tank is placed at the rear of the
chassis, as shown at Fig. 133, D. A gear-driven plunger pump takes
the fuel from the tank through the suction pipe and delivers it to the
supply bowl of the carburetor, which it fills to a height determined,
by an overflow tube. When the liquid in the supply compartment of
the carburetor exceeds the predetermined level it returns to the tank
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 247
through an overflow pipe. Two pumps are provided, one worked by
the engine, the other manually operated. The hand pump is used in
emergencies, such as for priming the carburetor or for regular supply
of fuel in case of failure of the main pump.
The most common method of supplying gasoline to the carburetor
when the tank is carried so low that the fuel will not flow by its weight
is to pump air or gas into the supply tank and. displace the gasoline
by its pressure. From the main supply tank the fuel goes to a small
auxiliary tank carried on the dash of the power-plant compartment.
A short pipe connects this small container with the carburetor, and
as this auxiliary tank is higher than the mixing device the fuel will
flow by gravity. If the gasoline under pressure was fed directly to
the carburetor it might result in an oversupply of fuel because there
might exist pressure enough to force the gasoline into the float cham-
ber because the shut-off needle valve would not seat positively. The
auxiliary tank is generally provided with some form of automatic cut-
off mechanism, which interrupts the fuel supply when the small con-
tainer is nearly full.
Early Vaporizer Forms. The early types of carbureting devices
were very crude and cumbersome, arid the mixture of gasoline vapor
and air was accomplished in three ways. The air stream was passed
over the surface of the liquid itself, through loosely placed absorbent
material saturated with liquid, or directly through the fuel. The first
typo is known as the surface carburetor and is now practically obso-
lete. The second form is called the " wick " carburetor because the
air stream was passed over or through saturated wicking. The third
form was known as a "bubbling" carburetor. The illustrations at
Fig. 136 show the principles of operation of two of the earliest forms
of carbureting devices that were applied to change liquid gasoline into
an explosive vapor. That shown at A consisted of a large cylinder
divided into three parts by sheet metal partitions. The upper one was
utilized as a fuel compartment, and this was joined to the main tank
by suitable piping. The center compartment was gas storage space,
and was divided from the bottom chamber by two perforated baffle
plates. The lower portion of the cylinder was filled with wicking.
This wicking was kept saturated with gasoline .supplied from the up-
permost compartment through a pipe which directed the stream of
248
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
liquid against the center of the top baffle plate. As this member was
provided with a large number of holes the gasoline was divided into a
number of fine streams and the entire mass of wicking was saturated.
Fuel Regulating
Needle Value
Mixture
To Engine
Drain Coch /cfT ^=r-^=-zz=r^=-jr-
Drain Cock
Fig. 136. First Forms of Gasoline Vaporizers. A An Early Wick Carburetor.
B Type in which Air is Drawn Through Fuel to Charge It with Explosive
Vapor.
When the piston of the motor went down on its suction stroke air
was drawn in through the air pipe at the bottom of the vaporizing
device and into the center compartment or gas chamber through the
wicking. In passing through this saturated material the air became
charged with gasoline vapor and the resulting gas was supplied to
the cylinder through the mixture pipe. This method of vaporizing the
gasoline produced mixtures extremely rich in fuel and in order to
burn these successfully, a simple form of valve which permitted a
certain* amount of pure air to enter the cylinder and dilute the rich
charge was provided in the mixture pipe.
The carburetor shown at B is known as the' " filtering " or " bub-
bling " type. This consists of two chambers : one to hold the fuel, the
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 249
other utilized as a gas storage or mixing chamber. A telescopic air
pipe is needed, one portion fixed to the tank, th'e other, or sliding mem-
ber, is carried by a float which maintains a certain definite distance
between a deflector plate on the pipe and the surface of the liquid.
The air enters through the air tube at the top, passes down under the
surface of the gasoline, and is saturated with fuel particles. The rich
gas flows into the mixing chamber through screens of wire gauze and
after mixing with air entering through the auxiliary air regulator, the
gas passes from the mixing chamber to the engine cylinder through
suitable piping.
While these primitive forms gave fairly good results with the early
slow-speed engines and the high grade, or very volatile, gasoline which
was first used for fuel, they would be entirely unsuitable for present
forms of engines because they would not carburate the lower grades
of gasoline which are used to-day, and would not supply the modern
high-speed engines with gas of the proper consistency fast enough
even if they did not have to use very volatile gasoline. The form of
carburetor used at the present time operates on a different principle.
These devices are known as " spraying carburetors." The fuel is re-
duced to a spray by the suction effect of the entering air stream draw-
ing it through a fine opening.
The advantage of this construction is that a more thorough amal-
gamation of the gasoline and air particles is obtained. "With the ear-
lier types previously considered the air would combine with only the
more volatile elements, leaving the heavier constituents in the tank.
As the fuel became stale it was difficult to vaporize it, and it had to be
drained off and fresh fuel provided before the proper mixture would
be produced. It will be evident that when the fuel is sprayed into the
air stream, all the fuel will be used up and the heavier portions of
the gasoline will be taken into the cylinder and vaporized just as well
as the more volatile vapors.
The simplest form of spray carburetor is that shown at Fig. 137.
In this the gasoline opening through which the fuel is sprayed into the
entering air stream is closed by the spring-controlled mushroom valve
which regulates. the main air opening as well. When the engine draws
in a charge of air it unseats the valve and at the same time the air
flowing around it is saturated with gasoline particles through the gaso-
250
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
line opening. The mixture thus formed goes to the engine througl
the mixture passage. Two methods of varying the fuel proportioi
are provided. One of these consists of a needle valve to regulate th(
amount of gasoline, the other is a knurled screw which controls th<
amount of air by limiting the lift of the jump valve.
Jump Valve
Adjustment
Mixture
Passage
'ntrance
I I "
Gasoline Adjustment
Fig. 137. Marine-Type Mixing Valve, by which Gasoline is Sprayed into Air
Stream Through Small Opening in Air- Valve Seat.
While practically all modern motor cars use spraying carburetors
having automatic fuel regulation, in rare cases one sometimes finds
the earlier forms of carburetors used in improved and modified types.
The wick carburetor, shown at Fig. 138, is that used on Lanchester
(English) cars. In this the gasoline is taken from the main tank by
means of a pump and forced up through the delivery pipe into a com-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
251
partment in which a number of wicks are placed. The fuel is main-
tained to a certain level by means of an overflow pipe which returns
any excess to the tank. The entering air stream which is taken from
a jacket around the exhaust pipe and thoroughly heated passes through
the wicks and becomes thoroughly saturated with gasoline. It is well
mixed with the liquid vapors by passing through screens which sepa-
rate the wick compartment from the mixture pipes. An auxiliary
air pipe and valve are provided to dilute the rich gas before it passes
into the motor through the usual form of inlet manifold.
Auxiliary Air
Wire Screen,
Hot Air
-Fuel Pump
Tump Piston
Fig. 138. Lanchester Wick Feed Carburetor. The Only Modern Adaption of
Earlier Forms.
This is the only instance at the present time to the writer's
knowledge where the earlier forms of carburetors have survived.
One still finds many vaporizer valves, as shown at Fig. 137, used
in marine installations, though there is a growing tendency at the
present time to use more modern spraying carburetors in this field
as well.
Development of Float-Feed Carburetor. The modern form of
spraying carburetor is provided with two chambers, one a mixing
252 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
chamber through which the air stream passes and mixes with a gaso-
line spray, the other a float chamber in which a constant level of fuel
is maintained by simple mechanism. A jet or standpipe is used in tin
mixing chamber to spray the fuel through and the object of the float
is to maintain the fuel level to such a point that it will not overflow
the jet when the motor is not drawing in a charge of gas. With the
simple forms of generator valve in which the gasoline opening is con-
trolled by the air valve, a leak anywhere in either valve or valve seat
will allow the gasoline to flow continuously whether the engine is
drawing in a charge or not. The liquid fuel collects around the air
opening, and when the engine inspires a charge it is saturated with
gasoline globules and is excessively rich. With a float-feed construc-
tion, which maintains a constant level of gasoline at the right height
in the standpipe, liquid fuel will only be supplied when drawn out of
the jet by the suction effect of the entering air stream.
The first form of spraying carburetor ever applied successfully
was evolved by Maybach for use on one of the earliest Daimler engines.
The general principles of operation of this pioneer float-feed carbu-
retor are shown at Fig. 139, A. The mixing chamber and valve cham-
ber were one and the standpipe or jet protruded into the mixing cham-
ber. It was connected to the float compartment by a pipe. The fuel
from the tank entered the top of the float compartment and the open-
ing was closed by a needle valve carried on top of a hollow metal float.
When the level of gasoline in the float chamber was lowered the float
would fall and the needle valve uncover the opening. This would
permit the gasoline from the tank to flow into the float chamber, and
as the chamber filled the float would rise until the proper level had
been reached, under which conditions the float would shut off the gaso-
line opening. On every suction stroke of the engine the inlet valve,
which was an automatic type, would leave its seat and a stream of air
would be drawn through the air opening and around the standpipe or
jet. This would cause the gasoline to spray out of the tube and mix
with the entering air stream.
The^form shown at B was a modification of Maybach's simple
device and was first used on the Phoenix-Daimler engines. Several
improvements are noted in this device. First, the carburetor was
made one unit by casting the float and mixing chambers together in-
253
254 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
stead of making them separate and joining them by a pipe, as shown
at A. The float construction was improved and the gasoline shut-off
valve was operated through leverage instead of heing directly fastened
to the float. The spray nozzle was surrounded by a choke tube which
concentrated the air stream around it and made for more rapid air
flow at low engine speeds. A conical piece was placed over the jet to
break up the entering spray into a mist and insure more intimate
admixture of air and gasoline. The air opening was provided with
an air cone which had a shutter controlling the opening so that the
amount of air entering could be regulated and thus vary the mixture
proportions within certain limits.
The form shown at B has been further improved, and the type
shown at C is representative of modern practice. In this the float
chamber and mixing chamber are concentric. A balanced float
mechanism which insures steadiness of feed is used, the gasoline jet
or standpipe is provided with a needle valve to vary the amount of
gasoline supplied the mixture and two air openings are provided. The
main air port is at the bottom of the vaporizer, while an auxiliary
air inlet is provided at the side of the mixing chamber. There
are two methods of controlling the mixture proportions in this form
of carburetor. One may regulate the gasoline needle or adjust the
auxiliary air valve. A full description of the modern types of carbu-
retors will be given in proper sequence.
Elements of Carburetor Design. The design of the components of
modern carburetors differ largely, but most of the modern mixing
devices operate on the same general principle. Certain features of
design have been accepted generally, such as automatic mixture com-
pensation by auxiliary air valves, Venturi type of mixing chamber,
float and mixing chamber concentric, separate adjustment for gaso-
line and air, and simplicity of construction.
Automatic compensation is made necessary because a satisfactory
mixture must be furnished at all engine speeds without the operator
constantly varying the fuel supply or air proportions to allow for
different conditions of operation produced by varying speeds. On
early types of carburetors it was necessary to constantly vary the mix-
ture proportions by working the air shutter or fuel valve from the
Driver's seat while the vehicle was in motion. The aim was to secure
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 255
a mixture that was best adapted to the conditions of operation then
present, and while a skillful driver would manipulate the adjustments
in a way to deliver well-proportioned mixtures to the cylinder the
average operator did not control the mixture exactly and the results
obtained did not make for efficiency.
The writer has described the process of carburetion, and it is evi-
dent that the gas is supplied the cylinder by the pumping effect of
the piston. The velocity of the entering gases depends upon engine
speed, and as the draught diminishes it will not pick up as much fuel
as when it is traveling at a higher rate. The present type of compen-
sating carburetor provides for a sufficiently rapid flow of gas at low
speed by constricting the mixing-chamber bore at the spray nozzle so
that the gas speed will be sufficiently high when the engine is pump-
ing slowly. The reduced diameter of the mixing chamber increases
the velocity of the gases because the cylinder must be filled through
a smaller hole in a certain unit of time than would be the case if the
bore were larger. Therefore to insure a full supply reaching the
cylinder the gases must pass the top of -the jet at a high rate of
speed even if the piston is working slowly. As the opening is con-
stricted not enough air will be drawn in at high speed, and it is neces-
sary to supply it through an auxiliary opening usually controlled by
some automatic form of valve. This can be adjusted to open only
when the suction effect is sufficiently high to overcome the tension of
the spring which holds the valve to the seat, and this increased suc-
tion effect obtains only at high speeds.
The Venturi type of mixing chamber is one which is being widely
used at the present time because it has properties when properly pro-
portioned of insuring high gas velocity at low engine speed. Special
care must be taken in the proportions of the air passage, as it is neces-
sary that the area be large enough to allow the air stream to pass
through freely, yet at the same time it must be constricted to such
a point that the entering air stream will pass the top of a standpipe
with sufficient momentum to draw an adequate supply of gasoline
from the spray nozzle. The velocity of the air stream has been vari-
ously estimated, but most authorities are agreed that it should be from
7,000 to 9,000 feet per minute to insure picking up a sufficient amount
of liquid as it passes around the spray nozzle.
256 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
If one compares the carburetors shown at Fig. 139, B and C, one
will find that there may be two distinct forms. In that shown at B
the mixing chamber is set to one side of the float compartment while
at C the mixing chamber is concentric with the compartment in which
the float is carried. The reason for putting the mixing chamber in
the center of the float is to insure a constant level of fuel in the stand-
pipe regardless of the way the carburetor is tipped. With a mixing
device having two chambers, as shown at B, the level in the float
compartment and the spray nozzle will be at the same height only
when the carburetor is on the level. In ascending or descending hills
either the float chamber will be higher than the mixing chamber or the
reverse conditions obtain.
At such times that the mixing chamber is higher than the float
container the level of fuel in the jet will be lower than it should be.
If, at the other hand, the float chamber is higher than the jet the
fuel will overflow and the mixture will be excessively rich. With
a carburetor constructed as depicted at C, the spray nozzle is at a
central point and the level will not vary appreciably if the carburetor
tilts one way or the other. This insures an even gas supply which in
turn produces uniform motor action. The engine is not alternately
starved or flooded, and the mixture proportions remain practically
the same.
In most cases carburetor designers believe it desirable to incorpo-
rate separate adjustments for gasoline and air, in order that all tem-
perature variations be compensated for. When an automatic air valve
is provided and the spray-nozzle opening is controlled by a needle
valve it is possible to obtain a wide variety of mixtures. With this
form of construction two adjustments are provided which may be
used separately or worked in unison as conditions demand. Gas mix-
tures having proportions best adapted for low and medium speeds are
usually obtained by regulating the gasoline valve, while the best high-
speed adjustments are secured by altering the tension of the valve
spring which regulates the air supply by restricting or increasing the
lift of the air valve.
Mixing Chamber Forms Commonly Used. One of the most impor-
tant points to be considered is to provide a mixing chamber of such
form that a direct passage will be provided for the charge to enter the
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
257
cylinder. Any sharp angles or turns are apt to cause trouble because
the gas speed will be retarded and an opportunity afforded for the
condensation of fuel on sharp corners. A number of representative
forms of mixing chambers are shown at Fig. 140. That at A has been
very popular and the gradual curve permits the gases to flow easily.
The spray nozzle is inserted at the point where the gases turn and
there is no possibility of the entering air stream passing the gasoline
supply pipe without picking up some fuel.
Mixture, Outlet
Mixture Outlet
Mixture Outlet
Fig. 140. Showing Common Forms of Mixing Chambers and Spray Nozzle
Locations.
The form of mixing chamber shown at B is a preferred form, as
the passage for the gas is direct to the engine pipes and there is no
opportunity for the collection of liquids at any sharp corner. It is
apparent that the diameter of the air-pipe bore is less around the
spray nozzle than it is at the point above the gasoline supply jet.
This gives a Venturi effect, which is known to produce automatic mix-
ture variations. The Venturi tube construction is valuable because
it insures high gas velocity at low engine speed.
The theory of Venturi tube or constricted air passage can be easily
derstood if one considers the basic facts properly. When any fluid,
ther liquid or gaseous, passes through a tube the volume passing will
be the same at all points if the bore of the pipe is constant. If gas
flows through a pipe having a variable section the quantity of gas or
liquid flowing through the tube remains the same, but the velocity is
inversely proportional to the area of the section at different points.
Therefore, if the air passage is contracted at a certain point the speed
of the air stream will be greater where the area of the opening is
258 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
less. As will be evident the air passage is usually constricted at the
spray nozzle for reasons previously outlined.
In the form of mixing chamber shown at A no auxiliary air device
is provided, but in that depicted at B an auxiliary air valve is pro-
vided at one side of the mixing chamber. The form of air passage
outlined at C is not as satisfactory as the simpler forms, which pro-
vide for more direct gas flow. In this the entering air is forced to
turn a sharp corner, and the resistance this offers will seriously retard
the speed of the entering air stream. The form of mixing chamber
outlined at B is that commonly used.
Problem of Float-Bowl Design. Next in importance to the mixing
chamber form is the problem of float-chamber design, and the mech-
anism which regulates the height of the fuel in the spray nozzle should
be as simple and as positive in action as possible. The float and nee-
dle should be so arranged that the gasoline will be regulated in such
a manner that as soon as the proper level is reached the gasoline ori-
fice should be shut off positively. If the mechanism is made simple it
is not so likely to get out of order as when more complicated methods
of valve operation are provided.
The floats are made in two forms. They may be a hollow sheet-
metal construction, or cork. When a hollow metal float is employed
care is taken to insure that it will be absolutely tight and that fuel
cannot enter its interior. Cork floats are usually coated with a shellac
varnish to minimize the danger of the cork absorbing fuel. The metal
float is more expensive than the cork, and if it leaks it will fill with
liquid and cause the carburetor to flood. The cork float may absorb
sufficient fuel to change its weight enough so that the gasoline level
will be too high. It is also contended that particles may become de-
tached from the cork float and enter the passage leading from the
float compartment to the spray nozzle and clogging it or passing on
further and constricting the bore of the jet.
The simplest form of float mechanism is depicted at Fig. 141, A.
Here the float is pivoted at one end and carries the needle at the other.
The needle closes the gasoline orifice when the level of fuel is at tha
right height. As soon as the level falls the float drops and the needle
valve leaves its seat and permits gasoline to enter. When sufficient
has been admitted to restore the level to the proper point the float
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
259
rises and tho gasoline opening is stopped up by the needle. The form
shown at B is a modification of the simpler construction outlined at
A. In this the fuel-supply needle is carried at the center of the cir-
cular float instead of at one end. The disadvantage of these simple
forms in which the gasoline enters at the top of the float chamber is
Gasoline Inlet
Needle
Ltuer
Needle
Gasoline Entrance
Gasoline Inlet
Weight
Lever
Gasoline Inlet
Needle
Fig. 141. Types of Float Chambers in Common Use Denning Various Methods
of Controlling Fuel-Supply Valve.
thai the weight of the entering fuel which falls on the float's surface
I re \ents the float from rising as quickly as it should, and the fuel
supply is not cut off until the level is somewhat higher than it
should be.
The form shown at C utilizes a hollow metal float which operates
the shut-off needle through toggle linkage. As the float falls the lev-
ers reverse the movement and the needle valve is lifted, this admitting
260 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
fuel through the hole at the bottom of the float chamber. A balanced
float construction is outlined at D. The needle-valve stem carries a
weight which tends to keep it seated in a positive manner, and with
this form of weighted valve one is not apt to have the erratic fuel
supply that might be caused by vibration of power plant or road on
the simpler forms depicted at A and B. The float is not balanced by
the weight unless the level is at the proper height, and when the fuel
level falls the weight of the float which is increased in value by the
system of leverage raises the needle and weight. As in the previous
case, shown at C, the function of the leverage is to reverse the direc-
tion of movement. That is, the needle valve is raised from its seat
when the float falls and is seated when the float rises.
Gasoline Spray Nozzle Form Important. At Fig. 142 various forms
of spray nozzles and auxiliary air valves are depicted. The simplest
form is presented at A, this consisting of a standpipe having a single
small hole at the top through which the fuel is discharged in a solid
stream in much the same manner as water through a hose. On some
foreign carburetors the standpipe is provided with a tapered plug, hav-
ing series of grooves cut, in its surface for the passage of fuel, as shown
at B. The advantage of this construction is that the gasoline is atom-
ized and is discharged in a number of fine streams instead of the
coarser single stream. When the gasoline is discharged in a form of
a mist it produces a much better mixture than when ejected in a single
stream which must be broken up and divided into fine particles before
it will form a homogeneous mixture. The disadvantage of the grooved
plug is that the fine passages are apt to become clogged from very
small particles of foreign matter in the fuel. In fact, pieces of dirt
which would pass out with the stream of gasoline from the nozzle
shown at A will clog the fine passages of the plug shown at B.
The amount of fuel delivered through the simple standpipe is
regulated by the size of the hole, while the quantities of liquid sprayed
from the nozzle shown at B can be varied to obtain different mixtures
by changing the number of grooves in the plug seat. The spray noz-
zles illustrated at C and D are forms in which the gasoline supply is?
regulated by a needle valve, that at C using an overhead valve, while
that at D has the needle valve adjusted from the bottom. The former
construction is preferred when it is possible to apply it because it
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
261
has a tendency to divide the stream of fuel into a spray or mist which
is more easily vaporized.
The spray nozzles shown at C and D are used more often than
those depicted at A and B because of the ease with which the gasoline
Grooved Plug
Needle Value
Fig. 142. Spray Nozzle Forms and Methods of Supplying Auxiliary Air to
Modern Carburetors.
proportions may be varied by screwing the needle in or out of its seat,
thus reducing the size of the opening when one desires to diminish
the amount of fuel or screwing it out and allowing more fuel to pass
when richer mixtures are desired.
Typical Auxiliary Air Valve Forms. Considerable difference of
opinion exists in air valve construction as well, and many methods of
admitting auxiliary air are used. The ordinary mushroom or poppet
262
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
valves depicted at Fig. 142, E and F, are more widely applied. The
former is a flat seat type kept seated by a compression spring while
that at F is the ordinary form of automatic valve having a bevel seat,
The disadvantage of a poppet valve is that its action is not regular,
and it is apt to chatter or vibrate rapidly if the suction is not constant.
Ball and reed valves have been applied on many forms of carbu-
retors, and it is claimed for these that they will provide an increasing
supply of air as the engine speed augments without chattering or
fluctuation. When a series of openings are provided instead of one
large port and each of the smaller holes is regulated by an individual
reed or ball it is possible to so vary the strength of the reeds, or the
weight of the ball, that the air supply will be progressive.
When poppet valves are used it is customary to make these of
leather or fiber so that they will not be noisy when they seat. The
method defined at Gr is one in which reeds are used, three being pro-
vided, so graduated in strength that one alone opens at medium speed,
then the other two leave their seats progressively as the engine speed
augments and the suction effect becomes greater. The various forms
of spray nozzles and auxiliary valves commonly used will be further
described in connection with the features of the leading types of
vaporizers.
Methods of Gas-Supply Regulation. The methods of regulating
the amount of gas supplied the cylinder vary to some extent, though
the general system is to introduce some form of butterfly or shutter
valve in the mixture pipe between the mixing chamber and the valve
chamber. These valves are operated by rod connection to hand lever
placed on top of the steering post or accelerator pedal on foot boards,
and the amount of gas passing from the carburetor into the cylinder
depends upon the amount of opening provided by the valve. When it
is fully opened the gas may fill the cylinders easily, though as its
position changes the area of the mixture passage is gradually decreased
and the amount of gas passing through reduced.
In some cases the hand throttle is supplemented by an -automatic
go vernor- which is designed to shut off tho gas supply should the engine
speed increase beyond a certain predetermined point. A carburetor
fitted with both hand-operated throtilc mid shutter actuated by a
governor from the engine is shown at Fig. 143. The hand throttle
The Afodern Gasoline Automobile
263
is a simple disk valve attached to a stem passing through the mixture
pipe tit a central point. When in the position shown the passage is
fully opened. The governor throttle is a shutter valve placed in a
special pocket ahove the hand-operated disk. It is worked by lever
and rod connection by a centrifugal governor.
The governor consists of two weights pivoted in such a manner
that they lie close to the governor shaft when engine speeds are low.
Governor Throttle
Hand Throttle
Fig. 143. Showing Method of Regulating Fuel Mixture Supplied the Cylinders
by Means of Centrifugal Governor, which Automatically Reduces the
Quantity when Engine Speed Exceeds a Certain Predetermined Limit.
As the speed of the governor shaft increases the weights tend to fly out
from center due to centrifugal force, and as they are thrown out they
pull a sliding collar back against a spring. The sliding collar actuates
a lever which closes the governor-throttle valve by the rod connecting
it to the governor. The governor is driven from the engin'e by some
form of driving gear, or it may be located on the cam shaft. The
amount the weights fly out is regulated by the spring, and as its ten-
sion is increased it will take a higher engine speed to throw the
weights out sufficiently to close the governor throttle. When the spring
is weakened the governor weights fly out at lower speeds and the gov-
ernor throttle is closed sooner.
Such a device is useful in preventing racing of the engine under
certain conditions. For instance, if the car was climbing a hill on one
264 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
of the lower gear ratios which would permit the engine to run quite
fast and the clutch pedal was depressed so that the drive would be
momentarily interrupted, the tendency of the engine, thus relieved of
its load, would be to run at an extremely high rate of speed. If the
operator was fully occupied in steering and shifting gears he could not
regulate the hand-throttle valve and the result would be that the
engine would run dangerously fast. When a governor is fitted, as
soon as the engine speed tends to become excessive the weights fly out
and the supply of gas is diminished automatically.
A governor is also useful on commercial cars where it is desired
to keep the vehicle speed within certain limits. As speed is directly
dependent upon the number of engine revolutions, the governor can
be set in such a way that the engine will run up to a certain point and
no faster. Governors are not so widely used at the present time as
they were in the past, owing to improvements in carburetor control
devices. All governors do not operate on the centrifugal principle.
Some are hydraulic, others are worked by compressed air. The fly
ball governor described is the most common, and as it shows clearly
the principle of action and utility of such devices there is no need of
considering the other forms which are so rarely found.
Construction of Modern Carburetors. As the gasoline used in for-
eign countries is an imported product and is therefore more costly
than it is in the United States, the foreign carburetors have been de-
veloped with a main object in view of securing maximum fuel effi-
ciency, and minimum fuel consumption is sought rather than greater
flexibility. In this country conditions have been such that the eco-
nomical aspect has been somewhat neglected because at the present
time the cost of fuel is really one of the smallest items to be consid-
ered in operating the average touring car. Carburetors of domestic
development are not so susceptible to derangement as those of foreign
derivation, but they are not so efficient and consume more fuel. The
varying conditions to be met in the effort made to secure power, gaso-
line economy, and flexibility have resulted in a wide variety of instru-
ments. It is apparent that these must operate on definite principles
common to all, but at the same time considerable difference of opin-
ion exists among designers and details of construction differ in almost
all forms.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
265
The Schebler Model " E " carburetor is a concentric float type, and
is one of the simplest and most satisfactory of the many forms that
have received wide application. The primary air inlet is through an
air bend at the bottom of the carburetor, as shown at Fig. 144, and
an auxiliary air inlet controlled by the usual form of poppet valve is
Air Value Spring
Leather Air Value Di
Auxiliary Air Port
Throttle Leuer^-A
11
Throttle Disc
Gas Outlet
Lock Spring
Lock Nut
Air Value Adjusting
Screw
Float Value
Primary Air Inlet
Air Bend
Reversible Union Ell
Needle Value Packing Nu
Gasoline Adjusting Needle Valve
Fig. 144. Schebler Carburetor Construction Outlined. This Is One of the
Simplest Forms that Have Been Used Extensively.
provided at the top of the mixing chamber. The spraying nozzle is
inserted at an angle and the amount of fuel sprayed into the mixture
is regulated by a gasoline-adjusting needle. The gasoline shut-off
valve in the float chamber is operated through a lever fulcrumed at its
central point, the float being attached at one end while the float-
control valve is carried at the other. An upward movement of the
266
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
float closes the valve, which is opened as the float falls. The gasoline
needle is depended upon for varying the mixture for low speed, while
the auxiliary air valve takes care of high-speed mixture adjustments,
The Kingston device, which is shown in section at Fig. 145 with
important parts clearly depicted, is similar in principle to that pre-
Needle Value Lock Screw
Throttle Lever
asoline Adjusting Screw
Venturt Tube
Rail Seat Cage
Balls
uxiliaryAir Ports
Float Value Cap
Cork Float
Float Chamber
Spraying Nozzle*^** Bend
Needle Valve
Float Valve
Float Hinge
Pipe Connection
Gasoline Inlet
Fig. 145. Kingston Automatic Carburetor Admits Auxiliary Air Through Ball-
Controlled Ports at Side of Mixing Chamber.
viously described, inasmuch as it has a concentric float and mixing
chamber and a lever-control float valve. The main air opening is
through an air bend at the bottom of the carburetor, and the mixing
chamber is constricted at the top of the spray nozzle to produce a
Venturi tube effect. The auxiliary air ports are controlled by a series
of balls, of varying weight which open progressively as the motor suc-
tion increases. Fuel reflation is by an overhead needle valve, while
the amount of mixture passing to the cylinders through the gas outlet
is regulated by a simple throttle disk which operates on the same
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
267
principle as the damper of a stove pipe. This differs from the throttle
arrangement of the carburetor shown at Fig. 144, as that member is
composed of a movable plate which has an up-and-down motion instead
of the oscillating motion of the damper form. The throttle of the
former type is known as a " butterfly valve/' while that shown at Fig.
Ill is a simple shutter type.
Gas Outlet
Throttle Disc
Spraying Nozzle
Float Valve Cap
Counter Weight
Float Value
Air Valve
\AirValueSpring
ir Value Spring
jfHllll Adjusting Screw
Air Value Lift Adjustment
Primary Air Inlet
Gasoline Inlet
Float Hinge
Metal Float
Needle Value Packing Nut
Gasoline Adjusting Needle Value
Fig. 146. Holley Carburetor with Spring-Controlled Poppet Valve to Regulate
Auxiliary Air Passage.
Another simple type of vaporizer which has given very good re-
sulis in practice is shown in section at Fig. 146. This is a concentric
float design having the auxiliary air port closed by a flat-seated valve.
268 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
The gasoline control member is a balanced valve having a counter-
weight which tends to prevent vibration. The mixture proportions ai
regulated by a gasoline-adjusting needle valve at the bottom of tl
carburetor and the air valve spring tension adjustment. The mi:
ture delivered to the cylinders of the motor is regulated by a simp]
form of throttle disk.
A later and improved form of Holley Carburetor is shown in sec-
tion at Fig. 147. In this the main air enters through a pipe at the
side of the carburetor which communicates with an annular chamber
surrounding the mixing tube. The gasoline collects in a small basin-
at the top of the partition separating the float bowl from the mixing
tube. The gasoline supply is regulated by the usual form of needle
valve at the bottom of the float bowl. In this carburetor the only
moving part is the float and the auxiliary air valve or auxiliary air
openings have been eliminated by a special construction of the spray
nozzle. v
Eeferring to the lettering on the drawing the action of this form
of carburetor can be easily understood. The fuel from the tank enters
the float chamber A I to the gasoline filter screen B, and the level
is regulated by the inlet valve C, which is actuated by the usual float
and lever combination D. When the motor is not running the level
is halfway up the cup E and submerges the lower end of the low-speed
tube F. When starting the engine the throttle G is nearly closed
and gasoline and air are drawn through F with very high velocity
owing to the degree of suction, thus forming a rich mixture and mak-
ing starting easy. The tube F continues to supply the motor at low
speeds, but as the throttle valve opens the small tube gradually
emerges into the larger one and all the mixture supplied at motor
speeds above 300 R. P. M. passes through the main mixing tube H.
The spray nozzle I has a slot J which is supplied by two separate
channels, the series of holes M and the plug L, the latter having a
limited hole. At low engine speeds both operate, M predominating,
but as s the speed increases the fuel level automatically drops, because
the needle C must lift higher with the increase in amount furnished.
The leverage is about three to one, so that the float drop is three times
the movement of the needle, and the holes M are uncovered to the
atmosphere above the fuel surface, which passes through the slot J
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
269
and maintains the uniformity of the mixture. The gasoline feed at
low speeds is adjusted by the size of the plug opening 0, extreme
high speeds by the area of the orifice in plug L, and the intermediate
Fig. 147. Latest Model of Holley Carburetor with By-pass Tube to Provide
Easier Starting.
ratios through the automatic action provided by the series of holes M,
the slot J and the nozzle I, and the adjusting needle. The advantages
270
The. Modern Gasoline Automobile
claimed by the designer are : permanent adjustment, positive starting,
due to high vacuum and air velocity directly applied to the source oi
fuel supply; positive action at low and idling speed due to rich mix-
ture; greater economy and rapid acceleration, owing to more homo-
geneous and better-proportioned vaporization. A richer mixture
automatically obtained for hill climbing and hard pulling because th(
fuel level rises with slower motor speed and feeds the spray nozzk
through two channels instead of one.
A typical foreign type of simple carburetor is shown at Fig. 148,
this being the vaporizing device used on Mercedes cars. This is a floal
Fig. 148. Mercedes Carburetor, which Has Retained Substantially the Same
Form as when First Designed Nearly a Decade Ago.
feed type having a float chamber carried at one side of the mixing
chamber. The spray nozzle is a simple type which extends in a tube
having one end open to the main supply pipe and the other to the
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
271
annular chamber through which the air is inspired. The mixture
supply is regulated by a sliding throttle valve K, which also provides
the auxiliary air in increasing proportions as the amount supplied the
cylinders is increased. The only way the gasoline proportions may be
altered is by varying the spray nozzle or changing the level of the float.
Fig. 149. Sectional View of Chapin Carburetor, which Has Mechanical Control
of Auxiliary Air Opening and Spray Nozzle Needle.
The carburetor shown in section at Fig. 149 is a type which has no
auxiliary air valve, the auxiliary air opening being controlled by a
valve which is directly actuated by a mechanical connection between
272
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
the throttle disk so that as the throttle is opened more air is allowec
to flow through the auxiliary opening. The main air enters througl
the air bend at the bottom and passes around the spray nozzle, whk
is placed at the point of least area of the air tube. The amount of
gasoline supplied the mixture is regulated by the fuel -needle F, and
this is raised by leverage from the throttle so that more fuel is sprayed
into the mixture at higher motor speed. In other respects the carbu-
retor is a conventional construction.
The Excelsior carburetor, which is shown in section at Fig. 150,
has several distinctive features, one of these being the floating ball
Needle Value
Inspection
Opening
Cap
Spiral Rack
Index
Value
Mixing Chamber
Air Value
Spring
Pinion
Large Gear
Air Value Spring
Tension Adjustment
B
Fig. 150. Sectional View of Excelsior Carburetor. A Side Section Depicting
Floating Ball Controlling Mixture Passage. B Showing Peculiar Air Valve
Spring and Geared Control of Air Valve Stem.
in the air tube and others exist in the peculiar form of auxiliary air-
valve mechanism. It is claimed that the ball which rests against the
pin D, shown in sectional view A, constricts the bore of the air tube
at low >speed so that the velocity of the air passing the spray nozzle is
sufficiently high to insure taking up the proper amount of gasoline,
but no more than that required to insure positive action of the engine.
At highest engine speed the floating ball is drawn up against the stop
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 273
pin D ? and the air passage is practically free from any interruption.
Under this condition the Venturi tube is permitted to exercise its
function and a correspondingly large amount of gasoline is drawn
from the spray nozzle. It is claimed that the floating ball controls the
mixture automatically in that it permits the motor to get just the
amount of gasoline it needs and thus conduces to economy.
The auxiliary air valve is controlled by a clock spring the tension
of which is multiplied by a series of gears. The tension is extremely
light when the valve is closed and increases as the valve opens. It is
claimed that this form of spring cannot vary and that it will main-
tain its tension indefinitely. The air valve stem is provided with a
spiral rack at one end which meshes with a small pinion controlled by
the air valve spring. Any movement of the light air valve is multi-
plied many times by the gearing so that the spring tension may be
comparatively light.
The carburetor is a concentric float type and with the exception
of the floating ball in the air tube and the peculiar form of air-valve
mechanism it does not differ from conventional practice. Referring to
sectional view A at Fig. 150 the principle of action can be easily un-
derstood. The fuel enters the float chamber F through connection U
and a constant level is maintained by the float valve, which is directly
actuated by the hollow metal float W. The primary air enters at P
and is drawn by motor suction past the spray nozzle M located in the
restricted portion of the Venturi tube. The amount of gasoline ad-
mitted to the mixture is adjusted by the fuel-regulating needle G.
while the amount of movement of the auxiliary air valve X may be
controlled by the air valve spring tension adjustment shown in top
sectional view at B. The mixture supplied to the cylinders is gov-
erned by the usual form of disk throttle valve T. To insure easy
starting the stop K may be turned so that the air valve is held closed,
this making for strong suction through the restricted portion of the
Venturi tube and insuring easy starting by providing a rich mixture.
The carburetor shown at Fig. 151 is that used on Pierce cars, and
is illustrated because it presents a number of novel features. While
the construction in the main follows conventional practice inasmuch
as the spray nozzle is concentric with the float, it employs a novel
method of auxiliary air valve control and a form of throttle which is
274
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
275
not generally used. The auxiliary air ports are regulated by reeds
which are backed by supplementary springs to prevent excessive mo-
tion. The reeds open progressively as the suction increases. The
throttle chamber contains a barrel-shaped throttle member which has
Water Outlet
Water Spa
Water Inlet
Ball Seat Cage
Float Chamber Cover
Pipe Connection
Primary Air Inlet
j. 152. Grouvelle and Arquemberg (French) Carburetor with Venturi Tube
Mixing Chamber and Air Port Control by Floating Balls.
>penings cut in it registering with the gas outlet and the orifice com-
mnicating with the mixing chamber. The gasoline supply is regu-
ited by a needle valve which may be adjusted to regulate the size
)f the opening in the nozzle. The mixing chamber is water- jacketed,
276 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
and as the stream of hot water from the engine is kept circulating
through the water space the heat tends to promote more positive
vaporization of fuel and insure thorough mixture of gasoline and
air.
The Grouvelle and Arquemberg carburetor depicted at Fig. 152 is!
a foreign type that has been applied with some degree of success in
this country. The float chamber is carried to one side of the mixing
chamber and the usual Venturi tube construction is followed. No
gasoline regulation is possible without changing the spraying nozzle,;
and as the auxiliary air supply is regulated by a series of ball valves
this adjustment cannot be varied. The mixing chamber is water-
jacketed and the amount of fuel admitted to the cylinders is regulated
by a simple disk valve. It is advanced by the makers of this apparatus
that once fitted to an engine it will need no further attention and H
entirely automatic in its action. The combination of the Venturi tube
and the floating ball auxiliary air control are said to provide mixtures
of suitable proportions for all engine speeds without using adjustable
members which are liable to get out of order and cause trouble.
Another simple form of carburetor in which the Venturi tube
effect is depended upon is shown at Fig. 153. In this device the car-
buretor and induction pipe are a unit. The float chamber is carried,
to one side of the mixing chamber and the auxiliary air valve and
throttle are located at the top of the air tube. The float chamber and
spray nozzle construction are conventional, but the combined throttle
and air valve construction is unique. The air valve is a light sheet
metal member located at the extreme top of the mixing chamber and
held to its seat by a cone-shaped helical spring. The air valve is guided
by the throttle stem. The throttle consists of a cylindrical member
connected to a- hub by four ribs, and when it is desired to shut off the
gas the lower portion of the throttle seats against the top of the air
tube, thus effectively shutting off the branches which lead to the cylin-
der from the central member.
Owing to the small bore of the mixing chamber a rich gas is in-
spired'at low motor speeds, and when the suction effect increases the
auxiliary air supply enters through the throttle and meets the incom-
ing column of rich gas to dilute it sufficiently to obtain a properly
proportioned mixture. The course of the gas is direct, rising verti-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
277
cally from the top of the spray nozzle to the throttle where it branches
to the two inlet pipes forming the letter Y.
Float Chamber
\T
Metal Float
Float Value
Primary Air Inlet
Gasoline Inlet-^ Spraying Nozzle
Fig. 153. Peerless Carburetor, which is Combined with Induction Manifold.
Has Spray Nozzle and Float Chamber at Bottom and Air Valve at Top.
The air tube is water- jacketed its full length to insure vaporization
of comparatively low grade fuel. The main air entrance is through a
278 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
funnel-shaped opening provided with a fine mesh screen, past a hinged
shutter and then around the spray nozzle. The function of the shut-
ter is to promote easy starting, as it may be dropped so the air pipe
is almost shut off when it is desired to promote high gas velocity past
the top of the spray nozzle. The mixture proportions are altered by
changing the tension of the air valve spring which directly affects the
degree of opening and the amount of auxiliary air inspired.
A simple form of automatic carburetor is shown at Fig. 151.
This utilizes a concentric . mixing chamber of the Venturi tube type.
The auxiliary air port is controlled by a flat seat valve and the gaso-
line spray is regulated by an overhead needle adjusting tube. The air
entrance through an air bend at the bottom of the carburetor flows
past the spray nozzle and out through the gas outlet which is con-
trolled by a butterfly throttle valve. A feature of this instrument is
the detachable strangling tube which may be removed in case the
proper adjustments cannot be obtained by the air valve and gasoline
needle and replaced by one of larger or smaller bore as conditions
demand.
Multiple Nozzle Vaporizers. To secure properly proportioned mix-
tures some carburetor designers have evolved forms in which two or
more nozzles are used in a common mixing chamber. The usual con-
struction is to use two, one having a small opening and placed in a
small air tube and used only for low speeds, the other being placed in
a larger air tube and having a slightly augmented bore so that it is
employed on intermediate speeds. At high speeds both jets would be
used in series. Some multiple jet carburetors could be considered as a
series of these instruments each one being designed for certain con-
ditions of engine action. They would vary from small, size just suf-
ficient to run the -engine at low speed to others having sufficient capac-
ity to furnish gas for the highest possible engine speed when used in
conjunction with the smaller members which have been brought into
service progressively as the engine speed has been augmented. The
multiple nozzle carburetor differs from that in which a single spray
tube is used only in the construction of the mixing chamber, as a
common float bowl can be used to supply all spray pipes. It is com-
mon practice to bring the jets into action progressively by some form
of mechanical connection with the throttle or by automatic valves.
279
280
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
A simple form of multiple jet carburetor h shown at Fig. 155,
this being an adaptation of the Stromberg carburetor. It does not
differ materially from the single jet construction except that there is
Needle Valve Li ft Lever,
Gas Outlet
Priming Lever
Float Level
Adjustment Loc
Auxiliary Ga.oline Needle
High Speed
Adjustment
Auxiliary Air
Port
Air Value
Spring
Air Value
Lock
Low Speed
Adjustment
Auxiliary"
Nozzle ^Air Valve Stem
Auxiliary Jet
Primary Air Inlet
Primary Jet
Wire Gauze
Settling Chambe
Drain Cock
Fig. 156. Details of Stromberg Double- Jet Carburetor, which Provides Extra
Fuel Through Auxiliary Spray Jet when Motor Demands It.
an auxiliary nozzle which is closed by a spring-controlled auxiliary
gasoline needle. This is operated by a needle valve lift lever which
in turn is affected only when the auxiliary air valve is drawn down,
a certain distance by the motor suction. At low and intermediate
speeds the mixture is supplied through the primary jet in the main
mixing chamber. When the engine speed augments to such an extent
that the auxiliary air valve is opened to a certain point the adjusting
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
281
nut on the end of the valve stem bears against the long arm of the
lever and lifts the auxiliary gasoline needle from its seat. More gaso-
line is then sprayed into the mixture which has become too thin
because of an oversupply of air through the auxiliary valve and proper
mixture proportions are maintained.
Fig. 156. Carburetor Incorporated in F. I. A. T. Cylinder Casting Is a Multiple-
Jet Type Having Two Spray Tubes.
The form shown at Fig. 156 is a novel one in several respects. It
is the type where a common float bowl supplies both spray nozzles.
The small nozzle A is used at low speeds and is brought into commu-
nication with the throttle chamber C by a small port in the throttle
282 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
shell. When the throttle is opened still further to secure higher speed
of the motor the mixing nozzle B, which is a larger one, is brought into
play and assists the nozzle A, which would be inadequate if used alone.
The auxiliary air enters through the openings E which are also con-
trolled by ports in the throttle shell. One of the most distinctive
features of this carburetor is the manner in which it is incorporated
with the cylinder unit casting, it being installed at a point between
the pairs of the cylinders. The induction manifold is formed integral
with the cylinder casting and no outside manifold is used or needed.
The throttle assembly is formed as a unit and inserted into a suitably
machined opening while the float chamber and spray nozzle assembly
is inserted at the lower portion as another unit.
A simple form of two-jet carburetor having an automatic control
of the mixing chamber is shown in section at Fig. 157. In this a
clack valve is used to close off the secondary mixing chamber at low
speeds. All the air is drawn through a common opening and deliv-
ered to an annular air chamber which surrounds the mixing chamber.
This permits one air inlet to serve both primary ;;nd secondary mixing
chambers. At low throttle openings only the primary nozzle is util-
ized and the amount of gasoline supplied can be adjusted to a degree
which will insure a mixture of such proportions as will produce steady
running with minimum gasoline consumption.
When the throttle is opened to increase engine speed the degree
of suction is increased and at a time that the primary nozzle is not
adequate to supply a full charge of gas the clack valve opens auto-
matically and the secondary nozzle is brought into play. The valve
is joined to a piston which works in a dashpot by means of a crank
and connecting rod in order that its movement will be gradual. The
coil spring back of tLo dashpot piston tends to keep the valve closed
until the higher degree of vacuum or suction causes the valve to open
against the spring resistance. If the throttle were suddenly closed
the tendency of the valve might be to close very rapidly and to pre-
vent too rapid movement of this member the piston is moved against
an air cushion at the bottom of the dashpot cylinder. As this member
must oscillate to a certain extent when the shutter works back and
forth it is jonrnaled at its lower end to permit a certain degree of
movement. As will be evident both spray nozzles furnish mixture at
283
284 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
high engine speeds. The view shown at A depicts clearly the con-
struction of the clack valve and how its motion is controlled by the
crank, connecting rod and* piston in the dashpot cylinder. The view
at B depicts clearly the arrangement of the float and mixing cham-
bers, and the method of supplying both primary and secondary nozzles
with air through one main air inlet and with gasoline from a common
source.
In the Zenith carburetor, which is shown at Fig. 158, a compound
nozzle is used, this being composed of two jets designated as G and H.
The center nozzle G is the main member and concentric with it is a
ti^be which forms the compensating jet H. The inner nozzle com-
municates with the float chamber through passages E and C, while
the annular space between the main jet and the cap of the compen-
sating member is supplied with gasoline by the passage F. At one
side of the mixing chamber, and between that member and the float
compartment, is a cylinder in which the secondary well P and the
priming tube K are suspended. The upper end of the priming tube
is in communication with tb passage IT in the mixing chamber walls.
The passage U is controlled by the throttle T. When the throttle is
closed the suction through the priming tube K is so great that it
drains the gasoline from the secondary well and furnishes a very rich
mixture through the opening U in the wall of the air tube D. The
gasoline enters the secondary well P through the small hole Q at the
bottom. With this vaporizer the quantity of air increases almost
directly as the engine speed but the gasoline supply does not.
Since the air supply increases with a constant ratio the amount of
gasoline must be regulated to such proportions that a correct mixture
will be obtained at all speeds. This is the function performed by the
double nozzle because at low speed the outer or compensating nozzle
has a large quantity of fuel, but this decreases as the engine speed
augments until at high speed the compensating nozzle does not add
much fuel to the mixture. In this form the multiple nozzle construc-
tion is employed to do away with the automatic air valve, all air
being di*awn through the primary air opening at the bottom of the
mixing tube D. A strangling tube A is dropped into the air tube in
order to constrict its area at the spray nozzle and secure a Venturi
tube effect.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
285
The object of any multiple nozzle carburetor is to secure greater
flexibility and endeavor to supply mixtures of proper proportions at
all speeds of the engine. It should be stated, however, that while
devices of this nature lend themselves readily to practical application
Fig. 158. The Zenith Carburetor, which Embodies Novel Application of Double-
Jet Principle, One Spray Nozzle Being Concentric with the Other.
it is more difficult to adjust them than the simpler forms, having but
one nozzle. When a number of jets are used the liability of clogging
up the carburetor is increased, and if one or more of the nozzles is
choked by a particle of dirt or water the resulting mixture trouble is
286 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
difficult to detect. One of the nozzles may supply enough gasoline to
permit the engine to run well at certain speeds and yet not be ade-
quate to supply the proper amount of gas under other conditions.
In adjusting a multiple jet carburetor in which the jets are pro-
vided with gasoline regulating needles, it is customary to consider
each nozzle as a distinct carburetor and to regulate it to secure the
best motor action at that throttle position which corresponds to the
conditions under which the jet is brought into service. For instance,
that supplied the primary mixing chamber should be regulated Avith
the throttle partly closed, while the auxiliary jet should be adjusted
with the throttle fully opened.
Utility of Gasoline Strainers. Many carburetors include a filter-
ing screen at the point where the liquid enters the float chamber in
order to keep dirt or any other foreign matter which may be present
in the fuel from entering the float chamber. This is not general prac-
tice, however, and the majority of vaporizers do not include a filter in
their construction. It is very desirable that the dirt should be kept
out of the carburetor because it may get under the float control fuel
valve and cause flooding by keeping it raised from its seat. If it finds
its way into the spray nozzle it may block the opening so that no
gasoline will issue or may so constrict the passage that only very small
quantities of fuel will be supplied the mixture. Where the carburetor
itself is not provided with a filtering screen a simple filter is usually
installed in the pipe line between the gasoline tank and the float
chamber.
Some simple forms of filters and separators are shown at Fig. 159.
That at A consists of a simple brass casting having a readily detach-
able gauze screen and a settling chamber of sufficient capacity to allow
the foreign matter to settle to the bottom from which it is drained out
by a pet cock. Any water or dirt in the gasoline will settle to the
bottom of the chamber, and as all fuel delivered to the carburetor
must pass through the wire gauze screen it is not likely to contain
impurities when it reaches the float chamber. The heavier particles,
such a& % scale from the tank or dirt and even water, all of which have
greater weight than the gasoline, will sink to the bottom of the cham-
ber, whereas light particles, such as lint, will be prevented from flow-
ing into the carburetor by the filtering screen.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
287
The filtering device shown at B is a larger appliance than that
shown at A, and should be more efficient as a separator because the
gasoline is forced to pass through three filtering screens before it
reaches the carburetor. The gasoline enters the device shown at C
Supporting Boss
Gasoline
from Tank
To Carburetor
__ v To Carburetor
Wire Gauze
Wire Gauze
Settling Chamber
Settling Chamber
B
Gasoline Tank
To Carburetor
Wire Gauze \*
To Carburetor}
Settling Chamber
Settling Chamber
Fig. 159. Types of Strainers Interposed Between Vaporizer and Gasoline Tank
to Prevent Water or Dirt Passing Into Carbureting Device.
through a bent pipe which leads directly to the settling chamber and
from thence through a wire gauze screen to the upper compartment
which leads to 'the carburetor. The device shown at D is used on
Chalmers motor cars and is a combination strainer, drain, and sedi-
ment cup. The filtering screen is held in place by a spring and both
288 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
are removed by taking out a plug at the bottom of the device. The
shut-off valve at the top of the device is interposed between the sedi-
ment cup and the carburetor. This separating device is incorporated
with the gasoline tank and forms an integral part of the gasoline sup-
ply system. The other types shown are designed to be interposed
between the gasoline tank and the carburetor at any point in the pipe
line where they may be conveniently placed.
How Kerosene May be Utilized. The carburetion of kerosene
seems to be partially solved at the present time, and there are several
forms of carbureting devices which permit one to utilize this fuel.
It is important that the vaporizer employed be one that can be readily \
adapted to present day forms of motors. It is a fact that with lower
grade fuels, as kerosene or benzol, a motor of lower compression
than one can use successfully with gasoline and some means for heat- j
ing the entering mixture are needed. When kerosene is used as fuel |
the conditions are similar to those which obtain with gasoline except |
the temperature at which vaporization commences. The heavier liquid
requires more heat to cause it to vaporize, it being necessary to pre-
heat kerosene to about two hundred degrees Fahrenheit before it will
evaporate and form a mixture with air. !; is necessary to provide a |
heated passage to further vaporize the mixture as it leaves the spray
nozzle and as direct an entrance to the motor should be provided as
possible. It is necessary to maintain a high velocity of the kerosene
vapor in order to prevent condensation.
The carburetor depicted at Fig. 160 is the Holley form adapted to
use kerosene. It consists of a conventional form concentric jet, float-
feed vaporizer, to which the kerosene is fed at the lower end and a mix-
ing chamber having an auxiliary air valve is carried at the upper end \
of the device. In connection with this appliance a simple form of
gasoline vaporizing valve is mounted at the upper end near the gas
outlet, and is used to supply mixture enough to promote easy starting
of the motor. The exhaust gases from the motor are passed through
a jacket which surrounds the mixture tube leading from the kerosene
vaporizer and which goes through the float bowl to heat the fuel
therein.
The liquid in the fuel container is heated to about two hundred
degrees before it is sprayed in the motor, and it is contended that if
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
289
kerosene is kept near its boiling point it will leave the spray nozzle
just as readily as gasoline will at ordinary temperature. It would be
extremely difficult to start an engine on kerosene unless the vaporiz-
Gasoline
Vaporizing Value
Adjusting Needle
Clamp
Exhaust Inle
Spraying Nozzle
Float Valve Cap
Float Valve
loot Chamber
Kerosene Inlet
Primary Air Injet
Fig. 160. Holley Combined Gasoline and Kerosene Carburetor. May Be Used
with Either Fuel, Though Specially Adapted for the Less Volatile Liquid
Distillates of Petroleum, Because of Preheating Arrangement.
290
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
ing device was raised in temperature to a point that would permit of
/ ready vaporization of fuel. In the device shown at Fig. 160 if the
motor is to be started cold the mixture supplied by the gasoline vapor-
izing valve is directed into the cylinder by a three-way valve which
closes off the kerosene compartment and provides a by-pass for the
gasoline mixture through the gas outlet. After the engine has run
for a time, usually two or three minutes, the kerosene vaporizer has
been raised in temperature to the proper point and a shift from one
fuel to another is easily made by throwing the three-way valve over
so that the gasoline vaporizer is shut off from the gas outlet and direct
communication is provided by the large opening in the throttle valve
between the motor cylinder and the mixing chamber of the kerosene
carburetor.
When kerosene vapor is used with the usual type of induction
manifold it is liable to condense if conditions are unfavorable to rapid
. Exhaust
Exhaust
Fig. 161. Combined Intake and Exhaust Manifold Suggested as Suitable f(
Use with Kerosene and Air Mixture. The Hot Exhaust Gases Heat
Inlet Pipe Walls and Produce More Complete Vaporization.
volatilization. This " loading up " as it is called is due to the lo\v
velocity and temperature of the mixture which passes through com-
paratively large passages, and while it can be reduced to a certaii
extent by making the area of the manifold cross section smaller, thu
is not desirable because at high speeds it would not be possible
supply san adequate amount of mixture to the cylinders unless the ful
cross section of the intake pipe is used. To minimize condensatioi
the combination manifold shown at Fig. 161 has been recommend<
This consists of forming the intake and exhaust manifold in 01
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 291
casting, the thought being to heat the inlet manifold by the hot inert
products of combustion to such a point that the kerosene vapor would
be turned into a gas and all liquid particles vaporized. It is recom-
mended that a manifold of this type be used in connection with the
carburetor shown at Fig. 160.
It is stated that the heated vapor from the kerosene vaporizer with
its quota of air comprises about one fourth of the total volume of the
charge, the balance of the air being supplied by the auxiliary valve
at the top of the kerosene vaporizer. When the proper degree of com-
pression obtains in the motor and the kerosene is properly heated
before attempt is made to vaporize it the action of the carburetor de-
scribed is claimed to be very similar to that of a gasoline vaporizer.
It is claimed that it is possible to convert the usual gasoline motor by
adding a spacer of proper thickness under the cylinder to reduce the
compression to the point where kerosene can be used successfully.
The degree of compression recommended as most suitable for use with
kerosene vapor furnished by a carbureting device is between fifty and
sixty pounds per square inch.
Another important consideration is that the initial heating of the
lotor parts by use of gasoline gas be complete before one attempts to
ise kerosene. If the heavier liquid is supplied to the engine before
the carburetor has been raised to the proper degree of temperature,
poor combustion of kerosene results and carbon deposits, or gummy
residue is deposited in the interior of the combustion chamber.
Supplying Kerosene by Direct Injection. The most logical method
of utilizing fuels which have a low vaporizing point and which must
be raised in temperature before they will give off vapor is to supply
to the motor cylinder by direct injection. Several types of stationary
>wer plants and some used in marine applications have been designed
use the cheaper fuels which cost less than gasoline, such as kerosene,
benzol, or crude oil. The view at Fig. 162 is a section through a
>troit two-port two-cycle engine which has been adapted to use kero-
ic by direct injection. The engine is of the conventional pattern,
iving an automatic inlet valve at the side of the crank case to admit
tir on the upward stroke of the piston. If this engine was used with
>oline the carburetor or mixing valve would be attached to this check
falve cage and the engine would operate on the two-port principle.
292
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
In the design under discussion the fuel supply device consists of a
float feed arrangement attached to a spray nozzle placed in the trans-
fer port in such a way that it discharges the fuel against the deflector
Water Space
Nater Space
Float
Fuel
Connection
A
Air Passage from
Crankcase to Cylinder t Cranhcase Q
Fig. 162. Showing Two-Cycle Motor with Device for Direct Injection of Heav-
ier Petroleum Distillates into Cylinder.
plate on the piston top. The float keeps the kerosene level in the
float chamber to a height equal to the point of the spray jet. The
amount of kerosene supplied can be regulated by the usual needle
valve which controls the nozzle opening.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 293
Assume for the purpose of making the explanation clearer that the
binder is full of fresh gas and that the piston is traveling upward.
[t will close the transfer passage and the exhaust port and will com-
press the charge above it. As the piston continues to move upward
a vacuum is created in the crank case which draws in a current of
air through the spring-controlled automatic valve P, and fuel into the
fuel-feeding chamber. At the top of the compression stroke the gas
is ignited by an electric spark and the resulting explosion causes a
downward movement of the piston. As this member moves toward
the end of its stroke the air in the crank case and the fuel-supply
chamber is under compression. As the exhaust port is uncovered by
the piston as it continues to go down the inert products of combus-
tion, which have a pressure of forty to fifty pounds per square inch,
stream out of the open port until but a very small portion of burned
gas which is at atmospheric pressure remains at the cylinder.
As the piston continues to move down it uncovers the spraying
nozzle I. The compressed air in the crank case rushes into the cylin-
der F and strikes the deflector H which directs it to the top of the
cylinder and drives before it the remainder of the burned gases out of
the open exhaust port. Simultaneously with this function the pres-
sure in the fuel chamber B relieves itself by spraying a stream of fuel
through the nozzle I, As this stream of liquid strikes the hot de-
flector plate it is immediately vaporized, and as it is in the center of
the incoming air stream it mixes with it to form an inflammable
mixture.
A disadvantage of this method of fuel injection is that it does not
provide for the flexibility of engine action which is so essential in
automobile service. This disadvantage does not militate against it
to any great extent in stationary or marine application where the
motor speed does not need to be varied within a wide range and
where constant speeds are more often used. This method of auto-
matic fuel injection is not practical when a four-cycle engine is used,
and if fuel is to be suppled in this manner a small plunger pump
driven by the engine is usually employed to force it into the combus-
tion chamber under considerable pressure.
Intake Manifold Design and Construction. On four- and six-cylin-
der engines and in fact on all multiple-cylinder forms, it is important
294 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
that the piping leading from the carburetor to the cylinders be made
in. such a way that the various c}dinders will receive their full quota
of gas and that each cylinder will receive its charge at about the same
point in the cycle of operations. In order to make the passages direct
the bends should be as few as possible, and when curves are necessary
they should be of large radius because an abrupt corner will not only
impede gas flow but will tend to promote condensation of the fuel.
Every precaution should be taken with four- and six-cylinder engines
to insure equitable gas distribution to the valve chambers if regular
action of the power plant is desired. If the gas pipe has many turns
and angles it will be difficult to charge all cylinders properly.
The problem of intake piping is simplified to some extent on
block motors where the intake passage is cored in the cylinder casting
and where but one short pipe is needed to join this passage to the
carburetor. If the cylinders are cast in pairs a simple pipe of T
or Y form can be used with success. When the engine is of a type
using individual cylinder castings, especially in the six-cylinder power
plants, the proper application and installation of suitable piping is a
difficult problem.
Intake piping is constructed in two ways, the most common
method being to cast the manifold of brass or aluminum. The other
method, which is more costly, is to use a built-up construction of cop-
per or brass tubing with cast metal elbows and Y pieces. One of the
disadvantages advanced .against the cast manifold is that blowholes
may exist which produce imperfect castings and which will cause mix-
ture troubles because the entering gas from the carburetor, which may
be of proper proportions, is diluted by the excess air which leaks in
through the porous casting. Another factor of some moment is
that the roughness of the walls have a certain amount of friction
which tends to reduce the velocity of the gases, and when project-
ing pieces are present, such as core wire or other points of metal,
these tend to collect the drops of liquid fuel and thus promote con-
densation.
The advantage of the built-up construction is that the walls of the
tubing are very smooth, and as the castings are small it is not difficult
to clean them out thoroughly before they are incorporated in I lie
manifold. The tubing and castings are joined together by hard sol-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
295
clering or brazing, and extreme care is needed to insure tight joints
at all points.
Some typical manifolds used on four-cylinder engines of various
types are depicted at Fig. 163. That at A is composed of four pipes
leading from a central member, each one communicating with an
Fig. 163. Typical Induction Pipes Used on Four-Cylinder Motors.
idividual cylinder. The pipes' are so. nearly the same length that
distribution is fairly uniform. The manifolds shown at B and C
substantially the same, except that one is a more pronounced Y
lan the other. Both are cast forms, that at B being of round section,
r hile that at C is a square section casting. The manifold depicted at
is another type which has been evolved for use with a four-cylinder
lotor having individual cylinder castings.
At E a cast manifold which is combined with a water-jacket cover
ite used on the Chalmers block motor is illustrated, it being plain
iat the heating effect of the jacket-water tends to raise the tempera-
296
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
ture of the entire manifold and promote more rapid vaporization if
low-grade fuels are used. The manifold at F is a type applied to a
four-cylinder motor having cylinders cast in pairs, and this cast form
has-been made with graceful curves rather than straight lines. The
induction pipe depicted at G is also utilized to supply a four-cylinder
motor having twin cylinder castings and is made in the form of a
letter T. At H a ramshorn type is outlined, the curves being reversed
to the usual construction. The form at I is still another variation of
the simple two-branch or T form of induction pipe.
Fig. 164. Conventional Inlet Manifolds Adapted for Six-Cylinder Motors.
When six-cylinder motors are used the problem is one that is not
so easily solved, and designers show considerable ingenuity in devising
manifolds to secure even charge distribution. A number of conven-
tional forms that have received successful application are depicted at
Fig. 164 All types shown except that outlined at D are used with six-
cylinder engines having three pairs of cylinders, while that at D is
employed when the motor is composed of two three-cylinder block
castings. All the manifolds illustrated are built-up forms composed
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
297
of tubing and cast fittings with the exception of that outlined at C,
which is a cast aluminum member.
Another group of six-cylinder manifolds is given at Fig. 165. The
forms at A, B, C, and E are designed for use with six-cylinder motors
72345 6
1 23456
Fig. 165. Some Unconventional Forms of Gas Supply Pipes Used On Six-Cylin-
der Power Plants.
having individual cylinder castings. The form at A, while of peculiar
shape, provides gas passages of about the same length leading to all
cylinders. This is not true of those shown at B, C, and E, which are
faulty in design, inasmuch as the gas will reach cylinders three and
four much quicker than it will get to two and five, and to these two
cylinders quicker than it will reach those on the extreme ends of the
manifold, or one and six. It is claimed that the loop shown at B has
given very satisfactory results, and that the peculiar construction
compensates to a certain degree for the varying lengths of piping
leading from the carburetor to the various valve chambers. The
manifold at D is a built-up form utilized when cylinders are cast in
pairs, and is much superior to that outlined at F, which is a cast
aluminum member designed for the same type of motor.
298 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
Compensating for Varying Atmospheric Conditions. The low-
grade gasoline used at the present time makes it necessary to use
vaporizers that are more susceptible to atmospheric variations than
when higher grade and more volatile liquids are vaporized. Sudden
temperature changes, sometimes being as much as forty degrees rise
or fall in twelve hours, affect the mixture proportions to some extent,
and not only changes in temperature but variations in altitude also
have a bearing on mixture proportions by affecting both gasoline
and air. As the temperature falls the specific gravity of the gasoline
increases and it becomes heavier, this producing difficulty in vaporiz-
ing. The tendency of very cold air is to condense gasoline instead
of vaporizing it and therefore it is necessary to supply heated air to
some carburetors to obtain proper mixtures during cold weather. In
order that the gas mixtures will ignite properly the fuel must be
vaporized and thoroughly mixed with the entering air either by heat
or high velocity of the gases.
As it would be somewhat inconvenient to constantly regulate the
average carburetor from day to day by the regular adjustments incor-
porated in the device, forms o.' dash-controlled regulators have been
devised. One of these is shown at Fig. 166 as applied to the Holley
carburetor. It consists of a special form of valve interposed between
the hot air connection around the exhaust manifold and the primary
air entrance at the side of the carburetor. It is worked by a simple
key and leverage connection. An indicator plate on the dash shows
the different positions of the regulator. When the shutter is in the
position shewn at A only cold air is supplied the carburetor, this be-
ing the proper position for summer running. When in the position
shown at B the cold air slot is closed and only warm air which is taken
from the jacket surrounding the exhaust pipe is supplied the car-
buretor. This 'would be the proper position for cold or damp
weather. If the shutter is placed as shown at C the air supplied the
carburetor will be composed of both warm and cold currents in any
desired proportion. When it is desired to exert a strong suction on
the gasoline in the carburetor, as is often necessary in starting, the
shutter may be turned as depicted at D in which case both air open-
ings are shut off with the exception of but a very small slot. The
equipment illustrated has been designed especially for use with the
299
300 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
Holley carburetor and is supplied by the manufacturers of that device.
Air shutter regulation has been used on many cars, however, and has
proved to be a very satisfactory way of compensating for extremes of
temperature or altitude and variations in fuel quality.
Disposition of Exhaust Gases. While the problem of getting the
fresh gases into the cylinders is an important one the means of dis-
posing of them after they have been burned is also important. The
form of the exhaust manifold, which is usually a large malleable iron
casting, is not so important as that of the induction pipe and the
chief precaution to be observed is to make the passages in this mem-
ber as large as possible and to proportion it in such a way that
all parts of the casting will expand with the same ratio. An impor-
tant condition to be observed, however, is the method of discharging
the gases to the air and for this purpose various forms of mufflers,
or silencers, are used so that the gases will be discharged in an un-
objectionable manner.
It has been demonstrated that the average motor vehicle engine
cannot utilize the full expansive force of the burned charge because
the exhaust valve is opened a certain number of degrees before the
bottom center or before the piston reaches the end of its power stroke.
This is done to give a lead or start to the gases and obtain higher
engine speeds than would otherwise be possible. As a result of the
early opening of the exhaust valve the gases will issue through the
valve port at sufficient pressure to produce a report like a gun shot
which would be apt to disturb persons and animals of nervous tem-
perament and at the same time not be exactly music to the normal ear.
It is not difficult to muffle the gases so there will be but little noise
to the exhaust, but it is quite a problem to do it without producing
back pressure in the muffling device that will cause serious loss of
power. A muffler should offer minimum resistance to the passage
of the gas and means should be provided for not only breaking the
entering gas stream into smaller streams, but the capacity of the
muffler should be sufficiently large so that the gases will expand to
nearly atmospheric pressure before they are discharged into the air.
Various forms of mufflers are shown in section at Fig. 167. The
simplest, outlined at A, consists of a sheet metal shell having its ends
closed by cast metal pieces. This has several times the volume of
Jnlet
Inlet
Baffle Plates
Inlet
r
r
^
W-
s
_ ^
4
/
,;^x
^
l
/
/-
s
r ~.
;
N
I
v
s
P:
\^_
i
/ "*"
\
^^. _^
s;
I ^
'
^
V
\
\
\
\
\
Spring Discs
Outlets
Fig. 167. Muffler Forms Adapted to Reduce Pressure of Exhaust Gases Before
Discharging Them.
301
302 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
the cylinder and the gases expand to about atmospheric pressure be-
fore they are discharged through the series of small holes at the
bottom. The gas enters and leaves the muffler in streams indicated
by the arrows. The objection to the use of small holes for breaking
up the gas stream is that these are liable to clog with carbonaceous
matter from the interior of the engine, such as would result when
excessive amounts of oil were used or from mud or clay from the
road surface.
The form shown at B consists of a number of concentric chambers
which afford an excellent opportunity for the gas to expand to
atmospheric pressure and to break it up thoroughly before it is dis-
charged to the air. The exhaust gas enters the central pipe, passes
out through a series of fairly large holes at its extremity into the
middle compartment where it expands and passes out through another
series of holes into the outer chamber. Here it again expands and
finally leaves the muffler through a series of openings punched in
the outer shell. The course of the gas may be easily followed by
referring to the illustration, as it is indicated by arrows. A form
employing a series of perforated baffle plates which divide the mulller
body into eight compartments is shown at C. The function of the
baffles is to break up the gas by making the gas streams follow a
devious path through the first six chambers and expand into the
seventh compartment, from which it passes to the eighth compartment
through a series .of fine holes in the last baffle plate of the series.
The form at D consists of a central pipe member around which are
placed thirteen pairs of stamped disks which form the same number
of expansion chambers. The gas issues from the center pipe, where
opportunity is given it to expand into the chambers provided by the
disks which are merely placed in contact with each other at their
edges and helcl together by moderate pressure. The force of the
gas causes the disks to spring slightly at their edges and thus produce
an annular discharge passage in each set of disks which insures thor-
ough breaking up of the issuing gas stream. It is claimed that this
method of construction provides a large amount of cooling surface and
that the pressure of the gas is reduced just as much by the cooling
effect as it is by the increase in volume permitted by the expansion
chambers.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 303
The form shown at E is built on the ejector principle and is
claimed to be particularly efficient, 'not' only as relates to silencing
qualities but also because back pressure is practically eliminated. The
efficiency is due to its design, which allows that part of the gases
which pass through the central pipe to do so with considerable force.
This tends to produce a partial vacuum, which in turn promotes a
ready expulsion of gas by drawing the main portion through the
n in filer rather than depend upon the upward stroke of the piston to
clear both cylinder and muffler. This device is of the baffle plate
1vj><> and the partitions are in the form of cones instead of the usual
vertical or horizontal dividing walls because the conical form lends
it sell! to the ejector principle better than the other types.
Water Outlet
Gas Outlet
Water Inlet
Fig. 168. Water-Cooled Muffler Used when Exceptional Silence is Desired.
Often Applied in Marine Service.
A very good muffler for marine purposes is shown at Fig. 168.
This consists of a double-expansion chamber and a water jacket. If
the exhaust gases are cooled they will be considerably reduced in
volume and pressure and for this reason water cooled forms are very
quiet. As the gases are considerably reduced in pressure by the cool-
ing effect one may use large holes for the passage of gas from one
chamber to the other and the back pressure is correspondingly reduced.
AVliile a water cooled form of muffler can be readi.ly adapted to marine
service, it is not possible to use such on a motor car because of
the large volumes of water which would have to be supplied to insure
adequate cooling of the muffling device.
304
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
It is sometimes possible to secure a more prompt discharge of the
exhaust gases from the cylinder if a little attention is paid to the de-
sign of the exhaust manifold. The form shown at Fig. 169 is a coin-
Fig. 169. Suggested Exhaust Manifold in which Ejector Action of Exhaust
Gases under High Velocity is Said to Reduce Back Pressure on Pistons.
posite member consisting of four separate castings, the object of the
arrangement being to secure an ejector effect by which the discharge
from any one cylinder would tend to keep a condition of partial
vacuum in the manifold and thus draw out the gases. The discharge
from cylinder 1 goes through pipe A; that from cylinder 2, through
member B, while the gases from cylinders 3 and 4 pass out through
pipes C and D respectively. If the exhausts occur in the order 1, 2,
4, 3, it will be seen that the gases flowing through pipe A will pro-
duce a certain suction effect in pipe B, which will tend to draw out the
gases discharged from that cylinder when the exhaust valve opens.
A manifold so constructed is but little more complicated than the
ordinary construction, as it consists of the four bent tubes A, B, C
and D ? which are assembled together in such a manner that a portion
of one projects into the other. The faster the engine works the more
rapid the ejection of the gases and consequently the ejector action
has a higher value at a time that it is needed the most. Such a mani-
fold would be more expensive than the conventional pattern, however,
and there might be some difficulty in keeping it tight at the multi-
plicity >of joints.
Utility of Cut-out Valve Explained. In order to take advantage of
the gain in power which results when the gases are discharged directly
into the air instead of being passed through the muffling device, mam
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
305
automobile makers provide a simple valve, which is called a " cut-
out," between the exhaust manifold and the muffler. This is arranged
in such a manner that when opened, the gases are free to issue directly
to the air instead of passing through the muffling device, and as the
back pressure incidental to the silencer is eliminated more power is
obtained from the motor. A cut-out is also useful because it permits
one familiar with gasoline motors to detect irregularity, in engine
operation by sound of the exhaust.
A typical cut-out installation is shown at Fig. 170, this being more
efficient than that commonly used because even with the cut-out valve
Main Muffler
Fig. 170. How Muffler Cut-out Valve is Arranged on Wolseley (English) Cars
to Reduce Noisy Direct Exhaust.
opened the gases are silenced 'to a certain extent by being passed
through the chamber P before they issue to the air. When the cut-out
valve is closed the gases must follow a circuitous route through the
muffler and by being broken up and allowed to expand issue to the
306
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
air without appreciable noise. Whenever a cut-out valve is provide(
it is usually planned to open out so that any explosion of gas in tl
muffler which might result if the motor missed several explosioi
and then fired the gas in the silencer will tend to open the valve and
relieve the excessive pressure in the muffling device. If some means
were not provided to relieve the pressure, it might burst the muffler
asunder. The average cut-out valve, therefore, performs three useful
functions : First, it permits the exhaust gases to be discharged direct-
ly to the air at such times that maximum motor power is desired;
second, it provides audible indication of irregular engine action;
third, it is a safety or relief valve to prevent excessive pressures from
damaging the muffler.
CHAPTER VI
Automobile Power Plant Ignition Systems Outlined Chemical Current Pro-
ducers Mechanical Generators of Electricity Essentials of Battery Igni-
tion Systems Functions of Timers and Distributors Operating Prin-
ciples of Induction Coil Spark Plug Construction and Action Defined
Advantages of Two- Spark Ignition Typical Battery Ignition Groups
Low-tension Ignition Systems High-tension Magneto Forms Typical
Double Ignition Systems.
ONE of the most important auxiliary groups of the gasoline engine
comprising the automobile power plant and one absolutely necessary
to insure engine action is the ignition system or the method employed
of kindling the compressed gas in the cylinder to produce an explosion
and useful power. The ignition system has been fully as well devel-
oped as other parts of the automobile, and at the present time prac-
tically all ignition systems follow principles which have become stand-
ard through wide acceptance.
During the early stages of development of the automobile various
methods of exploding the charge of combustible gas in the cylinder
were employed. On some of the earliest engines a flame burned
close to the cylinder head and at the proper time for ignition, a slide
or valve moved to provide an opening which permitted the flame to
ignite the gas back of the piston. This system was practical only on
the primitive form of gas engines in which the charge was not com-
pressed before ignition. Later, when it was found desirable to com-
press the gas a certain degree before exploding it, an incandescent
platinum tube in the combustion chamber, which was kept in a heated
condition by a flame burning in it, exploded the gas. The naked
flame was not suitable in this application because when the slide was
opened to provide communication between the flame and the gas the
compressed charge escaped from the cylinder with enough pressure
to blow out the flame at times and thus cause irregular ignition.
When the flame was housed in a platinum tube it was protected from
307
*
308 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
the direct action of the gas, and as long as the tube was maintained
at the proper point of incandescence regular ignition was obtained.
Some engineers utilized the property of gases firing themselves
if compressed to a sufficient degree, while others depended upon the
heat stored in the cylinder head to fire the highly compressed gas.
None of these methods were practical in their application to motor car
engines because they did not permit flexible engine action which is
so desirable. At the present time, electrical ignition systems in
which the compressed gas is exploded by the heating value of the mi-
nute electric arc or spark in the cylinder are standard, and the general
practice seems to be toward the use of mechanical prodi^cers of elec-
tricit}^ rather than chemical batteries.
Two general forms of electrical ignition systems may be used,
the most popular being that in which a current of electricity under
high tension is made to leap a gap or air space between the points
of the sparking plug screwed mto the cylinder. The other form,
which has been almost entirely abandoned in automobile practice, but
which is still used to some extent on marine engines, is called the low-
tension system because current of low voltage is used and the spark is
produced by moving electrodes in the combustion chamber.
The essential elements of any electrical ignition system, either
high or low tension, are: First, a simple and practical method of
current production; second, suitable timing apparatus to cause the
spark to occur at the right point in the cycle of engine action ; third,
suitable wiring and other apparatus to convey the current produced
by the generator to the sparking member in the cylinder.
The various appliances necessary to secure prompt ignition of
the compressed gases should be described in some detail because of the
importance of the ignition system. It is patent that the scope of a
work of this character does not permit one to go fully into the theory
and principles of operation of all appliances which may be used in
connection with gasoline motor ignition, but at the same time it is
important that the elementary principles be considered to some extent
in order, that the reader should have a proper understanding of the
very essential ignition apparatus. The first point considered will be
the common methods of generating the electricity, then the appliances
to utilize it and produce the required spark in the cylinder.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
309
Current Production by Chemical Action. The simplest method of
current generation is by various forms of chemical current producers
which may be either primary or secondary in character. A simple
form of cell is shown in section at Fig. 171, A, and as the action of all
devices of this character is based on the same principles it will be
Carbon Rod
Terminal
Connector
External Circuit
Terminal
Seal
(
f- HE
j
Zinc
Copper Plate
=~ Electrolyte
o Gas Bubbles
o
f^-
o
Depolariztr -
B
Absorb
-ent
Lining
Container
Fig. 171. Simple Primary Cells Used to Produce Electric Current. A Form
to Show Principle of Current Production by Chemical Action. B Dry Cell,
the Type Suitable for Automobile Service.
well to consider the method of producing electricity by the chemical
action of a fluid upon a metal. The simple cell shown consists of a
container which is filled with an electrolyte which may be either an
alkali or acid solution. Immersed in the liquid are two plates of
metal., one being of copper, the other zinc. A wire is attached to
each plate by means of suitable screw terminals.
If the ends of the plates which are not immersed in the solution
are joined together a chemical action will take place between the
electrolyte and the zinc plate > in fact, any form of cell consists of
dissimilar elements which are capable of conducting electricity im-
mersed in a liquid which will act on one of them more than the
other. The chemical action of electrolyte on the zinc liberates gas
bubbles which are charged with electricity and which deposit them-
310 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
selves on the copper plate. The copper element serves merely as a
collecting member and is termed the " positive " plate, while the zinc
which is acted upon by the solution is termed the " negative " mem-
ber. The flow of current is from the zinc to the copper plate througli
the electrolyte and it is returned from the copper plate to the zinc
element by the wiring which comprises the external circuit.
While in the cell shown zinc and copper are. used, any other combi-
nation of metals between which there exists a difference in electrical
condition when one of them is acted upon by a salt or acid may be
employed. Any salt or acid solution will act as an electrolyte if it
will combine chemically with one of the elements and if it does not
at the same time offer too great a resistance to the passage of the
electric current. The current strength will vary with the nature of
the elements used, and will have a higher value when the chemical
action is more pronounced between the negative member and the
electrolyte.
As the vibrations which obtain when the automobile is driven over
highways makes it difficult to use cells in which there is a surplus of
liquid, a form of cell has been devised in which the liquid electrolyte is
replaced by a solid substance whicty cannot splash out of the container
even if the cell is not carefully sealed. A current producer of this
nature is depicted in section at Fig. 171, B. This is known as a dry'
cell and consists of a zinc can in the center of which a carbon rod is
placed. The electrolyte is held close to the zinc or negative member
by an absorbent lining of blotting paper, and the carbon rod is sur-
rounded by some depolarizing material. The top of the cell is sealed
with pitch to prevent loss of depolarizer.
The depolarizer is needed that the cell may continue to generate
current. When the circuit of a simple cell is completed the current
generation is brisker than after the cell has been producing electricity
for a time. While the cell has been in action the positive element
becomes covered with bubbles of hydrogen gas, which is a poor con-
ductor^ of electricity and tends to decrease the current output of
the cell. To prevent these bubbles from interfering with current
generation some means must be provided for disposing of the gas.
In dry cells the hydrogen gas that causes polarization is combined
with oxygen gas evolved by the depolarizing medium and the combi-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
311
nation of these two gases produces water which does not interfere with
the action of the cell. Carbon is used in a dry cell instead of copper
because it is a cheaper material and the electrolyte is a mixture of sal-
ammoniac and chloride of zinc which is held in intimate contact
with the zinc shell which forms the negative element by the blotting-
paper lining.
8 Cells in Series-Multiple
Zinc
Carbon
Zinc
Zinc
Carbon
12 Cells in Series-Mu/tlpIe
Fig. 172. Methods of Joining Dry Cells to Form Batteries of Varying Value.
A single dry cell will not produce sufficient current to ignite the
charge of gas in the engine cylinder,, therefore it is common practice
to combine two or more cells in such a manner that batteries are
formed which will give more current than a single cell. If it is de-
sired to increase the voltage the cells are connected in series, as shown
at Fig. 172. If one dry cell will produce one and one half volts and
six volts are needed to produce the spark in the engine cylinder, the
current value of one dry cell is augmented by coupling three others
to it in a series connection. When cells are connected in series it is
the unlike elements which are joined together. For example, the
312 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
zinc of one cell should be joined with the carbon of the adjacent mem-
ber by a flexible conductor. This will leave the carbon of one end
cell and the zinc of the other end cell free so that they can be joined
to the apparatus in the outer circuit.
When it is desired to obtain more amperage or current quantity
than could be obtained from a single cell they are joined -in series-
multiple connection. With this method of wiring two or more sets
of four cells which have been joined in series are used. The zinc of
one set is joined with the zinc element of the other and the two car-
bons are similarly connected. Any number of sets of cells may be
connected in series multiple and the amperage of the combination is
increased proportionately to the number of sets joined together in. this
manner.
When dry cells are connected in series the voltage of one cell is
multiplied by the number of cells and the amperage obtained from the
set is equal to that of one cell. When connected in series multiple,
as shown at Fig. 172, the amperage is equal to two cells and the
voltage produced is equivalent to that obtained from four cells.
When twelve cells are joined in series multiple the amperage is equal
to that of one cell multiplied by three while the voltage or current
pressure is equal to that produced by one cell multiplied by the num-
ber of cells which are in series in any one set. By properly combin-
ing dry cells in this manner batteries of any desired current strength
may be obtained.
The terms " volt " and " ampere " are merely units by which
current strength is gauged. The volt is the unit of pressure or po-
tential which exists between the terminals of a circuit. The ampere
measures current quantity or flow and is independent of the pressure.
One may have a current of high amperage at low potential or one
having great pressure and but little amperage or current strength.
Voltage is necessary to overcome resistance while the amperage avail-
able determines the heating value of the current. As the resistance
to current flow increases the voltage must be augmented proportion-
ately to overcome it. A current having the strength of one ampere
with a pressure of one volt is said to have a value of one watt, which
is the unit by which the capacity of generators and the amount of
current consumption is gauged.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile /313
One of the disadvantages of primary cells, as those types which
utilize zinc as a negative element are called, is that the chemical action
produces deterioration and waste of material by oxidization. Dry
cells are usually proportioned so that the electrolyte and depolarizing
materials become weaker as the zinc is used and when a dry cell is
exhausted it is not profitable to attempt to recharge it because new
ones can be obtained at a lower cost than the expense of renewing the
worn elements would be.
The number of dry cells necessary will vary with the system of
ignition employed and the size of the motor. While two or three
cells will ignite small engines such as used in motorcycles, five or
six will be needed on automobile engines employing high-tension
ignition. When the make-and-break system, or low-tension method,
is used eight or ten cells are necessary. If the engine is a multiple
cylinder one, it will draw more current than a single cylinder type
because of the greater frequency of sparks. On four-cylinder cars
dry cells should be joined in multiple series, which is the most
economical arrangement. Cells used in multiple connection are more
enduring than if the same number were used independently in single-
series connection. A disadvantage of a dry cell battery is that it is
suited only for intermittent service and it will soon become exhausted
if used where the current demands are severe. For this reason most
automobiles in which batteries are used for ignition employ storage or
secondary batteries to furnish the current regularly used and a set
of dry cells is provided for use only in cases of emergency when the
storage battery becomes exhausted.
Principles of Storage Battery Construction. Some voltaic couples
are reversible, i. e., they may be recharged when they have become
exhausted by passing a current of electricity through them in a direc-
tion opposite to that in which the current flows on discharge. Such
batteries are known as " accumulators " or " storage batteries." A
storage battery belies its name as it does not store current and its action
is somewhat similar to that of the simpler chemical cell previously
described. In its simplest form a storage cell would consist of two
elements and an electrolyte, as outlined at Fig. 173, A. The storage
battery differs from the primary cell in that the elements are com-
posed of the same metal before charging takes place, usually lead in-
314
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
stead of being zinc or carbon. One of the plates is termed the " posi-
tive " and may be distinguished from the other because it is brown, or
chocolate in color after charging, while the negative plate is usually
a light gray or leaden color. The active material of a charged storage
battery is not metallic lead but oxides of that material.
T^The simple form shown at A consists of two plates of lead which
are rolled together separated by insulating bands of rubber at the top
Terminal Terminal
n"
Gas Vent
Terminal
Handle
Cover
inal Nut
Lead Plate Roll
Hard Rubber Battery Jar
Glass Jar
Celt
Partition
Hard Rubber
Separator
Positive Plate
Wood Separator
Fig. 173. Types of Accumulators or Storage Batteries. A Simple Form of
Cell. B Battery Composed of Three Cells, Such as Commonly Used for
Motor Car Engine Ignition.
and bottom to keep them from touching. This roll is immersed in
an electrolyte composed of a weak solution of sulphuric acid in water.
Before such a cell can be used it must be charged, which consists
of passing a current of electricity through it until the lead plates
have changed their nature. After the charging process is compl<
the lead plates have become so changed in nature that they may be
considered as different substances and a chemical action results be-
tween the negative plate and the electrolyte and produces current
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 315
just as in the simple cell shown at Fig. 171, A. When the cell is ex-
hausted the plates return to their metallic condition and are practically
the same, and as there is but little difference in electrical condition
existing between them, they do not deliver any current until electricity
has been passed through the cell so as to change the lead plates to
oxides of lead instead of metallic lead.
When storage cells are to be used in automobile work they are com-
bined in a single containing member, as shown at Fig. 171, B, which
is a part sectional view of a Geiszler storage battery. The main
containing member, a jar of hard rubber, is divided into three parts.
Each of these compartments serves to hold the elements comprising
one cell. The positive and negative plates are spaced apart by wood
and hard rubber separators which prevent short circuiting between the
plates. After the elements have been put in place in the compart-
ments forming the individual cells of the battery, the top of the jar
is sealed by pouring a compound of pitch and rosin, or asphaltum,
over plates of hard rubber, which keeps the sealing material from
running into the cells and on the plates; Vents are provided over
each cell through which gases produced by charging or discharging
are allowed to escape. These are so formed that while free passage
of gas is provided for, it is not possible for the electrolyte to splash
out when the vehicle is in motion.
It will be evident that this method of sealing would not be practical
on a cell where the members attacked by the acid had to be replaced
from time to time, but in a storage battery only the electrolyte need
be renewed. When the plates are discharged they are. regenerated by
passing a current of electricity through them. New electrolyte can
be easily inserted through caps in which the vents are screwed. The
cells of which a storage battery is composed are joined together at
the factory with bars of lead which are burned in place and only two
free terminals are provided by which the battery is coupled to the
outer circuit.
The capacity of a storage battery depends upon the size and the
number of plates per cell, while the potential or x voltage is determined
by the number of cells joined in series to form the battery. Each
cell has a difference of potential of two and two tenths volts when fully
charged, therefore a two-cell battery will deliver a -current of four
316 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
and four tenths volts and a three-cell type,, as shown at Fig. 173,, B,
will give about six and six tenths volts between the terminals. In
the form shown each cell is composed of four plates and their sepa-
rators. Two of the plates are positive, the remaining two negative
members. The size of storage battery to be used depends upon the
number of cylinders of the engine. Four-cylinder motors usually
take a six- volt, sixty-ampere-hour battery, but it is desirable to supply
a six-volt battery having eighty-ampere-hour capacity for six-cylinder
motors.
When chemical current producers are depended upon to supply
the electricity used for ignition, two distinct sets are provided, one for
regular service and the other for emergency use in event of failure
of that which is depended upon regularly. The common practice is
to provide an accumulator or storage battery for normal use and a set
of dry cells, which are cheaper in first cost and which do not deterio-
rate if not used for .some time, for emergency service. When two
sources of current are thus provided, a switch is included in the cir-
cuit so that either set may be used at will. The zinc terminal
of the dry battery and the negative terminal of the storage battery are
joined together by a suitable conductor and are grounded by running
the wire attached to them to some metal part of the chassis such as
the crank case or frame side member. The remaining terminals,
which are the positive of the storage battery and the carbon of the
dry cell, are coupled to distinct terminals on the switch block.
The fact that any battery cannot maintain a constant supply of
electricity has militated against their use to a certain extent and
the modern motorist demands some form of mechanical generator
driven from the power plant, which will deliver an unfailing supply of
electricity. The strength of batteries is reduced according to the
amount of service they give. The more they are used the weaker they
become. The modern multiple cylinder engines are especially severe
in their requirements upon the current producer and the rapid se-
quence of explosions in the average four- or six-cylinder motor pro-
duce practically a steady drain upon the battery. When dry cells are
used their discharge rate is very low and as they are designed only for
intermittent work, when the conditions are such that a constant flow
of current is required, they are unsuitable and will soon deteriorate.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 317
The same objection applies to a certain extent to the storage bat-
tery, though this form of current producer is more practical for use
where a steady flow of current is desired. The same objection ad-
vanced against the dry cell that the current becomes weaker as the
cell is used applies equally well to the storage battery. This has
made it imperative that one of the various forms of mechanical gener-
ators be employed as a source of electricity for regular ignition service.
Such devices are driven directly from the engine and the amount
of energy they deliver is proportionate to the speed of rotation.
When the engine is accelerated and more electricity is needed, the
mechanical generator speed increases directly as that of the driving
source, and more current is delivered as the demands upon the gener-
ator augment.
Dynamo Electric Machines. Two distinct types of mechanical
generators are in common use and while their principles of action
are practically the same, they differ somewhat in construction and
application. The forms first used to succeed the battery were modi-
fications of the larger dynamo electric machines used for delivering
current for power and lighting. Later developments resulted in the
simplification of the dynamo, by which it was made lighter and more
efficient, and the modern magneto igniter is the form usually fur-
nished on conventional power plants. A dynamo uses electro-mag-
nets to produce a magnetic field for the armature to revolve in and
is necessarily somewhat heavier and larger than a magneto of equal
capacity because the field in the latter instrument is produced by
permanent magnets. An important advantage in using the magneto
form of construction is that the weight of the windings is saved be-
cause the permanent magnets retain their magnetism and do not
require the continual energizing that an electro-magnet demands.
The dynamo construction is superior where a continual drain is
made upon the apparatus, because if a magneto is used continuously
the magnets are liable to lose some of their strength and as the
magnetic field existing between the pole pieces decreases in value the
amount of current delivered by the apparatus diminishes in direct
proportion. When electro-magnets are used the constant flow of elec-
trical energy through the windings keeps them energized to the proper
point, and as current is continuously supplied, the strength of the
318 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
magneto field remains constant. The dynamo form of generator
is utilized where currents of considerable value are needed such as in
electric lighting systems now so widely used on automobiles.
Where the device is depended upon only to furnish ignition cur-
rent the magneto is preferred by most engineers because it is simpler
and lighter than the dynamo, and also because it may be made in such
form that it will comprise a complete ignition system in itself. When
a dynamo is utilized the conditions are just the same, as far as neces-
sary auxiliary apparatus is concerned, as though batteries were used
and one merely substitutes a mechanical generator in place of the
chemical cells. The same auxiliary apparatus necessary in one case
is employed in the other as well.
A dynamo or magneto produces electricity by an inductive action,
' which is a reversal of the phenomena by which a current of electricity
flowing around a bar of iron or steel makes a magnet of it. If a
wire through which a current of electricity is flowing will magnetize
a bar of iron, a bar of steel which is already magnetized will generate
a current of electricity by induction in a conductor surrounding it if
either the magnet or the coil of wire is moved in such a manner that
the magnetic influence is traversed or traverses the wire. In a
dynamo or magneto a coil of wire mounted on a suitable armature is
revolved between the pole pieces of the field magnet and as the con-
ductor cuts across the zone of magnetic influence a current of elec-
tricity is induced in the coil. The faster the coil is rotated the more
rapidly the winding passes through the magnetic field. As an elec-
trical impulse is produced every time the magnetic -field is traversed,
it is patent that the greater number of electrical impulses will pro-
1 duce a current of higher value.
A sectional view of a typical dynamo electric machine of conven-
tional design is shown at Fig. 174. All parts are clearly indicated
and there should be no difficulty in understanding the principles of .
operation. The three main portions of the dynamo are the field mag-
nets, which produce the magnetic field, the armature, which carries
the coils of wire and which is mounted between the extremities or
pole pieces of the magnet, and the brushes, which bear against segments
of a collecting device known as a commutator serving to convey the
current to terminals which are joined to the outer circuit. In the
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
319
form shown the field magnets are composed of a number of iron
stampings which are surrounded by a coil of wire, and two such mag-
nets are provided, one above, the other below the armature. The
armature "is supported on a shaft mounted in ball bearings so that it
will turn with minimum friction. The whole mechanism is protected
by an outer casing.
The device shown is a constant speed dynamo, i. e., it should be
operated at a certain speed to obtain the best results. If run faster
Clutch Driving Plate
Driven Plate
Field Coil
Ball Bearings
Brushes
Air Outlet
Governor Spring
Governor Weight
Fig. 174. Gray & Davis Governed Dynamo, an Appliance for Producing Elec-
tricity by Mechanical Means.
than the speed for which it is designed the excess current generated
is liable to burn out the windings of the field magnet. For this
reason a governor of the fly ball type is interposed between the
dynamo armature and the driving shaft coupled to the source of
power. At all normal speeds the tension of the governor spring
keeps the two plates of the clutch in contact and the armature is
turned at the same speed as the driving shaft.
Should the driving shaft speed exceed a certain predetermined
limit the governor weights will fly out by centrifugal force and the
governor spring will be compressed so the driving and driven plates
of the clutch are separated and the driving shaft revolves independ-
ently of the armature. As soon as the armature speed becomes re-
320
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
duced sufficiently to allow the governor spring to overcome the centrif-
ugal force and draw back the governor weights, the clutch plates
are again brought into contact and the armature is again joined to
the driving shaft.
A current of air is kept circulating through the casing by means
of the fan action of the reenforcing webs of the clutch plate, the ob-
Flywheel
Transmission.
Magnets
Coils
Fig. 176. Distinctive Form of Current Producer Used on Ford Cars is Incc
porated in the Power Plant Fly Wheel.
ject being to absorb any heat which may be produced while th(
dynarrro is in action. An appliance of this nature may be driven
frdm the engine by belt, chain, or gear connection; It will deliver
low voltage current which must be transformed by means of an induc-
tion coil to current of higher value in order that it may be success-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 321
fully utilized to produce the spark in the combustion chambers of the
engine.
A very ingenious application of the dynamo is shown at Fig. 175.
The electric generator is built in such a manner that it forms an
integral part of the power plant. The magneto field is produced by
a series of revolving magnets which are joined to and turn with the
fly wheel of the motor. The armature coils are carried by a fixed
plate which is attached to the engine base. This apparatus is really a
magneto having a revolving field and a fixed armature, and as the
magnets are driven from the fly wheel there is no driving connection
to get out of order and cause trouble. As the coils in which the
current is generated are stationary, no commutator or brushes are
needed to collect the current because the electricity may be easily
taken from the fixed coils by direct connection. It has been ad-
vanced that this form of magneto is not as efficient as the conventional
patterns because more metal and wire are needed to produce the cur-
rent required. As the magnets which form the heavier portion of the
apparatus are joined to the fly wheel, which can be correspondingly
lighter, this disadvantage is not one that can be considered seriously
because the magnet weight is added to that of the motor fly wheel,
the combined weight of the two being that of an ordinary balance
member used on any other engine of equal power.
Timer and Distributor Forms. Anyone familiar with the basic
principles of internal combustion engine action will recognize the :
need of incorporating some device in the ignition system, which will
insure that the igniting spark will occur only in the cylinder
that is ready to be fired and at the right time in the cycle of opera-
tions. There is a certain definite point at which the spark must take
place, this having been determined to be at the end of the compres-
sion upstroke, at which time the gas has been properly compacted
and the piston is about to start returning to the bottom of the cyl-
inder again. Timers or distributors are a form of switch designed
so that hundreds of positive contacts which are necessary to close and
open the circuit may be made per minute without failure.
When the device is employed to open and close a low-tension cir-J
cuit, it is known as a commutator or timer, and when used in connec- /
tion with current of high voltage they are called secondary distribu-
322 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
tors. Certain constructional details make one form different from
the other, and while they perform the same functions they vary in
design. Such distributing devices are always driven by positive gear-
ing from the engine and are timed so the sparks will occur in the
cylinders at just the proper ignition time. The usual construction is
to use a fixed case which carries one or more contact members suitably
disposed around its periphery and a central revolving member or
cam which contacts with the points on the body of the device to close
any desired circuit. On a four-cycle engine the cam is revolved at
one half the engine speed and the timer is usually driven from the
cam shaft. In two-cycle engines the revolving member of the timer
turns at engine speed, and should be driven directly from and at
the same speed as the crank shaft.
Simple timer forms suitable for one-cylinder motors are shown
at Fig. 175. The simplest one, depicted at A, consists of a rocking
member of fiber or other insulating material which carries a steel
spring that is normally out of engagement with the surface of the
cam. When the point of the cam brushes by the contact spring, any
circuit in which the device is incorporated will be closed and current
will flow from the battery or dynamo to the transformer coils and
spark plugs which are depended on to furnish a spark of sufficient
intensity to insure ignition of the gas. It is desirable that the mem-
ber which carries the contact spring be capable of a certain degree of
movement, in order that the spark time may be advanced or retard*
to suit various running conditions. In the form shown if the to]
of the casing is pushed in the direction of the arrow, the contac
spring will come in contact with the point of the cam which is turn-
ing in the direction indicated sooner than" it will if the base membei
is rocked in a' reverse direction and the contact spring pulled awaj
from the point of the cam instead of being moved forward to meet il
The wipe contact form is the simplest, but the spring is liable
wear at the point of contact and may break off and cause trouble
Such a device is more suitable for low-speed engines than it is f(
those which have high crank-shaft velocity.
The single-cylinder timer depicted at B is a form that is widob
used on high-speed engines and contact is made between a pair ol
platinum contact points which just touch each other instead of wi]
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
323
ing. Platinum is a material that is not affected by the arcing or heat
of the spark as much as steel or brass would be and provides a more
positive contact. In the wipe contact form the continual brushing
action of the cam against the spring tends to keep the contact surfaces
clean, but this condition does not obtain in the simple touch contact
of the form shown at B. The casing is rocked in the direction of
Contact
Spring
Contact Points.
B
Fig. 176. Simple Forms of Contact Breakers Used on One-Cylinder Engines.
A Wipe Contact. B Touch Contact.
the arrow to advance a spark in either case. The form shown at B is
more economical of current because the contact is shorter and is more
suitable for high-speed engines. While the forms considered prove
practical in their application to simple one- and two-cylinder engine
forms, they are very heavy or clumsy appliances when used for four-
T cylinder engines, as it is very hard to assemble the spring elenient so
that the contact will take place at the proper point in all cylinders.
When a timer is to be used in connection with a four- or six-cylin-
der engine the compact form shown at Fig. 177, A, is usually adopted.
This has many desirable features and permits of timing the spark
with great accuracy. The contact segments are spaced on quarters
and are imbedded in a ring of fiber which is retained in a casing of
324
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
aluminum. The central revolving element carries a lever which
has a roll at one end and a tension spring designed to keep the roller
in contact with the inner periphery of the fiber ring at the other.
The segments are of steel and are accurately machined and hardened,
High Tension
Terminal
To Plug
Segment
Revolving
Member
Hole for
Drive Shaft
Fig. 177. Timers Employed on Four-Cylinder Engines. A Four-Contact
Device for Commutating Primary Current. B Combined Timer and Dis-
tributor Directs Both High- and Low-Tension Energy.
and as the surface of the roller is also hardened, this form of tinier is
widely used because it provides a positive contact and works smoothly
at all engine speeds.
A secondary distributor which is employed to distribute both high-
and low-tension current is shown at Fig. 177, B. This consists of
primary timing arrangement in the lower portion, and a second ar
current-distributing segment at the upper portion. The central
volving" member carries as many rolls as there are cylinders to
fired, these being spaced at the proper points in the circle to insui
correct timing. One primary contact member is screwed into tht
casing, this contacting with the rolls as they revolve. At the uppei
The Modern Gasoline Automobile.
325
portion of the case a number of terminals are inserted from which
wires lead to plugs in the cylinders. When a timer of the form
si town, at Fig. 177, A, is used, a separate injiujcjioji^ml is needed for
cadi cylinder and the number of units in the coil box and contact
points on the timer will be the same as the number of cylinders to be
lired. When a secondary distributor is employed but one induction
coil is needed for all cylinders, because the secondary or high-tension
current from one unit is distributed to the spark plugs at the proper
time. Various wiring diagrams will be presented to show the
methods of using timers and distributors. It will be noticed that
the high-tension portion of the distributor is well insulated from the
primary circuit closing member at the lower end. This is necessary
because current of high voltage is much more difficult to handle than
that of lower pressure, and it is more liable to short circuit.
The arrangement of the contact points for various numbers of
cylinders in roller contact timers is shown at Fig. 178. At A but
Fig. 178. Showing Disposition of Contact Points on Timers for Number of
Cylinders. A One-Cylinder Type. B Arrangement for Two-Cylinder
Opposed Motor. C Contacts Separated by 90 Degrees in One Direction
and 270 Degrees in the Other when Used on Two-Cylinder Vertical Engine
with Opposed Crank Pins. D Three-Cylinder Form. E Suitable for
Four-Cylinder Engines. F Type Employed on Six-Cylinder Power Plants.
326 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
one segment is provided, this obviously serving only one cylinder.
The form depicted at B is utilized with a double-cylinder opposed
motor or a twin-cylinder vertical type in which both connecting rods
act on a common crank pin or crank pins in the same plane. As the
explosions are evenly spaced and the intervals separating the sparks
are equal, the contact segments are placed diametrically opposite and
are separated by a space of 180 degrees. If the two-cylinder engine
is a vertical form having opposed cranks, the explosions will not
be separated by equal intervals, so the segments must be placed to com-
pensate for the difference which exists in the time interval separating
the -power impulses. Two contact segments are imbedded in the in-
sulating ring, the contacts being separated by a space of 90 degrees
on one side and 270 degrees on the other. This form of timer is
seldom used at the present time because the two-cylinder engine of
the pattern for which it is adapted has been practically discarded.
When three cylinders are used the contact points are separated
by a space of 120 degrees, as shown at D. In a four-cylinder timer
the contact segments are spaced on quarters of the circle and are
separated by a space equal to 90 degrees. With a six-cylinder motor
six segments are necessary, these being separated by a space of 60
degrees, as shown at F. Before considering the other components of
a battery ignition system it would be well to outline the essential
elements of a simple ignition group so that the circuit and flow of
current may be easily followed.
,' Essential Elements of Simple Ignition System. The current ob-
tained from the dry or storage battery or low-tension dynamo or
magneto is not sufficiently powerful to leap the gap which exists be-
tween the points of the spark plug in the cylinder unless it is trans-
formed to a current having a higher potential. The air gap between
the points of the spark plug has a resistance which requires several
thousand volts pressure to overcome, and as a battery will only deliver
six to eight volts, it will be evident that, unless the current value
is increased, it could not produce a spark between the plug elec-
trodes.
The low voltage current is transformed to one of higher potential
by means of a device known as the induction coil. The current from
the battery is passed through the primary coil, which is composed of
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
327
several layers of coarse wire wound around a core of soft iron wire
to form an electro-magnet as shown at Fig. 179. Surrounding this
primary coil is one composed of a large number of turns of finer
mr-
-mm
i Vibrator
Platinum -
! ^ Screw
/
J Points \Jj
f
-|
ibler Blade/' lUH '
mm
Hi
/Secondary Coil
Ground
Fig. 179. Simple Ignition System for One-Cylinder Motor Showing Important
Components and Their Relation to Each Other.
328 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
conductor. When a current of electricity of low voltage passes
through the primary coil, a current of very high electron-motive force
is produced in the secondary winding. One end of each coil is
grounded. The free end of the primary coil is coupled to the battery
while that of the secondary coil is attached to the insulated terminal
of the spark plug.
The arrangement of wiring at Fig. 179 is that employed in a
typical transformer coil which is used to increase the voltage of the
current sufficiently to cause it to overcome the resistance of the air
gap at the spark plug and produce a spark which will ignite the gas.
In the primary circuit are included a suitable timer for closing the
circuit, a battery of chemical cells to supply the energizing current,
and a vibrator or make-and-break mechanism on the coil. The sec-
ondary circuit includes the spark plug and the secondary winding
of the coil.
When the primary circuit is closed by the cam of the timer making
contact with the segment, the current from the battery flows through
the primary coil of the transformer. This magnetizes the core which
draws down the trembler bk/le, this in turn separating the platinum
contact point of the vibrator and interrupting the current. As soon
as the current is interrupted at the vibrator the core ceases to be a
magnet and the trembler blade flies back and once again closes the
circuit between the platinum points. Every time the circuit is made
and broken at the vibrator an electrical impulse is induced in the
secondary winding of the coil.
The vibrator may be adjusted so that it will make and break the
circuit many times a minute and as a current of high potential is
produced in the secondary winding with each impulse, a small spark
will be produced between the points of the spark plug. The condenser
is a device composed of layers of tin foil separated from each other
by waxed or varnished paper insulation. It is utilized to absorb some
of the excess current produced between the vibrator points, which
causes sparking. This extra current is induced by the action of the.
primary coils of wire upon each other and by a reversed induction in-
fluence from the secondary coil.
If this current is not taken care of, it will impede the passage
of the primary current and the sparks are apt to burn or pit the
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
329
platinum contact points of the vibrator. When a condenser is pro-
vided the extra primary current is absorbed by the sheets of tin foil
which become charged with electricity. When contact is made again
the condenser discharges the current in the same direction as that
flowing through the primary coil from the battery and the value
of the latter is increased proportionately. There is less sparking be-
tween the vibrator points and a stronger current is induced in the
secondary coil which in turn produces a more intense spark between
the points of the spark plug.
A typical induction coil such as would be used for firing a one-
cylinder engine if used with a simple timer, or a multiple-cylinder
To Battery
Spring Adjustment
I
Fig. 180. Part Sectional View of Simple Induction Coil, an Important Component
of All Battery Ignition Groups and Sometimes Used with Magnetos.
engine if used in connection with a combined timer and distributor, is
depicted in part section at Fig. 180. It will be observed that three
terminal screws are provided on the box, one designed to be attached
to the battery, the other two to the spark plug and ground, respec-
tively. The terminal to which the battery wire is attached is coupled
to the bridge member which carries the contact screw while the vi-
330 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
brator blade is connected with one of the ends of the primary coil.
The other end of the primary coil goes to the terminal which is joined
to the ground. The condenser is shunted in between the vibrator
points, i. e., one of the leads is attached to terminal No. 1 while the
other is soldered to the end of the primary coil which goes on the
vibrator spring member. One end of the secondary coil is attached
to terminal No. 2, which is grounded on some metal part of the
chassis frame, while the other end is secured to terminal No. 3, which
is joined to the spark plug electrode. After the various components
of the induction coil are assembled in the box and the connections
made as indicated, the spaces between the sides of the box and the
coil member are filled with an insulating compound composed of bees-
wax, pitch and rosin. This holds everything rigidly in place and
prevents the wire joints loosening through vibration.
The method of connecting the members of an induction coil, shown
at Fig. 180, is a conventional one, though the connections will differ
with the nature of the circuit of which the coil forms a part and the
number of units comprising the coil assembly. When such devices
are employed for igniting multiple-cylinder motors, the internal
wiring is very much the same as though the same number of box
coils for single-cylinder ignition were combined together by outside
conductors. The number of terminals provided will vary with the
number of units.
Various forms of induction coils are depicted at Fig. 181. That
at A is a simple unit form in which the coil is attached directly to
the spark plug, which in turn is screwed into the cylinder. On this
coil but two primary terminals are attached, one being connected to
the insulated contact point on the timer, the other being grounded,
or attached to the battery. Coils of this type have been very popular
in marine application because of the simple and direct wiring possible,
but they have not been used in connection with automobile engine
ignition to any extent. The form shown at B is a simple dash coil
for one-cylinder use which has three terminals, one being used for a
secondary lead to the spark plug, the other two being joined to the
battery and ground respectively, as shown at Fig. 180.
The form of coil shown at C is a two-unit member designed for
double-cylinder ignition. As the switch is mounted on the coil box
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
331
to use two sets of batteries, six terminals are provided on the bottom
of the coil case. Two of these are attached directly to the insulated
Fig. 181. Conventional Induction Coil Forms. A Coil Unit and Plug Com-
bined. B Simple Box Coil for One-Cylinder Ignition. C Two-Unit Coil
for Two-Cylinder Motors. D Four-Unit Coil for Four-Cylinder Service.
332 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
contact point of the timer; two others which are enclosed in hard,
rubber insulating caps are attached to the spark plugs. The two imme-
diately under the switch are attached to the free terminals of the bat-
tery, two sets being provided, one being coupled to each side of the
switch.
With a four-unit coil, as shown at D, ten terminals are provided
because of the attached switch. Four go to the spark plugs, four to
the insulated segments of the timer and two to the battery, or battery
and magneto or dynamo, as the case may be. In modern coils the
units may be removed from the box without disturbing any internal
connection, and a new one slipped in its place if it does not function
properly. Special care is taken in insulating the high-tension ter-
minal by means of rubber caps which surround the wire, and care is
taken to have the vibrator contact points readily accessible for in-
spection, cleaning, or adjustment.
Spark Plug Design and Application. With the high-tension system
of ignition the spark is produced by a current of high voltage jump-
ing between two points which break the complete circuit, which would
exist otherwise in the secondary coil and its external connections.
The spark plug is a simple device which consists of two terminal
electrodes carried in a suitable shell member, which is screwed into
the cylinder. Typical spark plugs are shown in section at Fig. 182
and the construction can be easily understood. The secondary wire
from the coil is attached to a terminal at the top of a central electrode
member, which is supported in a bushing of some form of insulating
material. The type shown at A employs a molded porcelain as an
insulator, while that depicted at B uses a bushing of mica. The in-
sulating bushing and electrode are housed in a steel body, which is
provided with a screw thread at the bottom, by which it is screwed
into the combustion chamber.
When porcelain is used as an insulating material it is kept from
direct contact with the metal portion by some form of yielding pack-
ing, usually asbestos. This is necessary because the steel and porce-
lain have different coefficients of expansion and some flexibility must
be provided, at the joints to permit the materials to expand differently
when heated. The steel body of the plug which is screwed into the
cylinder is in metallic contact with it and carries sparking points
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
333
which form one of the terminals of the air gap over which the spark
occurs. The current entering at the top of the plug cannot reach
the ground, which is represented by the metal portion of the engine,
until it has traversed the full length of the central electrode and
overcome the resistance of the gap between it and the terminal point
on the shell. The porcelain bushing is firmly seated against the
Spring Washer
Spring to Allow
for Expansion
and Contraction
Standard
Thread
Solid Nlchel Rod.
Terminal
Mica
Brass Screw \,
Gland
Electrode
B
Fig. 182. Spark Plug Construction OutMned. A Sectional View of Porcelain
Plug. B Part Sectional View of Mica Plug.
asbestos packing by means of a brass screw gland which sets against a
flange formed on the porcelain, and which screws into a thread at
the upper portion of the plug body.
The mica plug shown at B is somewhat simpler in construction
than that shown at A. The mica core which keeps the central elec-
trode separated from the steel body is composed of several layers of
pure sheet mica wound around the steel rod longitudinally, and hun-
dreds of stamped steel washers which are forced over this member
334
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
and compacted under high pressure with some form of a binding
material between them. Porcelain insulators are usually molded
from high grade clay and are approximately of the shapes desired
by the designers of the plug. The central electrode may be held in
Terminal
Porcelain
'land
Gland
Electrode
Spark Points
Spark Points
Fig. 183. Three Forms of Spark Plugs in which Electrodes are Separated by
Porcelain Insulation.
place by mechanical means such as nuts, packings, and a shoulder
on the rod, as shown at A. Another method sometimes used is to
cement the electrode in place by means of some form of fire-clay
cement. Whatever, method of fastening is used, it is imperative that
the joints be absolutely tight so that no gas can escape at the time
of explosion. With a mica plug the electrode and the insulating
bushing are really a unit construction and are assembled in permanent
assembly at the time the plug is made.
Other insulating materials sometimes used are glass, steatite
(which is a form of soapstone), and lava. Mica and porcelain are
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
335
the two common materials used because they give the best results.
Glass is liable to crack while lava or the soapstone insulating bushings
absorb oil. The spark gap of the average plug is equal to about ^
of an inch for coil ignition and from -^ to -fa of an inch when
used in magneto circuits. A simple gauge for determining the gap
setting is the thickness of an ordinary visiting card for magneto
plugs, or a space equal to the thickness of a worn dime for a coil plug.
The insulating bushings are made in a number of different ways, and
while details of construction vary, spark plugs do not differ essen-
tially in design. Three different forms of plugs using porcelain insu-
lation are shown in part section at Fig. 183. Porcelain is the ma-
terial most widely used because it can be glazed so that it will not
absorb oil, and it is subjected to such high temperature in baking
that it is not liable to crack when heated.
The spark plugs may be screwed into any convenient part of the
combustion chamber, the general practice being to install them in the
Wire
Pocket/
Electrodes fe^
Recess
Fig. 184. Methods of Installing Spark Plugs of Conventional Form. A In-
correct Method. B Correct Installation in Valve Chamber Cap. C
Combined with Cylinder Priming Device or Compression Relief Cock.
caps over the inlet valves, or in the side of the combustion chamber, so
the points will be directly in the path of the entering fresh gases
from the carburetor. The methods of spark plug installation com-
monly used are shown at Fig. 184. At A the plug is screwed into
a threaded hole which passes through the valve cap in such a manner
336 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
that the points are in a pocket. This is not considered to be as good
as the method depicted at B, where the interior of the valve cap is
recessed out so there is considerable space around the spark point.
When the electrodes are carried in a pocket they are more liable to
become short circuited by oil or carbon accumulations, because it is
difficult for the fresh gases- to reach them and the pocket tends to
retain heat. Ignition is not so certain because some of the burned
gases may be retained in the pocket and prevent the fresh gas from
getting in around the spark gap. With a recess, as shown at B, condi-
tions are more favorable because the fresh gases can sweep the points
of the spark plug and keep them clear, and also because of the
larger space any burned products retained in the cylinder are not so
apt to collect around the plug point.
On some types of engines which are not provided with compression
relief, or priming cocks, plugs are sometimes installed, as shown at C.
A special fitting, which carries a priming cup at one side, is screwed
into the cylinder and the spark plug is fitted to its upper portion.
When it is desired to relieve the compression, the valve portion is
turned in such a way that a passage is provided from the interior
of the fitting to the outer air. At the same time when the valve is in
the position shown in illustration, gasoline may be introduced into
the cylinder for priming purposes. It is advanced that this method
of constructon also provides a simple means of freeing the plug
points from oil or particles of carbon if the cock is opened while the
engine is running. The high pressure gas which brushes by the
points on its way out of the cylinder tends to dislodge any particle of
foreign matter which may be present near the spark gap. The same
objections apply to this method of mounting as to that illustrated
at A.
Spark plugs are made in many different forms and some have
been designed with, a view of permitting one to see if the charge is
being .exploded regularly in the cylinder by some form of transparent
material for insulation, so that the light produced by the explosion
could be seen from the outside of the cylinder. The simplest method
of determining if a spark is occurring regularly between the points
is to use some form of spark gap which is interposed between the
source of current and the plug terminal. A device of this nature is
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
337
shown at Fig. 185, A. It consists of a body of insulating material
which carries in a glass tube two points, which are separated by a
slight air space. The eye or hook end is attached to the plug ter-
minal, while the other end is attached to the secondary wire. If the
current is passing between the points of the plug, a spark will take
Terminal for
-High Tension Wire
^Terminal
for Plug
Spark Points
Fig. 185. Novel Spark Plugs and Accessory Parts. A Spark Gap Designed
to be Placed in Series with Plug Electrode and Current Source. B Plug
Shell with Glass Insets to Show Spark. C Spark Plug with Waterproof
Terminal Cover.
place between the points of the auxiliary spark gap every time one
occurs between the points of the plug in the cylinder.
It is claimed that there are certain advantages obtained when a
spark gap is used in the circuit, in that the spark in the cylinder is
more effective and less liable to be short circuited by particles of
foreign matter. At the other hand, others contend that the. current
must be stronger to jump two gaps than would be required if only
338 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
the resistance of one was to be overcome. While very popular at one
time, the spark gap is of rather doubtful utility and is seldom used
at the present time, except as a means of indicating if spark has
taken place between the points of the spark plug. It is apt to be
somewhat misleading, however, because even if the points of the plug
are short circuited and no spark is taking place between the plug
points, and yet current is passing to the ground, a spark will con-
tinue to take place at the auxiliary spark gap. The device is use-
ful in showing when there is a break or derangement of the wiring
or coils.
A form of spark plug having glass bull eyes set into the plug shell
or body is shown at Fig. 185, B. These simple lenses are made of
specially compounded glass, which has a high resistance to heat and
every time an explosion takes place in the cylinder the light resulting
causes a flash which is readily seen through the lens. If the flashing
is regular it is safe to assume that the cylinder is functioning prop-
erly, but should the flashes be intermittent or separated by unequal
intervals of time the cylinder is missing explosions.
It is often desirable to have a water-tight joint between the high
tension cable and the terminal screw on top of the insulating bush-
ing of the spark plug, especially in marine applications. The plug
shown at C is provided with an insulating member or hood of porce-
lain, which is secured by a clip in such a manner that it makes a
water-tight connection. Should the porcelain of a conventional form
of plug become covered with water or dirty oil, the high-tension cur-
rent is apt to run down this conducting material on the porcelain and
reach the ground without having to complete its circuit by jumping
the air gap and producing a spark. It will be evident that wherever
a plug is exposed to the elements, which is often the case in motor-
cycle or motor-boat service, that it should be protected by an insulat-
ing hood which will keep the insulator dry and prevent short circuit-
ing of the spark.
Plugs for Two-Spark Ignition. On some forms of engines, es-
pecially those having large cylinders, it is sometimes difficult to secure
complete combustion by using a single-spark plug. If the combustion
is not rapid the efficiency of the engine will be reduced proportionate-
ly. The compressed charge in the cylinder does not ignite all at
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 339
once or instantaneously, as many assume, but it is the strata of gas
nearest the plug which is ignited first. This in turn sets fire to con-
secutive layers of the charge until the entire mass is aflame. One
may compare the combustion of gas in the gas-engine cylinder to the
phenomena which obtains when a heavy object is thrown into a pool
of still water. First a small circle is seen at the point where the
object has passed into the water, this circle in turn inducing other
and larger circles until the whole surface of the pool has been
agitated from the one central point. The method of igniting the
gas is very similar as the spark ignites the circle of gas immediately
adjacent to the sparking point, and this circle in turn ignites a
little larger one concentric with it. The second circle of flame sets
fire to more of the gas, and finally the entire contents of the combus-
tion chamber are burning.
While ordinarily combustion is sufficiently rapid with a single plug
so that the proper explosion is obtained at moderate engine, speed?,
if the engine is working fast and the cylinders are of large capacity,
more power may be obtained by setting fire to the mixture at two
different points instead of but one. This may be accomplished by
using two sparking plugs in the cylinder instead of one, and experi-
ments have shown that it is possible to ^ain from twenty-five to thirty
per cent in motor power at high speed with two-spark plugs, because
the combustion of the gas is accelerated by igniting the gas simul-
taneously in two places. To fit a double-spark system successfully,
one of the plugs must be a double pole member to which the high-
tension current is first delivered, while the other may be one of
ordinary construction.
A typical double-pole plug is shown in section at Fig. 186, A. In
this member two concentric electrodes are used, these being well in-
sulated from each other. One of these is composed of the usual form
passing through the center of the insulating bushing, while the other is
a metal tube surrounding the tube of insulating material which is
wound around the center wire. The current enters the plug through
the terminal at the top in the usual manner, but it does not go to
the ground because the sparking points are insulated from the steel
body of the plug which screws into the cylinder. After the current
has jumped the gap between the sparking head and the point, it
340
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
flows back to the terminal plate at the top, from which it is conducted
to the insulated terminal of the usual type plug.
The method of wiring these plugs is shown at Fig. 186, B. The
secondary wire from the coil or magneto is attached to the central
Mica
Washers
Fig. 186. Double-Pole Spark Plug and Method of Applying It to Obtain Two
Sparks in the Cylinder.
terminal of the double-pole plug, and another cable is attached to
the insulated terminal plate below it and to the terminal of the regu-
lar type plug. One is installed over the inlet valve, the other over
the exhaust valve, if the system is fitted to a T head cylinder. Before
the current can return to the source it must jump the gap between
the points of the double-pole plug as well as those of the ordinary
plug, which is grounded because it is screwed into the cylinder.
When a magneto of the high-tension type furnishes the current a
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
341
double distributor is sometimes fitted, which will permit one to use
two ordinary single-pole plugs instead of the unconventional double-
pole member. Each of the plugs is joined to an individual distrib-
utor, and as but one primary contact breaker or timer is used to
determine the time of sparking at both plugs, the ignition is properly
synchronized and the sparks occur simultaneously.
Typical Battery Ignition Systems. The components of typical bat-
tery ignition systems may be easily determined by studying the illus-
trations given at Figs. 187, 188, and 189. The four-cylinder ignition
group shown at Fig. 187 depicts the conventional method of wiring
High Tension Wires
Primary Circuit
Dry Coils
^Storage Battery
Fig. 187. Assembly View of Four-Cylinder Ignition Group Showing All Devices
and Methods of Wiring.
two sets of batteries, a four-point timer or commutator, and a four-
unit induction coil together. It will be seen that eight dry cells are
wired together in series and are used as an auxiliary to a six-volt or
three-cell storage battery. The negative terminals of the storage bat-
tery and dry cell set are coupled together by a short length of wire
342
The Mo'dern Gasoline Automobile
and are grounded by being attached to the engine base by a
suitable conductor. The positive terminals are coupled to the
two binding posts under the switch or the coil. The four points of
the commutator are attached to the different units of the coil while
the secondary wires run from the high-tension terminals on the
bottom of the coil to the spark plugs in the cylinders. If the switch
lever is placed on one contact button,, the current is obtained from the
dry cells. If it is swung over to the other side, electricity from the
storage battery is utilized.
Plug
Fig. 188. Methods of Employing Single Coil to Fire Four Cylinders when Sec-
ondary Current is Distributed Instead of Battery Energy.
A typical high-tension distributor system is shown at Fig. 188.
Two sources of primary current are provided, one being a six-cell, dry
battery, the other a three-cell, or six-volt storage battery. The bat-
tery connections are similar to those previously shown and but a
single unit coil is needed to fire all cylinders. A single primary wire
is attached to the commutator section of the distributor. The second-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
343
ary wire from the induction coil is joined to the distributing terminal
on the top of the distributor,, from which it is delivered to the collect-
ing terminals spaced on quarters around the outer periphery of the
distributor casing by means of a central distributing segment. Suit-
able conductors connect the distributor with the spark plugs in the
cylinders.
Side View
Firing Order 1,2,3,6,5,4-
Spark Plug
^Ground
^Cylinder Pair-
Fig. 189. Distributor and Coil Ignition Group for Six-Cylinder Motor Showing
Order of Firing and Wiring Connections Clearly.
The illustration at Fig. 189 is practically the same as that at
Fig. 188,, except that a distributor capable of firing a six-cylinder
engine is used. If individual unit coils were to be employed, as is
the case at Fig. 187,, the coil box would contain six units and the
primary timer would have six contact points. The wiring would be
considerably more complicated than the system outlined.^
Features of Low-Tension Ignition System. Though the low-tension
ignition system is seldom used at the present time, a brief descrip-
tion of the method of producing a make-and-break spark is desirable
so the reader may gain a thorough knowledge of the methods of
ignition the vogue. In order to obtain a spark in the cylinder of any
344
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
engine, it is necessary that there be a break in the circuit and that
this break or interruption be inside of the combustion chamber. The
igniter plate used is different in construction from the spark plug
forming part of the high-tension system, as the break is made by
moving contacts which serve to time the spark as well as produce it.
Plate
Rocker Arm
B
^Anvil Insulator
Fig. 190. Low-Tension Ignition Plate by which Spark is Produced in Some
Locomobile Engine Cylinders. A External View Showing Rocker Arm.
B Interior View Depicting Contact Points. C Method of Operation.
A typical igniter is shown at A and B, Fig. 190. It consists of a
drop-forged plate approximately triangular in form which has a coni-
cal ground surface to fit a corresponding female member in the com-
bustion chamber. It is secured by three bolts to a corner of the
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 345
cylinder close to the inlet valve so the contact points will be traversed
by the gases entering from the carburetor. As shown at B, the fixed
contact point is called the anvil, while the movable or rocking mem-
ber is called the hammer. The anvil is insulated from the igniter
plate by a bushing of mica or lava, and the hammer alternately makes
and breaks contact with the anvil. The method of actuating the ham-
mer by a rocker arm is clearly shown at C. The rocker arm 5 is in
the form of a short lever ending in a slotted opening which is con-
nected to the top of the vertical lifter rod 9. This is actuated by a
cam on the inlet valve cam shaft which raises the valve plunger 11 in
the guide bushing 10. When the lifter rod moves upward the con-
tact point on the hammer inside of the cylinder comes into contact
with the platinum point on the anvil and closes the circuit. When
the igniter cam reaches the proper point for igniting the charge the
lifter rod 9 falls and as the action is quickened by a spring at the
bottom of the lifter rod the hammer arm 4 is separated from the con-
tact point on the anvil 6 and a spark takes place as the points are
pulled apart.
The coil used when batteries are employed to furnish the current
is a simple form. It is a winding of comparatively coarse wire
around a core composed of a bundle of soft iron wire. The battery
current is intensified to a certain extent by the self-induction of one
layer of wire upon the others, and when contact is broken a brilliant
spark occurs between the points of the igniter plate. Batteries are sel-
dom used for regular service on the low-tension system because the
demands are too severe.
One of the advantages of this system is that the wiring is ex-
tremely simple, as will be seen by consulting the diagram of the low-
tension ignition system illustrated at Fig. 191. In this both a low-
tension magneto and set of batteries are provided, the former being
used for regular ignition while the latter are carried for emergency
service. A simple form of magneto will serve any number of cyl-
inders because the insulated terminals of the igniters are joined to-
gether by a simple conductor or bus bar. A wire from the magneto
terminal is joined to one side of the switch, while the other side of
the switch is coupled to the coil which is carried in the battery box.
A short wire connects the top of the switch lever with the bus bar.
346
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
If the switch lever is swung to the left, the magneto produces the
current for the igniters, and if the switch lever is placed on the button
at the right, the current supply is taken from the batteries. The dry
Switch
Battery
Magneto
Battery
Fig. 191. Low-Tension Ignition System for Four-Cylinder Motor Utilizes Bat-
tery and Magneto for Current Production. Note Simple Wiring All Con-
ductors Conveying Low-Tension Current.
cells are joined together in series connection, one pole being joined
to a coil terminal, the other being grounded. The coil and the igniter
plates are in series with the batteries and the current is returned to
the ground through the rocker arm, which is a metallic contact with
the igniter plate.
The disadvantage which has militated against the general use of
the make-and-break system of ignition is that it is very difficult to
obtain synchronized spark after the mechanism had become worn, and
unless the igniter plates were kept in perfect adjustment the spark
time would vary and the efficiency of the engine would be lowered.
As the moving electrodes operate under extremely disadvantageous
conditions "it is difficult to prevent rapid wear of the rocker arm
bearing at the igniter plate and consequent leakage of gas results.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
347
Owing to the multiplicity of joints in the operating mechanism it is
difficult to secure regular action without backlash or lost motion.
With a high-tension system there are no moving parts inside of
the cylinder and it is not difficult to maintain a tight joint between
the plug body and the cylinder head. The timer mechanism which
is employed when batteries and coils are utilized to furnish the cur-
rent is a comparatively simple device which is not liable to wear be-
cause it can be easily oiled and has a regular rotating movement which
can operate without getting out of time much better than the recipro-
cating parts of the make-and-break mechanism. When a direct high-
tension magneto is used the system is not much more complicated as
far as wiring is concerned than a low-tension group, and as the
ignition is more reliable it is not strange that jump spark or high-
tension ignition is almost generally used in automobile practice.
Long Platinum
Tipped
Screw
Carbon Holder
Collector
Ring
\Brass Plate
^Condenser Timjng
Case
Fig. 192. Simple High-Tension Magneto for One-Cylinder Ignition. A Com-
plete Apparatus Comprising Source of Current and Timing Device as WeH.
Magneto Generator Construction. The magneto is a simple form
of dynamo and a mechanical generator of electricity in which per-
manent magnets are used to produce the magnetic field and between,
which the armature revolves. The permanent magnets are called
" field magnets " and at their ends are provided cast-iron shoes which
348 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
form the walls of the armature tunnel and which are known as pole
pieces. A typical magneto adapted for single-cylinder ignition is
shown in section at Fig. 192. It consists of two compound horse-
shoe magnets attached to the pole pieces which collect and concentrate
the magnetism upon the armature. The armature is shuttle-shaped
and carries a double winding of wire which consists of two coils, one
of coarse, the other of fine conductor. The armature is attached to
end pieces which carry shafts and the whole assembly revolves on
annular ball bearings. An ebonite or hard rubber spool is carried
at one end while the condenser is housed at the other. The make-
and-break mechanism is partly carried by an oscillating casing and
the revolving member is turned from the armature shaft.
The current generated in the coil is delivered to a metal ring on
the ebonite spool from which it is taken by a carbon brush and de-
livered directly to the spark plug. Every time the contact points
in the make-and-break devices become separated, a current of high
potential passes through the wire attached to the spark plug and
produces a spark between the points. The magneto is the simplest
and most practical form of ignition appliance as it is self-contained
and includes the current generator and the timing device in one unit.
In the one-cylinder form shown all connections are made inside of
the device and but one wire leading to the spark plug is necessary to
form the external circuit.
A magneto employed for multiple-cylinder ignition is not much
more complicated than that used for single-cylinder service, the only
difference being that a different form of cam is provided in the
breaker box and that a secondary distributor is added to commutate
the current to the plugs in the various cylinders. The distributor
consists of a block of insulating material fixed to the magnets which
carries as many segments as there are cylinders to be fired. .A cen-
tral distributing arm or segment is driven from the armature shaft by
means of gearing, and is employed to distribute the high-tension
current to the spark plugs. The spacing of the distributor segments
does not differ materially from that of the battery timers previously
described.
Various distributor forms used on magnetos are shown at Fig.
193. That at A is employed for a double opposed cylinder motor and
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
349
the contacts are separated by a space of 180 degrees. When a three-
cylinder engine is used, as is sometimes the case in the two-cycle forms,
the distributor segments are separated by distances of 120 degrees.
f i
D
Fig. 193. How Distributor Contacts are Spaced on Two-, Three-, Four- and Six-
Cylinder Magnetos.
If the distributor is used on a four-cylinder motor the segments are
spaced 90 degrees apart, as shown at C. To fire a six-cylinder motor,
six segments must be used and they are placed 60 degrees apart, as
indicated at D.
The speed at which the armature of the magneto turns also varies
with the number of cylinders. One- and two-cylinder forms turn at
cam-shaft speed. The three-cylinder types when applied to a four-
cycle engine, turn #t three quarters the crank-shaft speed. The four-
350 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
cylinder magneto armature is driven. at crank-shaft speed, while that
of the six-cylinder forms turn at one and one half times crank-shaft
speed. When used on two-cycle motors, the speeds given for four-
cycle engines of the same number of cylinders should be doubled.
The important parts of a four-cylinder form of high-tension mag-
neto are shown at Fig. 194, which is a view of a partially dismantled
device. The armature assembly and one of the end plates by which
it is supported are shown at the extreme left. Attached to the end of
the armature shaft are the distributor drive pinion and the ebonite
spool which carries the collector ring. The timer case and interrupter
assembly are shown at the extreme right. Above it the distributor
case is clearly depicted. When the device is assembled the end of the
armature shaft protrudes through the housing at the lower part of the
magnet assembly which is shown in the center of the group, with
the end plate which carries the distributor gear and disk and one
end of the armature in place. The distributor gear serves to drive
a hard rubber plate in which the distributor segment is imbedded.
When the distributor case is screwed in place, the carbon brushes,
which are spaced around the interior of the distributor case, collect
current from the revolving distributor segment and lead it to the
spark plugs by suitable cables which run from the terminals at the
top of the distributor casing.
Two systems of high-tension magneto ignition are used, one
termed the true high-tension system, in which a current of high po-
tential is delivered directly from the armature ; the other is the trans-
former coil system, so termed because the current produced by the
armature winding is of low tension and must be stepped up or in-
creased in value before it is delivered to the spark plug by an induc-
tion coil similar in construction to that needed in battery-ignition
systems. In the former apparatus the high-tension current is pro-
duced by means of a secondary winding on the armature itself, and as
the whole apparatus is self-contained it is much more compact and
simpler to install than those which need a separate transformer coil.
The simplified wiring system of a true high-tension magneto is
shown at Fig. 195. The armature carries two windings, one indicated
by the heavier lines at the bottom called the " primary " ; the other,
composed of finer conductor, is known as the " secondary." One end
352
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
of the primary winding is grounded, the other is joined to the fixed
contact screw of the contact breaker. This end is also joined to one
end of the secondary winding and the free end of the secondary wind-
ing is attached to the collector ring carried by the ebonite spool.
When the contact points separate, a current is induced in the primary
L
g=J =f -Jgg Primary Winding
Secondary Winding
Frame
^Safety Spark Gap
Secondary
: Contact Breaker
Primary/
Fig. 195. Simple Wiring Scheme when Four-Cylinder Magneto is Utilized for
Gas-Engine Ignition. Magneto Members Shown Separate to Facilitate
Explanation of Principles of Operation.
and secondary windings and is delivered to the center terminal of
the distributor disk by the carbon brush which bears against the col-
lector ring.
The various segments of the distributor are connected to the
spark plugs in the cylinders, and every time the contact points sep-
arate a spark will be produced at one of the plugs because the revolv-
ing distributor brush will be in contact with one of the distributor
segments. A cross-section view of the Bosch high-tension magneto
is shown at Fig. 196 and the important parts are clearly shown. As
the internal connections are very similar to those shown diagrammati-
cally at Fig. 195, the same description given of the course of current
in the former applies equally well to the latter.
353
354
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
The wiring of a four-cylinder magneto which employs a trans-
former coil is shown at Fig. 197. A set of batteries is provided to
furnish current for starting, as it is sometimes difficult to turn the
motor sufficiently fast by hand to generate the proper amount of
magneto current to insure prompt starting. The high-tension wire
Trans fo rmerCoilr-
High Tension Wire to Plug
Distributor Housing
Wire To
Stationary Winding
Wire
Bed Wire
Green Wire
Contact Breaker Housing
Dry Battery
Fig. 197. Wiring Diagram Outlining Method of Combining Magneto and Trans-
former Coil to Form Device for Four-Cylinder Ignition. .
from the spark coil or transformer is led to the center of the distribu-
tor and the current is commutated to the plugs just as though the
high-tension current had been produced in the magneto itself instead
of in the, transformer.
The Connecticut magneto, which is a transformer coil type, is
shown in longitudinal section and end elevation at Fig. 198. In this,
355
356
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
the transformer coil is mounted between the magnets above the arma-
ture tunnel and the secondary current is applied directly to the dis-
tributing brush by means of a secondary collecting member which
bears against a suitable terminal in the bottom of the coil casing.
With this magneto the wiring is as simple as it would be with the
true high-tension form and only five wires are needed in the external
Secondary Winding
Primary Winding
Stationary Windin
Cam
Fig. 199. Showing Application of High-Tension Principle in K.W. Four-Cylinder
Magneto.
circuit. Of these, four secondary leads run direct from the distribu-
tor to the plug while the remaining one is a primary ground wire
having a switch in circuit through which the primary coil current
may be grounded instead of going to the transformer coil, thus stop-
ping the motor.
All magnetos do not employ a revolving winding. Some utilize
a stationary coil of wire and use rotating inductor members to cause
the lines of magnetic force to flow through the wire and generate a
357
358 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
current therein. A simplified wiring diagram of the K.W. magneto,
which is an igniter of this type, is shown at Fig. 199, while a sectional
view of the device itself is presented at Fig. 200. The stationary coil is
composed of two windings, a primary and a secondary, and is
mounted in the center of the device so that the rotary inductor shaft
passes through it, one inductor being placed at each side of the station-
ary coil. The secondary wire passes through the insulated electrode
through a bridge or strap member which is connected at one end to
the spark gap and at the other to a bent conductor which conveys the
current to a revolving distributor arm.
When the contact points are separated by the cam a current of
electricity is induced in the primary coil and transformed to a high-
tension current in the secondary winding and is delivered to the spark
plugs by the conventional form of distributor. Except for the sta-
tionary winding and the use of inductor pieces to reverse the lines
of magnetism through the coil, the construction does not differ from
the forms previously described. It is advanced that the stationary
winding offers some advantages inasmuch as brushes are not required
to collect the primary current.
The function of the safety spark gap is to take care of any excess
current which might damage the insulation of the winding by allow-
ing it to go to the ground. The air gap between the points has high
enough resistance so that the spark will not jump it under normal
conditions, but should the voltage become suddenly increased in value,
as might be the case if one of the plug wires became disconnected,
it will leap this gap in preference to overcoming the resistance of the
insulation of the winding. The purpose of the condenser in a mag-
neto is the same as that used in a coil, i. e., it is interposed in the
primary circuit in such a way that it is in shunt connection with the
contact-breaker points and absorbs any current which would tend
to produce excessive sparking.
Application of Typical Magneto Forms. Some of the leading
forms of American magnetos are shown at Fig. 201. That at A is
the Heinze device and differs from the conventional form in that
magnets of round section are used instead of the conventional horse-
shoe magnets of rectangular cross section. The form shown at B is
the Kingston magneto, which is used in connection with a transformer
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
359
coil. The Connecticut,, which has been previously shown in section
at Fig. 198, is depicted at C. The double distributor form intended
to be used in connection with two-spark ignition systems shown at D
is a Splitdorf design and should be used with a separate transformer
coil.
Fig. 201. Typical American Magneto Forms. A Heinze Machine with Round
Section Field Magnets. B Kingston Magneto for Dual Ignition. C
Clean-Cut Design of Connecticut Device. D Splitdorf Double Distributor
Form Designed for Two-Spark Ignition Systems.
The usual method of installing a magneto is to place it on a
bracket fastened to the engine base so the contact breaker and dis-
tributor will be handy for immediate inspection or adjustment. It
360
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
is desirable to place the device on the inlet side of the engine and as
far away from the exhaust piping as possible because the excess heat
which exists at this point is liable to injure the insulation of the wind-
ings. Methods of installation which are typical of conventional prac-
tice are shown at Fig. 202. At A the magneto is placed on a cast
Timing Gear Case
Nut
Fig. 202. Conventional Methods of Placing and Driving Magneto Generators.
A System Used on Regal Engine. B Magneto is Driven from Pump-
Shaft Extension on Velie Motors.
bracket formed integral with the top half of the engine base and is
driven from the timing case at the front of the engine by a length
of shaft. At B the magneto is also housed at the rear end and is
carried on a base plate formed integrally with one of the crank-case
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 361
supporting arms. The drive is by an extension of the pump shaft,
that member being driven by suitable gearing in the cam-shaft timing
gear casing.
Gear drive is the best method of driving a magneto armature and
direct spur-gear connection is better than either bevel or spiral gear
trains because it is the best wearing form of gearing. Silent chains
may be used for driving if some form of adjustment is provided to
compensate for chain stretch. When a magneto is driven by a shaft,
as shown at Fig. 202, A and B, it is customary to provide some sort
of a universal joint or Oldham coupling between the armature and
the driving member in order that any inaccuracies in alignment of
the driving shaft will not stress the ball bearings supporting the
armature. It is desirable to protect the instrument from oil or
water by placing it in a case of fiber or leather, and in modern types
the contact breaker and distributor housings are closed by easily re-
moved and yet practically dust-tight coverings.
Metallic or carbon particles and dirty oil may cause internal short
circuiting and it is desirable to have the contact-maker case and the
distributor cover arranged in such a way that they may be easily
reached for cleaning. Modern magnetos are usually secured in some
way that will permit a ready removal. In that shown at A, Fig.
202, a number of through bolts are screwed from the under side of
the bracket into the magneto base and it is necessary to remove these
before the magneto can be lifted off its support. The method
shown at Fig. 202, B, is preferable as the ignition device may be re-
moved from the base by slackening one nut on the hinge bolt which
keeps the metallic strap tight, thus holding the magneto in place.
Various other methods of utilizing strap members are shown at
Fig. 203. In that shown at A the strap is made in two pieces and is
held together at the top by a clamp bolt. The method of securing a
magneto, shown at B, is practically the same, except that the retention
member is a small knob which can be easily turned by the hand. At
C the strap encircles the magneto completely and is held in place
by a single nut under the bracket. A modification of this method
is depicted at D. The strap, in this instance, is just bent over the
arch of the magnets and held in place by the long swinging bolt which
is hinged at the bottom of the magneto.
362
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
One of the simplest methods of driving a magneto is that shown
at Fig. 204, which is a bottom view of the Ford engine case. The
stationary coils of the magneto are attached to tke crank case, and the
Clamp Bolt.
Strap
o o
r
Strap
Fig. 203. Simple Methods of Holding 'Magnetos in Place on Engine Base to
Permit of Easy Removal of Apparatus when Desired.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
363
revolving magnets rotate with the fly wheel, which in turn is securely
attached to the crank shaft. With this form of drive there can be
no interruption in current generation and there are no gears, chains,
or other connections to wear and produce noise or interfere with gen-
eration of current.
When the magneto was first introduced it was looked upon with
suspicion by the motoring public. Therefore some designers compro-
Fly wheel
'Stationary Coils
Crankshaft
Revolving
Magnets
Fig. 204. The Ford Magneto is Integral with Engine Base, and Revolving Mag-
nets are Attached to Fly Wheel. Thus Direct Drive from Crank Shaft is
Possible without Gears e
mise and furnish two separate systems, one composed of a magneto,
the other an auxiliary group comprising a battery, timer and coil,
which supply the current to a set of spark plugs distinct from those
supplied from the magneto. It was found difficult with some types
of magnetos to start the engine directly from magneto current so
the battery outfit was depended upon for starting the engine as well
as emergency service. The parts of the modern high-tension mag-
neto have been simplified and strengthened and as the various parts
may be removed easily and replaced without trouble and special care
taken so the adjustments and cleaning necessary may be easily under-
stood by the layman there is very little liability at the present time
of a magneto giving out without warning.
364
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
A typical magneto ignition system used in connection with a
battery set is shown at Fig. 205. Six dry cells are used to supply the
current and a conventional four-point timer commutates the battery
Magneto
Ground
Dry Cell Battery
Fig. 205. Double Ignition System Utilizing Battery and Induction Coil Group
for Starting and Emergency Service and Pittsfield High-Tension Magneto
as the Main Ignition System.
current to the four individual units of the coil box 5 which in turn
delivers secondary current to the plugs. When the switch is thrown
to one side the magneto system is utilized. When the contacts are
reversed the battery system furnishes the ignition energy. The parts
are shown arranged in diagram form so that the wiring may be
easily followed and the relation of the various parts to each other
definitely ascertained. The methods of wiring typical double systems
are further exemplified by diagram shown at Fig. 206.
Connections of parts comprising the Bosch dual ignition system
are shown at Fig. 207. With this method but one set of spark
plugs is needed as the secondary distributor of the magneto is utilized
to distribute the high-tension current obtained either from the mag-
neto armature or the battery and coil system. A separate timer is
used to interrupt the battery current, and the coil carried on the dash
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
365
is of such a nature that depressing a button will bring a vibrator in
circuit and throw a constant stream of sparks across the air gap of
the spark plug in the cylinder about to fire. This will start the en-
gine, if a four- or six-cylinder form, without cranking when condi-
tions are favorable. Ordinarily when running on the battery system
Dry Cell
Battery
Storage
Battery
Fig. 206. Practical Application of Double Ignition System to Four-Cylinder
Power Plant.
the coil vibrator is not used, a single spark taking place between the
points of the spark plug. The various connections are clearly shown
in illustration and further description would be superfluous.
When a magneto is installed some precautions are necessary re-
366
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
lating to wiring and also the character of the spark plugs employed.
The conductor should be of good quality, have ample insulation and
be well protected from accumulations of oil which would tend to
decompose rubber insulation. It is customary to protect the wiring
by running it through the conduits of fiber or metal tubing lined with
Connections for the Bosch
Dual Ignition
* Thin blue cable for battery contact fcreaker.
2 Thin red cable forshort circuiting terminal.
shor _..
n- v n- / 3 Thick white cable for high tension terminal.
High Tension -^4 Thick .brown cable for distributor terminal..
Single Connections:
T nw Tpnsinn / 1 and 5 - To tlle terminals of the battery.
Low Tension { Connection to the frame.
Fig. 207. Method of Applying Bosch Dual Ignition System to Conventional
Four-Cylinder Power Plant.
insulating material. Multiple strand cables should be used for both
primary and secondary wiring and the insulation should be of rubber
at least T 3 -g- inch thick.
The spark plugs commonly used for battery and coil ignition can-
not always be employed when a magneto is fitted. The current pro-
duced by the mechanical generator has a greater amperage and more
heat value than that obtained from transformer coils excited by battery
current. The greater heat may burn or fuse the slender points used^
on some battery plugs and heavier electrodes are needed to resist the
heating effect of the more intense arc. While the current has greater
amperage it is not of as high potential or voltage as that commonly
produced by the secondary winding of an induction coil, and it cannot
overcome as much of a gap. Manufacturers of magneto plugs usually
set the spark points about -fa ^ an ^ nc ^ a P art - Tne most efficient
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 367
magneto plug has a plurality of points so that when the distance be-
tween one set becomes too -great the spark will take place between
one of the other pairs of electrodes which are not separated by so great
an air space.
Expert motorists championed the cause of mechanical generators
of electricity some time ago, but it is only within the past year or two
that the public demand for these devices impelled manufacturers of
motor cars to supply them as regular equipment on their cars.
CHAPTEE VII
Reason for Lubrication of Mechanism Lubricants and their Derivation
Methods of Supplying Oil Typical Lubrication Systems Outlined Theory
and Functions of Cooling Systems Water-Cooling Methods Explained
Elements of Simple Circulating System Forced Circulation and Apparatus
Thermosyphon-Cooling Methods Air-Cooling Systems.
THE importance of minimizing friction at the various bearing sur-
faces of machines to secure mechanical efficiency is fully recognized
by all mechanics, and proper lubricity of all parts of the mechanism
is a very essential factor upon which the durability and successful
operation of the motor car power plant depends. All of the moving
members of the engine which are in contact with other portions,,
whether the motion is continuous or intermittent, of high or low
velocity or of rectilinear or continued rotary nature, should be pro-
vided with an adequate supply of oil. No other assemblage of mech-
anism is operated under conditions which are so much to its disad-
vantage as the motor car, and the tendency is toward a simplification
of oiling methods so that the supply will be ample and automatically
applied to the points needing it.
In all machinery in motion the members which are in contact
have a tendency to stick to each other and the very minute projections
which exist on even the smoothest of surfaces would have a tendency
to cling or adhere to each other if the surfaces were not kept apart by
some elastic and unctuous substance. This will flow or spread out
over the surfaces and smooth out the inequalities existing which tend
to produce heat and retard motion of the pieces relative to each
other.
A general impression which obtains is that well machined sur-
faces are smooth and while they are apparently free from roughness
and no projections are visible to the naked eye, any smooth bearing
surface, even if very carefully ground, will have a rough appearance
if examined with a magnifying glass. An exaggerated condition to
368
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
369
illustrate this point is shown at Fig. 208. The amount of friction
will vary in proportion to the pressure on the surfaces in contact and
will augment as the loads increase, the rougher surfaces will have
more friction than 'smoother ones and soft bodies will produce more
friction than hard substances.
Pillow Block
Magnified
Shaft
Magnifying Glass
Fig. 208. Showing Use of Magnifying Glass to Demonstrate that Apparently
Smooth Metal Surfaces May Have Minute Irregularities which Produce
Friction.
Friction is always present in any mechanism as a resisting force
that tends to retard motion and bring all moving parts to a state of
rest. The absorption of power by friction may be gauged by the
amount of heat which exists at the bearing points. Friction of solids
may be divided into two classes, sliding friction, such as exists be-
tween the piston and cylinder, or the bearings of a gas engine and
rolling friction, which is that present when the load is supported by
ball or roller bearings or that which exists between the tires or the
driving wheels and the road. Engineers endeavor to keep friction
370 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
losses as low as possible and much care is taken in all modern auto-
mobiles to provide adequate methods of lubrication, or anti-friction
bearings at all points where considerable friction exists.
Theory of Lubrication. The reason a lubricant is supplied to bear-
ing points will be easily understood if one considers that these elastic
substances flow between the close fitting surfaces, and by filling up the
minute depressions in the surfaces and covering the high spots act as
a cushion which absorbs the heat generated and takes the wear instead
of the metallic bearing surface. The closer the parts fit together the
more fluid the lubricant must be to pass between their surfaces and
at the same time it must possess sufficient body so that it will not be
entirely forced out by the pressure existing between the parts.
Oils should have good adhesive, as well as cohesive, qualities. The
former are necessary so that the oil film will cling well to the surfaces
of the bearings ; the latter, so the oil particles will cling together and
resist the tendency to separation which exists all the time the bearings
are in operation. When used for gas-engine lubrication the oil should
be capable of withstanding considerable heat in order that it will not
be vaporized by the hot portions of the cylinder. It should have suffi-
cient cold test so that it will remain fluid and flow readily at low
temperature. Lubricants should be free from acid, or alkalis, which
tend to produce a chemical action with metals and result in corrosion
of the parts to which they are applied. It is imperative that the oil
be exactly the proper quality and nature for the purpose intended and
that it be applied in a positive manner. The requirements may be
briefly summarized as follows :
First It must have sufficient body to prevent seizing of the
parts to which it is applied and between which it is depended upon
to maintain an elastic film, and yet it must not have too much viscos-
ity in order to minimize the internal or fluid friction which exists
between the particles of the lubricant itself.
Second The lubricant must not coagulate or gum, must not in-
jure, the parts to which it is applied, either by chemical action or by
producing injurious deposits, and it should not evaporate readily.
Third The character of the work will demand that the oil should
not vaporize when heated or thicken to such a point that it will not
flow readily when cold.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 371
Fourth The oil must be free from acid,, alkalis, animal or vege-
table fillers, or other injurious agencies.
Fifth It must be carefully selected for the work required and
should be a good conductor of heat.
Derivation of Lubricants. The first oils which were used for lubri-
cating machinery were obtained from animal and vegetable sources,
though at the present time most unguents are of mineral derivation.
Lubricants may exist as fluids, semifluids, or solids. The viscosity
will vary from light spindle or dynamo oils which have but little
more body than kerosene to the heaviest greases and tallows. The
most common solid employed as a lubricant is graphite, sometimes
termed " plumbago " or " black lead." This substance is of mineral
derivation.
The disadvantage of oil of organic origin, such as those obtained
from animal fats or vegetable substances, is that they will absorb
oxygen from the atmosphere which causes them to thicken or become
rancid. Such oils have a very poor cold test as they solidify at com-
paratively high temperatures and their flashing point is so low that
they cannot be used at points where much heat exists. In most ani-*
mal oils various acids are present in greater or less quantities, and
for this reason they are not well adapted for lubricating metallic
surfaces which may be raised high enough in temperature to cause
decomposition of the oils.
Lubricants derived from the crude petroleum are called " Oleo-
napthas " and they are a product of the process of refining petroleum
through which gasoline and kerosene are obtained. They are of
lower cost than vegetable or animal oil and as they are of nonorganic
origin they do not become rancid or gummy by constant exposure to
the air and they will have no corrosive action on metals because they
contain no deleterious substances in chemical composition. By the
process of fractional distillation mineral oils of all grades can be
obtained. They have a lower cold and higher flash test and there is
not the liability of spontaneous combustion that exists with animal
oils.
The organic oils are derived from fatty substances which are
present in the bodies of all animals and in some portions of plants.
The general method of extracting oil from animal bodies is by a ren-
372 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
dering process which consists of applying sufficient heat to liquefy
the oil and then separating it from the tissue with which it is com-
bined by compression. The only oil which is used to any extent in
gas-engine lubrication that is not of mineral derivation is castor oil.
This substance has been used on high-speed racing automobile engines
and on aeroplane power plants. It is obtained from the seeds of the
castor plant which contain a large percentage of oil.
Among the solid substances which may be used for lubricating
purposes may be mentioned tallow, which is obtained from the fat of
animals, and graphite and soapstone, which are of mineral derivation.
Tallow is never used at points where it will be exposed to much
heat, though it is often employed as a filler for greases used in trans-
mission gearing. Graphite is sometimes mixed with oil and applied
to cylinder lubrication, though it is most often used in connection
with greases in the running gear parts. Graphite is not affected by
heat, cold, acids, or alkalis and has a strong attraction for metal sur-
faces. It mixes readily with oils and greases and increases their
efficiency in many applications. It is sometimes used where it would
not be possible to use other lubricants because of extremes of tempera-
ture. Graphite can be applied to advantage to practically all portions
of the motor-car mechanism.
The oils used for cylinder lubrication are obtained almost ex-
clusively from crude petroleum derived from American wells. Special
care must be taken in the selection of the crude material, as every
variety will not yield oil of the proper quality to be used as a cylinder
lubricant. The crude petroleum is distilled as rapidly as possible
with fire heat to vaporize off the naphthas and the burning oils. After
these vapors have been given off superheated steam is provided to
assist in distilling. When enough of the light elements have been
eliminated the residue is drawn off, passed through a strainer to free
it from grit and earthy matters, and is afterwards cooled to separate
the wax from it. This is the dark cylinder oil and is the grade
usually used for steam-engine cylinders.
The oil that is to be used in the gasoline engine must be of high
quality and for that reason the best grades are distilled in a vacuum
that the light distillates may be separated at much lower temperatures
than ordinary conditions of distilling permit. If the degree of heat
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 373
is not high the product is not so apt to decompose and deposit carbon.
If it is desired to remove the color of the oil which is caused by
free carbon and other impurities it can be accomplished by filtering
the oil through charcoal. The greater the number of times the oil is
filtered, the lighter it will become in color. The best cylinder oils
have flash points usually in excess of 500 degrees F. and while they
have a high degree of viscosity at 100 degrees F. they become more
fluid as the temperature increases.
The lubricating oils obtained by refining crude petroleum may be
divided into three classes:
First The natural oils of great body which are prepared for use
by allowing the crude material to settle in tanks at high temperature
and from which the impurities are removed by natural filtration.
These oils are given the necessary body and are free from the volatile
substances they contain by means of superheated steam which provides
a source of heat.
Second Another grade of these natural oils which are filtered
again at high temperatures and under pressure through beds of animal
charcoal to improve their color.
Third Pale, limpid oils, obtained by distillation and subsequent
chemical treatment from the residuum produced in refining petroleum
to obtain the fuel oils.
Authorities agree that any form of mixed oil in which animal and
mineral lubricants are combined should never be used in the cylinder
of a gas engine as the admixture of the lubricants does not prevent
the decomposition of the organic oil into the glycerides and fatty
acids peculiar to the fat used. In a gas-engine cylinder the flame
tends to produce more or less charring. The deposits of carbon will
be much greater with animal oils than with those derived from the
petroleum base because the constituents of a fat or tallow are not of
the same volatile character as those which comprise the hydrocarbon
oils which will evaporate or volatilize before they char in most in-
stances.
A suitable lubricant for gas-engine cylinders is a pure hydrocar-
bon oil having a high vaporizing point, about 200 degrees F., a flash
point of 430 degrees F., and a fire test of about 600 degrees F. It is
fortunate that many brands of good oils may be obtained at the pres-
374 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
ent time and in this connection it is well to state that the best oil is
none too good for the motor-car engine cylinders. There is an im-
pression among many motorists of economical tendencies that any oil
will answer and that the cheapest is obviously best because it costs
less. A point that cannot be too strongly impressed upon all who
have machinery of any description in their care is that efficient opera-
tion can only be obtained by selecting proper lubricant, and that high
quality oils can only be obtained by paying for them. In this appli-
cation the old adage, " The best is the cheapest in the end/' is par-
ticularly apropos.
Devices for Supplying Lubricant. The method of supplying the
lubricant will depend largely upon the nature of the part to be oiled
as well as the character of the oily medium. The various parts of
the internal combustion engine demand continued lubrication and
means must be provided which will insure positive supply of lubricant
in measured quantities for more or less extended periods. Engine
lubricators should be positive in action and not liable to be affected
by varying weather conditions. The lubricant should not be supplied
in excess and in some systems it is desirable that the feeds be ad-
justed as desired and independently of each other.
Any oiling device should be as nearly automatic in action as pos-
sible and the modern types require but little further attention from
the motorist than to keep a proper amount of lubricant in the con-
tainer. The oil feed to the moving parts should start as soon as the
engine begins to turn and the supply should be interrupted when the
mechanism stops. The only system which combines all the desirable
features is that which includes a mechanical drive from the source
of power. Lubricators may be divided into two classes, those which
depend upon natural phenomena such as the attraction of gravity or
displacement by air pressure, and others which are worked by mechan-
ical means and which deliver the oil in measured quantities by posi-
tively driven pumps.
The simplest form of lubricating appliance is that in which oil is
carried in a tank or oil cup placed higher than the points to which
it is applied and then delivered to the bearing points in drops. A
simple form of sight-feed gravity oiler is shown at Fig. 209, A. This
device has a glass body so that the amount of oil at the disposal of
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
375
the motorist ma} r be instantly noted and two sight-feed gauges at the
bottom which are connected to the points needing lubricant. The
opening through which the oil drips is regulated by an adjustable
knurled screw which turns a needle controlling the supply orifice. In
Shut-off.
Adjustment.
Filler.
Glass Body.
Adjustment.
Fig. 209. Simple Gravity-Feed Oil Cups with Glass Body to Show Height of
Lubricant in Container, and Sight Gauges to Give Visible Evidence of
Amount of Oil Supplied.
connection with the adjustable feature a simple lever is usually pro-
vided by which the needle may be raised from its seat and the oil
allowed to flow into the sight-feed glass.
In the device shown at A the shut-off lever, which is horizontally
placed, allows the needle to seat against the opening in the bottom of
the lubricator and the flow of oil is stopped. When placed vertically,
as shown at the right, the needle is raised from its seat and the oil
376 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
may flow to the part with which the sight-feed glass is coupled.
When more than two feeds are desired, the oil from the main con-
tainer may drip into a manifold fitting which will have any desired
number of sight-feed glasses and their individual connections. m A
gravity oiler having four sight-feed glasses is depicted at Fig. 209, B.
A disadvantage of oilers which depend upon gravity is that great
care must be exercised in selecting lubricant which will have the
proper viscosity or body to flow under the specific conditions of oper-
ation which may obtain at different times. For instance, during
warm weather oil will flow readily and heavier bodied lubricants may
be used without danger of clogging the supply pipe or the opening
in the body of the oiler. When the weather becomes colder the
oil may congeal and lighter fluid must be supplied to maintain an un-
interrupted feed. Should the oil leads to the bearing become clogged
by a particle of foreign matter the oil feed will be interrupted be-
cause the weight of the oil is not sufficient to dislodge the particle
which hinders its flow. The result is that no oil reaches the bearing
point and the part which needs the lubricant will be deprived of oil
and cause trouble.
With devices of this form it is necessary to frequently manipulate
the adjustments. Every atmospheric change that causes a difference
of temperature must be reckoned with, and if the oiler is adjusted
during cold weather it will feed too fast when the temperature is
higher. If the supply of oil is regulated during warm weather when
the oil flows easily, as soon as the lubricant congeals it will not pass
through the supply pipes so -readily and the opening must be in-
creased in area to compensate for the greater viscosity of the lubri-
cant. The gravity oiler is seldom used in modern automobiles and is
only found on cars of early vintage which are still in use in large
numbers in some parts of the country. It is utilized to some extent
in marine applications where it can be mounted very close to the
engine and kept at a uniform temperature by the heat given off from
the power plant.
Mechanical Oiling Methods Described. The oiling systems of the
late forms of motor cars depend upon some positive oil pump to main-
tain circulation of the lubricant or to force it to the bearing point.
Two forms of pumps are shown in section at Fig. 210. That at A is
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
377
a simple plunger pump in which the plunger is operated by means of
a cam driven by worm gearing from some suitable point on the power
plant. When the pump plunger is drawn out toward the end of the
cylijider the suction lifts the inlet check valve, which is a small steel
ball, from its seat and the pump cylinder fills with oil. On the down-
worm Gear
Sight Feecb
Worm
Relief Ch
Cam.
Pump Cylinder.
Pump Plunger.
B
Bypass.
Pump Body.
Outlet
Check Valve.
Disch
f~ Worm Drive Shaft.
Inlet Check Valve.
Pump Gears.
Fig. 210. Positive Mechanical Methods of Supplying Lubricant. A Worm
Gear Driven Plunger Pump Oiler. B Gear Pump with High-Pressure
Relief Valve.
stroke of the pump plunger the outlet qheck valve is unseated by the
oil pressure and the lubricant is expelled from the pump cylinder to
the bearing point in a positive manner and under some degree of
pressure. The stroke of the pump plunger may be varied by a suit-
able adjustment and the quantity of oil directed to the bearing point
will depend upon the stroke of the pump plunger. Most forms of
the device described use a multiplicity of pumps and individual leads
to the different bearing points. The arrangement is such that each
bearing is served by its own pump member.
In other systems a single pump of large capacity is used, this
supplying oil to a manifold fitting from which it is distributed to the
cylinders or to the engine base from which it is picked up and
splashed about by fingers on the bottom of the connecting rods. An-
other form of pump which is used more in maintaining circulation
of oil in systems where distribution is by connecting rods than in
individual supply systems is shown at B. One of a pair of gears is
driven by the engine and turns the other one so that the oil which
378
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
fills the pump body is entrapped in spaces between the teeth of the
gears and forced along through the discharge pipe. The form of
pump shown has a ball check valve which seats against an opening
which communicates with the discharge pipe. Should there be an
obstruction in the piping which will result in excessive pressure the
relief valve will unseat and the pressure will be diminished by a quan-
tity of the oil flowing back into the inlet end through the by-pass
passage.
Two methods of distributing oil in the interior of internal com-
bustion engines are outlined at Fig. 211. That at A consists in pro-
C-rank-shaft.
Bearing.
Tilting Oil Trough.
Fig. 211. How Oil May be Supplied to Interior Mechanism of Internal Com-
bustion Motor. A Oil Pick-up Finger on Connecting Rod End Dips into
Lubricant and Splashes It Over Interior Parts. B Oil Drops into Channel
in Horizontal Connecting Rod and Supplies Bearings and Cylinder.
viding an oil pick-up finger or splasher at the bottom of the connecting
rod big end which dips into the lubricant carried in an oil trough
directly under the connecting rod. As the crank shaft revolves in
the direction of the arrow, a certain amount of lubricant will be
picked up from the trough and as the speed increases the rapid move-
ment of the pick-up finger through the oil will splash it around the
interior of the motor base. The form of oil trough shown is that
used on the Knight engines and it is supported at one end on a
bearing rod which is interconnected with the throttle so that as the
gas supply is opened up to accelerate the engine, the oil trough is
tilted in such a way that the proper quantity of lubricant will be
supplied the cylinder.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 379
A simple method which is applicable on engines having horizon-
tally disposed cylinders is outlined at Fig. 211, B. In this the oil is
applied to a point about midway in the cylinder and in such a position
that it is swept by the piston on its up or downstroke. When in the
position shown in the drawing the piston is traveling toward the open
end of the cylinder, and until the oil hole is shut off by the wall of
the piston the lubricant will drip directly into the bottom of a U sec-
tion connecting rod. When the rod is at the angle shown the oil
will flow to the crank-pin bearings. When the piston reaches a point
in the cylinder so that the copper tube carried by it registers with the
oil opening the stream of lubricant will pass through the copper tube
and onto the wrist pin. The cylinder wall and other points which
need oiling are kept covered with a film of oil derived from the
spray or mist composed of finely divided particles of oil which is
present in the crank case all times the engine is in operation.
Oil Supply by Constant Level Splash System. The splash system
of lubrication that depends on the connecting rod to distribute the
lubricant is one of the most successful and simplest forms if some
means of maintaining a constant level is provided. If too much oil
is supplied the surplus will work past the piston rings and into the
combustion chamber, where it will bu*n and cause carbon deposits.
Too much oil will also cause an engine to smoke and an excess of
lubricating oil is usually manifested by a bluish-white smoke issuing
from the exhaust.
A good method of maintaining a constant level of oil for the
successful application of the splash system is shown at Fig. 212. The
engine base casting includes a separate chamber which serves as an
oil container and which is below the level of oil in the crank case.
The lubricant is drawn from the sump or oil container by means of
a positive oil pump which discharges directly into the engine case.
The level is maintained by an overflow pipe which allows all excess
lubricant to flow back into the oil container at the bottom of the cyl-
inder. Before passing into the pump again the oil is strained or
filtered by a screen of wire gauze and all foreign matter removed.
Owing to the rapid circulation of the oil it may be used over and
over again for quite a period of time. The oil is introduced directly
into the crank case by a breather pipe and the level is indicated by
380
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
WaterSpac&s
fofeke
Ovejfar/toJl * m**ft
Screen
OirOut/et
Geared O// Pu/np
Fig. 212. Sectional View of Typical Motor Showing Parts Needing Lubrication
and Method of Applying Oil by Constant Level Splash System. Note also
Water Jacket and Spaces for Water Circulation.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
381
a rod carried by a float which rises when the container is replenished
and falls when the available supply diminishes.
The system depicted at Fig. 213 is very similar to that previously
described, except that the oil feed from the pump is first directed
into an oil manifold pipe from which leads connect to the various
main bearings of the engine. The oil dripping from these journals
collects in the crank case until it reaches a certain level and then
Level Indicator
Pump Drive Shaft
Float
Fig. 213. Sectional View of Part of Rutenber Engine Depicting Method of
Driving Oil Pump and Distribution to Bearing Points.
drains back into the sump or oil container through suitable overflow
openings. The ends of the connecting rods are provided with scoops
or oil pick-up members which splash the lubricant around the interior
of the engine. The amount of oil available is shown by a float con-
trolled indicator., as in the previously described system. The pump
is driven from the cam shaft by means of a pair of spiral gears.
It will be noted that with such system the only apparatus required
besides the oil tank which is cast integral with the bottom of the
crank case is a suitable pump to maintain circulation of oil. This
member is always positively driven, either by means of chains and
sprockets, shaft and universal coupling, or direct gearing. As the
382
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
pump is used to circulate oil but little wear will result during the life
of the engine because all parts of the pump mechanism are operating
in a constant bath of lubricant. The screens or filters are usually in-
Distributing Manifold
Fig. 214. Oil Distributing System Employed on Stoddard-Dayton Motor Cars.
stalled at points which will permit them to be easily removed when
cleaning is necessary.
The self-contained oiling systems of the constant level type greatly
simplify the power plant and insure the economical use of lubricant.
The proper level of oil is regulated at the factory by the position of
the overflow pipes and it must remain in adjustment because there
is no way of altering it on most motors. As the lubricating oil is
carried in the bottom of the engine case it is heated up as soon as the
engine has been in operation for a few moments, and as the viscosity
of the lubricant cannot be altered by varying conditions of tempera-
ture or climate the same grade of oil may be employed during the
entire year. Other advantages are that the lubricating system is
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
383
entirely automatic in action, that it will furnish a positive supply of
oil at all desired points, and that it cannot be tampered with by the
inexpert motorist because no adjustments are provided or needed.
The constant level system may be modified in a number of re-
spects. Sometimes the oil is fed directly to the crank case compart-
ment and the connecting rods depended upon solely to distribute the
lubricant. In other systems, the oil delivered by the pump is con-
veyed to a distributing manifold,, as shown at Fig. 214. From this
Fig. 215. Part Sectional View of Motor-Car Engine Showing Oil Distribution
by Splashers at the Ends of the Connecting Rods, which Dip into Troughs
Disposed Under Them.
manifold member the oil is delivered to important bearing points,
such as the main journals, and directly to the cylinder walls by small
copper pipes before it is allowed to drain back into the crank case and
384
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
from this member overflow into the sump or container. In some sys-
tems no separate oil container is cast with the crank case, this mem-
ber being made deeper so that the oil level will be below the point
where the connecting rods will pass through it. When this practice
is followed small troughs are cast in the engine base into which the
scoops on the connecting rod dip, as shown at Fig. 215.
Distributing Lubricant by Pressure. In some power plants it is
considered desirable to supply the oil directly to the parts needing
Automatic
Speed Governor
Oil Supp/y
76 FrontMa/n
Beotrtnq
To Center
Beacrtny
Git Pump
Fig. 216. Method of Supplying Oil Under Pressure to Main Bearings, from
which It is Directed to Connecting Rods by Passages Drilled in Crank Shaft.
it by suitable leads instead of depending solely upon the distributing
action of scoops on the connecting rod big ends. A system of this
nature is shown at Fig. 216. The oil is carried in the crank case as
is common practice, but the normal oil level is below the point where
it will be reached by the connecting rod. It is drawn from the crank
case by a plunger pump which directs it to a manifold leading
directly to conductors which supply the main journals. After the
oil has been used on these points it drains back into the bottom of
the crank case. An excess is provided which is supplied to the con-
Tlie Modern Gasoline Automobile
385
necting rod ends by passages drilled into the webs of the crank
shaft and part way into the crank pins as shown by the dotted lines.
The oil which is present at the connecting rod crank pins is thrown
off by centrifugal force and lubricates the cylinder walls and other
internal parts. Small cups are cast at the upper end of the con-
necting rods to collect oil, and suitable passages allow the lubricant
to flow between the wrist pin and wrist-pin bushing.
Individual pump oilers are not so widely used at the present time
as they have been in the past, but a number of designers still contend
that these devices are superior to the simpler splash systems because
only clean oil is delivered to the bearing points and in measured
quantities. It is contended that with splash systems the oil soon
becomes impregnated with minute carbon particles and that it is not
as suitable for lubricating purposes as the clean lubricant supplied
Cylinder No. 4
' Cylinder No. 3
Rear Crank Case.
Front Crank Case.
' Cylinder No. 2
/ ^Cylinder No. 1.
Regulating
Screws.
Check Valve.
Overflow.
Crank Case.
Oil Gage
Stand Pii
Oil Gage Cock.
Oil Drain Cock.
Main Pump,
dividual Pumps-
Fig. 217. Showing Application of Mechanical Oiler having Individual Pumps
and Leads to Bearing Points in Connection with Sight-Feed Gauge on Dash.
from the mechanical oiler. In most systems where a mechanical
oiler is employed the splash system is depended upon to a certain ex-
tent as well, so that it is not readily apparent how the disadvantage
cited can be applied in favor of the individual pump method of supply.
A typical system using a mechanical oiler is outlined at Fig. 217.
In this one main pump supplies a manifold fitting carried on the
386 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
dashboard from which the oil drips into sight gauges through needle-
valve regulated orifices. A series of smaller individual pumps draw
the oil from the sight-feed manifold and force it through pipes which
communicate with the individual cylinders and with the front and
Main Feed.
Oil Strainer.
Adjusting- Valve.
Oil Filler.
Fig. 218. Oil-Supply System Utilized on Knox Automobile Power Plants has
Many Good Features.
rear crank case compartments respectively. Kegulating screws are
provided so that the amount of oil supplied the different points may
be regulated at will. A relief check valve is installed to take care of
excess lubricant and to allow any oil that does not pass back into
the individual pumps to overflow into the main container.
Two typical systems in which the oil is first supplied to the main
bearings and from thence to the connecting rods by means of passages
in the crank shaft are shown at Figs. 218 and 219. The former is
used on Knox motor cars and is shown graphically in a phantom
view of the crank case in which the oil passages are made specially
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
387
prominent. The oil is taken from a reservoir at the bottom of the
engine base by the usual form of gear oil pump and is supplied to a
main feed manifold which extends the length of the crank case.
Individual conductors lead to the five main bearings, which in turn
supply the crank pins through passages drilled through the crank-shaft
web. In this power plant the connecting rods are hollow section
bronze castings and the passage through the center of the connecting
rod serves to convey the lubricant from the crank pins to the wrist
pins. The cylinder walls are oiled by the spray of lubricant thrown
off the revolving crank shaft by centrifugal force.
Fig. 219. Constant-Level Positive-Supply System Used in Columbia " Mark
85 " Motor.
The system outlined at Fig. 219 is similar in principle to that
previously described. In this view the engine is shown in part sec-
tion and as the oil delivery pipes and conduits are shown by heavy
388 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
black lines it will not be difficult to follow the oil from the sump at
the bottom of the crank case through the oil pump and the leads to
the main bearing and timing gear case. A sight gauge is shunted
into the main circuit and is placed on the dash so the motorist may
ascertain at any time if the components of the oil system are function-
ing properly. A float controlled level indicator is carried at the side
of the crank case so that one may tell at a glance if there is an ade-
quate supply of oil in the container.
Why Cooling Systems Are Necessary. The reader should under-
stand from preceding chapters that the power of an internal combus-
tion motor is obtained by the rapid combustion and consequent ex-
pansion of some inflammable gas. The operation in brief is that
when air or any other gas or vapor is heated, it will expand and that
if this gas is confined in a space which will not permit expansion,
pressure will be exerted against all sides of the containing chamber.
The more a gas is heated, the more pressure it will exert upon the
walls of the combustion chamber it confines. Pressure in a gas may
be created by increasing its temperature and inversely heat may be
created by pressure. When a gas is compressed its total volume is
reduced and the temperature is augmented.
The efficiency of any form of heat engine is determined by the
power obtained from a certain fuel consumption. A definite amount
of energy will be liberated in the form of heat when a pound of any
fuel is burned. The efficiency of any heat engine is proportional to
the power developed from a definite quantity of fuel with the least loss
of thermal units. If the greater proportion of the heat units derived
by burning the explosive mixture could be utilized in doing useful
work the efficiency of the gasoline engine would be greater than that
of any other form of energizing power. There is a great loss of heat
from various causes, among which can be cited the reduction of pres-
sure through cooling the motor and the loss of heat through the ex-
haust valves when the burned gases are expelled from the cylinder.
The loss through the water jacket of the average automobile power
plant is over 50% of the total fuel efficiency. This means that more
than half of the heat units available for power are absorbed and dis-
sipated by "the cooling water. Another 16% is lost through the
exhaust valve, and but 33 \% of the heat units do useful work. The
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 389
great loss of heat through the cooling systems cannot be avoided,
as some method must be provided to keep the temperature of the
engine within proper bounds. It is apparent that the rapid combus-
tion and continued series of explosions would soon heat the metal por-
tions of the engine to a red heat if some means were not taken to
conduct much of this heat away. The high temperature of the parts
would burn the lubricating oil, even that of the best quality, and the
piston and rings would expand to such a degree, especially when
deprived of oil, that they would seize in the cylinder. This would
score the walls, and the friction which ensued would tend to bind the
parts so tightly that the piston would stick, bearings would be burned
out, the valves would warp, and the engine would soon become inop-
erative.
The best temperature to secure efficient operation is one on which
considerable difference of opinion exists among engineers. The fact
that the efficiency of an engine is dependent upon the ratio of heat
converted into useful work compared to that generated by the explo-
sion of the gas is an accepted fact. It is very important that the
engine should not get too hot, and at the other hand it is equally
vital that the cylinder be not robbed of too much heat. The object
of cylinder cooling is to keep the temperature of the cylinder below
the danger point but at the same time to have it as high as possible
to secure maximum power from the gas burned.
Cooling Systems Generally Applied. There are two general sys-
tems of engine cooling in common use, that in which water is heated
by the absorption of heat from the engine and then cooled by air, and
the other method in which the air is directed onto the cylinder and
absorbs the heat directly instead of through the medium of water.
When the liquid is employed in cooling it is circulated through jackets
which surround the cylinder casting and the water may be kept in
motion by two methods. The one generally favored is to use a posi-
tive circulating pump of some form which is driven by the engine
to keep the water in motion. The other system is to utilize a natural
principle that heated water is lighter than cold liquid and that it will
tend to rise to the top of the cylinder when it becomes heated to the
proper temperature and cooled water takes its place at the bottom of
the water jacket.
390
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
Air-cooling methods may be by radiation or convection. In the
former case the effective outer surface of the cylinder is increased
by the addition of flanges or spines cast thereon, and the air is de-
pended on to rise from the cylinder as heated and be replaced by
cooler air. When a positive air draught is directed against the
cylinders by means of a fan, cooling is by convection and radiation
both. Sometimes the air draught may be directed against the cyl-
inder walls by some form of jacket which confines it to the heated
portions of the cylinder.
Cooling by Positive Water Circulation. A typical water-cooling
system in which a pump is depended upon to promote circulation
of the cooling liquid is shown at Fig. 220, and the components of such
a group are shown separately so the construction may be more easily
understood at Fig. 221. The radiator is carried at the front end of
ftediator
Valve Regulating
Amount of Hot
ater in Car-
buretor
Qf3 Drain Cock
Fig. 220. Components of Typical Motor-Car-Cooling Group Utilizing Pump to
Maintain Circulation of Liquid. System Shown Used on Peerless Cars
with Success.
the car in most cases and serves as a combined water tank and
cooler. It is composed of an upper and lower portion joined to-
gether by a series of pipes which may be round and provided with a
series of fms v to radiate the heat, or which may be flat in order to have
the water pass through in thin sheets and cool it more easily. Cellu-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
391
lar or honeycomb coolers are composed of a large number of bent
tubes which will expose a large area of surface to the cooling influence
of the air draught forced through the radiator either by the forward
movement of the vehicle or by some type of fan. The cellular and
flat tube types have almost entirely displaced the flange tube radiators
which were formerly popular because they cool the water more
effectively, and may be made lighter than the tubular radiator could
be for engines of the same capacity.
Filler Cap.
Cooling Fan.
Centrifugal Pump.
Fig. 221. Elements of Typical Cooling Group, Defining Construction of Cen-
trifugal Pump, Cooling Fan and Cellular Cooler.
The water is drawn from the lower header of the radiator by the
pump and is forced through a manifold to the lower portion of the
water jackets of the cylinder. It becomes heated as it passes around
the cylinder walls and combustion chambers and the hot water passes
out of the top of the water jacket to the upper portion of the radiator.
Here- it is divided in thin streams and directed against comparatively
cool metal which abstracts the heat from the water. As it becomes
cooler it falls to the bottom of the radiator because its weight increases
as the temperature becomes lower. By the time it reaches the lower
tank of the radiator it has been cooled sufficiently so that it may be
again passed around the cylinders of the motor. In some cooling
systems, especially those employing cellular type coolers, it is neces-
sary to use a cooling fan to draw currents of air through the inter-
stices of the cooler.
392
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
The pumps used differ in design. The form shown at Fig. 221
and at Fig. 222, A, is known as the " centrifugal type " because a
rotary impeller of paddle-wheel form throws water which it receives
at a central point toward the outside and thus causes it to maintain
a definite rate of circulation. The pump may be a separate appliance,
Fan Blade.
Water Space.
Water Inlet.
Water Inlet.
Stuffing Box;
Water Impeller
i Ball Bearing.
A
B , Water Outlet.
Fig. 222. Two Forms of Water-Circulating Pumps Representing Current Prac-
tice. A Cooling Fan and Water Pump Driven from Common Source by
Single Belt; Pump Impeller Placed Directly in Water Jacket. B Gear
Circulating Pump.
as shown at Figs. 220 and 221, or it may be incorporated in part of
the water jacket, as depicted at Fig. 222, A. The centrifugal pump
is not as positive as the gear form shown at Fig. 222, B, and some
manufacturers prefer the latter because of the positive pumping
features. They are very simple in form, consisting of a suitable cast
JK>dy in which a pair of spur pinions having large teeth are carried.
One of these gears is driven by suitable means and as it turns the
other member they maintain a flow of water through the central
portion of the pump. The pump should always be installed in series
with the water pipe which conveys the cool liquid from the lower
compartment of the radiator to the coolest portion of the water jacket.
Water Circulation by Natural System. Some engineers contend
that the rapid water circulation obtained by using a pump may cool
the cylinders too much, and that the temperature of the engine may
be reduced so much that the efficiency will be lessened. For this
reason there as a growing tendency to use the natural method of water
circulation as the cooling liquid is supplied to the cylinder jackets
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
393
just below the boiling point, and the water issues from the jacket at
the top of the cylinder after it has absorbed sufficient heat to raise
it just about to the boiling point.
The cooling system depicted at Fig. 223 is one that has demon-
strated its worth conclusively in practice and is somewhat simpler
than the forms in w r hich a pump is used to maintain circulation.
With this method, the fact that water becomes lighter as its tempera-
ture becomes higher is taken advantage of in securing circulation
around the cylinders. The top of the water jacket of the individu-
ally cast cylinders is attached to the center of the radiator, while
"Radiator
/Radiator
Fig. 223. Water-Cooling Group Used on Maxwell Automobiles in which Water
Circulation is Maintained by Natural Means. A Side View of Power
Plant Showing Application of Piping. B Plan View Outlining Disposition
of Parts.
the pipe leading from the bottom of that member is connected to a
manifold which supplies cool water to the bottom of the cylinder
jackets. With such a system it is imperative that the radiator be
carried at such a height that the cool water will flow to the water
spaces around the cylinder by gravity.
As the water becomes heated by contact with the hot cylinder and
combustion-chamber walls it rises to the top of the water jackets, flows
to the cooler, where enough of the heat is absorbed to cause it to
become sensibly greater in weight. As the water becomes cooler, it
falls to the bottom of the radiator and it is again supplied to the
394
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
water jacket. The circulation is entirely automatic and continues
as long as there is a difference in temperature between the liquid in
the water spaces of the engine and that in the cooler. The circula-
tion, becomes brisker as the engine becomes hotter and thus the tem-
perature of the cylinders is kept more nearly to a fixed point. With
the thermosyphon system -the cooling liquid is nearly always at its
boiling point, whereas if the circulation is maintained by a pump
the engine will become cooler at high speed and will heat up more
at low speed.
There are two methods of applying the thermosyphon system in
a practical manner, the most common being that outlined at Fig. 223.
Here the radiator is carried at the front end of the car and a fan
Radiator
Air Space
Underpan
Flywheel Fan
Air Outlet
Fig. 224. Renault Thermosyphon System, in which Radiator is Placed in Back
of Engine Instead of in Front, as is Conventional Practice. A Showing
Method of Utilizing Fan Fly Wheel to Insure Air Circulation Through Radia-
tor. B Plan View Depicting Flow of Air Currents Through Cooler.
driven from the crank shaft by belt connection is used to draw the
air through the radiator. The other system, which is illustrated at
Fig. 224, is one that was introduced on the Renault automobile In
this the radiator is mounted just forward of the dashboard instead
of at the front of the frame. The air draught through the radiator is
produced by the suction effect of a fan member which is incorporated
with the fly wheel.
When a radiator is mounted at the front end of a frame, it is one
of the most vulnerable portions of the motor-car mechanism, and as
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
395
they are delicately constructed they may be easily damaged in collis-
When installed as shown at Fig. 224, they are protected by the
ion.
heavier construction of the cylinders and other portions of the motor
and are not liable to be damaged. Then again, as the fan is incorpo-
rated with the fly wheel and driven directly by the crank shaft of the
motor, there is no possibility of failure of this member, such as might
be possible when it is driven by a belt connection from the front end
of the engine.
With the thermosyphon or natural system of cooling more water
must be carried than with the pump maintained circulation methods.
Water Outlet
Water Inlet
Fig. 225. Showing Large Water Manifolds Designed to Secure Positive Circu-
lation by Thermosyphon or Natural Methods.
The water spaces around the cylinders should be larger, the inlet and
discharge water manifolds should have greater capacity, and be free
from sharp corners which might impede the flow. The radiator must
also carry more water than the form used in connection with the
pump because of the brisker pump circulation which maintains the
396
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
-Fan Blade,
Grease Cup.
engine temperature to a lower point. The large piping which expe-
rience has shown necessary is clearly shown in views previously de-
scribed and in Fig. 225.
The form of fan which is gen-
erally placed behind the radiator
with either system of water cool-
ing, and which is often used in the
simple air-cooling systems as well,
is shown in part section at Fig.
226. The hub is usually a cast-
aluminum member which has a
series of projecting spokes to
which the fan blades are riveted.
The blades are inclined at the
proper angle to draw air through
the radiator and force it to the rear
of the motor compartment. As a
fan requires but little power, they
are usually driven by small leather
belts and as they operate at speeds
two or three hundred per cent
greater than that of the motor-
crank shaft they are mounted on
ball bearings in order that they
may turn with as little friction
as possible. The fan spindle is
usually supported by some form of
movable bracket which can be ad-
justed so that the fan belt may be
maintained at a constant degree
of tension.
Direct Air-Cooling Methods.
Swing Supported
for Fan Belt
Adjustment.
Fig. 226. Typical Bail-Bearing, Hub-
Cooling Fan Designed to Create
Air Draught Through Radiator and
Around Cylinders of Motor-Car
Power Plant.
The earliest known method of cool-
ing the cylinder of gas engines was
by means of a current of air passed
through *a jacket which confined it close to the cylinder walls and
was used by Daimler on his first gas engine. The gasoline engine
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
397
of that time was not as efficient as the later form, and other condi-
tions which materialized made it desirable to cool the engine by water.
Even as gasoline engines became more and more perfected there has
always existed a prejudice against air cooling, though many forms of
engines have been used, both in stationary and automobile applications
where the air-cooling method has proven to be very practical.
The simplest system of air cooling is that in which .the cylinders
are provided with a series of flanges which increase the effective radi-
ating surface of the cylinder and 'directing an air current from a
fan against the flanges to absorb the heat. This increase in the avail-
.Cooling Fein
Flanged
Cylinders
Fig. 227. Air-Cooling System Employed on Cameron Motors Depends Upon
Air Draught from Fan to Circulate Around Flanges on Cylinders and Absorb
Excess Heat
able radiating surface of an air-cooled cylinder is necessary because
air does not absorb heat as readily as water and therefore more sur-
face must be provided that the excess heat be absorbed sufficiently fast
to prevent distortion of the cylinders. Air-cooling systems are based
on a law formulated by Newton, which is : " The rate for cooling for
398 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
a body in a uniform current of air is directly proportional to the
speed of the air current and the amount of radiating surface exposed
to the cooling effect." A simple four-cylinder power plant in which
cooling is obtained by air blast against the flanges of the cylinders is
depicted at Fig. 227, and views of a cylinder and detachable head
construction also adapted to be cooled by air are shown at Fig. 228.
'Cooling Flanges
Piston Rings
r,,, , _ J\
I % -y"te :* Connecting Rod
Detachable Head
Fig. 228. Parts of Air-Cooled Cylinder Showing Method of Seating Valves
Directly in Detachable Cylinder Head, and Large Flanges on Both Cylinder
and Head Member to Largely Increase Effective Radiating Surface.
There are certain considerations which must be taken into ac-
count in designing an air-cooled engine, which are often overlooked
in those forms cooled by water. Large valves must be provided to
insure rapid expulsion of the flaming exhaust gas and also to admit
promptly the fresh cool mixture from the carburetor. The valves of
air-cooled engines are usually placed in the cylinder head, as shown at
Figs. 227 and 228, in order to eliminate any pockets or sharp pas-
sages which would impede the flow of gas or retain some of the
products of combustion and their heat. When high power is desired
multiple-cylinder engines should be used, as there is a certain limit to
the size of a successful air-cooled cylinder. Much better results are
secured from those having small cubical contents because the heat
from small quantities of gas will be more quickly carried off than
from greater amounts. All successful engines of the automobile type
which have been air cooled have been of the multiple-cylinder type
and the use of single cylinders is confined to power plants of
than five horse power such as used in motorcycle construction,
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 399
An air-cooled engine must be placed in a chassis in such a way
that there will be a positive circulation of air around it all the
time that it is in operation. This air current may be produced by
a fan at the front end of the motor, by natural draught when a car
is in motion, or by a suction or blower fan in the fly wheel. Greater
care is required in lubrication of the air-cooled cylinders and only the
best quality of oil should be used to insure satisfactory oiling.
The combustion chambers must be proportioned so that distribu-
tion of metal is as uniform as possible in order to prevent uneven
expansion during increase in temperature and uneven contraction
when the cylinder is cooled. It is essential that the inside walls of
the combustion chamber be as smooth as possible because any sharp
angle or projection may absorb sufficient heat to remain incandescent
and cause trouble by igniting the mixture before the proper time.
The best grades of cast iron should be used in the cylinder and piston
and the machine work must be done very accurately so the piston will
operate with minimum friction in the cylinder.
Utility of Auxiliary Exhaust Valves. As an example of the care
taken in disposing of the exhaust gases in order to obtain practical
air cooling the illustration at Fig. 229 is presented. This is a sec-
tion through the bottom of one of the Franklin power plants and
shows the auxiliary exhaust valve whicn is furnished as an adjunct
to the regular member in the cylinder head. The auxiliary exhaust
valve opens just as soon as the full force of the explosion has been
spent and the greater portion, or 70%, of the flaming gases is dis-
charged through the port in the bottom of the cylinder. But 30%
of the exhaust gases remain to be discharged through the regular
exhaust member in the cylinder head and this will not heat the walls
of the cylinder nearly as much as the larger quantity of hot gas would.
That the auxiliary exhaust valve is of considerable value is conceded
by many engineers unless exceptional care is taken in the method of
cooling employed. The earlier Franklin engine, which used the auxil-
iary exhaust valves, was cooled by an air blast from a fan at the
front end which was directed against flanges applied to the cylinders,
but on later models the auxiliary valve has been dispensed with be-
cause the more positive system of cooling provided makes its use
unnecessary.
400
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
One of the important considerations in connection with air cool-
ing is that the air blast be confined as close to the cylinders as possible
and a more energetic flow of air is needed than with water-cooling
Cooling Flanges.
Auxiliary
Exhaust Valve.
Fig. 229. Depicting Section Through Power Section of One Type of Franklin
Engine, Showing Application of Auxiliary Exhaust Valve to Relieve Cylinder
of Flaming Gases at End of Power Stroke.
systems. The form of fan shown at Fig. 226 and at Fig. 230, A, is
considered entirely adequate for water-cooled engines, but engineers
who favor air cooling at the present time use blower forms _3uch as
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
401
shown at Fig. 230., B, which will furnish larger quantities of air than
the simple fan would and which also direct it to the cylinders in a
positive manner by enclosing them in air jackets which are attached
to a manifold member to which the discharge opening of the blower
is coupled.
The discussion of air cooling so far has considered only the adapta-
bility to the four-stroke motor and many believe that it is not possible
Fan.
Air Outlet.
Blower Blades.
Driving
Gears.
Crank-shaf
Gear.
Air Inlet.
Fig. 230. Two Forms of Positive Air Fans Used in Automobile-Cooling Systems.
A Gear-Driven, Three-Blade Fan Utilized to Draw Air Through Winton
Radiator. B Blower Member Used on Kelly Air-Jacketed Cylinder
Motor.
to cool two-cycle engines by this method because the great heat gen-
erated in engines of this type is thought to make the use of water
cooling imperative. As the two-cycle motor has an explosion in
each cylinder, every revolution of the crank shaft, and has no strokes
devoted exclusively to scavenging, it is true the cylinder walls will
heat up more. Several forms of two-cycle engines have been evolved,
however, in which positive cooling has been obtained by providing the
cylinders with cooling ribs. One of these, which is used in the Chase
light truck, is depicted in section at Fig. 231. It will be noted that
402
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
Exhaust
the exhaust ports are large and that the transfer port for the passage
of the gas from the crank case to the cylinder is proportioned so that
it will have a minimum resistance
to the gas flow.
Two engines of modern devel-
opment which utilize positive air-
cooling methods are shown at Figs.
232 and 233. The system of cool-
ing is practically the same in both
instances, except in the methods
employed of creating the air blast.
In the Franklin system the cyl-
inders are provided with vertical
ribs, or flanges, and are encased
by jackets which form part of
a sheet-metal casing that covers
the entire lower portion of the
power plant. The fly wheel is
provided with a series of curved
blower blades and as it turns it
creates a partial vacuum in the
compartment formed by the mo-
tor-base casing and the air-tight
underpan. The strong suction
created draws air in from the
front end of the bonnet and down
through the cylinder jackets. The
air currents pass over the flanges at high velocity and as there is
a large amount of exposed surface the. excess heat is promptly dis-
posed of and absorbed by the air passing around the cylinders which
is ejected from the motor-base compartment by the action of the
blower fly wheel. As the fan is part of the balance member and is
driven direct from the engine crank shaft there can be no failure of
the driving means and a positive air draught must be induced around
the cylinders as soon as the motor is started. The velocity of the air
currents increase directly as the motor speed augments, and positive
cooling is obtained under all conditions.
Fig. 231. Sectional View of Chase
Two-Cycle Engine, a Two-Stroke
Form Successfully Cooled by Air
Flanges Cast Integral with Cylinder.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
403
In the Frayer-Miller engine which is used in the Kelly trucks, the
method of cooling is different in detail but practically the same in
principle as that previously described. An air blower is mounted at
the front end of the motor and the strong current of air it produces
is conveyed to an air pipe at the top of the cylinders, to which the
jackets surrounding them are attached. The cylinder heads are pro-
vided with a series of vertical flanges, but the cylinder-wall area is
Cylinder Jacket.
Air Inlet.
Fig. 232. Positive Cooling Method Used on Franklin Automobiles in which Air
Currents are Drawn Through Cylinder Jackets by Fly-wheel Fan Suction.
increased by using a large number of spines which are cast integral
with the cylinder. The air blower forces a blast of air into the air
pipe above the cylinders at considerable pressure, and the only way
it can escape is by passing around the heated portion of the cylinder
before it is discharged through the bottom of the air jacket. As the
blower speed increases with engine speed the value of the air current
becomes greater when an augmented cooling effect is desired.
Among the advantages stated for air cooling the greatest is the
elimination of cooling water, which is a factor of some moment. In
the temperate zone, where the majority of automobiles are used, the
weather conditions change in a very few months from the warm
404
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
summer to the extreme cold winter, and when water-cooled systems
are employed it is necessary to add some chemical substance to the
water to prevent it from freezing. The substances commonly em-
ployed are glycerine, wood alcohol, or a saturated solution of calcium
chloride. Alcohol has the disadvantage in that it vaporizes readily
and must be often renewed. Glycerine affects the rubber hose, while
the calcium chloride solution crystallizes and deposits salt in the
radiator and water pipes.
Obviously the elimination of water and the use of air cooling will
provide a system that will be fully as effective during the extreme
Air Pipe
Fig. 233. Air- Jacketed Prayer-Miller Engine Used in Kelly Trucks Cooled by
Air Currents Directed Over Cylinders by Positive Air-Blower System.
cold weather as it is during the more favorable summer season. It
would seem that air-cooling methods could be applied to advantage in
commercial vehicle power plants which must be capable of efficient
service under widely varying conditions. One of the disadvantages
of an air-cooling method as stated by those who do not favor this
system is that engines cooled by air cannot be operated for extended
periods under overloads or at very high speed without heating up to
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 405
such a point that premature ignition of the charge may result. The
water-cooling systems, at the other hand, maintain the temperature of
the engine more nearly constant than is possible with an air-cooled
motor, and an engine cooled by water can be operated under condi-
tions of inferior lubrication or poor mixture adjustment that would
seriously interfere with proper and efficient cooling by air.
Air-cooled motors, as a rule, use less fuel than water-cooled en-
gines because the higher temperature of the cylinder does not permit
of a full charge of gas being inspired on the intake stroke. As special
care is needed in driving an air-cooled car to obtain satisfactory re-
sults and because of the greater difficulty which obtains in providing
proper lubrication and fuel mixtures which will not produce undue
heating, the air-cooled system has but few adherents at the present
time and practically all automobiles, with but very few exceptions,
are provided with water-cooled power plants.
CHAPTER VIII
Utility of Clutches and Gearsets Defined Why These Vital Components of
the Transmission System Are Needed on Gasoline Motor-driven Vehicles
Conventional Forms of Cone Clutch and their Practical Application
Characteristics of Three- and Five-plate and Multiple-disk Clutches
Function of Gearset Types of Speed Changing Mechanism The Fric-
tion Transmission Planetary and Individual Clutch Types Progressive
and Selective Sliding Gearsets Typical Speed Changing Mechanisms Out-
lined,,
ONE of the important functions making for efficient operation
of the gasoline motor car is the method of power transmission em-
ployed. While power plant efficiency is an important factor and one
that should be conserved to the utmost, it is well to remember that
the actual power of the car is not the rated power of the engine but
the amount of energy exerted at the point of contact between the
traction members and the ground. A 60 H. P. car in which there
is a 30% loss in power transmission is not as efficient as a vehicle of
but 45 H. P. which delivers the power to the rear wheels with
but 10% loss. Under the conditions stated the rear wheels of the
lower-powered car would actually receive more useful effort than the
driving members of the high-powered vehicle, and the energy is
supplied with less stress on the various parts and with a lower fuel
consumption.
The attention of mechanical engineers had been directed to the
efficient transmission of power long before the motor car was com-
mercially practical. As a result many ingenious systems which
had been applied in standard mechanical work and for driving the
machine tools of manufacturing establishments have been readapted
for use in motor-car propulsion. One who has studied the subject
can easily trace the evolution from the crude forms of a decade ago
to the perfected types used in modern automobiles. The problem of
power transmission in motor cars was one that was not easily solved,
406
407
408 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
and much experimenting was necessary before the perfected forms of
the present day were evolved.
A typical power-transmission group such as employed in the
modern gasoline automobile is depicted in Fig. 234. In this the
power is applied to the crank shaft of the motor and from thence it
is delivered to the motor fly wheel which forms the female member
of a friction clutch. The male member .of the clutch is coupled to
the change-speed gearing and this in turn is joined to the driving
pinion in the rear axle by a length of shaft. The driving pinion
delivers its power to a bevel-driving gear which is carried by the
differential casing in the rear axle housing. From the differential
gear independent shafts or axles drive the rear wheel hubs.
The function of the clutch is to permit the engine to be run in-
dependently of the transmission gearing when desired. The engine
can drive the car only when one of the sets of gears in the gearset
and the clutch are engaged simultaneously. For example, if the
clutch is out or released, even if the gears were in mesh in the
change-speed device, the rear wheels would not be turned until the
clutch cone was allowed to engage the female member formed in the
fly-wheel rim. At the other hand, when the parts are as shown with
the clutch in engagement and the speed gears out of mesh the engine
can still be revolved without turning the rear wheels.
Why Clutch Is Necessary. In order to secure a better understand-
ing of the general requirements of clutching devices it will be well
to consider the conditions which make their use imperative when
a motor car is propelled by a hydrocarbon motor. If a steam engine
or an electric motor are installed as prime movers it is not necessary
to include any clutching device or gearset between them and the
driving wheels, and these members may be driven directly from
the power plant if desired. With either of the forms mentioned
the power is obtained from a separate source which may be uncoupled
from the motor by the simple movement of a throttle valve or switch
lever. Steam and electric motors are also capable of delivering power
in excess of their rating and are more flexible than internal combus-
tion power plants.
If stean^ is the motive agent it is generated and contained in a
special device known as a boiler, and the amount of power delivered
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 409
by the engine to which the boiler is connected will vary with the
amount of steam admitted and its pressure. If the steam supply
is interrupted entirely the engine and the car which it drives are
brought to a stop. When it is desired to start again a simple move-
ment of the throttle-valve lever will permit the steam to flow from
the boiler to the engine cylinders again and the vehicle is easily set
in motion. If it is desired to reverse the car the steam flow is re-
versed by a simple mechanical movement and the engine will run
in the opposite direction to that which obtains when the car is driven
in a forward direction.
If an electric motor drives a vehicle the electrical energy is se-
cured from a group of storage batteries. When these are fully
charged varying amounts of electric current may be drawn from
them and allowed to flow through the windings of the field or arma-
ture of the motor and different ratios of . power or speed obtained.
The vehicle is easily started by completing the circuit between the
motor and the source of current and stopped by interrupting the sup-
ply of electrical energy. As the flow of electricity can be reversed
easily by a switch the car may be driven backward or forward at will,
and as the speed may be easily varied by changing the value of the
current strength there is no need of spoed changing or reversing gears.
When a gasoline engine is fitted,, conditions are radically different
than with either a steam or electric power plant. The power devel-
oped depends upon the number of explosions per unit time and the
energy augments directly as the number of explosions and revolutions
of the crank shaft increase. It is not possible to start a gasoline
engine when under load because the power is obtained by the com-
bustion of fuel directly in the cylinders, and as there is no external
source of power to draw from it is obvious that the energy derived
depends upon the rapidity with which the explosions follow each
other. It has been demonstrated that a certain cycle of operation is
necessary to secure gasoline-engine action and it is imperative that the
engine revolves freely until it attains sufficient speed to supply the
torque or power needed to overcome the resistance that tends to
prevent motion of the car before it can be employed in driving the
vehicle.
Then, again, it is very desirable that the vehicle be started or
410 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
stopped independently of the engine. With a steam or electric motor
the vehicle may be started just as soon as the driving power is ad-
mitted to the prime mover, but with a gasoline engine it is customary
to interpose some device between the engine and driving wheels
which make it possible to couple the engine to the wheels or driving
gearing and disconnect it at will. The simplest method of doing
this is by means of some form of clutching device which will lock
the driving shaft to the crank shaft of the engine.
Clutch Forms and Their Requirements. Clutch forms that have
been applied to automobile propulsion are usually of the frictional
type, though some have been devised which depend upon hydraulic,
pneumatic, or magnetic energy. Those which utilize the driving
properties of frictional adhesion are most common and have proven
to be the most satisfactory in practical application. The most impor-
tant requirement in considering clutch forms is that such devices
must be capable of transmitting the maximum power of the engines to
which they are fitted without any power loss due to slipping. Such a
clutch must be easy to operate and but minimum exertion should be
required of the operator. When the clutch takes hold the engine
power should be transmitted to the gearset and driving means in
a gradual and uniform manner, or the resulting shock may seriously
injure the mechanism. When released it is imperative that the
two portions of the clutch disengage positively so that there will be
no continued rotation of the parts after the clutch is disengaged.
The design should be carefully considered with a view of provid-
ing as much friction surface as possible to prevent excessive slipping
and loss of power. It is very desirable to have a clutch that will be
absolutely silent whether engaged or disengaged. If the clutch parts
are located in an accessible manner it may be easily removed for
inspection, cleaning, or repairs. It is desirable that adjustment be
provided, so a certain amount of wear can be compensated for with-
out expensive replacement. A simple, substantial design with but
few operating parts is more to be desired than a more complex de-
vice which may have a few minor advantages, but which is more likely
to cause trouble.
The friction clutch in its various efficient types is the one that
more nearly realizes the requirements of the ideal clutch. As a result
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 411
this form is now universally recognized by automobile designers, and
all standard gasoline automobiles utilize some form of friction clutch.
These devices are capable of transmitting any amount of power if
properly proportioned, and permit of gradual engagement and positive
disconnection. Most friction clutches are simple in form, easily un-
derstood, and may be kept in adjustment and repair without difficulty.
How Friction Clutches Transmit Power. To illustrate the trans-
mission of power by the frictional adhesion of substances with each
other we can assume a simple case of two metal disks or plates in
contact, the pressure existing between the surfaces being due to the
weight of one member bearing upon the other. If the disks are not
too heavy, it will be found comparatively easy to turn one upon the
other, but if weights are added to the upper member a more decided
resistance will be felt which will increase directly as the weight on
the top disk and consequently the pressure between the disks increases.
It may be possible to add enough weight so it will be practically im-
possible to move one plate without turning the other. It is patent
that if one of these plates was mounted rigidly on the engine shaft
and one applied to the transmission shaft so that it had a certain 7
amount of axial freedom and pressure of contact was maintained by
a spring instead of weights, a combination capable of transmitting
power would be obtained. The spring pressure applied to one disk
would force it against the other and one shaft could not turn without
producing a corresponding movement of the other,
Materials Employed to Increase Frictional Adhesion. The main
object of engineers in designing a clutch is to increase the amount of
friction adhesion existing between the parts as much as possible. The
transmitting efficiency of the clutch will vary with the coefficient of
friction between the surfaces and the more the friction between them
the more suitable the clutch will be for transmitting power. A metal
usually forms one frictional surface in all forms of clutches, and some
types have been designed and used successfully in which all friction
surfaces are metals.
The materials of a metallic nature commonly used are cast iron,
aluminum and bronze castings, and sheet steel and bronze, usually
in the form of thin-stamped disks. The nonmetallic frictional ma-
terials generally used are leather, asbestos fabrics, textile beltings,
412 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
and cork. Leather is the best lining or facing for clutches where
the frictional area is large. When used it must be kept properly
lubricated and soft, as if it becames dry it will engage very suddenly
and clutch action will be harsh. At the other hand, care must be
taken not to supply too much lubricant or the coefficient of friction
will be reduced to a low point and the surfaces will slip. Oak-tanned
leather is generally used because it has good wearing qualities, is a
very resilient material, and possesses a very satisfactory degree of
frictional adhesion when pressed against a cast-iron member. As-
bestos fabrics are being applied in many forms of dry plate clutches
and have been used to some extent in facing the male member of cone
clutches. These are not as elastic as leather and unless some auxil-
iary-relieving member is employed they will grip suddenly and un-
desirable harsh clutch action obtain.
When cork is used it is inserted in the metal surface in suitable
holes which are machined to receive the inserts. Cork possesses pe-
culiar qualities which make it very suitable for use in a clutch. It
has perhaps the highest coefficient of friction of any of the materials
employed, is not materially affected by either excessive lubrication
or lack of it, and possesses very desirable wearing qualities. A clutch
fitted with cork inserts will engage gradually and power will be trans-
mitted to the rear wheels without shock or jar. It is the lightest and
most elastic of the solids. In application cork must be used as an in-
sert, because it is too brittle to be used in sheet form with any degree
of success.
When applied to a clutch the cork always works alone at low or
medium pressures and at high pressures the other surfaces become
engaged. This is given as the reason for the excellent wearing qual-
ities of such combination surfaces, and when corks form a relatively
large proportion of one of the contact surfaces they prevent cutting,
no matter whether there is lubricant present or not. Then again,
in the presence of a lubricant, which would obviously cause slippage
between plain metallic or other surfaces, the corks so largely increase
the total frictional adhesion that slippage is almost impossible.
Opinions vary among designers regarding the most suitable ma-
terials to use, though the selection of frictional material depends in
most cases upon the type of clutch used. The large majority who
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
413
favor the cone clutch employ a leather and cast iron combination and in
many cases cork inserts are also employed. Metal to metal surfaces
are the rule in multiple disk or plate clutches of small diameter,
though as a general thing when a lesser number of plates of large
diameter are used cork inserts or an asbestos fabric facing are invari-
ably provided on one set of plates.
Flange
Integral
with
Crankshaft.
Gearset Driving
Member.
Ratention
Nut.
Ball Thrust Washer.
Clutch Spring.
Fig. 235. Sectional View of Cone Clutch Having Female Member Formed In-
tegral with Fly- Wheel Rim.
Forms of Cone Clutches Outlined. A simple and efficient form of
cone clutch is shown at Fig. 235. This consists of three main parts,
the female member, which is machined integral with the fly wheel, a
414 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
corresponding male member, which fits into it, and a spring to main-
tain contact between the surfaces. The fly wheel is attached to a flange
forged integral with the end of the crank shaft by suitable screws.
The male member is a truncated cone of metal faced with leather.
The female member may be machined integral with the fly wheel, as
shown at Fig. 235, or it may be applied to the fly-wheel rim by means
of bolts, as outlined at Fig. 236.
Experience has demonstrated that cast iron and leather make a
very good wearing combination, and the tendency to use cork inserts
to prevent harsh engagement is growing at the present time. Plain
metal-to-metal surfaces are not suitable with this form because they
would grip too suddenly and would soon slip if there was a thin
film of oil between the surfaces. It will be noted that in either case
frictional contact between the clutch cone and fly-wheel rim is main-
tained by the use of a coil spring which is backed by a ball-thrust
bearing in order to relieve the operating mechanism of any torque
strain when the clutch is disengaged.
In the cone clutch shown at Fig. 235, the male member is carried
by a hub portion to which' it is bolted, concentric with an annulus
which bears on the crank-shaft extension. One end of the spring
bears against the closed end of the annulus while the other end is
held by the ball-thrust washer and nut screwed on to the end of the
crank shaft. The spring pressure in this case keeps the cone seated
by pushing it directly toward the crank shaft. When it is desired
to release the clutch the operating pedal is depressed in such a manner
that it swings on the fulcrum point and moves the clutch cone and
the annulus member by which it is supported back so the clutch cone
is pulled away from the fly wheel and the spring compressed. Some
form of Oldham coupling or sliding joint is carried by the gearset
driving member and is attached to the shaft extending from the go?ir
case. When the spring pressure forces the clutch cone into engage-
ment with the fly wheel, the assembly turns as a unit and the gear-
set is driven by the engine crank shaft through the medium of the
clutch and the gearset driving member which is attached to the
clutch cone. When the cone is pulled away from the fly wheel the
annulus which carries the gearset driving member remains stationary
and the crank-shaft extension revolves in it.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
415
The clutch outlined at Fig. 236 differs from that previously shown
in that the cone is inverted and the spring pressure is employed to
Retention Bolt. , Fly wheel Rim.
Female Member.
Male Cone.
Fan Blade
Spoke.
Crankshaf
Fig. 236. Cone Clutch Design with Female Member a Separate Casting Bolted
to Fly- Wheel Rim.
push the cone away from the fly wheel to engage it. The cone is
carried at one end of the transmission shaft and revolves idly when
it is pushed toward the fly wheel so that it is not in contact Avith the
416
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
female member. In the cone clutch previously described the female
member was machined in the fly-wheel rim. In that outlined at
Fig. 236 the female member is a separate casting bolted to the fly-
wheel rim.
Typical designs of clutch cones and methods of fastening the
friction facings to the cone castings are shown at Fig. 237. In
that shown at A a combination of leather facing and cork inserts
is employed. The leather is secured to the cast aluminum cone
by means of rivets and the cork inserts are forced into recesses
cast into the cone member. At B the practical method of retaining
the leather facing employed on White automobiles is illustrated.
Cork Inserts
Cone Casting
Leather
Universal Joint
Leather
Rivets
Fig. 237. Typical Cone Clutch Male Members, Showing Methods of Attaching
Leather Facing to Cone Casting. A Pope-Hartford Clutch Cone Faced
with Leather and Cork Inserts. B White Cone Uses Leather Band Held in
Place by T Bolts.
When the leather facing is riveted to the cone rim considerable labor
is involved in removing it after it has worn to such a point that re-
placement is necessary because the large number of rivets must be
driven out before the leather can be removed. The leather band
which forms the friction facing of the cone at B is held by a number
of T head bolts which pass through the cone rim and which seat into
longitudinal grooves cast into the periphery of the cone member.
These are' of sufficient depth to prevent the heads of the bolts rub-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
417
bing against the female member of the clutch and only the leather
facing acts as a driving surface. When the leather becomes worn
it is a comparatively simple matter to remove the T bolts and put a
new leather band in place.
On some cone clutches of European design the endeavor has been
made to use metal-to-metal surfaces by housing the cone in an oil-
Clutch
Release
'Lever
Crank
Flywheel Clutch Corre
/utch. Cone
Fig. 238. Cone Clutches of English Design. A Metal-to-Metal Surfaces in
Oil-Tight Case. B Method of Holding Parts in Contact with Adjustable
Springs.
tight casing so that it worked in a bath of lubricant. The lower co-
efficient of friction existing between lubricated surfaces is compen-
sated for by increasing the spring pressure. Such a clutch is shown
in section at Fig. 238, A. The clutch case is formed of two members,
one of these being the fly wheel, which is attached to the crank-shaft
flange by bolts, the other is a cast casing, which is bolted to the fly-
wheel rim on its face. The clutch cone is attached to a sliding shaft
which telescopes on to the projecting end of the crank-shaft extension
and which slides through an oil-tight bearing carried by the clutch
case which is bolted to the fly-wheel rim. The spring thrust is taken
at one end by the clutch casing and bears against a ball-thrust
418 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
washer which seats against the flange to which the clutch cone is
attached. The female member is machined in the fly wheel and does
not differ from conventional forms.
Another form of English derivation is shown at Fig. 238, B, this
differing from those previously described only in the method of ap-
plying the spring pressure. A three-arm spider carries three studs
spaced at 120 degrees which also pass through bosses on the clutch
cone. The spider is kept in place by a ball-thrust bearing retained
on the fly-wheel hub by a clamping nut screwed on a thread cut at
the end of the fly-wheel-retaining member which serves to keep the
fly wheel in place, as well as forming a backing for the thrust bear-
ing. The studs which project through the clutch cone have nuts
threaded on the outer ends, and a spring is mounted outside of each
clutch cone boss in such a way that it presses against the nut on the
end of the stud and presses the cone into engagement with the fly
wheel. The drive is interrupted by pulling the cone out of engage-
ment in the usual manner.
One of the disadvantages of the cone clutch, unless it is exception-
ally well designed, is that it is likely to engage harshly if the leather
facing becomes charred or hard from any other cause. When cork
inserts are used in connection with the leather, a more gradual en-
gagement is secured, even when the leather is dry, than would be
possible without their use. Some designers have sought to secure
easy engagement by using a number of auxiliary friction pads at-
tached to the cone periphery, while others have been satisfied to use
springs under the clutch leather which would raise it at a number of
points around the periphery of the clutch cone. The object of this
is to have a limited area of the leather surface engage the female
member before the full spring pressure is exerted to bring the entire
frictional surface in contact.
The clutch shown at Fig. 239, which has been used on Columbia
automobiles, is a 'conical type having a number of auxiliary friction
pads extending through the periphery of the cone and projecting
slightly above its surface. These are kept in place by auxiliary
springs of the coil type. When the clutch cone, is first engaged these
friction shoes will engage the surface of the female member at a
number oJ points and then when full spring pressure is exerted it
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
419
will overcome the resistance of the small radial springs and the fric-
tion blocks will be depressed so they will be flush with the surface
of the male member which then takes the drive.
The cone clutch is one of the most popular forms and has received
general application, and its simple construction enables the motorist
to easily understand its action. As there are but few parts there is
but little liability of the cone clutch giving trouble if the leather
Flywheel.
Friction Shoe.
.Clutch Cone.
Clutch Spring.
Auxiliary Spring.
Fig. 239. Columbia Clutch Employs Friction Shoes to Grip Fly Wheel Before
Cone is Fully Engaged, to Secure Gradual Application of Power.
surface is kept in proper condition. The chief disadvantage advanced
against cone clutches is that they are more bulky than other forms
of equal capacity. The large size of the members of a cone clutch
tend to make it " spin " after it is disengaged. The natural tendency
of a body in motion is to continue in motion until stopped by some
external force, which property is known as " inertia."
If two wheels of the same weight are set in motion by the expen-
420 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
diture of equal amounts of energy the one that has the weight carried
nearer the rim or which is larger in diameter will revolve the longest.
The male member of a cone clutch, when released, will have a ten-
dency to continue to revolve even when the driving pressure is re-
lieved. When sliding gearsets are employed to obtain the various
speed ratios it is imperative that the engine be entirely disconnected
from the main shaft of the change-speed gearing before any attempt
is made to shift the gears. If the sliding members are moved without
first disconnecting the shafts from the engine it would be very diffi-
cult to engage them and it might result in stripping the teeth from
the gears.
The average cone clutch is of large diameter if much power is to
be transmitted because the two surfaces in contact are comparatively
narrow. When the clutch is released considerable energy has been
stored in the rim of the cone and -its tendency is to keep revolving
and carry the shaft of the gearset to which it is attached at the
same speed. In some cases it is difficult to shift the gears until the
motion of the shaft ceases and it is either necessary to wait until
the momentum of the clutch cone becomes less or to apply some form
of brake which will stop the cone from rotating. Such brakes are
usually interconnected with the foot pedal and act only when the
clutch is fully disengaged.
Cone-clutch efficiency depends on a number of factors, chief
among which is the angle of the cone. The greater the angle the
more spring pressure required because the wedging effect of a large
angle is not as pronounced as when more gradual tapers are employed.
Most cone clutches have the cone tapering at an angle of 12 J degrees
and is not considered good design to use a lesser angle because the
wedging effect may make it extremely difficult to release the clutch.
At the other hand, angles much greater than 15 degrees make it
necessary to use excessive spring pressure to maintain proper frictional
adhesion between the parts.
Three- and Five-Plate Clutches. A number of cars are provided
with clutches composed of three or more plates of large diameter
instead of the use of two cone members. It is claimed that these
forms make for very easy engagement and that they will give a very
prompt releasing action when the surfaces are separated. The usual
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
421
construction is to use two driving members which are carried around
by the fly wheel which clamp against a central-driven member which
drives the gearset shaft. These clutches are very effective,, but one
of the chief disadvantages is the same as that advanced against the
cone clutch and that is the inertia of the driven member when re-
leased. When these clutches are fitted it is desirable that they be
provided with some form of a brake to bring them to a stop as soon
as disengaged.
Adjusting Screw.
Driving Plate.
Clutch Spring Throwout Stud.
Flywheel.
Clutch Spring.
Crankpin.
Fulcrum of
Foot Pedal.
Clutch Spring
Pressure and Driving Plate.
Driven Plate.
Driving Plate.
Fig. 240. Three-Plate Clutch Utilized on Knox Motor Cars Uses a Central Driven
Plate Studded with Cork Inserts.
A three-plate clutch which has been used successfully on Knox
automobiles is shown at Fig. 240. In this construction the clutch
springs are spaced at equal distances around the periphery of the fly
wheel and bear against a pressure plate which is carried around by
studs placed just outside the springs. Two driving plates are provided
422
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
and these clamp a single-driven member attached to a revolving sleeve
to which the gearset driving shaft is keyed. The pressure of the
springs against the pressure plate holds the driven plate firmly against
the outside driving plate. When it is desired to release the clutch
the pedal is depressed and it pushes the clutch throw-out levers toward
the fly wheel so the clutch spring throw-out studs push the pressure
plate away from the driven plate and allow it to revolve independent
of the clutch. The clutch throw-out studs perform a double duty in
that they also act as driving members for the two driving plates.
The driven plate is provided with a large number of cork inserts to
increase its frictional adhesion.
Flywheel.-
- Driving Stud.
-Driving Plate.
-Outer Driven Plate.
-Bell Crank.
Clutch Brake Pad.
Clutch Throwout
Lever.
Gearset Shaft.
Flywheel
Driving Key.
Driving Coupling.
Clutch Brake Drum.
Toggle Link.
Adjusting Screw.
Fig. 241. A Three-Plate Clutch Equipped with Friction Brake to Arrest Motion
of Driven Member when Clutch is Released.
Another form of three-plate clutch in which there are two driven
plates and s one driving member is shown at Fig. 241. The driving
plate is carried around by a number of studs spaced around the fly-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
423
wheel-rim face. The driven member nearest the fly wheel carries a
number of arms to which small bell cranks are fulcrumed. These
Flywheel.
Flywheel Stud.
Driven Plates.
./ Adjusting Screw.
Ball Bearing
Supporting -
Driven Mem-
ber.
Crankshaft.
Clutch Throwout.
Driving Plates.
Driving Stud.
Fig. 242. Five-Plate Clutch which Employs Two Driving Members Attached
to Fly Wheel and Three Driven Plates.
arms also act as a support for the outer driven plate. The clutch
spring bears against a sliding member which forces the ends of the
424 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
bell crank to which it is connected by a series of toggle links out-
wardly, and clamps the driving plate firmly between the inner and
outer driven plates. When the clutch spring is depressed the bell
cranks drop back and the pressure between the driving plate and
the faces of the driven members is relieved. When this condition
exists the driving plate turns with the fly wheel but does not pro-
duce movement of the driven members to which the gearset shaft is
attached by a semiuniversal driving coupling. When 'the clutch
throw-out lever is moved away from the fly wheel to release the clutch
it brings a small brake pad in contact with a drum carried by the
driven member and stops its rotation. When the parts are as shown
in illustration, the driving plate is firmly clamped between the driven
members and the power of the engine is being transmitted directly to
the gearset shaft.
In order to obtain more driving surface some designers have
used five plates instead of three. A five-plate clutch which operates
on the same general principle as the three-plate type previously de-
scribed is shown at Fig. 242, In this, two driving plates are carried
by studs set into the fly-wheel face and the three driven members are
kept in engagement by means of bell cranks and toggle-link action.
The reason that five disks are used instead of three is that the aug-
mented surface makes it possible to reduce the spring pressure to
some extent and makes for easier operation when it is desired to dis-
engage the clutch. When the driving contact between the clutch
pjates is interrupted the member to which the gearset shaft is
attached is kept stationary and the fly-wheel hub and crank-shaft
extension revolve freely because anti-friction bearings of the ball type
are interposed between the members.
Features of Multiple-Disk Clutches. Power transmission by plates
is sometimes accomplished by using a large number of small diameter
disks instead of the, smaller number of large plates. The multiple-
disk type offers several advantages not found in other forms, as it is
the most compact form of clutch. The required contact area is ob-
tained by using a multiplicity of comparatively small surfaces in
preference to two large ones as is the case with the cone clutch or
the greater N number possible when three- or five-plate clutches are
employed.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 425
The type of multiple -disk clutch that seems to be most widely
employed consists of a number of soft steel disks which sometimes
alternate with others of different material such as phosphor bronze.
One set of these disks is driven by the engine while the remaining
plates are attached to a floating member to which the transmission
sjiaft is joined. Pressure is usually obtained from a coil spring
which acts against one of the disks, which in turn acts upon the
neighboring one. It is common practice to house a clutch of this
type in an oil-tight case, which insures that the members will always
be kept in an oil bath. Oil performs the dual function of securing
easy engagement by interposing a cushion between the metal elements
arid also to prevent wear because of its value as a lubricant.
As multiple-disk clutches are usually of small diameter, the inertia
of the driven member is small compared to that of a cone or large
plate type, and the spinning tendency is reduced. The spring pres-
sure is usually sufficient to squeeze the oil from the plate as soon as
engagement is fully made and a metal to metal contact then obtains.
The fact that the lubricant is gradually forced out and that there
will be a certain amount of slipping as long as any of the lubricant
remains means that the power will be applied in a gradual manner
even if the clutch is carelessly operated.*
. While a multiple-disk clutch does not have a tendency to spin
because of inertia, the plates may sometimes refuse to disengage be-
cause of a partial vacuum existing between them, produced when the
oil film was forced out. This sometimes causes the plates to adhere
together. This trouble is rare in well-designed clutches and is sel-
dom present unless poor lubricating oil is used between the plates.
This drag and consequent trouble in shifting gears is more apt to
occur on forms which employ flat-stamped plates without spring
tongues to separate them when the spring pressure is relieved. Mul-
tiple-disk clutches are sometimes provided with plates having cork
inserts, while others have a number of the disks faced with some
friction material such as the asbestos-wire fabric and are designed
to run dry instead of in an oil bath.
A typical multiple-disk clutch is shown at Fig. 243. In this
member the clutch case is cast integral with the fly wheel and forms
the fly-wheel hub. A series of disks are carried by a driving drum
426
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
and are kept in engagement with those carried around by the fly
wheel by means of pressure derived from a coil spring which is let
into a bored-out recess at the end of the crank shaft. The clutch
depicted is intended to run in oil and a number of the plates are
Flywheel.
Disc Assembly.
Shaft in Gear Set.
Fig. 243. Typical Multiple-Disk Clutch Assembly. The Form Illustrated is
Used on Some of the Hudson Cars.
provided with cork inserts. The multiple-disk clutch depicted at
Fig. 244 -is that used on Franklin cars, and is a form in which all
metal plates running in oil are used. That depicted at Fig. 245 is
Flywheel;
Clutch Discs.
Spring.
Fig. 244. Multiple-Disk Clutch Utilized on Franklin Automobiles is Housed in
Blower Fly Wheel. Parts are Shown Separated to Make Construction
Clear.
Plate with Cork Inserts.
Driving Discs.
Fig. 245. Clutch of Premier Cars Uses Multiple Disk Studded with Cork In-
serts as Driving Members, and Plain Metal Plates as Driven Elements.
427
428 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
used on Premier cars and one set of plates is provided with a large
number of cork inserts to promote easy engagement, positive drive, and
prompt release.
While the clutch forms described are the most common, a few
cars have been provided with internal expanding band clutches or
external constricting band forms. The internal member consists of
a steel band or shoe faced with leather or other frictional material
or provided with cork inserts which expands against the inner periph-
ery of a drum integral with the fly wheel. The band is expanded
by spring pressure which spreads the driven member either by toggle
linkage or a right and left hand quick-acting screw.
Planetary gearsets employ external constricting bands to stop
rotation of the gear drums, but these should properly be considered
under the head of brakes rather than clutches. The disadvantage of
either internal or external band clutches is that they are very hard
forms to balance and the internal expanding band is especially sus-
ceptible to the influence of wear and oil between the surfaces. The
external band provides a very gradual clutching action, but owing to
the difficulty in balancing it because of the unsymmetrical operating
mechanism usually employed, it has not been used to any extent in
this country. With the forms described no difficulties are present
as relates to balancing, and as the band forms have no apparent' ad-
vantages when compared to the better developed cone and plate types
there seems to be no reason for further development of forms which
are good in theory but hard to apply 'in a practical manner.
Why Change-Speed Gearing is Necessary. Those who are familiar
with steam or electricity as sources of power for motor vehicles
may not understand the necessity for the change-speed gearing which
is such an essential component of the automobile propelled by in-
ternal combustion motors. In explaining the reason for the use of
the clutch it ha,s been demonstrated that steam or electric motors
were very flexible and that their speed and consequently the power
derived from them could be varied directly by regulating the amount
of energy supplied from the steam boiler or the electric battery,
as the case might be.
If, for example, we compare the steam motor with the explosive
engine it will be evident that the power is produced in the former
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 429
by the pressure of steam admitted to the cylinders as well as the
quantity and the speed of rotation. When the engine is running
slowly and a certain amount of power is needed more steam can be
supplied the cylinders and practically the same power obtained as
though the steam pressure was reduced and the engine speed in-
creased. The internal combustion motor is flexible to a certain de-
gree, providing that it is operating under conditions which are
favorable to accelerating the motor speed by admitting more gas to
the cylinders. There is an arbitrary limit, however, to the power
capacity or the mean effective pressure of the explosion, and beyond
a certain point it is not possible to increase the power by supplying
vapor having a higher pressure as is possible with a steam engine.
In an explosive motor we can increase the power after the maxi-
mum throttle opening has been reached only by augmenting the
number of revolutions. Whereas it is possible to gear a steam engine
or an electric motor directly to the driving wheels, it is not possible
to do this with a gasoline engine, and some form of gearing must be
introduced between the motor and the driving wheels in order that
the speed of one relative to the other may be changed as desired arid
the engine crank shaft turned at speeds best adapted to produce the
power required, and to allow the rear wheels to turn at speeds dictated
by the condition of the roads or the gradients on which the car is
operated.
It is customary in all automobiles of the gasoline-burning type,
where combustion takes place directly in the cylinders, to interpose
change-speed gearing which will give two or more ratios of speed
between the engine and the road wheels. As it is not possible to
reverse the automobile engine utilized in conventional cars, it is neces-
sary to add a set of gears to the gearset to give the wheels a reverse
motion when it is desired to back the conveyance.
Many methods of varying the ratio of speed between the engine
and traction members have been evolved, but few speed-changing
mechanisms have survived. At the present time the majority of
automobile makers employ sliding gear transmissions which are al-
most invariably of the selective type. One or two cars are fitted with
simple face friction gearing and a limited number provide two for-
ward speeds and a reverse motion by using planetary gearing.
430
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
At one of the recent automobile shows held at New York, 385
models of cars were exhibited, and of this number but a very small
percentage used change-speed gearing that differed radically from
standard practice. Of this number 347 models were equipped with
selective sliding gear transmissions and six cars used progressive slid-
ing gearing. Thirteen models utilized planetary transmissions and
friction change-speed gearing was supplied in nineteen instances.
While the sliding gear form of transmission is without doubt the most
unmechanical and brutal of all speed gearing, if considered from a
purely theoretical viewpoint, the very satisfactory service which is
secured in actual use justifies its general application, especially at the
present time when engineers are so thoroughly conversant with details
of design and motor-car drivers have been so well trained to operate
gears of this character with proper care.
Face Friction Gearing. A form of gearing that has many ad-
herents because of its simple design and easy operation employs two
friction disks which are held together by sufficient pressure to cause
Frame
Bearing
Sprocket
Wheel Aluminum
A Driving Disc
Fig. 246. Outlining Action of Simple Face Friction Gearing, which Combines
Clutching and Speed-Changing Functions.
one of these members to turn the other. This was one of the earliest
forms of gearing used, and while it was abandoned for a time because
of defects of a purely technical nature continual experiments made
possible a combination of materials which gave satisfactory results
in practice.
The rolling traction, or friction transmission, as it is commonly
called in its simplest form, is shown at Fig. 246, A. It consists of
two disks or plates, one faced with an aluminum-copper alloy driven
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 431
by the engine and a wheel which is provided with a strawboard
fiber driving ring mounted on a cross shaft at right angles to the
crank shaft of the power plant. The cross shaft is journaled in anti-
friction bearings and the driven disk or plate can be moved axially
so as to engage with different portions of the aluminum driving disk.
The driving member is mounted on a sliding shaft which can be
moved toward the driven member and held in contact by a definite
amount of pressure or pulled away when it is desired to interrupt
the drive. In this manner both clutching and speed-changing func-
tions are combined in one simple mechanism.
The method by which various speed changes may be secured is
demonstrated at Fig. 246,, B. The driven member is shifted across
the face of the driving disk so it can engage different portions at
varying distances from the center. As the wheel is moved from
the center toward the outer periphery the speed ratios increase in
proportion to the amount the disk is moved out. If the driven disk
is moved over to the other side of the driving disk and past the
central point a reverse motion will be obtained when driving contact
is again established between the surfaces. To interrupt the drive
the members are separated and when the faces are brought together
the frictional adhesion permits one to drive the wheels.
Assume that both disks are sixteen inches in diameter and that the
driven member has moved away from center until it engages a point
having a mean radius of two inches from the center line. The disk
would be moved from position B in which it is placed, as shown in
illustration, to position indicated by the dotted rectangle D. In this
case the driving effect would be just the same as though a four-inch
diameter wheel was engaged with the sixteen-inch diameter driven
member. This would give a low gear ratio because the engine would
be turning at four times the speed of the driven member. If driving
contact was again broken and the driven wheel moved along the
shaft until it occupied the position indicated by the rectangle E,
the effect would be the same as though an eight-inch driving member
was turning the sixteen-inch driven wheel. This would give a higher
ratio than in the case previously described, as the engine- shaft would
only turn at twice the speed of the driven member.
If the driven member was moved so that it occupied position G,
432
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
the highest speed wtfuld be obtained because the disks would be turn-
ing at equal speed as one sixteen-inch wheel would be turning another
one of the same diameter. If the disk was moved back to the other
side of center or from position B ? to that shown by the rectangle C,
Driving Disc.
Driven Disc.
M
Drive Shaft.
Engine.
Driving Disc.
Slip Joint.
^Flywheel.
Differential.
Countershaft.
Driven Wheel.
B
\
Chain.
Fig. 247. How Face Friction Gearing is Installed in Motor-Car Chassis. A
Arranged for Shaft Drive. B Power Transmitted to Wheels by Side
Chains.
the driven wheel would be turned at one fourth the engine speed and
in a reverse direction.
This form of gearing is not generally used for high-powered cars
because the driving wheel must be of large diameter and very bulky
to transmit the higher powers. The amount of energy it is possible
to transmit efficiently depends upon the nature and size of the sur-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
433
faces in contact and the amount of pressure which is exerted to bring
the friction members together. When a friction transmission is
used it is usually applied in connection with single- or double-chain
drives to the rear wheels, though forms have been devised where driv-
ing by shaft and bevel gears is possible.
The application of a friction transmission to a shaft-drive chassis
is shown at Fig. 247, A. In this the double-opposed motor is mounted
so the crank shaft is at right angles to the frame side member while
the cross shaft on which the driven disk slides is parallel with the
frame side. The aluminum-alloy driving disk is attached directly to
the fly wheel of the motor,, while the fiber-faced friction wheel is
carried on a countershaft so journaled that the entire shaft may be
swung over and bring the driven disk in contact with the driving
member. A shaft serves to connect the driven disk shaft to bevel
gearing in the rear axle.
At Fig. 247, B, the method of installation when a double-chain
drive is provided is shown, while at Fig. 248 the layout of a friction
gearing employing single-chain drive is outlined. The relation of
the parts to each other can be very easily understood by referring
Fig. 248. Disposition of Important Elements of Simple Face Friction Gearing
Adapted for Single-Chain Drive.
to the illustrations. In the system depicted at Fig. 248 the double-
cylinder engine is placed in the frame in such a way that the crank
shaft is parallel with the frame side member. The drive from the
engine crank shaft is through a sliding coupling at one end of the
434 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
shaft which carries the aluminum driving disk. This member is
hacked by a ball-thrust bearing which in turn forms part of a sliding
sleeve or bushing connected to the small arm of a lever which is
joined to the foot pedal. When the long arm of the lever is moved
in the direction of the arrow the sliding coupling is pushed in a
reverse direction and the pressure exerted against the aluminum disk
brings it in contact with the fiber-faced wheel on the countershaft.
The driven wheel is moved along the countershaft by means of a long
bell crank, the short end of which goes to the control lever while the
long end is employed to swing the fiber-faced wheel along the coun-
tershaft. The drive from the countershaft is by means of chain
and sprocket connection with a live rear axle.
In the form shown at Fig. 247, B, the rear axle is a stationary
member and the wheels are driven independently by means of
sprockets carried by the axle shafts of the compound countershaft,
which is in reality a live axle mounted on the frame members and
carrying the differential gear. As the power transmitted is directly
proportional to the pressure maintaining contact between the sur-
faces it is imperative that the leverage employed to produce this pres-
sure be very substantial and rigid. Tests have demonstrated that
the best combination of surfaces is a strawboard fiber driving ring
against an aluminum or copper-alloy driving plate, and these are the
materials commonly used.
This form of gearing has the advantage that it is easily handled
by the novice and it is difficult to injure it by careless manipulation.
The number of forward speeds provided are infinite, as the driven
member may be moved across the driving face very gradually and
engage driving circles which vary by small increments. The sur-
faces must be kept clean and free from grease or the gearing will
slip, and for this reason this form is not so generally used as one
might suppose, if its value was judged only by its simplicity and ease
of operation.
How Planetary Gearing Operates. The planetary or epicyclic
transmission is an easily operated form of speed gear that has been
very popular on small cars. This has many features of merit, it
provides a positive drive, and as the gears are always in mesh these
members cannot be injured by careless shifting. Individual clutches
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
435
are used for each speed and as the operation of the clutch occurs
at the same time that the desired speed is selected the various speed
changes desired may be easily effected by manipulating a single lever
if desired.
A typical planetary gearing of simple form which was formerly
used on Oldsmobile cars, which were one of the earliest makes to
Brake Drum.
Brake
Low Speed
Direct Drive
Clutch.
Clutch Cone
Low Speed Dram.
Fig. 249. Sectional View of Simple Planetary Gearset.
be manufactured in large quantities, is outlined at Fig. 249. The
gearing is carried in drums which are adapted to be revolved inde-
pendently of each other or to be clamped by some form of clutch
which would cause them to revolve as a unit with the crank shaft.
436 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
The drive is by single chain from a sprocket carried between the
brake and reverse drum and the gearing was mounted on a crank-
shaft extension which projected from the fly wheel of the motor.
The drum nearest the fly wheel carries three pinions which mesh with
Internal Gear
Idler Pinion
Fig. 250. Demonstrating Action of Epicyclic Gearing. A The Slow-Speed
Gear Assembly. B Gears and Pinions Used for Reverse Drive.
an internal gear member secured to the sprocket and with: a gear
driven by the fly-wheel hub. The slow-speed drum is provided with
four pinions which are carried around by a disk which is also secured
to the driving sprocket. In the reverse gear combination the disk
that carried the pinions was provided with ttye brake member, while
in the slow-speed gearing it was the internal gear which was held
from turning when the slow-speed ratio was desired.
The master clutch, which provided the direct drive, consisted of
four fingers provided with leather friction pads which were forced
against the face of the internal gear drum of the slow speed by means
of clutch dogs expanded by a sliding cone. When the clutch cone
was forced in so that the small bell cranks brought the friction pads
in contact with the face of the slow-speed drum, the entire assembly
was firmly locked to the crank shaft and a direct drive obtained as the
sprocket turned at the same speed as the engine shaft.
The meihod by which the slow and reverse speeds may be obtained
and the arrangement of the planetary gearing is clearly shown at Fig.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
437
250. At A the slow'-speed gearing is shown while the reverse gear
arrangement is outlined at B. The driving gear or center member
in both cases is keyed to and turns with the crank shaft. With the
combination shown at A, when the slow speed is desired the internal
gear is kept from revolving by means of a constricting brake band
which grips its outer periphery, and the small planetary pinions are
forced to turn around on their supporting studs and carry the disk
by which they are supported and which is attached to the driving
sprocket in the same direction as the main driving gear, but at a
slower speed. The gear reduction obtained depends upon the ratio
of the driving and internal gear members.
When the reverse gearing is desired the mode of operation is
different. The conditions are then as shown at B. In this case
it is the disk carrying the pinion-supporting pins which is kept
from rotating. The driving gear turns the idler pinions in a reverse
direction, and these in turn cause the internal gear to which the
sprocket is fastened to turn in a direction opposite to that of crank-
shaft rotation and at considerably lower speed.
Reverse Drum.
Brake Drum.
Thrust Bearing 1 ,
Slow Speed Drum.
Spur Driven Gears.
High Speed Clutch Disc.
Adjustment Lock Screw.
High Speed Clutch Spider.
High Speed Cone.
Engine End.
High Speed
Finger.
Spur Driving Gears.
Fig. 251. Planetary Gearing Utilizing Only Spur Gears Carried in Oil-Tight
Case.
Other forms of planetary gearing have been evolved in which the
internal gears have been eliminated and in which the gear ratios
438
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
are provided by a train of spur gears. A gearset of this form is
shown at Fig. 251, and as all parts are clearly indicated it will not
be necessary to describe its action in detail because it is very much
the same as that of the form previously described. When the slow
speed is desired a brake band is clamped around the slow-speed drum,
Flywheel.
Clutch Discs.
Clutch Spring.
>w Speed and Reverse Bands.
Planetary Gears.
Fig. 252. Two-Speed and Reverse Planetary Gear Employed on Ford Auto-
mobiles.
and a similar member constricted around the reverse drum will give
the reverse motion. The gearing is locked together by means of a
face-friction clutch, which is pressed in contact with the slow-speed
drum face by means of a high-speed locking cone and cone-operated
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 439
dogs or bell cranks. The form shown is intended to work in connec-
tion with shaft drive, and a universal joint is attached to the squared
driving end.
The planetary gearing shown at Fig. 252 is that used in Ford
automobiles and its operation is similar to the forms previously de-
scribed. In this mechanism, however, the master clutch which pro-
vides the direct drive is a multiple-disk form composed of steel disks,
which are kept in permanent contact and proper driving relation by
means of a heavy coiled spring. The low and reverse speeds are
obtained in the conventional manner by tightening the external con-
tracting clutch bands, which are shown between the gearing and disk
clutch.
Planetary gearing has been very successful when properly designed
and installed, and its chief disadvantage is that it is very difficult to
provide more than two forward speeds and one reverse. For this
reason it can only be adapted to light cars which have a surplus of
power in the engine, or to heavy trucks where it is not so essential
that a large number of speed ratios be provided as in touring cars.
Such gearing is not efficient on low and reverse speeds as considerable
power is absorbed in friction, but when on 'the high speed or direct
drive it is superior to any other form of change-speed gearing because
the entire assembly is locked to the crank shaft, no gears are turning
idly, and the weight of the gearing serves merely as an additional
fly-wheel member. Considerable , trouble was experienced with the
early forms because it was difficult to keep oil in the case, but in mod-
ern forms special care has been taken in housing the reduction gears
so these are constantly oiled, and both wear and noise, which were
formerly detrimental to the adoption of this form of gearing and
which militated largely against its general use, have been eliminated.
Individual Clutch Transmission. A form of gearset which com-
bines the good features of the planetary type in that the driving gears
are always in mesh and which can be provided with any desired num-
ber of speed ratios is known as the individual clutch type. In gear-
sets of this form one set of gears is carried by the countershaft and
is fixed thereto while another set of gears, with which these members
mesh, revolve idly on the main driving shaft.
A transmission of this type which has been applied successfully
440
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
in motor-truck design is shown at Fig. 253. In this the power is
delivered to a main shaft, which is supported on ball bearings and
which carries a bevel pinion engaged with a bevel gear for driving
the wheels at the rear end. The gears mounted on the main shaft
are normally free to revolve independently from the shaft unless
they are clutched to it by sliding positive jaw clutch members driven
Countershaft
w Speed Pinion
High and Intermediate
Low and Reverse Clutch Clutch
Fig. 253. Part Sectional View of Cotta Individual Clutch Transmission Designed
for Heavy Motor Truck.
by the main shaft. Any desired speed ratio' may be selected by en-
gaging the gear desired by means of the clutch carried at its side,
thus causing it to turn with the shaft.
When the clutches are placed as shown in illustration, the gears
are neutral and the driving shaft turns without producing movement
of the bevel driving gears. If, it is desired to engage the low speed
the low and reverse clutch member is moved toward the front end of
the gearset until it clutches the low-speed gear to the main shaft.
The power of the engine is then applied to the countershaft through
the constant mesh gears at the extreme front end of the gearset
and as the main shaft is made in two pieces, the end of one member
telescoping into the portion that carries the driving connection to
the engine, the drive is back from the countershaft low-speed pinion
to the big gear which has been clutched to the main shaft and which
causes it to turn slower than the driving member attached to the
engine.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
441
To obtain a reverse ratio the low and reverse clutch is moved to
the back end of the transmission and the reverse gear is locked to
the main shaft. To obtain direct forward drive the high and inter-
mediate clutch member is pushed forward until it engages the teeth
on the side of the constant mesh gear. This operation locks both
portions of the main shaft together and causes that part to which
the bevel driving pinion is secured to turn at the same speed of
rotation as the driving end which is joined to the engine. The
clutches are arranged in such a manner that only one can be used at a
time and in addition to the positive clutches carried in the gear case
some form of master clutch, which is invariably of the friction type,
must be provided between the power plant and the gearset.
.Silent Chain.
Countershaft.
Constant Drive
Chai
ve End.
Intermediate.
Low.
Reverse Gears>
Fig. 254. Individual Clutch Transmission Using Silent Chain Connection Be-
tween Main and Countershafts for Forward Speeds and Sliding Spur Gears
for Reverse Action.
There is a growing tendency to apply the silent chain to positive
individual clutch types of transmissions instead of utilizing direct
gcjir connection. The application of silent chains to a gear box is
shown at Fig. 254, and the sectional view which is shown at Fig. 255
makes the method of operation clear. The advantage of the silent
442
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
chain when used in gear boxes of this character is that it provides
a more silent drive than direct gear connection would. This is very
valuable in the case of heavy, low-powered cars such as omnibuses
and commercial vehicles, where the gearing is frequently used and
where the vehicles are operated for the most part under traffic con-
ditions which make noisy operation undesirable. The method of
operation when silent chains are used is exactly the same as though
the drive was by spur gearing.
Referring to the sectional view of the gear box given at Fig. 255,
it will be seen that the power from the motor is delivered to a drive
Countershaft Drive Gear.
Intermediate.
Low Pinion.
ntershaft.
Reverse Pinion.
Brake.
High and Intejv
mediate Shift
Member.
Idle Gear.
Reverse
Gear.
Low and Reverse Shift Rod.
Fig. 255. Sectional View of Individual Clutch Gearset with Silent Chains Re-
moved to Show Arrangement of Gearing.
sprocket in the interior of which the end of the main shaft telescopes
and which is supported by suitable ball bearings. The countershaft
mounted above the main shaft carries four gears, three of which are
adapted to use silent chains, while the smallest member is a clash
gear of the conventional pattern, employed only to obtain reverse
speed. It will be observed that two gear members are carried by ball
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 443
bearings at the center of the main shaft in such a way that they
revolve independently of that member unless they are clutched to it
by the positive clutches keyed to the shaft.
To obtain the reverse drive the large reverse gear is moved back
in such a way that it engages the reverse pinion on the countershaft.
The drive in this case is from the motor to the constant drive gear,
forming part of the main shaft which turns the countershaft drive
gear by means of a silent chain which is not shown in this view but
which can be very clearly seen at Fig. 254. The countershaft is
turning in the same direction as the motor and the spur gears
used at the back end of the gearset are employed to reverse the
motion. When the low speed is desired the low and reverse shift
member is moved in such a manner that the idle gear is clutched
to the shaft. When this condition obtains the drive is from the
motor through the constant drive gears and from the countershaft
by the low-speed pinion and the big gear which has been clutched to
the main shaft and which serves to drive the universal joint con-
nected to the bevel gearing in the rear axle.
A movement of the high or intermediate shift member will give
either of these speeds desired. The intermediate speed is obtained
in exactly the same manner as the low speed except that the gear ratio
is such that a higher ratio of drive is provided, while the high speed
or direct drive is obtained by locking the two sections of the main
shaft together.
How Sliding Gearsets Operate. The majority of change-speed
gearsets which have been generally fitted to automobile service are
forms of sliding gear arrangements and may be divided into two
main classes. In progressive sliding gearsets but one member is
employed for all speeds and this is shifted along from one extreme
position to the other. In the selective system it is possible to go
into any one of the speeds or gear ratios desired without passing into
other speeds and with but a limited movement of the shifting mem-
bers.
The sliding gear system was one of the first to receive general
application in early forms of motor vehicles arid in its primitive
condition it was but a modification of the back gearing used on
certain classes of machine tools, such as lathes, drill presses, etc. One
444
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
of the advantages of this type when compared to other gear trans-
missions is that it is possible to provide a greater number of speed
changes and that there is a higher driving efficiency when on the
lower ratios because but two pairs of gears are in mesh.
An example of a progressive sliding gear transmission is depicted
at Fig. 256, this providing three forward speed ratios and one re-
Constant Mesh Gears.
Lever.
Low.
Counter.
Engine End.
tain Shaft.
Sliding Member.
Fig. 256. Arrangement of Gears in Progressive Sliding Gearset.
verse. The various speed ratios are secured by moving the sliding
member which is composed of two gears along the main shaft so
that it engages successively the gears on the countershaft. When
the sliding member is in the position shown, no gears are engaged
and no power can' be transmitted through the gearset. If the sliding
member is moved toward the right so that it engages the small
pinion under the reverse gear on the countershaft a reverse drive
would be obtained. If the sliding member is shifted toward the left
until the Jarge gear member engages with the low-speed gear on the
countershaft the lowest forward drive ratio is obtained.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
445
Continued movement of the sliding member toward the left will
cause the small gear to engage with the intermediate pinion and
produce a ratio of drive that will not be as fast as the direct con-
Countershaft
High and Intermediate
Speed Shift Member.
Fig. 257. Showing Application of Two Shifting Members on Main Shaft of
Selective Sliding Gear Speed-Changing Mechanism.
nection but which is faster than the slow-speed ratio. When the
sliding member is moved to the extreme left it serves to lock the
two portions of the main shaft together and a direct drive is ob-.
446
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
tained. The power from the engine is first delivered to the constant
mesh gear which normally drives the countershaft and which re-
volves around the main portion of the main shaft which telescopes
into its interior.
If the design of this gearset be compared to that outlined at
Fig. 257, it will be evident that in the latter two shifting members
are employed which have a smaller degree of movement than the
single member of the progressive type. The reason that the selective
system is generally preferred may be easily understood by referring
to the comparison between the forms as shown at Fig. 258. In the
progressive sliding gearset which is shown at A, the shifting member
High and Int. Shift Member.
Stifling Member for all S
Low and Reverse
Shift Member.
Countershaft.
Slow. "* Reverse*
Direct. Intermediate.
Direct./ x Slow.
Intermediate.
Reverse.
Fig. 258. Comparing Progressive and Selective Gearset Action to Demonstrate
Advantages of the Latter Form.
is shown engaged with the intermediate gear on the countershaft.
If it is desired to pass into the reverse from this position the slow
speed must be engaged before the reverse gear can be reached. The
hand lever used to shift the gearing is moved back with one con-
tinuous movement. For instance, if the gearing be in the reverse
position and it is desired to engage the direct drive it will be neces-
sary to pass the one shifting member to the low speed, past the in-
termediate and from thence into the direct drive position-.
With the selective gearset which is depicted at Fig. 258, B,
the plurality of shifting members provided makes it possible to go
into any speed directly without passing through the others. For in-
stance, >the high and intermediate shift member is shown in the
position at which the intermediate speed ratio is obtained. If it is
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 447
desired to engage the high speed this member may be pushed directly
into position so that the main shaft and the constant drive gear are
locked together. If it is desired to go into reverse a simple movement
of the operating or shifting member, which is guided by an H slot
gated segment, will disengage the high speed and throw the other
shift member into position by one simple movement.
One of the advantages of this method is that it is much easier
to engage the gears and that the liability of injuring the gear teeth
by injudicious shifting is not as great as in the progressive type.
Another advantage of the selective system is that it permits a more
compact construction and makes possible the use of shorter shafts
which are stiffer than longer ones because the distance between points
of support is not so great. Not only is the operation much easier
but it is possible to obtain the varying speed ratios much more
quickly than with the progressive system.
The usual number of gear ratios provided is three forward speeds
and one reverse motion. On some of the heavier touring cars four
forward speeds are provided and when this is done engineers differ
as to whether the direct drive should be on the third or fourth ratio.
When the direct drive is on the third ratio the fourth speed is ob-
tained by gearing up and the driving shaft revolves faster than the
main shaft of the engine. When the fourth speed is a direct drive
the crank shaft and the driving shaft turn at the same speed. Those
who favor the former method contend that as most of the regular
driving is done at a medium rather than at an extreme high speed the
direct drive on the third is preferable to a direct drive on the highest
ratio. The geared-up fourth speed can be used only when conditions
are exceptionally favorable to high speed. If the highest speed was
obtained by a direct drive the natural tendency of the motorist would
be to use this most, but there would be many conditions where the
ratio would be too high and one of the lower gears would have
to be used. If the direct drive was obtained in the third ratio this
would be employed the greater part of the time, and as there would
be less wear on the gearing with the direct drive engaged it would
be preferable to use this as much as possible.
The question of gear ratio to use depends entirely upon local con-
ditions and before determining the ratios of the gearing in the speed-
448 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
changing mechanisms it is imperative that a definite relation be es-
tablished between the speed of the driving shaft and the road wheels.
When heavy pleasure cars use engines of moderate power the gear
reduction is usually three and one half or four to one,, this meaning
that when the gearing is in the direct drive the engine crank shaft
will turn three and a half or four times to one revolution of the
driving wheels. On cars where the margin of power is large and
where high speeds are desired the ratio may be but two and one half
to one. If the car is geared too low, the" engine must make a very
high number of revolutions when on the highest speeds and use much
more fuel than necessary. On the other hand, if the driving ratio
is too high it will be necessary to change gears frequently because
even moderate grades will make it imperative to use a lower ratio
than that afforded by the direct drive.
The body fitted to the car has a material bearing upon the gear
ratios provided. The driving speed that would be entirely practical
on a chassis fitted with a roadster body would be much too high if a
limousine or coupe body was fitted to the same chassis. If the car
is to be operated in regions where the conditions are not favorable,
such as hilly sections, or where the highways are poorly developed, a
much lower final drive ratio must be provided than where the roads
are good and conditions favorable to higher speeds. The speed
ratios when the low gears are engaged will vary from ten to one to
such extremes as twenty-five to one. The intermediate speed usually
varies from five to one to ten to one, and a third ratio in a four-speed
gearset may vary from three to one to six to one, and in some gear-
sets it may have a value of seven or eight to one. If the fourth
speed is obtained by gearing up one may get a ratio of drive as high
as two to one, though when the direct drive is on the fourth speed
it is seldom higher than three to one.
Most of the sliding gearsets have at least one of the speeds a
direct drive, but, some forms have been devised where the power is
transmitted through gears at all ratios. A gearset of this type,
which has been used in an English omnibus, is outlined at Fig. 259.
This operates on the selective principle, but the drive at all speeds
is through gears. Two shifting members are mounted on the main
shaft. One of these carries two small gears, the other has two larger
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
449
members. When the highest speed ratio is desired, the largest gear
on the main shaft is engaged with the smallest member on the counter-
shaft and as these have an equal number of teeth the shafts will turn
at the same speed. When the smallest member on the main shaft is en-
gaged with the largest gear the slowest ratio is obtained. This method
of gearset construction is seldom followed at the present time be-
Main Shaft.
High Speed Gears.
Drive End.
Countershaft.
Fig. 259. Three-Speed Selective Gearset in which All Speeds are Obtained by
Gears, No Direct Lock Being Provided for High Speed.
cause of the constant grinding of the driving gears at all speeds, and
a certain amount of noise will result no matter how carefully the
gears are fitted. With those forms of gearsets in which the highest
ratio is obtained by locking the two parts of the main shaft together
there are no gears transmitting power except those in the rear axle,
and the operation is much more silent. The gearset is more efficient
because the power loss is reduced to that of but one set of driving
gears, and as no gears in the gearset are under driving loads there
is no grinding or noise when on the direct drive.
Intermediate. Low. Reverse.
Fig. 260. Arrangement of Gears and Shafts in Typical English Three-Speed
Selective Gear Box.
Reverse.
Low
Main Sliaf t.'
Reverse, Low and Second Speed.
^Constant
^^/Mesh Gears.
Engine End.
Fourth Speed.
High and Third Speed Shift Member
Fig. 261. White Four-Speed Gearset Has Direct Drive on Highest Ratio.
450
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
451
A typical sliding gearset of the three-speed selective type is
shown in section at Fig. 260, and at iTig. 261 a four-speed gearset
in which direct drive is obtained on the fourth speed is outlined. In
the former, two shifting members are mounted on the main shaft,
one of these giving the high and intermediate ratios, while the other
is employed for low and reverse speed. ' But two shifting members
are utilized on the main shaft of the form shown at Fig. 261. One
of these acts progressively to give the reverse, low, and second-speed
ratios, while the other gives the third and fourth speeds.
Selecting Rods.
Clutch.
Fourth
Speed Gears.
Countershaft
Fig. 262. Winton Four-Speed Gearset Provides Direct Drive on Third Speed
and Gears Up for Highest on Fourth-Speed Ratio.
A four-speed gearset in which three shifting members are used
and in which a geared-up drive is obtained on the fourth speed and
a direct connection on third is shown at Fig. 262. In this the clutch
is mounted at the forward end of the gearset in a case of its own
and is a multiple-disk type. The member shifted by the center se-
lective rod gives the second and third speeds, while that moved by
Motor.
Motor.
Clutch.
Gearset.
Fig. 263. Conventional Methods of Installing Gearsets in Chassis. A Com-
bined with Engine to Form Unit Power Plant. B Fitted as an Individual
Unit Back of Engine. C Combined with Rear Axle, D Mounted at
Front End of Driving Shaft Housing.
452
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
453
the inner rod gives the reverse and first speed. The geared-up drive
or fourth speed is ohtained by shifting the outer selective rod and
bringing the smallest gear on the main shaft in mesh with the largest
gear on the countershaft.
An important factor in gearset design is the method of locating
it in the frame. The various systems of gearset mounting in com-
mon use are shown at Fig. 263. In that depicted at A the clutch
and gearset form a unit with the power plant. The advantage of
'Clutch Case.
Flywheel.
Main Shaft.
Drive End.
Gear Case.
Fig. 264. Clutch and Gearset Portion of Unit Power Plant Showing Positive
Alignment Between Clutch and Gearset Main Shaft.
this method of mounting is that it makes a very compact power-gen-
erating and speed-changing unit and there will be no liability of lost
alignment between the engine and gearset. At B the gearset is
a separate member installed back of the motor just under the front
floor boards, and when mounted in this manner it may be attached
directly to the main frame side members or to a subframe formed
by cross members which have been provided for the purpose. In the
design outlined at C the gearset is a unit with the rear axle, and the
same argument in favor of mounting applies as when it forms part
454
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
of the unit power plant except that in this case there is no possibility
of lost alignment between the gearset and the driving gears'. The
method of installing which is fourth in popularity is shown at D.
In this the gearset is carried at the front end of the driving shaft
housing and is usually attached to the frame in such a manner that
it will assist in taking braking and driving torque.
Fig. 265. Herreshoff Unit Power Plant Partially Dismantled to Show Clutch
and Gearset Construction.
The methods qf combining the gearset with the clutch case and
power plant are shown at Figs. 264 and 265. In the former con-
struction the engine is shown detached for convenience,, but the
clutch case is a continuation of the engine bed. At Fig. 265 the
gearset is shown detached from the power plant in order to demon-
strate that- the clutch may be easily reached when desired. When the
parts shown are assembled to form a unit the flange at the front end
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
455
of the gearset case is attached to that at the back end of the engine
bed by means of bolts and the two then form a cover for the fly wheel
and multiple-disk clutch which it carries.
When side-chain drive is provided, as is often the case in motor
trucks, the gearset sometimes forms part of the countershaft as-
sembly. One of these designs is shown at Fig. 266, this illustrating
the general arrangement of parts, while more specific details of con-
struction are outlined at Fig. 267. The construction is exactly the
same as though the countershaft assembly was employed as a live
rear axle with shaft drive. The only difference is that the ends
of the live axle shaft are provided with driving sprockets instead of
Gearcase.
.Change Speed Gearing.
Bevel Driving Gears.
Sprocket.
Brake Drum.
-Driving Sprocket.
Fig. 266. Change-Speed Gearing Combined with Countershaft for Side-Chain
Drive.
wheel hubs. At Fig. 267 the arrangement of the three-speed selective
gearset and the manner in which the bevel-driving gears mesh is
clearly shown. The small driving pinion is attached directly to the
main shaft extension and there is but little possibility of losing align-
ment under load. The shafts of the transmission gear are mounted
on ball bearings while the differential and axles are mounted on
456
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
457
roller bearings. The drive sprockets carry pressed steel brake drums
to which large external constricting brake bands are applied. These
serve as " running " or service brakes to arrest vehicle motion through
the medium of the driving chains which connect the small sprockets
with the larger members on the wheels.
An unconventional form of rear axle and gearset combination is
shown at Fig. 268, while the conventional arrangement is depicted at
Driving Shaft.
Bevel Driving Gear,
Differential Gear.
Taper Roller Bearing.
Bevel Drive Pinion.
Gear Shaft.
Axle Shaft.
Axle Shaft.
Gear Housing.
Countershaft.
Fig. 268. Unconventional Arrangement of Three-Speed Selective Sliding Gear-
set in Combination with Rear Axle to Secure More Compact Construction
by Housing Change Speed and Driving Gear in Common Use.
Fig. 269. In the former the main shaft of the gearset is in the
form of a quill or tube which surrounds one of the axle shafts and
the countershaft is a separate member carried directly in back of the
main shaft. When on the direct drive the high-speed shift member
is moved toward the left and locks the differential gear case firmly
to the quill, which acts as the main shaft. When the parts are locked
together in this manner a direct drive is obtained. The lower speed
458
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 459
ratios are obtained in the same manner as in any other selective
transmission, the gears on the main shaft being moved to engage
the corresponding members on the countershaft. The contention
is made that this method of design makes for a more compact as-
sembly as all parts are housed in one casing member.
Most engineers who favor combining the rear axle and the trans-
mission use the construction outlined at Fig. 269. In this all parts
are so clearly shown that the method of application should be suffi-
ciently clear without lengthy description. The change-speed gearing
is a conventional three-speed and reverse selective sliding gear type
and the drive to the rear axle is by the usual bevel-gear connection.
The various systems of driving and methods of manipulating the
speed-change levers will be considered more fully in proper sequence.
CHAPTEE IX
The Chassis and Its Components Frame Design and Construction Typical
Methods of Spring Suspension Outlined Function of Steering Gears
Steering Gear Forms Denned Front Axle Types Rear Axle and Driv-
ing Means Power Transmission by Bevel and Worm Gearing Conven-
tional Braking Systems Application of Front Wheel Brakes.
THE average motor-car chassis is composed of a number of parts
distinct from the power plant and transmission groups. The im-
portant components are the axles, the steering system,, the method
of power transmission to the wheels, the design of the frame, and the
spring suspension means. The frame forms a connecting link be-
tween the motive power and the parts which serve to support the
body and machinery. Formerly frames were made in many different
styles and a number of different materials were utilized in their con-
struction. At the present time the practice has crystallized to a point
where certain construction has been definitely accepted as the best and
this is generally followed in practically all forms of motor cars.
Frame Design and Construction. The usual arrangement of the
components of typical chassis forms is outlined at Fig. 270. The
power plant and its accessory groups as well as the change-speed gear-
ing have been previously described, and the chassis forms outlined
are presented to show the two distinct systems of chassis construction
generally followed. The arrangement of parts depicted has become
accepted as best practice and practically all motor cars are about the
same in general design. The arrangement of the chassis shown at A
is the conventional one, and in this the frame which carries the
operating parts is mounted above the axle. In the form shown at B
an underslung frame construction is used. In this case the springs
are coupled to the axles but the frame members are suspended from
the springs instead of being placed above them as shown at A.
The advantages claimed for the underslung construction are that
it is more stable because the weight is carried nearer the ground and
460
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
461
the car is more easy riding and will sway less at high speeds than
those types where the frame is carried above the axle. The advantage
of bringing the center of gravity close to the ground is clearly illus-
trated at Fig. 271. At A the center of gravity of a heavy limousine
car which has an underslung frame is at a point just above the- axle,
Fig. 271. Advantage of Low Weight Placing and Carrying Center of Gravity
Near the Ground. A Low Center of Gravity Makes for Stability.
B High Center of Gravity Unsafe.
and if the car tilts over a marked degree, a line drawn from the center
of gravity will fall within the area of the base of support as repre-
sented by the rectangle, the corners of which are at the contact points
of the wheels and the ground. The center of gravity of any body is
the theoretical point around which the weight may be said to be
evenly distributed, and whenever a line drawn from the center of
gravity falls within the base line of any body or mass it is in stable
equilibrium.
In the ca&e outlined at B the center of gravity is carried higher
because the frame is mounted above the axle and conditions may
obtain where the line drawn from the center of gravity will fall out-
side of the base line and the car tip over. While the conditions shown
are somewhat exaggerated they will serve to make the comparison
clear and will enable the nontechnical reader to understand the
462 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
advantage of carrying the weight of the machinery as near the ground
as possible to secure steadiness at high speeds.
The factor of carrying the weight low is much more important
in the case of cars which are to be equipped with large closed bodies
of the limousine type. It must not be inferred that it is not possible
to carry the weight low with the form of frame construction defined
at Fig. 270, A,, as in the case illustrated the machine weight is car-
ried practically as near to the ground as it is when the underslung
frame shown at B is employed. The difference in center of gravity
of the whole machine is evident only when the body is fitted and it
will be carried considerably lower with the underslung frame than hi
the one where the frame members are mounted above the axles.
Materials Employed in Frame Construction. The first motor cars
were based somewhat on experience obtained in bicycle construction
and had frames made of steel tubing. This material was not as
suitable for motor-car frames as it had been for the lighter two-
wheeled vehicles because the multiplicity of brazed joints necessary
made the frame quite a costly proposition. Then again the round
section of the tubing did not offer as easy means of attaching the
engine and transmission units as do those frames which are com-
posed of members having a rectangular section. Tubing is used
only in subframe work, at the present time notably in the Flanders
light four-cylinder car and some of the Lozier models.
Following the use of the tubing, automobile builders used angle
iron and other structural shapes available on the open market. Other
makers used wooden frame members, but at the present time one
rarely finds either structural iron or wood used in pleasure cars,
though both of these materials have been applied to some extent in
motor-truck construction. Some makers, notably the Franklin Com-
pany, employ frames which are made of laminations of specially
seasoned and strong wood. The majority of manufacturers, however,
favor the use of pressed steel forms which are not only light and
strong but which have a degree of flexibility which is very desirable
and which is not easily obtained with the various structural shapes
in iron.
Frames, may be divided into five main classes, as follows: Those
in which wood only is used, forms utilizing pressed steel construction^
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
463
types employing steel tubes, frames built up of iron structural shapes,
and combination frames where two or more different methods of
construction may be combined. For instance, it is possible to ree'n-
force a wooden frame side member with a strip of steel or iron, or at
the other hand some makers sometimes fill the channel of a pressed
steel frame with wood to strengthen it. Each of these main divi-
sions might be again divided. For instance, wood frames may be
made of a solid strip or beam or may be composed of vertical or
horizontal laminations. Pressed steel may be made into channels,
angles, or modifications of these, while frames composed of tubing
may be square, rectangular, or round section. The various structural
shapes may be utilized in the form of plate, angles, T rail sections,
and I beams.
A typical pressed steel frame is shown at Fig. 272 and this is the
type which is very generally employed. The frame-side members are
Running Board Irons
Fig. 272. Conventional Form of Pressed Steel Automobile Frame with
Cambered Side Members.
two pressed steel forms cambered at the front ends and joined to-
gether by a series of three cross braces. The front one serves as a
radiator support, that in the center provides anchorage for the torque
tube of the axle, while the rear cross member projects on either side of
the frame and .provides a point of anchorage for the rear support-
ing springs. iThe object of cambering the frame members in front
is to provide a greater angle of operation for the front wheels and to
464
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
permit turning on curves of smaller radius than would be possible
if the frame members were straight and movement of the wheels
limited thereby.
In some frame constructions where semi-elliptic springs are used
at the rear end as well as the front of the car, the frame is some-
times raised at a point directly over the axle, as shown at Fig. 273, A.
Often a double -drop is provided in the frame side, as shown at Fig.
273, B. In this construction the frame side is straight to a point
Fig. 273. Frame Forms Having Raised Side Members. A Frame Side Raised
Over Axle. B Framework with Drop Side Member.
about half the length of the chassis, then it drops and when it reaches
the axle it raises again to allow for movement of the axle. The ob-
ject of dropping the frame is to provide a slightly lower floor boar^d
placing than would be possible if the body was carried at one level.
The rear upsweep, by raising the back end of the frame, enables the
axle to be carried in a position that will permit a nearly straight
line drive. It will also bring the running board of the car closer
to the ground, which makes the body more accessible, and it lowers
the center of gravity as well. At the same time sufficient space is
provided between the raised rear end and the axle to permit of using
springs which will be adequate to support the weight, of the mechan-
ism and body and yet permit these to have a considerable radius of
movement and make for much easier riding.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 465
By bringing the lowest level at a point between the front and
rear it is possible to carry the body low and at the same time support
the engine and transmission at a sufficient height above the ground
to insure ample clearance between the bottom of the motor and the
surface of the roadway. The advantage of the pressed steel frame
over the other forms is that it is a very easy type to make and very
cheap after the forming dies have been made. It lends itself read-
ily to designs where it would not be possible to use the wood frame
because of the serious diminution of strength if wood is bent in any
way that will distort the grain.
Suspension of Motor Vehicles. One of the most important prob-
lems in connection with chassis designing is that of the supporting
members which join the frame to the axles and which are depended
upon to absorb much of the shock and jar incidental to motor-car
operation. The importance of the springs and the part they play
in promoting the comfort of the passengers, the durability of the
machinery, and economical application of power are but little appre-
ciated by the majority of motorists. One point that has made it
difficult for the automobile designer to evolve spring types which
were entirely satisfactory was the paucity of data regarding spring
action of high-speed vehicles. The forms of springs that were used
on wagons and carriages were studied, but when these were
applied to motor cars which had much greater speed than the simpler
vehicles the problem assumed a new aspect. While the horse-drawn
vehicle operates on rough roads the speeds are comparatively low,
and the roughness of the roads is hot such an important factor as it is
in the design of automobile springs. Eailway cars were studied in
the hope of finding a solution. Here the conditions are reversed, and
while they operate at high speeds they run on comparatively level-
steel rails and the conditions of operation make the problem of spring
suspension one that is not difficult.
One point greatly in favor of the motor car is that for the most
part these are mounted on pneumatic- or air-filled tires and these
have valuable cushioning properties in themselves and are of material
value in solving the problem of spring suspension. It is very difficult
to combine both strength and resiliency in springs, as if these are
made light and flexible they are not likely to be strong. A vehicle
466 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
that might be very easy riding on good roads would have too much
spring movement if the springs were lacking in strength when oper-
ated on rougher road beds. At the other hand, if springs are made
stiff to take care of severe conditions they will be hard acting when
used on smooth roads.
Another factor which makes it difficult to select the proper
springs is the variation in weight carried. When an engineer de-
signs a five-passenger touring car he must provide springs of adequate
strength to take care of the car when it carries its full complement.
If but two passengers are carried the car will be stiff er riding than
when the weight of five persons must be supported.
An added point that makes it difficult to select springs for auto-
mobile suspension except by experiment is that the propelling force
forms part of the conveyance and power must be transmitted from
the source mounted on the frame to the wheels resting on the ground.
As the frame is suspended on more or less flexible members and
moves in various directions,, the degree of movement must be limited
so there will be no excessive strain imposed on the transmission
mechanism. Ease of riding is largely determined by the radius of
movement or upward throw of the body,, and the object with any kind
of spring suspension is to reduce the up and. down movement to as
low a point as possible without actually retarding the vibrations.
Rapid vibration of the springs will cause discomfort and will affect
to a considerable degree various parts of the chassis which connect
the frame to the axle, such as radius rods, steering connections, torque
members, and driving means.
Of the various forms of springs it is possible to use the laminated
leaf spring is that which has been generally applied on automo-
biles just as its use has become universal on horse-drawn conveyances.
The great value of the laminated leaf spring is that its capacity
can be varied by changing the number of plates or leaves used and
almost any desired degree of resiliency can be obtained by varying
the thickness, grade of material, and width of the plates of which
the spring is composed.
Design of Leaf Springs. The leaf springs used for the suspension
of road s vehicles consist of several layers of steel plates so shaped
that when laid together they form superimposed arcs of as many
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
467
circles as there are leaves. The spring effect is obtained by the elas-
ticity of the metal used which is increased in value by a process of
heat treatment known as tempering. The leaves are usually gradu-
ated in thickness, being thicker at the center and tapering from the
center to the ends.
The reason for following a common line or arc when a spring
is composed of more than one leaf is that as all of the leaves are de-
flected at once by the load and as the tendency is to straighten out
the curved member, they should slide upon one another when alter-
ing their shape in such a manner that they will always be in contact
with the neighboring leaf at all points. If the curvature of the
leaves differed appreciably the tendency of the plates under load
would be to straighten out and separate and the load would only be
carried on those members which were in contact at all points. This
would be undesirable because it would cause a loss of spring action
would also result in frequent -breakage.
Fig. 274. Springs Usually Employed for Supporting Motor-Car Frames and
Horse-Drawn Vehicle Bodies.
The common forms of springs which have been used for supporting
motor-car frames are shown at Fig. 274. That at A is a full elliptic
type and consists of two semi-elliptic spring members hinged together
at their ends. The semi-elliptic type, which is half of a full elliptic
468
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
spring, is shown at B. The spring illustrated at C is a three quarter
elliptic form used for suspending the front end of some types of
cars. The scroll elliptic spring depicted at D is a modification of the
full type, but it is somewhat more flexible because the lower member
is fastened to the upper by means of shackles which permit more
movement than the rigid bolt and eye connecting the members of
form A. The side spring depicted at E is a modification of the
side spring commonly fitted to Concord buggies, and while it has
received some application on earlier forms of automobiles it is not
used at the present time. The form shown at F is a three quarter
scroll elliptic member which is very widely used at the present time
for rear suspension of motor cars, especially in those chassis having
upswept rear ends.
The application of the spring forms previously considered to the
front end of motor-car frames is outlined at Fig. 275. The views at
Fig. 275. Spring Suspension Means for Front Ends of Motor-Car Frames.
A Semi-Elliptic. B Full Elliptic of Franklin Car. C Single Cross
Spring of Ford Design.
Fig. 276 show various spring combinations used for rear-end suspen-
sion. The common method of supporting the front end is shown at
Fig. 275 s , A, and is used on the greater proportion of motor cars. Of
the rear suspensions that shown at Fig. 276, D, is popular on heavy
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
469
vehicles, while the full elliptic depicted at C and the three quarter
scroll elliptic outlined at E also receive general application. The
semi-elliptic spring is not as easy riding as the other forms unless it is
made very long and composed of but a few leaves. The various full
Fig. 276. Spring Suspensions for Rear Ends of Motor-Car Chassis. A Sin-
gle Elliptic Cross Spring of Ford Cars. Semi-elliptic Side Member.
C Rear Support by Full Elliptic Spring. D Platform Spring Con-
struction. E Three Quarter Elliptic Application.
and three quarter elliptic forms are much more flexible than a semi-
elliptic of the same length and are more generally used for rear sus-
pension where a greater degree of movement is desirable than at the
front end.
When an automobile chassis is suspended on springs the frame
will move in various directions. There is a certain amount of for-
ward and backward end throw, an element of side sway and the
up and down motion caused by the deflection and recoil of the spring.
The object of an efficient spring suspension should be to minimize the
end throw and side sway as much as possible and yet preserve the
freedom of movement of the spring. It is for this reason that the
serni-elliptic form is so popular for front suspension. It is a stiffer
member than the others and is better adapted to carry the weight of
the power plant without side away and to keep the front axle in that
470 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
relation with the steering mechanism necessary to secure the best
action.
In general the methods of suspension employed by automobile de-
signers follow closely those that have been used for a number of years
by manufacturers of horse-drawn vehicles. When elliptic or semi-
elliptic springs of the ordinary description are used one will see that
in most light horse-drawn carriages but two are employed, one being
placed over each axle and parallel with it. In motor cars one seldom
finds a single spring used for suspension at both ends. Usually if
one spring is placed in this manner over one of the axles there are
generally two arranged in the conventional manner over the other
axle to provide a three-point support. A notable exception is the
Ford car which employs a single cross spring at each end of the frame.
When only one spring is used in this manner radius or distance
rods are required to maintain a fixed distance between the axle and
the frame at the front axle, and more substantial members of the same
character which will have to take the driving torque effect as well as
the braking stresses will be required for the rear end. This makes
two sets of radius rods necessary on each car. Most automobile de-
signers favor the use of two semi-elliptic springs at the front end be-
cause with these there will be no need of using radius rods, as the
springs are capable of maintaining the proper relation between the
axle and the frame as well as resist the pushing or pulling effect due
to traction, which would otherwise have to be taken by radius rods.
With practically all forms of rear suspension, especially in those
which utilize the elliptical forms of springs, the inevitable forward
throw makes the use of radius rods imperative. It is necessary that
the proper distance be maintained between the motor mounted on the
frame and the rear axle where the power is applied to the wheels.
The amount of play permissible is governed entirely by the char-
acter of the driving system and with some forms there can be more
latitude of movement than possible with others. In nearly all cases,
however, it is essential that very nearly a fixed distance be maintained,
or there will be injurious stresses on the sprockets, chains, universal
joints, or gears with attendant loss of power.
A factor that has become very important is the selection of suitable
alloy steels for the construction of the springs. The rapid develop-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 471
ment of high-powered automobiles which are capable of extremely
high speeds had made the development of more resisting and elastic
steels imperative, as the open hearth metal of standard analysis used
in the manufacture of carriage springs would not make satisfactory
supporting members under the severe conditions imposed by the mod-
ern automobile. For this reason, various alloy steels, such as vana-
dium steel and mixtures of iron, carbon, chromium, and nickel have
been developed especially for fabrication into springs.
Among the other functions of springs they reduce to a certain
extent the traction resistance. When the driving wheels meet ob-
stacles the shock produced depends upon the inertia of the axle and
that of the wheel which comes into contact with the impeding sub-
stance plus the resistance of the springs, which factor varies with
the elasticity and design. If the springs are not sufficiently resilient
the shock will lift a portion of the car as well as the wheel and axle,
whereas if elastic members are employed only the axle and spring
will be affected. It is patent that more power is required to sur-
mount obstacles when stiff springs are employed, and part of the
power delivered by the engine which might be used to better advan 1
tage in propelling the car is absorbed in overcoming the obstacle.
The attachment of springs to the fr^me and axle is a phase of
the suspension problem that is important. The front end of the
front springs is usually pivoted directly to the frame in spring
horns forming a portion of the frame-side member. The free end
of the spring is connected to the frame by a shackle to allow the
necessary motion. The rear springs are usually attached to the
frame in a different manner than the front member because to secure
maximum efficiency the rear springs should be called upon only to
support the load, and they should be relieved of all traction and
torsion forces by suitable torque members or radius rods. If springs
of the semi-elliptic type are used it is advisable to double-shackle them,
whereas full elliptic forms should be attached to the frame by some
sort of a swivel joint in order to allow the necessary motion.
The method of fastening the springs to the axle is by means of
clips very similar to those that are used in carriage construction, but
they are usually heavier and of better material. The spring rests
upon a piece of leather or wood placed between it and the supporting
472
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
pad on the axle and this material is usually curved enough to con-
form with the arc of curvature of the spring. This cushion is
interposed between the two elements for two reasons, one of these
being to avoid the strain which would be imposed upon the spring if
attempt was made to attach it directly to the flat or slightly curved
spring pad on the axle. The other reason is that the cushion provides
a more rigid fastening because there is a certain amount of friction
pring
Friction
Adjusting Nut
Friction Washers
Fig. 277. Unconventional Spring Suspensions. A Double Semi-Elliptic Used
on Winton Cars. B Coil Spring and Shock Absorber Combination of
Liberty-Brush Runabouts.
between the spring and the wood or leather piece which prevents
slipping of the fastening. Authorities agree that springs should
never be fastened by means of bolts passing through the leaves, as
this will make a weak place in the spring which may break if
stressed unduly at this point.
Some manufacturers use distinctive forms of springs developed
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 473
solely for use on their product. The spring shown at Fig. 277, A,
is that employed on some models of the Winton cars and is a com-
pound form which consists of two parts which are virtually separate
and distinct semi-elliptic springs. These are shackled up in such a
manner that when the loads are light but one portion of the spring
is used, though when the car is fully loaded both sections of the spring
are brought in action. It is claimed that this method of spring con-
struction permits easy riding under all varying conditions of load
or road surface, as the strength or resiliency of the springs is governed
entirely by the demands made upon it. When conditions of operation
are severe the spring strength is augmented proportionately, and it
becomes more resilient as the load is decreased.
The method of suspension employed on the Brush runabout is
outlined at Fig. 277, B. This is distinctive inasmuch as it is the
only motor vehicle produced in large quantities or in a commercial
way which employs helical coil springs under tension to support the
load. It will be noted that a combined shock-absorbing and radius-
rod device is essential. Ths method, while extremely efficient, ap-
pears rather unconventional and is regarded as a " freak " design by
most engineers. The construction is clearly outlined in the illustra-
tion and four such springs are employed, one at each corner of the
frame.
How Automobiles are Steered. The problem of steering the motor
car is a somewhat different one than that of directing a horse-drawn
vehicle because in the animal-drawn conveyance the shafts which are
attached to the front axle are used to turn the vehicle as well as to
pull it along. The front axle is usually pivoted at a central point
and turns on a fifth-wheel arrangement, as shown at Fig. 278, A.
Wlien it is desired to turn in either direction the animal is guided
by the reins and the axle is turned at an angle to the body sufficient
to allow the vehicle to describe a curve as shown by the dotted lines.
When turning sharply or in a narrow thoroughfare the construction
is usually such that the front wheels may swing under the carriage
body in such a way that the front axle may be parallel with the body
side members or at right angles to the rear axle under extreme condi-
tions. The stability of the carriage would be very poor if it was not for
the bracing effect derived from the horses' weight between the shafts.
474
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
In most motor vehicles the propulsive force is applied to the rear
wheels and the structure is pushed from behind instead of being
pulled, as is the case with a horse-drawn conveyance. Obviously, it
would not be practical to turn the entire axle under the car because
if it described a too acute angle when the car was driven at high
Fig. 278. Methods of Steering Vehicles Outlined. A Horse-Drawn Wagon
Directed by Swinging Axle. B Motor Car Steered by Movable Wheels
on Fixed Axle.
speed it would be extremely difficult to control the vehicle. This was
very ingeniously overcome by an engineer named Ackerman, who de-
vised the pivoted axle which is commonly accepted as the proper
method of. steering automobiles.
This consisted of a fixed axle member,, as shown at Fig. 278,, B,
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 475
*
which was attached to a frame by suitable springs or other means in
such a way that it could only move in a vertical direction under the
influence of road irregularity. The wheels are mounted on spindles
carried in a yoke at each end of the axle, and wfyen it is desired to
turn an automobile only the wheels are turned instead of moving the
entire axle assembly as is the case in a horse-drawn vehicle.
In order to actuate the steering knuckles, suitable mechanism that
will be easily operated must be placed convenient to the driver. The
earlier forms of automobiles were provided with forms of tillers very
similar to those employed in controlling boats, but while these simple
levers gave a certain degree of satisfaction on light cars operated at
slow speeds, the development of the higher-speed vehicles made neces-
sary more easily handled and positive forms of steering gears. The
disadvantages of the tiller are that it may be whipped out of the
operator's hands by road irregularities, and it is very tiresome to hold
because of the continual vibration.
With the modern forms of wheel-steering devices the hands are
always in ^an easy position, the wheels may be readily operated and
because of the elimination of vibration by the feature of irreversibility
provided by most steering gears of conventional construction, no road
shock can loosen the grip of the driver, nor is he fatigued by con-
tinued movement of the wheel.
Steering gears are made in a variety of forms and all types have
their adherents. The accepted construction is clearly illustrated at
Fig. 279, A. In this the steering wheel is attached to a rod which
carries a worm at its lower end. This worm meshes with a worm
gear to which a steering arm is attached, and a rotary movement of
the hand wheel will produce a reciprocating movement of the steer-
ing arm at the lower end of the steering column. The steering arm
is coupled to one of the steering knuckles of the front axle by a
connecting link and the movement imparted to the one steering
knuckle is translated to the other one by means of the tiebar which
joins them.
The form of steering gear outlined at B is a simpler one, but it
does not incorporate the good features of the worm-gear type. It
consists of a spur pinion at the end of the steering post which meshes
with the spur-gear rack actuated when the hand wheel is turned in
476 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
such a way that the rotary motion of the wheel is transformed to a
reciprocating movement of the rack. The rack is directly attached to
one of the steering knuckles by a drag link coupled to an extension
from one of the steering arms. In a modification of this type a bevel
gear is used at the lower end of the steering post and a bevel-gear
sector is utilized to actuate the drag link. The principle of action is
ront Axle
o*
Steering Knuckle
Fig. 279. How Front Wheels of Motor Cars are Moved. A Conventional
Worm-Gear Reduction Steering Arrangement. B Simple Rack and
Pinion System Used on Light Cars.
the same as in the form described, however, and while either of these
forms may be applied to light cars and make for ready control be-
cause they are quick acting they are not desirable on heavy vehicles
because they do not provide the feature of irreversibility which is
necessary.
The factor of irreversibility in steering gearing is one that was
formerly a point o.f contention among authorities on automobile con-
struction. It was argued that the irreversible form does not provide
that quick action which is considered necessary to secure prompt con-
trol of the car. At the other hand, the strictly reversible gear such as
the spur rack and pinion, which is especially quick acting, will tire
the operator whenever the car is operated on rough roads, as every
inequality of the road service will tend to produce a corresponding
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
477
side motion of the wheel which will mean considerable play at the
rim of the steering wheel.
Some engineers who contended that the worm and sector gear
were liable to wear devised combination forms in which a screw and
Spark Leuer
Throttle Leuer
Steering Post
Bevel Gears
Fig. 280. Unconventional Steering Gear Employing Threaded Steering Post
and Movable Nut with Rack to Engage Sector on Steering Arm Shaft.
nut principle was combined with a rack and sector gear, the object
being to provide a largely increased bearing surface on the threads
and gear teeth and in this manner reduce wear.
A gear of this type is shown at Fig. 280. The nut or internally
478 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
threaded member is held from turning by various methods, such as
flattening one side and having this in contact with the walls of the
casing, by the use of keys or dowel pins, or merely by the pressure
of the rack and sector shown in illustrations. The advantage of this
form of steering gear is that it is wholly irreversible and at the same
time a minimum of effort is needed on the part of the driver to
properly control a very heavy car. The amount of movement of the
nut, up and down, is regulated by the pitch and angle of the thread
and as the nut is provided with a spur rack its rectilinear motion is
transformed into an oscillating movement o'f the steering arm at-
tached to the spur-gear sector.
The worm and segment type of steering gear is without doubt the
most popular with automobile manufacturers of this country and
Europe. It is simple, compact, and positive in action. The steering
post carries a worm at its lower end, as shown at Fig. 281. This
in turn meshes with a suitable worm wheel or segment attached to
the steering arm. The worm when turned will produce a fore and
aft movement of the steering arm which in turn is transmitted to the
wheels by suitable leverage. This type of gear must be maintained
in perfect adjustment and be well lubricated at all times. The great-
est defect is the wear that will exist between the worm and worm-
gear teeth, and the difficulty, of devising any really practical method of
taking up the play. The constant oscillations of the vehicle wheels
will cause the sector teeth and worm thread to wear at one place,
which corresponds to the straightahead position of the gear.
.This may be taken up in most forms by the use of eccentric bush-
ings in which the sector shaft is mounted, these being moved in such
a way that the sector teeth are brought into closer engagement with
the thread of the worm. This method is not desirable because if the
eccentric bushings are turned enough to take up the lost motion
existing between the teeth, the change in worm-gear position would
cause binding between those portions which had not worn as much
and which were brought into play only when it was desired to turn
the wheels to nearly the extreme angular position. The preferred
method is that outlined at Fig. 281. In this a full worm wheel is
used instead of a sector and when wear occurs at one point the worm
wheel is removed, the hand wheel and worm are given a complete turn,
Tlie Modern Gasoline Automobile
479
and the worm wheel is replaced in such a way that a new set of teeth
on both worm and worm gear will be in mesh.
With all conventional forms of steering gears the object has been
to get a complete sweep of the front wheels, that is to turn them
from one extreme position to the other with about one and one half
'Spark Lever Bod
-Throttle Control Tube
-Sector Anchorag-e
Spark Lever
Steering: Post
Worm
Case
Gear
Spark Lever Gear
Throttle Lever Gear
Steering- Arm
Ball Thrust
Fig. 281. Construction of Worm and Worm-Gear Reduction Gearing for Steering
Purposes.
turns of the hand wheel. Anything slower than this will be so tardy
of action that it will be difficult to steer the car properly and quickly
at anything but low speed. On some heavy commercial vehicles, how-
ever, it is necessary to provide lower reduction, and two or two and a
half turns of the steering wheel are sometimes necessary to produce
the proper degree of movement of the front wheels. This is not a
point that can be seriously objected to when one considers the low
speed of the conventional motor truck. On high-speed cars some
authorities claim that one turn of the wheel to produce a full move-
ment of the steering wheel is entirely satisfactory, as it permits han-
dling the car with minimum lag and makes it quick to respond to the
control gearing at all speeds.
It is common practice on most motor cars to combine the motor-
480
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
controlling levers with the steering gear in such a way that the speed
of the motor may be varied as desired without the operator removing
his hands from the steering wheel. The manner in which this may
Steering "Wheel
Spokes
Steering Wheel
Rim
Spark Lever
Throttle Lever
Fixed Sector
Steering Post Tu
Attached to Worm
Spark Time Lever
Throttle Lever
Spark Lever
Control SfTaft
Central Rod for
Spark Control
Worm
Worm Gear Sector
Worm Gear Case
Bevel Gears
?cvci \_rcaio
Ball Thrust
Ball Joint DragLink Bearing
Fig. 282. Typical Steering Post Assembly Showing Hand Wheel and Motor
Controlling Levers. Sectional View of Worm and Worm Wheel and
Steering Arm Connecting Member.
be accomplished is clearly shown in the steering-gear design depicted
at Fig. 2*82. In this the steering wheel is attached to a tubular
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 481
steering post, through the center of which a rod mounted inside of
two concentric tubes is passed. The outer tube is anchored at the
bottom end of the steering-gear casing and carries the sector on which
the spark and throttle levers move. The short lever is attached to
the rod passing through the center of the assembly,, and this in turn
actuates by means of bevel gearing an auxiliary control shaft mounted
in front of the steering-gear assembly. The long lever is attached to
the tube which surrounds the central rod, and this member also carries
a gear at its lower end which engages a tube surrounding the spark-
lever control shaft at the front of the steering gear. The spark
timer or commutator is attached to the upper lever while the car-
buretor throttle is operated from the lever immediately below that
controlling the spark-timing device.
As the sector is anchored at the lower end of the gear case it
remains stationary when the steering wheel is turned and the motor-
control levers always maintain a fixed relation to each other and the
operator. All gearing is enclosed and thoroughly lubricated, and as
there is but little chance for dirt to get in, the mechanism is
very enduring. Ball-thrust bearings are provided above and below
the worm to take the end thrust which results when it is turned.
This makes the gearing much easier to operate than would be the case
if the considerable amount of end thrust present was taken on plain
bearings.
Front Axle Forms. Various front axle constructions used in auto-
mobiles follow a common design and the same general principle of
action prevails in all. Front axles differ from each other only in
matters of minor constructional detail, such as the type of steering
knuckles used and whether the axle is a one-piece forging or a built-
up structure. Axles of good design are shown at Fig. 283. That at
A is composed of a one-piece I-section drop forging of steel which
has the advantage of having the steering-knuckle yokes and the
spring pads formed integral. This is the type most generally used
because it is exceptionally strong and when properly designed is not
unnecessarily heavy.
One of the front hubs is shown in section in the plan view of the
axle depicted at A. The hub is mounted on ball bearings, which in
turn are supported by the spindle which forms part of the steering
482
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
knuckle. A long through bolt passes through the steering knuckle
and acts as a bearing for it to swivel on. Steering arms project
from each knuckle and are joined together by a tiebar.
The construction of the axle depicted at B is practically the same
in general design as that shown above it. It differs in the important
Spring: Pad
Dragr Link Ar
TOP VIEW
Steering 1 Arm
Steering- Knuckle
>1 Forging-
SIDE VIEW
teering Knuckle
Wheel Hub \\ Steering- Arm S P rin ^ Seat
Steel Tube
Tie Bar
Steering-
Spindle
Fie. 283. Typical Front Axle Types. A Forging of I Section. B Tubular
Axle.
respect that the axle proper is formed of a piece of . steel tubing to
which the separately forged yokes and spring seats are secured by
brazing. Those .who favor the tubular axle claim greater flexibility
and lightness combined with adequate strength, while the adherents
of the I-beam construction advance the argument of exceptional
strength and contend that flexibility is not a point of moment com-
pared to rigidity of the structure. As a general rule, tubular axles
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
483
are employed on light cars, while the heavier forged form is utilized
extensively on the larger vehicles. Various forms of steering
knuckles and bearings used for mounting the front wheel are shown
at Fig. 284. At A an Elliot type knuckle, which is provided with
a roller-thrust bearing at its upper end to take the thrust due to the
weight of the car, is shown. The wheel hub is mounted on taper-
roller bearings secured to the spindle in the usual manner. Another
Spindle Pin
Roller \
Bearing-
Ta
Steering Knuckle
Bolt
Wheel Hub
Steering
Spindle
Fig. 284. Typical Front Hub and Steering Knuckle Designs. A Elliot Type
Hub with Taper Roller Bearings. B Front Hub Mounted on New Depar-
ture "Radax" Ball Bearings. C Mercedes Type Steering Knuckle,
Hub Mounted on Single and Double Row Bearings.
Elliot knuckle is depicted at B, but in this construction the front hub
is supported on ball bearings of the cup and cone type. The steering
knuckle depicted at C is a modification of the Mercedes design, and
in this the yoke forms part of the wheel spindle and oscillates on a
pin carried by the end of the forged steel axle. Special attention
is directed to the form of ball bearings utilized for supporting this
hub. Practically all of the weight is taken by a large New Depart-
ure double purpose bearing specially adapted to support both end
thrust and radial loads. This forms a very effective bearing and is
often used at points in the motor-car chassis where severe loads are
to be resisted. The general construction of these steering knuckles
and the mode of application of the bearings on wtiich the hubs re-
volve are so clearly shown that further description is not necessary.
Typical Power Transmission Systems. One of the factors making
for motor-car efficiency is the system of transmission employed by
which the power delivered by the engine is transmitted to the rear
484 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
wheels, and the most efficient system is obviously that which will
deliver the power to the rear wheels with minimum loss. The com-
mon methods of power transmission are outlined at Fig. 285. That
at A is the system formerly used on many light cars which derived
their power from a single-cylinder engine placed lengthwise in the
chassis. The drive from the sprocket on the planetary gearset is by
means of a chain to a. sprocket on the differential gear of the rear
axle. This was one of the most direct methods of transmission
possible and was remarkably efficient as long as the chain was kept
clean, properly oiled, and in correct adjustment. The efficiency of
this arrangement was very high, and about ninety per cent of the en-
gine power was delivered to the wheels on the direct drive and about
seventy-five per cent when the planetary gearset was in operation.
The system shown at B was formerly very popular on all classes
of touring cars, but is seldom used at the present time except in
heavy commercial vehicles. With this system the differential gear
is carried adjacent to the gearset and driving shafts extend therefrom
to sprockets at each side of the frame. The drive from the counter-
shaft member is by means of driving chains to sprockets on each rear
wheel. The wheels are mounted so they revolve on a stationary axle.
It is believed that this construction is stronger than the live axle
for heavy vehicles, and it, is also used because it permits the designer
to obtain a double reduction and very low ratios of speed, which
make it very suitable for motor-truck service. The efficiency of this
method of driving is lower than that in which either chains or gears
are used alone, and even when the gearset is in the direct drive
position or high-speed ratio there is a loss of twenty-five per cent in
transmission, which gives a net efficiency of seventy-five per cent under
most favorable conditions. When on the lower ratios, which demand
the use of the change-speed gearing, the efficiency is reduced to about
sixty per cent.
Various forms of shaft-drive systems are popular at the present
time and the two methods of employing shafts differ merely in detail.
In the diagram shown at Fig. 285, C, two universal joints are em-
ployed and a length of driving shaft. One of these joints is mounted
at the end of the gear box on the power plant unit, while the other
flexible member is attached to the differential housing. The drive
Clutch Driving Chain
Fig. 285. Methods of Power Transmission Employed by Motor Car Designers.
A Single Chain Drive from Planetary Gearset to Live Rear Axle.
LB Side Chain System. C Drive by Exposed Shaft Having Two Uni-
versal Joints. D Drive Shaft Enclosed in Torque Tube Needs but One
Universal Joint.
485
486
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
from the shaft to the wheels may be by bevel or worm gearing and
when this system is employed it is necessary to use some form of
radius rod member to keep the axle in proper relation with the frame.
When the method depicted at D is employed but one universal
joint is needed. The driving shaft is encased in a tubular member
usually attached to the frame in such a manner that it serves as a
radius member and permits the axle to move up and down under the
influence of rough road surfaces, but does not permit end movement
of the axle. The efficiency of the shaft-driving systems is very high
compared to the double-chain drive and as all parts are always en-
Propeller Shaft
Straight Line Transmission
Drive pi y wheel
Fig. 286. Chassis of Knox Car, in which Straight-Line Driving Shaft is Utilized,
which Permits Power Transmission with but Minimum Loss.
closed and run in lubricant the efficiency may be conserved. While
the power loss with a bevel-gear and shaft-driving system is apt to be
a little higher than the single-chain method when both are new,
deterioration is apt to be more rapid in the chain-driven cars. If
care is taken to install the power plant so the propeller shaft will be
on a straight line with the engine crank shaft, as depicted at Fig. 286,
but fifteen per cent of the power will be lost in transmission. If the
driving-shaft angle increases the efficiency will be lower. A safe rule
for estimating this is given by some authorities as one per cent loss
for each degree of shaft inclination.
Rear Axle Forms. In any motor car the rear axle, is an impor-
tant member as it combines two functions, one being that it is de-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 487
pended upon to support part of the car weight and that it must also
drive the vehicle. The rear axle forms in common use are known
as the " live " or " dead " types. The latter is the simplest and is
built on the same principle as that generally utilized in horse-drawn
vehicles. This construction serves merely to support the weight
of the car and the power of the engine is delivered to the wheels
by means previously described.
Two types of live axles are shown at Fig. 287. That at A is
the simplest form and in this the wheel hubs are mounted directly
on the axle shaft, and these members are depended upon to carry the
weight of the car as well as to transmit to the wheels the power de-
livered to the bevel gearing and the propeller shaft. In this construc-
tion the axles revolve in roller bearings carried by the axle housing.
The form shown at B is known as the " floating type " because the
wheel hubs are mounted directly on the substantial housing member
which is called upon to support the weight of the car. The wheels
can revolve freely on the housing because they are mounted on ball
bearings. The axles float in the housing and are called upon only to
transmit power to the hubs and are not depended upon to sustain
any of the car weight.
The live axle depicted at A has been adapted to a certain extent
on light cars, but the full floating type depicted at B is much more
efficient and is used on heavy vehicles. It will be evident that should
the simple form of live axle deflect under load the shafts will bind
and considerable loss of power will obtain. In the construction out-
lined at B the substantial housing members have ample capacity to
sustain the load, and as the driving shaft does not become cramped
through deflection it will deliver the power to the wheels much more
efficiently. A strong advantage of the floating type rear axle is that
the driving shafts and differential gearing may be removed without
relieving the housing of the car weight. If it is desired to take the
simple live axle shown at A apart it will be necessary to remove it
from the car.
The fixed or stationary axle construction is clearly shown at Fig.
287, C. In this the wheel hubs are mounted on ball bearings which
permit them to revolve about the fixed axle spindle. The hubs are
turned by chain connection with suitable driving sprockets on a coun-
488
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
tershaft. The advantage of the fixed or stationary axle construction
is that it is a much simpler assembly than the live axle forms, and
as it may be constructed of few pieces it is apt to be considerably
Ball Thrust
Roller Bearings
Driving Gears
B JJIL / BallBeann S Brake Drum
Axle Housing m^-feL ^-Driving Gears
Stationary "Wheel Spindle
Fig. 287. Rear Axle Types Generally Used. A Live Rear Axle Using Shafts
which Transmit Power and also Carry Weight Equipped with Roller Bear-
ings. B Full Floating Type Bevel-Gear Drive Axle. C Stationary Axle
with Chain Drive to Free Wheels.
stronger than the built up live axles. It is contended that the lighter
axle, which is practically free from any delicate mechanism,, is more
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
489
desirable because there is less weight carried directly on the tires.
In the live axle forms some method of driving must be provided and
some form of differential gearing must be included in the rear hous-
ing. It is contended that while this construction is very suitable for
light cars such as roadsters,, or touring vehicles, that it would be
extremely heavy if it was built of adequate strength to resist the
stresses incidental to motor-truck operation.
In the fixed or stationary axle with the wheels independent of
each other,, a differential gear must be provided just as much as in
the live axle forms. This member is usually driven by gearing and
must be installed on some form of a countershaft arrangement which
evel Gear Housing
of Driving: Axle
Stationary Load Carrying Axle
Fig. 288. Combined Live and Stationary Axle which Combines Good Features
of Both Types and Eliminates All Objections to Either. The Strongest
Possible Construction.
is attached to the frame. It is contended that mechanism supported
by the frame which is mounted on resilient springs will not be so
apt to get out of order as that which is attached directly to the axle,
and which is kept from direct stress of the road shock only by
means of the more or less resilient tires with which the wheels are
provided.
Axles have been evolved in which engineers sought to combine
490 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
the strength of the dead axle with the efficiency of the live axle. One
of these combinations is shown at Fig. 288. It consists of a sta-
tionary load-carrying axle forging on which the wheels revolve, this
serving to take the direct load of the car as well as serving as a
support, for the bevel gear and differential housing that receives the
power of the engine and directs it to the wheels by means of suitable
shafts extending thereto from each side of the gear box. These com-
posite forms are necessarily considerably heavier than either the live
axle or the fixed axle forms as they are a combination of both, and
as they are more expensive in first cost and add a large item to the
unsprung weight of the car they are used very seldom at the present
time.
Purpose of Differential Gear. One of the most important elements
of any form of automobile-driving system is the differential gear, but
as this is usually placed at a point where it is not easily seen by the
motorist and as but very little trouble is experienced from this
mechanism, many owners of cars are not aware of its existence and
do not realize the important work performed by this relatively simple
component. Without a differential gear it would be difficult to con-
trol the machine when driving around corners, so this really performs
an important function with both steering and driving systems.
When turning corners with a four-wheel vehicle the outer wheels
must turn at a higher rate of speed than the inner ones because they
are describing a larger arc of the circle. The more sharply the
vehicle is turned the greater the difference in velocity between the
inner and outer wheels. In a horse-drawn conveyance all the wheels
are independent of each other and may all revolve at different speeds
if necessary, without interfering with each other or impairing the ac-
tion of the conveyance. In an automobile different conditions prevail
because while the front wheels are usually independent of each other,
the driving wheels must be connected together so that each will receive
its share of the energy produced by the motor and will perform its
quota of the work incidental to propelling the vehicle.
In order to permit one of the driving wheels to turn at a lower
speed than its mate in rounding a corner the balance or differential
gear is used. Its simplest application is shown at Fig. 289. From
this it is patent that the driving axle is split in the center and that
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
491
the wheels are mounted on and driven by distinct shafts. At the
inner end of each shaft a bevel gear is carried, these being firmly se-
cured to the axles so they revolve with them. The main bevel-driven
gear, which is actuated by the driving pinion turned by the engine
Differential
Pinions
Driving Pinion
Axle Shaft No. 1
Gear No. 1
Differential
Pinion
Driven Gear
Fig. 289. Illustrating Differential Gear Action when Applied to Bevel-Gear
Drive Axle.
shaft, is mounted independent of the axles and is .coupled to them
by means of small bevel pinions which are applied so that they will
drive the gears on the axle shafts. Assuming that all the gears are in
mesh, as outlined, and that power is being applied to the driven gear,
and that the resistance to traction is the same at both rear wheels,
the entire assembly comprised of driven gear, the differential pinions
attached to it and the axle shafts revolve as a unit.
If the resistance against the driving wheels varies so one wheel
tends to revolve faster than the other, the differential pinions will
not only turn around on the studs on which they are mounted, but at
the same time will run around the gears on the axle shafts, because
the bevel-driven gear is carrying the studs on which the differential
pinions revolve forward. When turning a corner the outer wheel
must turn so much faster than the inner member that it is just the
same as though one of the wheels was held stationary and the other
492 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
turned. If both wheels are turning forward at the same speed, the
differential pinions remain stationary and act simply as a lock
which fomis a driving connection between gear No. 1 on axle shaft-
No. 1 and gear No. 2 on axle shaft No. 2. This will mean that both
wheels must turn in the same direction as long as the work is uni-
formly distributed. Just as soon as the resistances are unequal the
differential pinions will turn on their supporting stud, and one mem-
ber may turn at comparatively slow speed while the other revolves at
a much faster rate.
The action of the differential pinions may be clearly understood
by reference to Fig. 289 and giving due consideration to the follow-
ing principles: The same resistance at the point of contact between
the driving wheels and the ground prevents the pinions from revolv-
ing on their own studs, and in this case they are carried around by
the supporting members and the ring gear. If the resistance upon
axle shaft No. 1 is greater than that on axle shaft No. 2, the ring
gear will rotate forward with the wheel offering the least resistance
and the differential pinions will turn on their studs and run over the
surface of the gear which tends to remain stationary, this being the
one against which there is the greatest resistance. The differential
pinions can thus turn independently of one gear wheel and run over
its surface without turning it, and at the same time act as a clutch-
ing member of sufficient capacity on the other gear and axle to carry
them in the same direction as the ring gear and at a ratio of speed
which will depend upon the difference in resistance between the driv-
ing members and the ground.
While the differential gear described is of the bevel pinion type,
other forms have been devised in which the differential action is
obtained by means of spur gearing which utilizes the same principle
of compensation. Various friction and leverage combinations have
been adapted in an endeavor to secure a differential action, but these
have eventually been displaced by the simpler and more efficient
geared forms. The differential gear which utilizes bevel pinions is
the form that is more generally used, and has proved to be the most
efficient and enduring. The differential gear is usually incorporated
in the rear axle if the drive is by shaft or single chain, and in the
countershaft if transmission is by means of side chains. The con-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
493
struction of typical differential gears and bevel-driving gear assembly
is clearly shown at Figs. 290 and 291 ; the former is utilized on light
vehicles and is mounted on flexible roller bearings, while the other
Bevel Gear
Eoller Bearing
Housing-
Differential Gears
Fig. 290. Bevel-Gear Drive Assembly of Ford Light Cars Mounted on Hyatt
Flexible Roller Bearings.
construction is a type more suitable for heavier cars and is mounted
on tapered roller bearings.
Worm-Gear Driving. A number of designers have used worm
gearing in connection with shaft-driving systems instead of the bevel
gears so generally adapted. The greatest development of worm driv-
ing has taken place abroad, and very efficient and enduring mech-
anisms have been evolved. The advantages of the worm gear are
more apparent in motor-truck construction than in pleasure-car prac-
tice, though it has been used to advantage in both classes of vehicles.
A high degree of efficiency has been obtained by using worms of
peculiar tooth formation which have a spiral angle often approaching
45 degrees. Such worms may have from six to ten or twelve threads,
494
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
and they are perfectly reversible, when contrasted to the single-
threaded worm used in steering gears, which are an irreversible form.
Obviously the worm employed for driving an automobile must be
perfectly reversible to be practical, as very often conditions will be
Bevel Driving Gear
Axle S
Pinion Drive Shaft
Bevel Driving Pinion
Axle Shaft
Axle Housing
Differential Gearing
Taper Roller Bearing
Housing Cover
Fig. 291. Bevel-Gear Drive Assembly Mounted on Timken Tapered Roller
Bearings.
such that the rear wheels and worm gear to which they are attached
must turn the worm and driving shaft, as in descending hills, with
the rear axle overrunning the engine.
This form of gearing offers many inducements and has positive
advantages which commend it as a means of direct final drive. Any
range of reduction that would be likely to be needed may be obtained
with but a single pair of worm gears, and reductions of twenty to one
may be as easily accomplished as securing the higher ratios without
the efficiency of the combination being affected. It would not be
possible to obtain as low speed reduction as possible with worm gear-
ing by the use of a single set of bevel gears or a single pair of sprockets
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
495
and chain connections, because the driven member would have to be
of such large size that it would be difficult to place it within the
confines of an ordinary axle. It is for this reason that most motor-
truck manufacturers use a combined bevel gear and chain drive and
a double reduction of speed between the engine and the rear wheel.
Among some of the advantages advanced in favor of worm gear-
ing may be cited: It is silent in operation; when properly designed
it will transmit eighty-five to ninety per cent cf the engine power to
the rear wheels on direct drive, and it is extremely enduring. Its
efficiency under ideal conditions is equal to the most accurately ma-
chined and finely adjusted bevel gearing, and instead of the efficiency
becoming less as the gearing wears, it actually becomes more silent
and freer running with use.
Many of the more progressive manufacturers of automobiles are
giving the worm and worm-gear drive that consideration which means
its eventual adoption. It has been used with success in pleasure-car
applications, but its greatest field of usefulness will undoubtedly be
Drive Shaft.
Thrust Bearings.
-Worm.
Torque
Member,
Fig. 292. Worm-Gear Driving Assembly Utilized on Pierce Motor Trucks and
Form of Worm and Worm Wheel Utilized in Power Transmission.
the commercial vehicle industry because of its undoubted superiority
over all other forms of gearing from which considerable reductions
in ratio are demanded and where the efficiency of the transmission
system should be conserved as much as possible. A typical worm-
gear assembly and the method of mounting the worm in connection
with the shaft drive is shown at Fig. 292, while the illustration at
496
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
Fig. 293 shows clearly the application of worm and worm-wheel drive
in a live or floating axle construction.
Worm.
^Worm Casing.
Worm
Ball Thrust Bearing.
Radial Load Bearing
Spring Pad.
_ SS\ / ^
Truss Rod.
Felloe
Fig. 293. Worm-Gear Driving Axle Used on Dennis (English) Motor Cars.
Axles Employing Double Reduction Gearing. The simplest form
of axle in which two gear reductions are necessary is the stationary
or dead axle, but it must be used with the jack-shaft combination
previously described. There is one gear reduction by means of bevel
driving gearing in the countershaft assembly, and the ratio between
the driving sprockets and the driven members attached to the .wheel
may be altered so a wide range of speed may be obtained. The use
of a separate countershaft assembly is favored by the majority of
builders of motor cars who find it necessary to use two speed reduc-
tions in ,the driving gearing, and one of the objections which has
been advanced against the use of exposed driving chains has been
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
497
overcome in many designs by the use of oil -tight chain cases that
protect both chains and sprockets from grit and dirt and insure effi-
cient operation because the chains operate in an oil bath.
If a driving chain is kept properly adjusted and remains clean
and well oiled its efficiency will be very high, and chain cases are
very desirable attachments to attain these ends. The usual form of
chain case is depicted at Fig. 294. In this construction the case
proper is composed of an aluminum casting which is also utilized as
a distance member to maintain a fixed relation between the front
sprocket and that on the driving wheel. When the cover is in place
Driving Chain
Chain Case
Front Sprocket
Wheel Sprocket
Fig. 294. Method of Enclosing Driving Chain in Oil-Tight Casing to Secure
Efficient Driving and Long Life of Mechanism.
the assembly is oil-tight and the chain and sprockets always receive
adequate lubrication, which tends to greater endurance and main-
tenance of efficiency.
Some engineers do not favor the chain-driving method, and when
a double speed reduction is necessary between the motor and the
driving wheels it is incorporated directly in the rear-axle structure.
A combination axle of this type, known as the " Torbensen," is de-
picted at Fig. 295. This is in reality a combination of the live and
dead axle forms and has been designed specifically for application in
motor-truck work. The differential gear is carried in the casing
attached to the back of the fixed axle and receives power from the
engine through the drive shaft and a pair of bevel gears. The wheels
are mounted directly on the ends of the fixed axle and are driven from
498
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
the differential gear by means of axles extending therefrom and
carrying driving pinions of the spur type which mesh with internal
Spok
-e VBrake Band
Wheel Hub
Fig. 295. Sectional View of Torbensen Axle for Motor Trucks which Combines
Features of Both "Live" and "Dead" Rear Axle Forms and which Utilizes
Two Driving Gearing Sets.
gears attached to the wheels. It will be evident that one reduction
of speed is obtained at the bevel gearing, and this would be further
Drive Shaft.
I I I ?=| g -lfll Floating Axle.
Fig. 296. Live Rear Axle with Combined Bevel-and Spur-Gear Final Drive.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 499
reduced by the difference in ratios between the spur-driving pinions
and the internal gears carried by the wheels.
The live-axle form shown at Fig. 296 is that used on some of the
Peugeot (French) cars and also uses bevel and spur reduction gears.
In this case, however, but one spur gear is used to drive 'both wheels,
this being attached directly to the differential gear case, and the
wheels are turned by live floating axles. The first speed reduction is
by means of the bevel gears, one of which is driven by the motor, the
other being attached to the countershaft, which also carries the small
spur-driving pinion, which meshes with the large gear on the dif-
ferential case. The efficiency of either of these axles will be about
the same as that- of the combination countershaft and side-chain
drives, but those who favor the latter construction advance the argu-
ment that combining a double reduction on the axle makes for greater
unsprung weight than is desirable, whereas carrying the countershaft
on the frame makes it possible to support it on springs, just as the
greater part of the power-generating and transmission mechanism is.
Utility of Motor-Car Brakes. One of the most important of the
components of the motor-car controlling system is usually carried
with and forms part of the rear construction, this being the braking
means which is utilized to bring the vehicle to a stop when it is de-
sired to arrest forward or backward motion. It will be evident that
in a horse-drawn vehicle the animal drawing it can be used as a
brake, but that in any form of self-propelling conveyance it is essen-
tial that some means of stopping be included in the construction.
Even if the clutch was operated in such a way that the motor was
disconnected from the driving wheels the conveyance would continue
to move because it had acquired a certain momentum which would
increase in value with the weight of the car and the speed at which
it was driven.
On some forms of horse-drawn vehicles, particularly those of
large capacity, some form of supplemental retarding member must
be provided to assist the braking effect of the animal, which may not
be sufficient to stop the vehicle when descending grades or when
operated with some degree of speed on the level.
A simple form of shoe brake, such as used on a horse-drawn-con-
veyance, is shown at Fig. 297, This consists of a brake block of
500
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
wood or other material carried at the end of a fulcrumed lever, which
in turn is joined to a pedal by a connecting link. When it is desired
to bring the vehicle to a stop, a moderate degree of pressure at the
Brake Block
Steel Tire.
Fig. 297. Simple Form of Shoe Brake Used on Horse-Drawn Vehicles.
foot pedal will bring the brake block in contact with the periphery
of the wheel, and but a very moderate amount of pressure suffices to
lock the wheel in a positive manner. This construction could not be
very well applied to motor vehicles, because the action of the shoe
against the rubber tire would be apt to produce rapid depreciation of
these costly elements. For this reason the brakes of automobiles are
especially designed so that they will wear instead of producing deteri-
oration of the points to which they are applied.
Forms of Motor-Car Brakes. The braking members generally used
on automobiles may be divided into two classes, each of these depend-
ing upon * the property of frictional adhesion between substances held
together by considerable pressure. The usual construction is to
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
501
attach a drum to some portion of the change-speed mechanism, to
the differential gear or to the wheels themselves. At the present
time most engineers favor applying the brakes directly to the driv-
ing wheels, and pressed-steel drums are usually fastened to these
members, against which the brake acts. The retarding effect may be
obtained either by an internal expanding shoe brake or by an external
contracting band brake.
The principal forms are outlined at Fig. 298. That at A con-
sists of an internal expanding member consisting of two shoes which
Fig. 298. Internal and External Band Brakes Used on Motor Car Wheels.
conform to the arc of the brake drums. These are spread apart
and brought into forcible contact with the drums by means of a
simple lever and toggle linkage. Another method of expanding the
internal band so it will engage the inner surface of the drum is out-
502
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
lined at B. In this the toggle linkage is replaced by a cam which is
rocked by the lever to force the brake shoes apart when it is moved
in one direction, and permits them to close up and release the drum
when it is rocked the other way.
-External Brake
Internal Service Brake
Internal
Emergency Brake
Fig. 299. Typical Automobile Brake Forms. A Two Internal Bands.
B Double Expanding Type. C External and Internal Brake Combination.
The brake shown at C consists of a steel band which is lined with
some friction material possessing considerable resistance to heat, such
as asbestos-wire fabric. The band is attached to a double-bell crank
lever in such a way that it will be brought into forcible engagement
with the external surface of the drum if the end of the lever is
moved in the direction of the arrow. Another form of band brake
is depicted at Fig. 298, D. This is a much more efficient form than
that outlined at C and it has great holding power. The band may
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
503
be adjusted as the friction material wears, and thus the brake may
be always kept in perfect adjustment.
The methods in which the brakes are usually mounted in auto-
mobiles are clearly shown at Fig. 299. At A two internal expanding
bands are mounted inside of each brake drum, one pair of these being
connected to a pedal and used as a service brake, while the other is
attached to a hand lever and is depended upon as an emergency or
Wheel:
Fig. 300. Typical Automobile Brake Assembly with Rear Wheel Removed to
Show Application of Brake Drum to Wheel and Internal and External Bands
on End of Axle.
auxiliary braking member. The cast shoes are hinged at their lower
end and are faced with friction material. They are spread by means
of cam expanders, and when the shoes are spread apart they engage
504
The Modem Gasoline Automobile
the inner portion of the brake drums with considerable force and
retard its motion. The brakes shown at B are similar in operation
to those outlined at A, and the assembly is presented merely to show
the relation of the brake shoes to the axle on which they are mounted.
A combination of internal expanding and external constricting brakes
is shown at Fig. 299, C. This is a very common method of construc-
tion and is found on many cars. The inner brakes are usually de-
pended on for emergency service, while the outer brakes, which may
be more easily applied, are used for braking under ordinary condi-
tions. A common brake drum serves both brakes, as the expanding
member will engage the inner periphery, while the external band will
contract around the outer face of the drum. The method of install-
ing the brake on a typical motor-car rear construction is shown at
Fig. 300.
The braking members in automobiles have been mounted on both
front and rear wheels, on the jack shaft of a double-chain driven car,
Pressure Pins
Ball Bearing
Brake Discs
Fig. 301. Rear Hub of Metz Car Showing Multiple-Disk Brake.
or on the propeller shaft of a bevel- or worm-gear drive, arrangement.
Brakes are not always of the internal or external band form, some
designers having used other combinations to obtain the same results.
The multiple-disk brake employed on the Metz car is shown at Fig.
301. In this a series of disks is attached to and revolves with the
wheel hub, while another group is fixed to the stationary axle.
Pressure "is brought to bear against one of the fixed disks by means
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 505
of pressure pins passing through one of the wheel-supporting cones,
and this is in turn communicated by each disk to its neighbor. The
same object is attained as in a multiple-disk clutch and a larger
amount of braking surface is obtained by using a comparatively large
number of small diameter disks instead of two larger members, which
might not have as much effective surface. Multiple-disk brakes have
been used to some extent on foreign cars, but this is the only instance
to the writer's knowledge where they have been applied on a domestic
product.
Side slipping or skidding is one of the dangers of motoring on
highways which may have a slippery surface. If one turns the corner
of a wet asphalt, macadam, or clay pavement a certain amount of
side-slipping action will be evident, and if the brake be applied at
this time this skidding tendency will be accentuated. The skidding
tendency of a self-propelled vehicle is most noticeable when the brakes
are applied suddenly to the rear wheels, and it is evident by a swing-
ing movement at the rear end of the car which tends to bring the
braking wheels around to the front in the direction in which the car
is moving. Various means have been proposed to eliminate this side-
slip action, and numerous forms of tire chains, studded tire treads
or treads with knobs or other projections of rubber molded integral
with them have been devised to minimize the skidding tendency.
Application of Front-Wheel Brakes. A number of foreign engi-
neers have applied brakes to the front wheels instead of the rear
members to reduce the skidding action. It is claimed that the appli-
cation of brakes to the steering members instead of the driving mem-
bers will eliminate the skidding tendency, because the braking action
would be on the wheels which were already at the front end and
pointing in the direction in which the car was moving. There are
a number of disadvantages which militate against the general adop-
tion of front-wheel brakes, these being of a nature which makes them
extremely difficult to surmount successfully.
In the first place, it is rather difficult to mount the brakes on
the steering knuckles and operate them from a fixed portion of the
car. Then, again, the usual front axle, as designed at the present
time, is not adequate to resist the torsional stresses which obtain
when the motion of the car is stopped by arresting the rotation of
506 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
the front wheel, and some form of torque member would have to be
provided to take care of this strain. This would mean considerable
mechanical complication which is not necessary, as when the brakes
are applied on the rear wheels one common member may be used to
take both braking and driving torque stresses, and this member would
be needed, even if the brakes were applied to the front wheels, in
order to take care of the driving torque.
If brakes are applied to all four wheels, some arrangement must
be provided by which the front-wheel brakes could be applied first
to do away with the tendency to skidding, while the rear brakes would
be called upon to add to the braking effort already provided. The
principal difficulty in fitting up front-wheel brakes is in the arrange-
ment of the operating parts. These must be attached to the vehicle
frame at one end, and must also be supported on the axle at the
other, and as the axle is free to move relative to the frame it will
be evident that the problem of providing a flexible and positive brak-
ing connection will be made more difficult of solution when one con-
siders that some provision must be made for the angularity of the
wheels when turning corners. This would mean that the operating
mechanism on one, side .must shorten, while that at the other side
must lengthen in some way to compensate for the difference in angu-
larity of the brake drums. Whatever form of brake actuation is
used it must be designed so these members will be applied with
equal force and at the same time in each wheel. This problem is
not a difficult one when the brakes are attached to the rear axle, but
it is not easy to operate front-wheel brakes in a positive manner and
insure that each will be applied with equal force.
Various forms of front-wheel brakes are shown at Fig. 302. The
design shown at A is a cam-expanded shoe which is mounted on an
extension of the steering spindle. The cam is rocked .by means of
a lever attached to it, which is moved by a pin passing down through
the steering knuckle bolt and resting against the end of a bell-crank
form of brake lever carried by the axle. When the brake lever is
moved the movement of the end against which the pin rests is trans-
mitted to the cam which spreads the shoe by means of the pin pass-
ing through the steering knuckle. Another form of cam-expanding
brake is 'outlined at B. In this the cam is rocked by a lever which
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
507
passes down to the bottom of the steering spindle, where it is coupled
to the operating gear by means of a steel-wire cable passing around
a roll at the end of the steering-knuckle bolt designed to give a cer-
Cam Lever
Cam
Fig. 302. Types of Front- Wheel Brakes that Have Been Used on British Auto-
mobiles Showing Novel and Ingenious Methods of Brake Actuation.
tain degree of universal motion. The shoes are kept from rubbing
against the inner face of the drum by a coil spring joining the upper
508 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
extremities of the shoes to keep them in contact with the cam face.
The brake shoes are supported at the bottom in adjustable yokes
which may be moved out to compensate for wear of the brake-shoe
surfaces.
The method outlined at C is that used in the Argyl (Scotch)
motor car. In this form the brakes are operated directly from the
frame side instead of by bell cranks or wire cables attached to the
axle. The brake is a cam-expanded shoe type,. the cam being moved
by a brake-operating rod, extending from the frame-side member to
the top of the fixed member employed to carry the brake band which
forms part of the steering knuckle. The brake-operating rod is pro-
vided with a pair of double ball-and-socket universal joints and is
operated by means of a small lever attached directly inside of the
frame-side member.
Front-wheel brakes have not been used to any extent on American
motor cars, but they have been applied in quite a number of instances
abroad. The advantages advanced by the English designers for this
peculiar form of brake are chiefly centered around the factor of
eliminating skidding and of being more accessible and easier to adjust
than the rear-wheel brakes. Against these advantages one may ad-
vance the disadvantages of complicated operating mechanism, the
possibility of unequal braking effort, and the interference with posi-
tive and correct steering should some one of the universal operating
rods become stuck in such a way that it would not permit the wheel
to turn as it should.
CHAPTER X
Wheels, Rims, and Tires Wood and Wire Wheels Compared Resilient or
Spring Wheels Advantages of Pneumatic Tires Pneumatic Tire Con-
struction Outlined Forms of Tire Treads Tire Protectors and Non-
Skid Attachments Demountable Rim Forms Features of Cushion Tires
Solid Tire Types Tools and Supplies for Tire Restoration Faults of
Tires and Their Elimination Apparatus for Tire Repairing.
BEFORE considering the forms of various tires and rims in general
use, it will be well to give the subject of wheel construction some
consideration. These are a very important element of the motor-car
chassis and much of the safety and comfort of the occupants of the
vehicle depends upon the proper selection of wheels of sufficient size
and adequate strength. At the present time the wood wheel is the
most popular form in use in this country, though abroad considerable
attention is being paid to the development of wire and metal wheels.
The first form of wheel to be appJied to automobiles was pat-
terned after the forms used on bicycles, as it was thought that many
of the same engineering principles applied equally well to both forms
of conveyances; and as many of the early designers and builders of
motor cars were formerly in the bicycle industry, it seems but natural
that they should attempt to apply some of the experience gained in
that field to the newer one of automobile construction. Wire wheels
were soon supplemented by wood wheels of the artillery type, because
these were very strong and presented an appearance that was not un-
conventional because it did not differ very much from the wheels
generally used on horse-drawn vehicles.
Characteristics of Wooden Wheels. Two forms of wooden wheels
have been applied to automobile service. The first to be used em-
ployed a Sarven type hub which did not prove strong enough, and
was later succeeded by the artillery type. The Sarven wheel is the
form that is widely used on light carriages and wagons, and in this
construction the spokes are forced into suitable holes made to receive
509
510 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
them and held in a wooden hub, and the whole assembly of hub, spokes
and felloe are held together by shrinking a steel tire around the
assembled wheel. This was supplemented by some form of rim
adapted to take a rubber tire when used for automobile work. The
Fig. 303. Wooden Portions of Artillery Type Automobile Wheel.
Sarven type hub did not prove satisfactory on vehicles of the self-
propelling form, except on very light motor buggies where the drive
was by side chain to a sprocket attached to the spokes.
Some attempts were made to use this type of wheel on live axles
by driving in, a metal bushing in which the keyway by which the
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
511
wheel was secured to the axle was formed. Considerable trouble was
experienced by the metal bushings coming loose in the hubs and
failing to drive the wheel. Then, again, the Sarven t}^pe wheel was
not strong enough to stand the side thrusts of the heavier automobiles,
and was soon replaced by the form at present used, in which a metal
hub forms the center of the spoke and
felloe assembly.
The wooden parts of the artillery
wheel are depicted at Fig. 303, while
the construction of the hub can be very
clearly understood by referring to
drawings in preceding chapter. The
ends of the spokes which fit between
the hub flanges are wedge shape and
are so formed that they will fit closely
together when assembled to produce a
complete circle of wood which is sand-
wiched between the wheel-hub flanges,
held together by bolts passing through
them and the spokes. The outer end
of the spokes is turned down to fit
holes bored into the arcs that com-
prise the felloe. The wheel assem-
bly is held together in much the
same manner as that employed in
carriage-wheel construction, excepting
that the steel rim is usually provided
with hook section flanges made to
hold the clincher tire generally used.
A complete wooden-wheel assembly
with hub, demountable clincher rim,
and pneumatic tire is shown at Fig.
304.
Wire and Metal Wheels. At the present time automobile engi-
neers seem agreed that second-growth hickory is the only wood that
can be used successfully in automobile-wheel construction, but it is
'becoming more difficult to obtain this material as the production of
Fig. 304. Complete Artillery-
Wheel Assembly.
512 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
automobiles is increased. In England the wood is very scarce, so
many designers in that country are returning to the wire-spoke type
of wheel which was used on the earlier model cars. Suitable wood
for wheels is not easy to obtain., because it must be of such a nature
that it will stand both a steady load and sudden shocks. Hickory
alone of all common woods combines these two features, and while
other trees may furnish lumber that may be stronger or tougher than
hickory, in some applications it is the only one which seems to
combine the desired qualities. When the supply of wood decreases
to a point where it will be difficult to obtain it promptly, it is be-
lieved that automobile manufacturers will be forced to use metal
wheels.
. This has been done by some of the producers of heavy commercial
cars in some instances, and the metal wheels which have been applied
may be divided into three types. Those used on the heavier vehicles
may be of cast steel, having a spoke and hub construction very similar
to that of the present-day artillery wooden wheels, except the hubs
and rims are cast integral with the spokes. This forms a very strong
wheel assembly ; the only objection that can be advanced against them
is that while stronger than wooden wheels they are much heavier.
Metal wheels are sometimes made by fastening two steel stampings
together to form the rim and web portions, these in turn being joined
to a separately formed flanged hub member.
The metal wheel most generally used, however, is the suspension
type so commonly used in bicycles and motorcycle construction. In
this the steel hub member is joined to the outer rim by spokes of
steel wire interlaced in such a manner that they hold the hub and
rim together firmly. One advantage of metal wheels is that this
material may be worked up into any desired form, and, where light-
ness is desired, one can use wire-spoke wheels and either the built-up
pressed-steel forms or the cast-steel wheels for heavy loads. If light-
ness is desired, light metals which are very strong are available,
while maximum strength is obtained by the use of the highly resisting
materials in the cast form.
The wire wheel has not attained any degree of popularity in
America, *but its gradually widening field of use in England and on
the Continent shows that it is a big success and that in its improved
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 513
forms it has much to commend it for automobile service. The wire
wheel is lighter than a wooden wheel of equal strength, there being
a saving of at least 33 J per cent of weight when wire wheels are
employed instead of the artillery type. Advocates of the wire wheel
state that it is stronger than the wooden wheel in both vertical and
horizontal directions. In a wooden wheel the load is carried on the
spokes which are under compression, whereas in a wire wheel the
weight is carried by the spokes which are under tension.
A series of tests conducted abroad showed that wire wheels were
much stronger and resisted blows of greater definite strength applied
to the rim than wooden wheels of equivalent rated capacity. It is
also contended that wire w T heels are much more elastic and resilient
than the wooden supporting members, and that a car equipped with
these will be more easy riding and wear the tires less than another
chassis of the same weight mounted on wooden wheels. Wire wheels
are not used to any extent on heavy vehicles, and when metal wheels
are fitted to trucks they are usually of the heavier forms. A typical
wire-wheel assembly is shown at Fig. 305, this being a form used to
a large extent on touring vehicles in England.
There are a number of disadvantages which militate against the
general use of w r ire wheels, the most serious of these being the fact
that when the tension of the spokes is different the wheel will go out
of' shape and will not run true. No matter how carefully the wheel
is built up, the constant shock incidental to service will cause some
of the spokes to become loose in the nipples by which they are
attached to the rim. When these are tightened up the entire wheel
must be gone over to insure that all spokes pull evenly and that the
hub is exactly in the center of the wheel after adjustments have been
made. It is argued that a wooden wheel that has received a violent
side blow will be almost entirely demolished, whereas a wire wheel
subjected to a similar shock may be sprung out of true, but will
have sufficient strength to allow the motorist to drive the car to some
point where the wheel can be repaired.
In connection with this it may be stated that a wooden wheel, if
damaged, may be repaired by any blacksmith or wheelwright, whereas
a wire wheel can only be restored to its efficient condition by a me-
chanic skilled in truing up the wheel. Another disadvantage of
514 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
some moment against the wire wheel is that it is a very difficult form
to keep clean, as, when the vehicle is washed, the brightly nickeled
spokes must be wiped off carefully or they will rust. This precau
Fig. 305. Wire-Spoke Automobile Wheel Modified from Bicycle Practice.
tion need not be taken with a wooden wheel, as there is no multi-
plicity of joints and minute crevices where dirt or water may lodge.
Spring and Resilient Wheels. Attempts have been made to build
wheels which would have some form of flexible or yielding member
to join the rim and the hub, instead of the rigid wood or metal
spokes*. Many spring wheels have been evolved, the ultimate aim of
all inventors of this form being to provide a supporting mem! XT
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 515
which would have sufficient resiliency so the pneumatic tire could
he dispensed with and the troubles incidental to its use eliminated.
The Lipkowski spring wheel is depicted at Fig. 306, this being
a fairly good example of the radial coil-spring form which is said to
have given fairly satisfactory results in its trials. In this construc-
tion the hub and felloe are composed of two members held together
Fig. 306. Steel Resilient Wheel Having Coil Springs Separating Hub and Rim
Members.
by bolts. These retention members form the journals for the loops
on the end of the spring, while the spaces between the outer portions
of the wheel felloe are a sufficient distance apart to act as a guide
for the four solid metal spokes which are spaced ninety degrees apart
516
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
and which radiate from the outer periphery of the hub member.
Twelve springs are used, these being mounted in sets of three, each
set occupying the space between the two spokes.
The resilient members are attached in such a manner that they
are subjected to alternate compression and tension loads. Those at
the top of the wheel are under tension, while those at the lower
portion are under compression. The four rigid steel spokes engage
suitable projections on the inside of the felloe and are depended on
to keep the wheels steady against side blows and to furnish a posi-
tive means of driving when the wheel is used as a traction member.
The disadvantage of this type of construction is that the springs are
liable to break and that the construction is very heavy when com-
pared to wooden wheels. It is claimed that this type of wheel is
fifty per cent heavier than an ordinary wooden wheel of greater
strength. Another disadvantage of spring wheels of this pattern i>
that they are apt to be noisy in action, which is not desirable.
Fig. 307. Spring Wheels Designed to Provide a Resilient Support for Automo-
biles without Using Pneumatic Tires,
Two other forms of spring wheels are shown at Fig. 307. That
at A employs a series of radial compression springs which provide
the resilient feature, while the strength is obtained by means of the
plungers fastened to the upper member which is attached to the
wheel Tim; these in turn fit the cylinders attached to the outer
periphery of the inner wheel. The spring serves to keep these mem-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 517
bers separated at all times. In the construction outlined at B the
spokes are flat springs, curved in a peculiar manner, and join the
central hub member with the outer rim. Neither one of the forms
shown have been adapted practically, and the illustrations are
presented merely to show freak constructions which have but little
practical value.
It may be said of all forms of spring wheels that their disad-
vantages are of sufficient magnitude to make those which are advanced
against the pneumatic tire seem simple by comparison. While pneu-
matic tires may fail on the road, they may be easily restored or
repaired and the journey continued with but little interruption. If
members of a spring or resilient wheel should fail in service the work
of replacement would entail a degree of mechanical skill not usually
possessed by the average motorist. Many inventors have given this
problem considerable attention, but it is safe to say that the rubber
tire in either of its forms is absolutely necessary to successful motor-
vehicle operation, and that there is but little future for resilient
wheels depending on springs or other metal resilient members to
cushion the shocks met with when traveling over ordinary highways.
Forms of Automobile Tires. The wheels of automobiles, with but
few exceptions, are provided with rubbed tires. The simplest is a
solid band of rubber composition; next in order we have the various
forms of cushion tires in which the band of rubber is perforated with
a number of small holes or provided with a series of openings de-
signed to provide greater resiliency and make the tire more yielding
than the solid-rubber form. Solid tires are invariably adapted to
industrial conveyances.
The most common form of tire, and that generally used on auto-
mobiles, is composed of a hollow rubber tube of circular section rilled
with air and protected from wear by means of an outer shoe or
casing. The use of air under compression provides a very resilient
medium for supporting the vehicle, and of the various forms of rub-
ber tires the pneumatic form is the one that is the most desirable.
The development of the modern automobile may be attributed largely
to the advances made in pneumatic-tire construction, as these mem-
bers made it possible to drive automobiles at high speed over rough
road surfaces without stressing the mechanism or causing discom-
518 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
fort of the passengers. While solid-rubber tires and members of the
cushion form have a certain degree of elasticity, they do not ride as
easy as pneumatic tires, because rubber cannot be compressed, but
only distorted. Solid-rubber and cushion tires are suitable where
vehicle speeds are low, but are very unsatisfactory for automobiles
traveling at speeds over fifteen miles per hour.
B
Fig. 308. Comparison of Action of Pneumatic and Solid-Rubber Tires when
Wheel Rides Over Obstacle.
A comparison between the action of pneumatic and solid-rubber
tires is made at Fig. 308 so the superiority of the latter form may
be readily understood. At A, a wheel shod with a pneumatic tire
is shown in contact with an obstacle in the road. When the wheel
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 519
passes over this obstruction,, the walls of the tire, which are rela-
tively light, will deflect inward and compress the air inside of the
tires. The wheel is not raised from the ground and the vehicle
rides over the obstruction without any appreciable upward movement
or throw of the chassis. At B a solid rubber tire is shown passing
over the same obstacle. In this case the composition is so stiff that
it will not bend in and the wheel is raised from the ground. This
throws the vehicle body upward, jarring both mechanism and pas-
sengers. The severity of the jolt augments proportionately to the
speed of the vehicle. It will be patent that the form of tire depicted
at A, which permits the stone to imbed itself into the tire, will be
much more easy riding than that form which will ride over the
obstacle. The great advantage of a pneumatic tire is that it will
give more than ordinary elasticity to the wheel and will absorb
most of the minor shocks that would be transmitted to the springs
of the vehicle if noncompressible tires were used.
Construction of Pneumatic Tires Defined. The pneumatic tire of
the present day is invariably of the double-tube type and is com-
posed of two members, the inner tube and the shoe or carcass. The
inner member is utilized to retain the air and is made of a very pure
rubber, about an eighth of an inch thick ^or cars of average weight.
While this tube is very elastic and is air-tight, it would not be strong
enough or have adequate resistance to be run directly in contact
with the road surface; therefore it is necessary to protect it by a
shoe composed of layers of fabric and rubber composition. The shoe
member is provided with beads on its inner periphery designed to
interlock with the rim channel, as shown at Fig. 309.
The main portion of the outer casing is composed of five or more
layers of a Sea Island cotton fabric " frictioned " with high-grade
rubber composition. This is forced into the mesh of the cloth by
machinery so the fabric will be practically waterproof and will join
intimately with the other plies by a process of vulcanization when
the shoe is cured. Outside of the fabric body a layer of very resilient
rubber, approximately of crescent form, known as the padding, IB
provided to give a certain degree of elasticity to the shoe. Between
this member and the tread a number of pieces of heavy fabric called
" breaker strips " are interposed to offer a certain degree of resistance
Tread
Padding
Breaker Strips
Bead Filler
Bead
Felloe
Rim Channel
Valve Inside
Valve Cap
Fig. 309. Outlining Construction of Pneumatic Automobile Tire Fitted to Sim-
ple Clincher Run.
520
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
521
to any sharp object that might penetrate the tread and go through
the padding and into the fabric body if the breaker strips were not
interposed to deflect the puncturing object to one side.
-Threads for Cap
Rubber Packi
-Valve Seat
Air Ven
Spring-
Valve Stem
-Valve Stem Guide
-Tire Valve Stem
Valve Closed
Valve Open
Fig. 310. Construction of Schrader Universal Tire Valve.
The tread is the part of the tire that is subjected to the greatest
stress, as it must resist the abrading influence of the road and, when
522 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
the tire is used on the rear wheels, the wearing effect of the friction
produced by the tractive effort which exists at the point of contact
between the driving member and the ground. The tread is of very
tough rubber composition and differs from the material used as
padding or for the inner tube in that it does not possess a very great
degree of elasticity. This quality is sacrificed for that of greater
strength and resistance to wear, which is more essential at this
point.
The air is introduced into the tire through a simple form of
automatic valve which is securely attached to the inner tube. As
the inner tube becomes distended by the air pumped into it, it forces
the beads of the tire outward and clinches the shoe so firmly in the
rim channel that it will be impossible to dislodge it without the use
of special tire irons, and then only when the air pressure is relieved
from the inner tube. A detailed view of the valve stem in the open
and closed position is shown at Fig. 310, and the construction of
this simple fitting can be easily understood. The valve is held against
its seat by a tension spring and will only open when the valve stem
is depressed by the hand or from the pressure of the air forced
against it when it is desired to inflate the tire. While the air pressure
from the pump will be sufficient to force the valve from its seat, the
air pressure from the inside of the tire only serves to hold it more
firmly in place.
Pneumatic tires are not always of the clincher form. Various
other constructions have been devised, some to facilitate a more ready
removal than the clincher construction permits, while others have
been designed to make for a more secure attachment by some me-
chanical means. Various forms of quick-detachable rims and the
tires adapted for use with them are shown at Fig. 311. In the
ordinary clincher tire it is necessary to force the bead over the chan-
nel when it is desired to remove the outer casing, and while this can
be accomplished with comparative ease on the smaller tires, it is very
difficult to remove or apply large clincher tires. In the form shown
at A the clincher rim is made in two parts, one of the sections being
easily removable when the locking ring is taken out of the groove
in which dt fits. When the movable section of the rim is taken off
the outer casing may be easily removed, as it can be slipped off
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
523
the fixed portion of the rim just as a belt can be removed from a
pulley.
The Dunlop type of outer casing is depicted at B and C, these
also being fitted to quick-detachable rims. In the Dunlop casing
Fig. 311. Forms of Quick-Detachable Rims which Permit Easy Removal of
Pnematic Tires.
retention is by a series of steel wires at the base of the tire which have
a certain amount of holding power, which is further augmented by
524 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
the air pressure inside of the tube. It is claimed for this construc-
tion that it is more easily removed than the clincher tire when applied
to a one-piece rim, though on the quick-detachable type shown in
illustration one form is as easily removed as the other. The rim
shown at A and B is the same member, and it will take either clincher
or Dunlop type casing. When used for the latter a rubber filler
ring is provided to fill the channel of the fixed portion of the rim,
while the flat side of the removable portion is brought in contact
with the casing walls instead of the channel or hooked side. The
form shown at C is made exclusively for use with Dunlop type
casings, and cannot be utilized for clincher tires.
At D the Fisk bolted-on casing is shown. This differs from the
other forms in that the clinchers are designed in such a manner that
they practically form a foot or base, and when closed together will
keep the inner tube away from the rim, which is not done with the
other forms of rims. The rim proper consists of a flat band of steel
attached to the wheel felloe. Two locking rings are provided, one
at either side of the tire, and these are held into proper relation and
clamped tightly against the base member of the shoe by means of
bolts which pass through the enlarged beads of the casing. This
form of attachment is very secure and the tire is held to the rim by
mechanical means as well as air pressure. In other forms of tires
in which air pressure alone is depended upon to keep the beads in
contact with the rim it is possible for tires to be thrown off the
wheels if they become deflated, though with the mechanically fastened
form, as shown at D, the tire will be held in place, even when par-
tially deflated, much more securely than in the other forms.
The construction of inner tubes is practically the same in
all standard makes of tires, and these are usually interchangeable.
The outer casings differ in some respects, these being merely a matter
of detail involving the number of plies of fabric, the thickness of the
padding, the arrangement of breaker strips, and the character of
the tread. All the tires shown at Fig. 311 have the plain round
tread, which is the most satisfactory for all-around use. The smooth
tread, however, has the disadvantage in that it is liable to slip on
muddy roads, and for this reason a number of tread forms have been
designed to secure greater adhesion to the road or to reduce wear.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
525
A round-tread tire will wear off until the breaker strips are exposed,
and the tire should be retreaded as soon as this condition is apparent.
The casings shown at Fig. 312 are a few of the forms which
have been designed to secure greater wear of the tread. In that
shown at A the tread is raised at five portions and is very thick. In
that shown at B the tread is provided with a large number of small
Fig. 312. Showing Various Raised Treads Used on Pneumatic Tire Casings.
rubber studs or projections which are depended on to prevent side
slip more than providing any great amount of added wear to the
tread. The form shown at C is known as a raised-tread type, and
in this the round tread is reenforced with a flat band running around
the outer periphery, this providing a greater thickness of tread than
will be possible with the round-tread construction.
The leading forms of treads designed to secure greater traction
than that obtained from the plain-tread forms are shown at Fig. 313.
In the Morgan & Wright, shown at A, a large number of knobs are
molded integral with the tread to prevent skidding. The Empire
casing shown at B has a number of disks composed of strips of fabric
rolled up and set edgewise in the tread to promote adhesion. In the
Swinhart, which is depicted at C, strips of rubber are molded with
the tread to form a species of basket weave. This prevents skidding,
because the spaces between the strips will fill with mud or dirt and
will not slip over the road surface as readily as a smooth tread. The
casing shown at D is provided with a number of rings molded with
the tread to form little cups which grip the road by the suction effect
526 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
of the air compressed between the tire and the road surface in the
depressions. The Ajax nonskid tread depicted at E is composed of
diamond-shaped rubber pieces molded integral with the tread when
the tire is cured. A very ingenious method of roughening the sur-
face of the tread to promote traction is that used on the Fire-
stone casings. In this the words " Firestone " and " Non-Skid "
are' molded in bold lettering alternately and at an angle all around
the shoe.
The Harford Midgeley tread is depicted at G. This construc-
tion has a series of coil springs molded around the outer periphery
of the casing. The Diamond casing outlined at H utilizes the Bailey
rubber-stud tread, one of the first antiskidding treads to be devised.
In the Michelin casing illustrated at I, a leather band provided with
steel studs, which are riveted through it and the casing, is depended
on to prevent skidding, to secure improved traction, and to make
the casing practically puncture proof from ordinary road obstacles.
The Republic Staggard tread tire is shown at J. The principle of
providing a large number of projections which is used in the forms
depicted at A, D, H, I, is followed on this casing as well, but these
knobs are of such size the liability of rapid wear, which is present
when rubber buttons of comparatively small size are used, is reduced
and the life and antiskidding properties of the tread are augmented
proportionately.
While the nonskidding forms of tires have peculiar advantages
which adapt them for use on soft and slippery roads, they are more
expensive than the round-tread casings, and are really not needed a
large part of the time. The labor of changing from the antiskid type
of tread to smooth casings would be considerable, and it would not
be practical to make the changes as often as conditions imposed by
our variable climate would make necessary. For this reason a num-
ber of auxiliary treads and nonskid devices have been placed on ^ the
market, the idea being to use these in conjunction with the plain-
tread tires when necessary. These auxiliaries may be divided into
two classes. First, those designed merely to promote better tractive
effort and eliminate skidding, and, secondly, those which have been
designed\to act as a protector for the casing of rubber which they
encircle.
3 O O O O C
527
528 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
A number of these auxiliaries are shown at Fig. 314. That at
A is a leather tread provided with steel studs on the tread surface,
made in such a form that it is put around the tire when the casing
is deflated and held firmly in place by blowing up the tire again.
This may be classed with the tire protectors, as it is believed the
heavy chrome-leather band has much more resistance to nails or
other objects which might puncture the rubber tube, than the plain
round-tread tire would have. At B and C devices which belong to
the first class are depicted. These consist of cross chains attached
to suitable side members which encircle the wheels. The object of
the chains on the tire tread is to eliminate loss-power effort by pro-
viding a better grip between the wheels and road surface, and not to
act as a protector for the outer casing except in a somewhat limited
way. In the form shown at B the cross chains are attached in such
a manner that they lie in the same plane as do the rungs of a ladder.
At C the chain members are of zigzag form. The protectors shown
at D, E, and F are very similar in principle to that outlined at A,
except that the method of securing them to the wheel varies to a
slight extent. That at D is a form designed to encircle the casing
and can be held in place by the air pressure inside of the tire. At E
the protector is fastened to the wheel by a series of strap members
which clinch under a side-retaining ring member. At F the edges
of the protector are provided with hooks which grip the flanges of
the clincher tire and thus hold the protector very firmly in place
when the tire is properly inflated and the casing distended.
The disadvantage of tire protectors is that they decrease the
resiliency of the tire, because leather is not as flexible as rubber,
especially, after it has become hard by exposure to water. The use
of these protectors undoubtedly conserves the tire casing from punc-
ture, but considerable heat is generated between the tire and the
protector, and this may be sufficiently high to weaken the rubber
casing. Most motorists favor the use of the quick-detachable chains
to prevent skidding, because these may be easily removed when they
are not needed. There is some labor involved in removing and re-
placing the leather protectors, and these are not usually used with
new casings on account of the decrease of tire resiliency. They are
often applied to weak casings or shoes which have been worn to the
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
529
Fig. 314. Supplementary Treads and Anti-Skidding Attachments Designed to
Use in Connection with Smooth-Tread Casings.
530
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
73
0>
bfl
I
fabric, and when used in
this manner they are very
useful in securing greater
service from the weak
tires, which would have
to be discarded if some
form of protecting tread
was not used.
The views at Fig. 315
show the ease with which
Weed chain grips can be
attached to the wheel. In
the view shown at A the
chain has been applied to
the tire and the vehicle
has been pushed forward
just enough to ride over
the loose ends of the
chain, which are on the
ground. At B the car
has been pushed forward
sufficiently so the loose
ends of the chain are
clear of the wheel, and
the process of hooking up
by means of little snap
hooks is easily performed,
as outlined at C.
Demountable Rim
Forms. The advantages
of the quick - detachable
rim over the ordinal
clincher pattern havi
been previously consi(
ered. It will be seei
that it is possible to re-
move a tire with less dif-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 531
ficulty than is present when the clincher rims are used. While a
defective tire may be removed and replaced with a new one very
easily, it is necessary to inflate the new tire with air by means of a
hand or power pump or with carbonic-acid gas carried under pressure
in a portable gas tank. In order to reduce the time occupied in
changing tires, which is needed to adjust the shoe properly and blow
up the inner tube, a number of demountable rims have been devised.
The wheel felloe carries a metal rim, and to this is attached a second
member on which the tire is mounted. The tire-carrying rim may
be securely attached to the wheel by means of suitable and quickly
operated clamping bolts or rims.
When demountable rims are fitted instead of carrying the usual
spare outer casing, fully inflated tires are carried on rims similar to
the demountable portions, and when the tire is punctured the dam-
aged one and its rim, are removed as a unit 'and a new, fully inflated
member replaced. When it is necessary to remove the shoe, as in
the ordinary single-rim construction, the operation of replacing a
tire will take from ten to fifteen minutes under favorable conditions,
but with quick-demountable rims the operation of changing a tire
will take only two or three minutes. Demountable rims are more
expensive than the simpler forms, but the* convenience and elimina-
tion of time-consuming delay, as well as the saving in labor, more
than compensates for the increased cost of equipment.
Numerous forms of demountable rims have been devised, but
few have survived the test of time and have received general appli-
cation. At Fig. 316 a combination of quick-detachable and demount-
able rims is shown. With this construction the advantages of both
types are obtained without disadvantages of any moment, excepting
those of cost of equipment. The quick-detachable type of rim makes
it possible to change the tires very easily, should this be necessary,
and makes for more easy removal for repairing when the damaged
tires are restored to their efficient condition. In this form the tire-
carrying rim is held on the felloe band by a clamping collar mounted
on the stud and forced in place by a nut on the outer end of the
stud. The construction is so clearly shown that its advantages will
be readily understood.
The clincher type of rim has been used on many cars because it
532
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
has been a standard fitting for a number of years, but at the present
time it is seldom used in connection with large tires, which are
difficult to remove from the wheels unless used in combination with
a demountable rim. A number of standard demountable rims whicli
have received general application are shown at Fig. 317. That at
A holds the clincher rim which carries the tire in place by a series
of clamps and wedges which are forced against the tire-carrying rim
Tire Carrying Rim
Felloe Band
Collar
Felloe
Bolt
STANDARD DEMOUNTABLE
Fig. 316. Quick-Detachable Rim of the Demountable Form.
by pressure of nuts carried at the end of bolts passing through the
wheel felloe and having peculiarly shaped heads, which prevent the
tire-carrying rim from moving over the inner edge of the wheel. A
number of these bolts are provided, the spacing varying with the
weight of car and size of tire. On light cars one bolt to every two
spokes is considered ample, while on heavier vehicles a bolt may be
used between every two spokes, which would mean that there would
be as many clamping bolts used as there were spokes in the wheel.
The form outlined at B is similar in construction to that outlined
at A, except that the felloe band is a substantial member whicli does
not need to be reenforced to hold the tire-carrying clincher rim
firmly in place when the clamps are screwed home by the nuts. The
Fisk demountable rim, used in connection with the Fisk bolted-on
type o detachable tire, as shown at Fig. 311, D, is outlined in section
at Fig. 317, C. In this a portion of the felloe is chamfered off and
533
534 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
the felloe band is made to fit. The tire-carrying rim is locked in
place by a wedge member that slides on the angular side of the felloe
band when pressure is brought to bear upon its face by the nuts
carried at the end of the bolts passing through the felloe and felloe
band. As the wedge rides up on the incline it locks the tire-carrying
rim firmly in place and prevents either lateral or circumferential
displacement.
In the construction depicted at D a tire-carrying rim of the
clincher type is used, and this in turn is attached to a ring member
which has chamfered corners. The felloe band has two inclines, one
designed to rest against one side of the chamfered ring, while the
other acts as a seat for the wedge-shape locking ring, which is forced
in place under the tire-carrying rim by means of clamps and nuts.
In order to make for quick removal, a wrench of the socket type is
usually attached to a bit brace, such as used by carpenters, for loosen-
ing and tightening and clamping nuts. With some forms of de-
mountable rim it is necessary to- remove the nut entirely in order to
slip the clamp off the bolt. In others the nuts are merely loosened
and the clamps either swung or dropped out of the way of the tire-
carrying rim, which is easily slid off the felloe band. Other forms
of demountable rims have been devised in which the tire-carrying
member is held in place by some form of expanding bands which is
made to increase its diameter by means of wedges or cam action, but
these are not so generally used as the types described.
Features of Cushion Tires. Some classes of vehicles that are not
designed to run at high rates of speed, and which are not intended to
carry heavy loads, are fitted with cushion tires. While these do not
have the resiliency of the pneumatic form, they have much greater
flexibility than solid-rubber tires. For this reason they are sonic-
times used on the electrically propelled light delivery or pleasure
vehicles and sometimes on the light-weight commercial cars of the
gasoline type. Some of the popular forms of cushion tires are showi
at Fig. 318. At A the tire tread, which is of the dual form, is moldc
in such a manner that a series of shallow grooves are formed aroum
the tire. These incline from the outside toward the center and MH>
depended on to give improved traction as well as to make the tire
more resilient. The base of the tire is pierced with a large number
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
535
of holes which extend clear through from side to side, so the outer
tread or load-carrying portion is supported on a series of rubber
bridges which are adapted to bend and provide a certain degree of
flexibility.
The cushion tire shown at B is similar in form to the conven-
tional clincher casing, and is designed to be used on clincher rims
Fig. 318. Cushion Tires which Provide More Resiliency than Solid-Rubber
Types but are Not Equal to the Pneumatic Forms.
of the pattern commonly supplied with pneumatic tires. The flexible
feature of this tire is obtained by using a number of rubber load-
supporting partitions to join the walls of the tire, and at the same
time they are separated from each other by an air space of sufficient
size so the tire will distort more easily than the conventional solid-
rubber pattern. The cushion tire shown at C depends upon the form
of tread to provide resiliency, and it would not be as flexible as
either of the two forms previously considered.
One objection to either solid or cushion tires is that a deep cut
or stone bruise will seriously weaken the entire structure, whereas
only a limited portion is really unfit for use. Then again, sometimes,
when brakes are locked too- suddenly, a portion of the tire may be
536
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
worn more than the other parts, but the entire efficiency of the tire
will be affected and the strength will depend upon that of the weakest
portion. The sectional cushion tire which is depicted at Fig. 319, A,
has been evolved to make possible the replacement of one or more
injured portions without disturbing the other members. The tire
is composed of a series of hollow rubber segments, as shown, which
Solid Rubber Tread
.Dovetail
Tire Bead
Securing Washers /
Sealins Washers / Wooden Felloe
Steel Rim
Clamping Bolt
Fig. 319. Novel Forms of Cushion Tires. A Cairns Detachable Segment
Construction. B Combination Form Comprising Heavy Tread and In-
flatable Inner Tube.
are held securely in place by means of a dovetail structure which
extends from the face of one segment to engage with a corresponding
member on one of the faces of the neighboring segment. These are
securely fastened to the wooden felloe of the wheel and into the steel
rim by means of bolts and washers. A certain amount of air is
retained in the spherical chambers of the rubber segment by the seal-
ing effect of a special washer, and this provides an air cushion which
makes for easier riding than would be possible with a solid tire. In
event of damage to one segment it may be removed without difficulty
and a new one substituted.
A combination cushion tire composed of a heavy solid-rubber
tread and an inner tube inflated with air to form a cushion is shown
at Fig. 319, B. It is claimed for this construction that the resiliency
is not x greatly diminished and that the tire is absolutely puncture
proof. The tire consists of two main parts, the solid-rubber outer
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 537
tread being of rubber composition and mounted on a base of fabric
and rubber, and the air tube, which is inflated and which provides
the resilient effect. Both members are firmly clamped between cir-
cumferential steel flange side rings. The inner tube rests upon an
ordinary steel rim or bonding member attached to the felloe, which
is made wider than the usual construction and of channel form. The
steel flanges are extended beyond the rim and are turned over at
their outer edge in such a way that they form grooves to hold the
beads of the tire, and continue to the base of rubber tread, where
they end in a bead and leave sufficient space between them for the
solid tread to work up and down. One of the flanges is permanently
fastened to the felloe, while the other is removable by unscrewing
the clamping nuts.
It is claimed that as the flanges enclose the air tube as well as
the weaker portions of the outer member which are subjected to the
air pressure, a very strong construction is obtained. The solid-
rubber tread is the only portion that comes in contact with the road,
and provision is made to prevent the air tubes being chafed by the
sides of the steel rim or by the edges of the outer member. When
the solid tread encounters an obstacle in the road it is pressed inward
against the air tube in the same manner as the conventional form of
outer shoe is, and more resiliency is obtained than with the rigid
solid form. The inner tube is well protected from puncture, and it
is also claimed that blow-outs are almost impossible, because to reach
the inner tube it would be necessary to pierce either the heavy solid
tread or one of the steel side flanges.
Forms of Solid-Rubber Tires. On heavy commercial vehicles it is
not practical to use pneumatic tires because these would have to be
of very large size to carry the loads imposed by the usual heavy truck
chassis and loaded body. As the speeds of these vehicles are not very
high, solid-rubber tires may be employed to advantage. These are
inolded from special rubber compositions in one continuous ring, and
they are usually provided with some form of metal reenforcement at
the bottom which insures that they will clamp tightly against the
rim or the felloe band. Various forms of quick-detachable rims
have been evolved to hold these members in place, and the metal
reinforcements at the bottom vary from simple transverse wires to
538
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
continuous bands of steel molded integral at the base of the rubber
rings.
A number of solid tires and methods of attachment are clearly
shown at Fig. 320. Single tires of this form are used on the front
wheels of practically all trucks, though the rear members are gen-
erally supplied with dual tires, which have greater carrying capacity
and which also lessen the dangers of side slip on wet pavements.
DIAMOND WIRE
MESH BASE
GOODYEAR FLANGED TYPE
MOTZ FLANGED TYPE
Fig. 320. Outlining Construction and Methods of Fastening Solid-Rubber Tires
to Wheels.
When twin tires are used it is desirable that they be installed in such
a way that they can be readily removed from the wheel for replace-
ment in event of wear, and it is also thought necessary to provide
means of attachment of such nature that they can be removed inde-
pendently, if desired. Various dual tire forms and the method of
holding them in place are shown at Fig. 321. The construction out-
lined at Fig. 322 shows the application of wedges to lock the solid-
rubber tires firmly to the wheel.
When\solid-rubber tires were first applied to trucks they were of
such form that special machinery was needed to install them, and the
539
540 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
work could only be done at depots where this form of machinery
formed part of the equipment. When accident to the tire or natural
wear made it necessary to replace the worn member with a new one
the wheel had to be removed from the truck and sent to the tire
company's station to be fitted up with tires. This meant a loss of
Fig. 322. Hartford Detachable Twin Solid- Tire Construction.
time of some magnitude, which has been entirely overcome by the
new demountable construction. Spare tires may be carried in stock
and may be used to replace the damaged members without the use of
special applying machinery in most instances and without necessitat-
ing the removal of the wheel.
Tools and Supplies for Pneumatic Tire Restoration. It has been
previously stated that one of the chief disadvantages of pneumatic
tires has been their liability of failure by puncturing the outer casing
and penetrating the inner tube and thus providing a means for escape
of the compressed air in the inner tube. The life of a pneumatic
tire is decidedly uncertain and will depend on many factors outside
of those of purely natural wear. There have been cases where outer
casings have given satisfactory service for seven or eight thousand
miles, but these instances have been the exception rather than the
rule. It is the opinion of most motorists who have had practical
experience that if an ordinary set of shoes will give a service averag-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
541
ing two thousand miles that they are equal to the demands made upon
them and that they are satisfactory. It may be stated that tires will
last longer on light cars than heavy ones and the service obtained
from tires fitted to vehicles driven at low and moderate speeds will
Air Pump
Outer Casing
Jack
'ement
Values
Pressure Gauge Value Toot
Casing Security Bolts
Fig. 323. Spare Parts and Necessary Repair Equipment for Automobiles Using
Pneumatic Tires.
542
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
be much greater than that obtained from tires fitted to high-speed
vehicles. There is also a personal element which must be taken into
consideration, and that is the way that the car is driven and the care
taken of the shoes and inner tubes.
Fig. 324. Forms of Tire Irons Used in Removing and Repairing Clincher Shoes.
It is necessary, therefore, in all cars using pneumatic tires to
carry a certain amount of equipment for handling and repairing
these on the road. A typical outfit is shown at Fig. 323, this con-
sisting of a spare outer casing, two extra inner tubes for replacement
purposes, a blow-out sleeve, a number of patches, and an acid-cure
vulcanizing outfit for applying them. Tire irons must be provided
to remove the casing from the rim ; the jack is used to raise the wheel
of the vehicle on which the defective tire is installed from the ground
and make it possible to remove the tire completely from the wheel.
The air pump is needed to inflate the repaired tube or the new mem-
ber inserted to take its place. The talcum powder is sprinkled be-
tween the casing and the tube to prevent chafing or heating, while
the spare valves and valve tool wilLbe found useful in event of dam-
age to that important component of the inner tube. As it is desirable
to inflate the tires to a certain definite pressure, a small gauge which
will show the amount of compression in the tire is useful.
The outfit shown may be supplemented by other forms of vulcan-
izing sets and by special tire irons to make for easier removal of the
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
543
outer casing. Tire irons vary in design, and most makers of tires
provide levers for manipulating the casings, which differ to some
extent. A set of tire irons such as would be needed with a clincher-
tire equipment could be selected from the forms shown at Fig. 324.
That shown at A is utilized to loosen the clincher bead from under
the rim should it become rusted in place. After the shoe has been
loosened from the rim flange one of the levers of the form shown at
B, C, or D would be inserted under the bead in order to lift it over
the rim. Two or more of these levers are provided, and the length
and form will vary with the preference of the motorist. It will be
remembered that the longer levers are more easily operated than the
short ones, and that the length of the .lever provided will depend
entirely upon the size of the tire to be removed.
Fig. 325. Small Repair Kit Containing Necessary Tools and Supplies for Emer-
gency Repairs.
Motorists, as a rule, should carry the releasing lever shown at A,
two of the short members depicted at B, and one longer lever, such
as the upper one of group C, or the forms D or E. The latter is a
544
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
combination form which may be used as a jack handle as well as a
tire iron, and when it is supplied it is not necessary to carry a jack
handle in the equipment. The flattened ends are generally employed
for prying the bead from the clincher rim, and when this has been
Knife
Clamp
Fig. 326. Tools Found Useful when Repairing Inner Tubes.
done and sufficient space exists between the bead and the rim to insert
the curved end of the larger levers, considerable leverage is obtained
and the bead may be lifted over the clincher rim without undue
Vulcanizer
Lamp
Patching Rubber
Molds
Fig. 327. Portable Vulcanizer Outfit for Filling Cuts in Outer Casings or Patch-
ing Inner Tubes.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
545
exertion. The object of rounding the corners, and of making the
working portions as broad as possible, is to reduce the liability of
pinching the inner tube, which would be present if the irons had
sharp edges.
The tire-repair material is sometimes carried in a special case,
as shown at Fig. 325, this consisting of all parts necessary to make
temporary repairs to be considered in proper sequence. This outfit
is sometimes supplemented by the special tools shown at Fig. 326.
The knife is used to cut the rubber, trim patches, 'etc. The stitcher
and roller are useful in rolling the patch after it has been cemented
Brushes
Emery Cloth
Acid
Fig. 328. Acid-Cure Vulcanizing Outfit.
i to the tire to insure adhesion of the patch with the tube, while the
.wooden clamps are useful in binding the patch firmly against the
damaged portion of the tube while the cement is drying. Some
I motorists carry small vulcanizers in order to effect more perma-
j nent repairs than would be possible with the simple .patching proc-
| esses in which the adhesive powers of cement are utilized. A
i simple steam vulcanizer and molds for use in connection with it
! are shown at Fig. 327, and an acid-cure vulcanizing set which
j does not make use of any form of heating apparatus is shown at
i Fig. 328.
546
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
Tire-Manipulation Hints. In removing or replacing outer casings
considerable care must be exercised not to injure the shoe or pinch
the inner tube. The first step is to jack up the wheel from which
the defective tire is to be removed, this relieving the wheel of the
car weight. The valve inside is then unscrewed in order to allow any
air that may remain in the tube to escape, and then the lock nuts
on the valve stem and security bolts are removed so that these
members may be lifted to release the clincher beads from the rim
channels. If the tire is stiff or has not been removed for some
Adjustable
Hinged Portion
Flat End
Fig. 329. Special Appliance for Loosening Clincher Shoes from Rim of Wheel.
time, a special iron, such as depicted at Fig. 329, is utilized in
the manner shown, and the beads are pushed clear of the clincher
rim. When the casing has been loosened on one side, a flat tool,
such as shown 1 at Fig. 324, B, is inserted under the loose bead to
act as a pry or lever to work the edge of the casing gradually over
the rim.
Very long levers are necessary to handle heavy, stiff tires, and
new casings are particularly hard to remove. The shorter irons iiiny
be employed on the smaller casings and on shoes which have been used
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 547
for some time and which are more pliable than the new ones. Two
of the levers are generally used together, one being kept under the
loosened edge of the bead, while the other is used to force the bead
over the edge of the rim. When the outside edge of the bead has
been forced over the rim at all points the inner tube is lifted from
the rim and is pulled out of the shoe. The start at removing is
made at the point diametrically opposite the valve stem. When this
portion has been pulled clear of the rim and out of the casing it is
not difficult to pull the rest of the tube out and finally lift the valve
stem out of the hole through which it passes in the wheel felloe, and
take the inner tube entirely off the wheel.
If the casing demands attention, or if a new case is to be used,
the inside bead is worked over the channel of the clincher rim in
just the same manner as was done with the outside bead, and after
a start has been made and a portion of the inside bead forced over
the rim there will be no difficulty in slipping the entire shoe from
the wheel. Applying a tire is just the reverse to removing one.
The first operation is to place the inner bead of the tire in position in
the center of the rim by forcing it over the outside flange. This is
done gradually, and in order to force the remaining portion of the
shoe it may be necessary to use long levels when the greater part of
the casing has been applied. The next step is to work the shoe
gradually toward the inner channel of the rim, then to insert the
security bolts in the holes made to receive them.
The inner tube is replaced after it has been partially inflated by
putting the valve stem in first and then inserting the rest of the
tube, being careful not to pinch it under the heads of the lugs or
security bolts. After the inner tube has been put in place the outer
bead of the tire is worked over the edge of the rim, the portion
adjacent to the valve stem being inserted first. When working the
remainder of the bead over the rim channel much care must be exer-
cised to insure that the inner tube will not be pinched by the sharp
edges of the tire levers. The object of partially inflating the inner
tube is to distend it so there are no loose or flabby portions that are
liable to catch under the tire bead when this is being forced in place
over the wheel rim.
The mechanically fastened tires are much easier to remove than
548
The Modem Gasoline Automobile
clincher shoes, because after the retaining rims are taken off the
wheels the outer casings can usually be pulled right off the flat
rim. The tools and the manner of using them employed in taking
off Fisk bolted-on tires are shown at' Fig. 330. The clamp is employed
when replacing the shoe and it serves to hold the retaining ring and
B
Fig. 330. Tools for Removing Fisk " Bolted On " Casings and Method of Using
Them.
the bottom of the shoe closed in such a way that the nuts on the
through bolts may be easily tightened up by using a socket wrench
depicted at A. This wrench has a T handle with a hook end, and
this hook is sometimes of value in prying off a retaining ring that
has become rusted in place. The method of handling these tools
and this type of tire are so clearly shown that further description
seems unnecessary.
Tire-removing tools are made in many forms, and more have
been devised for use with clincher type of casings than the other
forms because the beads on these casings sometimes become so firmly
imbedded in the rim channels that it is extremely difficult to remove
them, ^specially if the shoe has been on the rim for some time. An-
other form of removing tool possessing a certain amount of adjusta-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
549
bility which makes it adaptable for use in connection with varying
sizes of clincher casings, and the method of use, is shown at Fig. 331.
In tliis form the main or handle portion has a piece extending from
it that carries a rubber roll designed to pull against the spoke. The
part that bears against the shoe is a separate piece, provided with a
number of hooks to make it possible to alter its position as desired.
For use with a small tube the uppermost notch is used, and as the
shoes become larger the notched piece is pulled farther up in the slot
in which it slides on the head of the Y-shaped handle. Tools of
this nature are extremely useful and should form part of the equip-
men of every motorist who uses clincher tires.
Fig. 331. Adjustable Iron for Loosening Clincher Casings That Have Stuck to
Rims.
Rules for Tire Selection and Inflation. The tires used on motor
cars are generally selected by considering the amount of load sus-
tained by the wheels of the cars, but considerable difference of opin-
ion seems to obtain regarding the way the weights should be esti-
mated. Tire manufacturers believe that the entire weight of the
vehicle with all possible equipment and passengers must be con-
550 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
sidered, but there have been cases where a car has been supplied with
tires that were inadequate because only the weight of the car was
considered in making the selection and the added load of passengers
and equipment was disregarded. It is believed desirable to provide
rear tires that will be twenty-five per cent larger than those needed
merely to support the weight of the rear end of the vehicle, because
in the majority of cases these members are called upon to sustain
stresses incidental to traction as well as the strains produced by the
vehicle weight.
It is customary to use one size tire on the four wheels, the
thought being that the shoes from the front wheels, which are not
subjected to the severe service that those on the rear are called upon
to endure, can be placed on the rear wheels when those casings be-
come weakened by use, and their place taken by the weakened rear
shoe, which may have sufficient capacity to do the work expected of
front-wheel tires. The following table gives the proportion between
vehicle weights and tire sizes that are commonly accepted by tire
manufacturers. These figures are based on the maximum permissible
weight of a car without passengers, but as they do not consider the
factor of possibilities of overload, and if a motorist is having tire
PROPORTIONS BETWEEN AXLE LOADS AND TIRE SIZES ADOPTED
BY AMERICAN TIRE MAKERS
/
2^-inch tires, all diameters 225 pounds per wheel
3 inch tires, all diameters 350 " " "
3^ x 28-inch tires 400 "
3Y 2 x 30-inch tires 450 "
3y 2 x 32-inch tires 555 " " "
3 Y 2 x 34-inch tires 600 "
3^ x 36-inch tires 600 " " "
4 x 30-inch tires 550 "
4 x 32-inch tires 650 " " "
4 x 34-inch tires 700 " " "
4 x 36-inch tires 750 "
4H x 32-inch tires 700 " " "
4^ x 34-inch tires . . : 800 " " "
43/6 x 36-inch tires . . 900 "
For weights in excess of 1,000 pounds per wheel, 5-inch tires and over are
recommended. Weights given apply to car without passengers.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 551
troubles, it would be well to provide tires that are oversize and of
more than sufficient capacity. Such members are not only more
enduring than shoes which are barely up to the requirements, but
they are not liable to blow out or deteriorate as fast as overloaded tires.
Next to the selection of proper size tires the important con-
sideration is that these be kept properly inflated. If a tire is not
properly filled with air it will flatten out, and the tendency will be
to separate the layers of fabric and rubber of which the shoe is com-
posed, because of the alteration of the almost round or tubular section
that the tire is supposed to be when in use. If a tire is properly
inflated the walls will be braced from inside by the pressure of the
compressed air in the inner tube, and the flattening effect will have
no perceptible effect in producing disintegration of the fabric and
rubber plies of the casing. The figures given in tables which follow
are those recommended by leading tire manufacturers as being most
suitable for the various sizes of tires listed.
These usually take into account the increase in temperature and
resulting pressure of the air created by the friction between the tires
and the roads caused by prolonged running. A French authority
has made a series of tests to determine what the increase of pressure
would be on tires from three to four and a half inches in diameter
under usual touring-car service conditions. These results are pre-
sented in tabular form and should prove very interesting. The in-
crease with larger tires is greater in proportion because the walls of
the casings are heavier and stiffer and greater internal strains are
produced in the fabric by the distortion of the shoe at the points of
bending.
AIR PRESSURES FOR INFLATING PNEUMATIC TIRES RECOM-
MENDED BY LEADING MAKERS
Diameter of Tire, Maximum Weight on Air Pressure in Tire,
Inches Wheel, Ibs. Ibs. per Square Inch
2% 225 50
3 350 60
3^ 600 70
4 750 80
4^ 1,000 90
5 1,000 90
552 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
INCREASE IN AIR PRESSURES CAUSED BY DRIVING
INITIAL PRESSURE
IN TIRE, COLD
WORKING PRESSURE
IN TIRE, WARM
INCREASE RESULTING
FROM WORK
Lbs. ptr Sq. In.
Lbs. per Sq. In.
Lbs. per Sq. In.
71.116
88.183
17.067
85.339
105.750
20.411
99.562
123.546
23.984
113.785
141 . 920
28.135
128.008
158.588
30.580
142.232
176.368
34.136
The conventional method of inflating tires by using a foot pump
does not always insure that the tire will receive adequate inflation,
and when a pump is employed it is imperative that some form of
gauge be provided that will register the amount of pressure inside
of the tire in order that it will reach the figure recommended by
the tire makers. Different methods of tire inflation have been de-
vised which eliminate the necessity of using manually operated pumps.
Obviously a simple expedient would be to provide a small power-
driven pump that could be actuated by any convenient mechanical con-
nection with the engine. Another method is to use an air bottle,
which is a steel container in which air is stored under great pressure.
The air is compressed to such a point that a tank less than two feet
long and six inches in diameter will furnish sufficient air to in-
flate seven or eight tires of average size, or twelve to fourteen
small ones. The tanks may be exchanged at small expense when
exhausted for new containers holding a fresh supply of air. In
some tanks gases of various kinds under high pressure are used
and the motorist may obtain these on the same basis as air bottles
are supplied.
All devices of this character are fitted with gauges, to indicate the
amount of pressure in the tire, and to prevent overinflation. If a
tire is not properly inflated the shoe will be liable to various kinds
of road damage and will be easily punctured, while if the pressure is
too high the shoe is liable to " blow-out " at any weak point in the
structure. A tire-pressure gauge is a very necessary article of equip-
ment in any car and its proper use when blowing up tires will insure
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
553
the best possible results if the schedule recommended by the tire
manufacturers is adhered to.
Tire Repair and Maintenance. The common causes of tire failure
that the motorist is apt to encounter are shown at Fig. 332. The
Worn Tread
Stone Bruise
Sand Blister
Leaky Valve
Rim Cut
Blow-out
^ Chafed Side
Fig. 332. Sectional View of Pneumatic Tire Showing Some Conditions Which
Cause Failure.
554 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
most common is natural wear of the tread portion of the tire. The
rubber compound in contact with the road surface wears away in time,
and the fabric layers which constitute the breaker strips are exposed.
The shoe is weakened and any sharp object in the road is apt to
penetrate the weakened case and puncture the inner tube. If a num-
ber of the layers of fabric comprising the body of the shoe are cut
this constitutes a weak place in the casing and a blow-out will result
because the few layers of fabric remaining do not have sufficient
strength to resist the air pressure.
A stone bruise is caused by the removal of a portion of the rubber
tread by a sharp stone, piece of glass, etc., and is much more serious
than a puncture because it removes some of the tire, whereas in ordi-
nary cases of puncture a sharp object merely penetrates the casing.
A sand blister is produced by sand or grit from the road working
into a space in the tire between the tread and the fabric body through
some neglected incision or bruise. The side of the tread is often
chafed by running the tires against curb stones or by driving in car
tracks. Rim cutting is generally caused by insufficient inflation
which permits the rim to cut into the tire and thus tends to sever the
bead from the side of the shoe.
The chief inner tube trouble is penetration of the wall by some
sharp object, or the folding over of part of the tube walls when the
tire was applied. The parts of the check valve sometimes give
trouble and the valve leaks. In cases of valve trouble it is usually
cheaper to replace the valve inside than it is to attempt to fix it.
Some of the causes of valve leakage are hardening of the rubber
washer, bent stem, which prevents the valve from seating properly or
a particle of dust or other foreign matter which would act to keep
the valve from closing the air passage positively.
The most serious condition that a motorist will meet with is a
" blow-out " and usually only temporary repairs can be made on the
road. The common methods of restoring a defective outer casing are
depicted at Fig. 333. In this an inner sleeve, which is composed of
a number of plies of fabric, is placed between the inner tube and the
broken portion of the outer casing to prevent pinching of the inner
tube by the jagged edges of the cut, and to strengthen the casing from
the outside an outer shoe or gaiter made of leather is laced around
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 555
the shoe. The object of using both inside and outside reenforcing
members in combination is to not only strengthen the weak outer
casing but by providing an outer shoe dirt is kept from working into
the tire.
Punctured inner tubes may be temporarily repaired by using
a cemented surface patch. The first step necessary is to clean the
surface of the tube very thoroughly with gasoline and then to rough
up the surface of both patch and portion of the tube surrounding the
reah in Casing
uter Shoe
Outer Casing
Inner Sleeue with Hooks
Fig. 333. Temporary Casing Repairs Possible When Small Blow-Out or Large
Puncture Occurs on the Road.
holes with a wire scratch brush or with sandpaper. After the sur-
faces are properly cleaned and roughened the patch and the tube are
coated with suitable patching cement which is alk>wed to become
thoroughly dry before the second coat is applied. The second coat
is allowed to become " tacky/ 7 which expresses a condition where the
cement is almost dry and yet still possesses a certain degree of ad-
hesiveness. The patch is applied to the cemented portion of the tube
and the whole is clamped firmly together to secure positive adhesion
556 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
while the cementing medium is drying. Patches should always be of
sufficient size to cover the damaged portion and at the same time have
about three quarters of an inch or more of the patch at all sides
of the orifice.
Very satisfactory repairs to both inner tubes and outer casings of
a permanent nature can be made by using small portable vulcanizers
which may be heated by either electricity or vapor. When these are
used a special vulcanizing cement is necessary and uncured rubber
stock must be used for patching or filling openings caused by punc-
tures or blow-outs. The patch of raw material is applied to the
cemented surface of the tube or casing and the vulcanizer heated to
the proper temperature. The heat of the vulcanizer causes the rub-
ber of the patch to unite perfectly with the old material and forms
an intimate bond.
In vulcanizing the most important precaution is to maintain a
proper temperature. Too great a degree of heat will burn the rub-
ber, while a proper cure cannot be effected if the temperature is too
low. The temperatures recommended for vulcanizing vary from 250
to 375 degrees F. The lower degree of heat is used in working ma-
terial that has been previously cured, while the higher temperature
is recommended for new rubber. A number of small portable vulcan-
izers and their method of use is shown at Fig. 334. In the view at
A the vulcanizer is heated by electric current and is provided with
two faces, one flat, designed for use against inner tubes, and the other
curved to conform to the curvature of outer casings. In the view A
the vulcanizer is shown with the flat face in use, while at B it is
shown clamped to an outer casing with the curved face in contact
with the tread. The heat is obtained by passing a current of elec-
tricity through suitable resistance coils imbedded in the body of the
device.
Where electriq current is not available various forms of flame-
heated vulcanizers may be used. In that form depicted at C the
vulcanizer body is filled with water, which is converted into steam
by the heat of a flame furnished by the alcohol lamp that forms part
of the device. This form of vulcanizer is provided with a flat face
as well as* -a curved one and can be used for either inner tube or outer
casing restoration. A combination vulcanizer which is composed of
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
557
a large hollow cast-iron body filled with water and heated with a
spirit lamp is depicted at D. In this the curved face and the flat
Flat Face in Use
Curved Face in Use
LWood Handle
Vulcanizer
Clamp
Curved Face in Use-\ /////,
meter Flat Face in Use
Vulcanizer
Lamp
7! Clamp
Curved Face in Use
Fig. 334. Methods of Using Small Electric or Vapor Vulcanizers on Tube
and Casing Work, a Very Convenient Method of Effecting Permanent Re-
pairs.
558
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
face may be used simultaneously and an inner tube patched at the
same time that the outer casing is being treated. As very complete
instructions are furnished with these small vulcanizers, any motorist
may become familiar with their use without much difficulty.
In describing the methods of removing clincher casings special
emphasis was laid on the necessity of careful manipulation to prevent
pinching of the inner tube. The manner in which this somewhat
Fig. 335. How Inner Tubes May Be Pinched and Ruptured if Outer Casing is
Replaced Carelessly or if Tire Lugs Are Not Properly Placed.
delicate member may be ruptured when applying or removing outer
casings may be easily understood by reference to Fig. 335. At A the
inner tube is pinched by a poorly fitting bead which does not bed
properly into the channel of the rim. At B a portion of the inner
tube has b x een caught under the bead of the shoe when this was applied
because the tube was not properly inflated before it was inserted into
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 559
the casing. At C and D the inner tube has been pinched by care-
lessly placed or poorly fitting security bolt.
The rules to secure satisfactory operation from pneumatic tires
may be easily summed up. In the first place it is imperative that
the tires be inflated to the pressures recommended by the manufac-
turers and that they be selected with a certain margin of safety over
the actual requirements. The tires should be kept clean and free
from oil or grease because the oleaginous substances used for lubri-
cation very quickly attack rubber compounds and cause crumbling
and rapid deterioration. Oil or grease should be wiped off as soon as
noticed and the tire cleaned by the application of gasoline. Any
small cuts or openings in the tire that may permit water to enter or
sand to work between the fabric and the tread will cause trouble in
time. One should be careful in driving not to apply the brakes too
suddenly because this will lock the wheels and wear the tire very
quickly. Care should be taken not to drive in car tracks, and when
highways do not have the proper surface they should be negotiated
very carefully to avoid cutting the casings.
CHAPTER XI
Motor-Car Equipment and Accessories Air- and Gas-Operated Engine Starters
Electric Starting Systems Gas- and Electric-Lighting Appliances and
Their Use Wind-Shield Forms Shock Absorbers Speedometer and Mile-
age Indicators Tool Equipment for Ordinary Repairs Miscellaneous
Supplies of Value to the Motorist How Supplies are Carried.
COINCIDENT with the development of the motor car there has
been produced a large number of accessories,, some of which make for
greater comfort while touring and others that have material influence
on the safety of the car and its occupants. Many accessories have
been devised for application to motor cars of various classes, but
many of these are not necessary and have but little real merit. In
this exposition the writer will confine his remarks to tried and proven
auxiliaries desirable to include in the motor-car equipment and which
may really be regarded as necessary to obtain the maximum amount
of pleasure and profit possible from motoring.
Many of the devices listed are now supplied by manufacturers as
regular equipment because they are considered as much a part of the
car as some of the more important components belonging to the
mechanism proper. Other devices of considerable value must be
furnished by the motorist himself and when one tries to make selec-
tions from the stock of the average supply house it is quite difficult to
differentiate between the valuable and necessary accessories and those
which are not needed unless one is guided largely by the experience
of others.
Self-Starters for Gasoline Engines. One of the disadvantages of
the gasoline engine which has been often advanced by those favoring
steam or electric power is that it is difficult to start it in some cases,
and various means were devised to overcome the objection advanced.
The early gas engines fitted with poorly designed carburetors and in-
adequate ignition systems were often difficult to set in motion, but as
the gasoline engine was improved and the multiple-cylinder form
560
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 561
gained in favor, those used during the past few years have been easy
to start by some form of starting handle or crank and often a quarter
turn of that member is sufficient to set the engine in motion if it was
in proper adjustment and the various auxiliary groups were function-
ing properly. At the present time the improvements made in the
gasoline automobile have been more in the nature of detailed refine-
ment and those engaged in producing motor cars have studied more
carefully the various points which make automobiles more convenient
and more easily operated. The requirements of the present day can-
not be met by easy starting motors because this feature is common to
all automobiles from the smallest runabout to the heaviest touring
car or truck.
The present demand is for engines that are equipped with some
form of mechanism which will make them self-starting, that is, so
that they may be set in motion by merely pressing a button or push-
ing a valve from. the seat and not by the usual form of hand crank
at the front of the car. The starting handle has always been a dan-
ger point and many broken arms and fractured wrists have resulted
from a premature explosion of gas in the cylinders which forced the
starting handle backward and against the arm or hand of the person
starting the engine. Motor-car control lias been simplified to a point
where many women are running cars, but the average motor requires
the expenditure of more strength than that possessed by the average
woman or young person to start it. When a separate starting device
is fitted the motor may be started as easily by a person lacking in
strength as by one who can " spin " the engine around at will.
Self-starters operate on two principles. First, that in which the
crank shaft is rotated by some form of external mechanism which
causes the pistons to draw in a charge of gas in the usual manner and
which is merely a mechanical substitute for hand cranking. Second,
those systems in which a charge of gas is supplied the cylinders and
ignited independently of crank-shaft rotation. Mechanical starters
include all devices which rotate the shaft to produce the cycle of oper-
ations necessary to secure the power impulse in the cylinders, and
motion may be imparted to the crank shaft in two ways : by the use
of independent mechanism, or by making a motor of the engine itself.
The independent motor devices may be spring, air, or electrically
562
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
operated mechanisms. Spring motors have not attained the popular-
ity that air or electric motors have because they weigh considerable
and occupy more space than would be needed by the other types.
Their capacity is limited because the energy is supplied by a spring
. Special Check Values
rank
Acetylene Tank
Fig. 336. Simple Ignition Starting System Using Acetylene Gas and Hand-Oper-
ated Distribution Valve on Dash.
or springs which become unwound and which cannot supply any
energy when they are uncoiled. Spring motors are usually geared to
the crank shaft and thrown out of gear by automatic means after the
engine is started when the springs have been wound to the proper de-
gree of tension. Air and electric motors have received some appli-
cation, but as a general rule it is the simpler ignition starters that are
the vogue.
Features of Ignition Starters. It is not an uncommon thing to
start a four- or six-cylinder motor by merely turning on a switch
because a certain amount of unexploded gas may remain in one of the
cylinders and this may be compressed to a point where it will explode
as soon as an electric spark takes place in the cylinder to fire the gas.
It is natural, then, that the first starting systems proposed should
incorporate some means of furnishing a charge of gas to the engine
and then exploding it. The gas supplied may be either carbureted
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
563
gasoline or acetylene and the conditions which exist are similar to
those present when the engine is started on the spark.
A simple form of gas-starting systems is outlined at Fig. 336.
Special check valves are inserted in each cylinder head of the four-
cylinder motor and are supplied with gas through a special form of
hand-operated rotary distributor valve carried on the dash.. The gas
is supplied from an acetylene tank and one or two turns of the dis-
tributor handle serves to supply gas to the cylinder, the piston of
which is at the upper center and in the proper position to receive the
impact of the exploded gas. Turning on the switch, provided that
the car is a form using battery ignition as an auxiliary or regular
system, will suffice to produce a spark in the cylinder to which the
gas has been introduced and will start the motor.
Gasoline is sometimes used as a starting medium and when this
is employed some form of pump is used to force an explosive vapor
into the cylinder. An upward movement of the pump handle draws
in a certain amount of gasoline from the tank and air through some
Anchor
Seat
1-2 \\Da9h
Center Line of Handle,
6o U when in normal position
Anchor
To Carburetor
Fig. 337. Ignition Starting System in which a Hand-Operated Pump Forces
Mixture to Cylinders.
form of special inlet check, and when the pump handle is depressed
the gasoline mixture is pumped into the proper cylinder through a
pipe which is attached to some form of distributor or selector valve
to direct the gas stream to the proper explosion chamber. A system
which depends upon supplying gas is shown .at Fig. 337. In this
564
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
the hand pump is placed in front of the operator's seat in such a
position that the .handle may be conveniently reached by the driver
or passenger. A couple of strokes of the, pump suffices to supply
enough explosive mixture to start the engine when the ignition cir-
cuit is completed. The gasoline-starting system is not as popular as
that using acetylene gas because the latter gas will explode easier
and the operator does not need to exercise the degree of judgment
that is needed when supplying a gasoline vapor.
Compressed-Air Starting Systems. Two forms of air-starting sys-
tems are in general use, one in which the crank shaft is turned by
means of an air motor, the other class where compressed air is ad-
mitted to the cylinders proper and the motor turned over because of
Dash Value Control
Air Gauge
Connection for filling Tires
Pump engaging foot Treadle
Safety Valve J
fil
*M
Air Supply Tank
y Self Starter
Fig. 338. Never-Miss Starting System with Special Air Motor for Mechanical
Cranking.
the air pressure acting on the pistons. A system known as the " Never-
Miss " is shown at Fig. 338. In this a small double-cylinder air
pump is driven from the engine by means of suitable gearing and
supplies air to a substantial container located at some convenient
point on the chassis. The air is piped from the container to a dash-
control valve and from this member to a peculiar form of air motor
mounted near the crank shaft. The air motor consists of a piston to
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
565
which a rack is fastened which engages a gear mounted on the crank
shaft provided with some form of ratchet clutch to permit it to revolve
only in one direction, and then only when the gear is turning faster
than the engine crank shaft.
The method of operation is extremely simple, the dash-control
valve admitting air from the supply tank to the top of the pump
cylinder. When in the position shown in cut the air pressure will
force the piston and rack down and set the engine in motion. The
Special Cylinder Control Values
Fig. 339. Janney-Steinmetz Compressed-Air Starting System.
valve is a special form and the piping is arranged in such a manner
that a current of air may be sent against the bottom of the piston
when it has reached the end of its stroke to return it to the top of
the pump cylinder. When the piston reaches the bottom of its stroke,
the air is automatically discharged through a series of exhaust open-
ings in the cylinder wall.
An air gauge is placed on the dash so that the pressure of air in
the supply tank may be ascertained at a glance. If the pressure is
lower than it should be a foot treadle is depressed and the air pump
put into action by meshing the driven gear on the pump crank shaft
with the driving member that supplies power from the engine. When
the air pressure is sufficiently high the treadle is released and the
566
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
pump ceases to supply air. A safety valve is installed on the tank to
relieve any excess pressure which might accumulate if the pump is
kept in action longer than needed.
Another form of air-starting system in which air -is supplied di-
rectly to the cylinders of the motor through a special distributor ar-
rangement is shown at Fig. 339. The small air pump is driven by
gear connection from the engine in the usual manner, and supplies
air to a pressure tank. The distributor is driven in much the same
manner and at the same speed as an ignition distributor used on a
magneto, and the arrangement of piping is such that the air is
Fig. 340. Parts of Air-Starting Group Supplied on Chalmers Cars. A Pressure-
Supply Valve. B Compressed Gas Tank. C Dash Starting Button. D
Mechanical Distributor. E Cylinder Check Valves. F Gas Shut-Off.
G Pressure Gauge on Dash. H and I Air Connection for Tire Inflation.
supplied to the cylinders in the regular firing order. When the
foot valve is depressed air is admitted to the cylinders and the engine
is kept in motion by air pressure until it has inspired a charge of gas
which becomes ignited and starts the motor on its cycle of operation.
The starter used on the Chalmers car and fitted to the car as
an integral part of the power plant is shown at Fig. 340. In this a
check valve in the head of Number 1 cylinder stores air under
pressure in a tank carried in the body of the car. A dash valve re-
leases air from the tank when it is desired to start the motor and this
is carried to a distributor operating upon the same principles as the
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 567
usual form of ignition commutator. The compressed air is sent to
the cylinders which are ready for firing and in this way the motor is '
operated and the crank shaft turned by the air pressure until sufficient
gas has been drawn in from the carburetor by the downwardly moving
piston to make ignition effective. One of the disadvantages of the
air-starting system shown at Figs. 339 and 340 is that these are
not effective if the motor should stop on dead center, i. e., when the
piston in the working cylinder is exactly at the top of its stroke. This
condition is one that seldom obtains in a gasoline engine because the
natural tendency is for the pistons to balance themselves in. such a
way that they are nearer the middle of their stroke than the dead
center position. Should a motor stop on dead center it may be
easily turned over a small amount by the hand crank and then the
self-starting device immediately becomes operative. One of the ad-
vantages of these systems is that they furnish air for tire inflation
as well as for motor-starting purposes. When used on a six-cylinder
engine the objection advanced that the motor is liable to stop on
dead center is not to be considered as with a four-cylinder motor.
Electric Starting Systems. Starters utilizing electric motors to
turn over the engine have been recently developed, and when properly
made and maintained in an efficient condition they answer all the
requirements of an ideal starting device. The capacity is very high,
as the motor may draw current from a storage battery and keep the
engine turning over for half an hour on a charge. The objection
against their use is that it requires considerable complicated and costly
apparatus which is difficult to understand and which requires the
services of an expert electrician to repair should it get out of order.
A typical electric starter, such as used on the Cadillac car, is out-
lined at Fig. 341. The apparatus necessary consists of some source
of electric-current supply, means for storing electricity, and some
method of applying the power to rotate the engine. In the Cadillac
system the electric current is generated by a combined motor genera-
tor permanently geared to the engine. When the motor is running
it turns the armature and the motor generator is acting as a dynamo,
only supplying current to a storage battery. On account of the vary-
ing speeds of the generator, which are due to the fluctuation in engine
speed, some form of automatic switch which will disconnect the gener-
568
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
ator from the battery at such times that the motor speed is not
sufficiently high to generate a current stronger than that delivered by
the battery is needed. These automatic switches are the only delicate
part of the entire apparatus, and while they require very delicate
adjustment they seem to perform very satisfactorily in practice.
Magneto
Distributor
Distributor
Coil
Motor Gen
Fig. 341. Motor Generator Employed in Starting Cadillac Motor also Furnishes
Current for Ignition and Lighting.
When it is desired to start the engine an electrical connection is
established between the storage battery and the motor-generator unit,
and this acts as a motor and turns the engine over by suitable gearing
which engages the gear teeth cut into the engine fly wheel. On the
Cadillac car the motor generator furnishes current for ignition and
lighting as well as for starting the motor, and the fact that the current
can be used for this work as well as starting justifies to a certain
extent the rather complicated mechanism which forms a complete
starting, lighting, and ignition system.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 569
Summing up the advantages of these various self-starters, it would
seem that in most cases very satisfactory results could be obtained
from the forms in which acetylene gas is introduced to the cylinders
and then ignited by turning on the switch. These ignition starters
have a disadvantage, however, that they cannot be used where ignition
is by magneto without battery auxiliaries. Starters which rotate the
crank shaft have the advantage that they can start a motor even if it
is equipped with a magneto because they will turn an engine over
faster than is possible by hand power, and the result is that a spark
of adequate strength will be generated to ignite the gas even if
batteries and coil are not provided.
The disadvantage of air-starting systems is that the air chills the
cylinders and makes starting somewhat difficult in cold weather or
when conditions are such that the gasoline mixture is not properly
proportioned. If considered merely from the point of view of results
obtained, it would seem that the electric starter with its capacity for
a large number of motor starts per charge of batteries would be the
most suitable form. As previously stated, however, its mechanical
complication is a strong enough disadvantage that many consider
it of sufficient moment to outweigh the advantages of the system.
Motor-Car-Lighting Systems. When tjie automobile was first in-
vented it was a comparatively slow-speed conveyance, and ordinary
oil lamps such as used on carriages or bicycles for illuminating the
roadway at night proved adequate for the newer form of conveyance.
As cars have become improved it was found necessary to provide
stronger radiants than kerosene lamps to illuminate the roadway
because of the greater speed capabilities of the improved automobile.
In order to provide higher illuminating powers than would be
present by using kerosene alone, the kerosene lamps were supple-
mented by search lights supplied with burners designed to burn acety-
lene gas. Two methods of furnishing acetylene gas to the burners
are in use, one being to use some form of generator which makes
the gas as it is needed, the other is to take the gas required from some
container where it has been stored under pressure.
The usual form of generator employed in connection with gas
lamps is shown at Fig. 342, A. The acetylene gas is generated by
combining water with calcium carbide, the latter being a mixture of
570 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
coke and lime which has been fused together in an electric furnace.
Pure calcium carbide will produce about 5.5 cubic feet of gas. per
pound of carbide decomposed, 'but the commercial product seldom
yields more than 4.5 cubic feet. Acetylene is a very brilliant illumi-
nating gas and gives a white light of about 240 c. p. if burned at
the rate of five cubic feet an hour. The strength of illumination can
be better judged by comparing it with that produced by burning
five cubic feet of good coal gas in the same period of time which
will only result in 16 c. p.
A special form of burner is used in the automobile headlight,
which mixes a certain amount of air with the gas and the brilliant
white light produced is intensified and projected by means of a lens
mirror placed at the back part of the lamp. This lens serves to collect
and concentrate the rays of light from the flame into a beam com-
posed of parallel rays which have great illuminating power, and which
will light up the road for hundreds of feet ahead of the car and per-
mit higher speeds with safety than would be possible with the feeble
glimmer of oil lamps.
The generator employed and its mode of action may be easily
understood by referring to Fig. 342, A. It consists of a water tank
and separate compartments for carbide and gas and a filtering cham-
ber. Water is dropped on the carbide and as soon as the two come
in contact the chemical begins to decompose and acetylene gas is
liberated while lime dust collects in the bottom of the generator as a
residue. The gas collects in a reservoir and forces its way through a
filter chamber filled with wool or similar material which filters the
gas. The gas is also cooled before it reaches the lamps because the
gas outlet pipe and filter is surrounded with water.
When the shut-off valve is opened it permits the water which has
collected in the intermediate chamber to drop into the carbide basket
through a perforated tube. If the pressure in the intermediate com-
partment is normal atmospheric pressure, the water will drop freely
onto the carbide until considerable gas is liberated. Just as soon
as the gas generated . has an appreciable pressure it flows into the
intermediate chamber and prevents more water reaching the carbide
until the gas pressure is lower. The generator will continue to supply
gas as long as the supply of water and carbide lasts.
Fig. 342. Gas Generators and Lamps Used in Connection with Acetylene Head-
light Installation.
571
572 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
The forms of lamps used are shown at Fig. 342, B and C, and the
method of installing a generator and lamp outfit is clearly outlined
at D. The headlights are usually placed at the front end of the
frame where they are carried by suitable brackets or yokes, and con-
nection with the generator is made by lines of copper and rubber
tubing which convey the gas from the generator to the burner. A
trap is sometimes interposed between the generator and the burners
to arrest any foreign matter or moisture that may have passed through
the filtering material in the gas outlet pipe.
The method of installing a compressed acetylene storage tank
sometimes used to supply the gas instead of the generator shown
at E has advantages in that the tank may be easily reached when it
is desired to replace it, and at the same time it is out of sight and not
liable to become damaged. When the construction of the car does not
permit the use of a separate locker for the gas tank this member is
often carried on one of the running boards of the car.
'When acetylene lamps are used they are usually supplemented by
a set of oil lamps which are provided at the sides of the dash and
as a rear signal; while the kerosene lamps do not give much light
they are dependable in every way because they are very easy to under-
stand and require no care except an occasional trimming of the wicks
and filling with kerosene. If the acetylene lamps did not function
properly the kerosene flames would provide sufficient illumination so
that the roadway immediately in front of the car would be lit up
enough to detect obstacles, and at the same time the lamps would
act as a warning signal to other users of the highways. Kerosene
lamps are also useful for city driving where the intense glare of the
acetylene lamps would be annoying. The usual motor-car lighting
system consists of two headlights, burning acetylene gas, two dash
lamps, and one tail light burning kerosene.
If a gas generator is kept clean and properly filled with carbide
and water there will be no trouble in obtaining adequate supplies of
gas. While burners sometimes clog up it is a very easy matter to
clean out the openings with a fine piece of wire or to supply a new
burner if the defective -one cannot be repaired.
Electric-Lighting Systems. During the past year many manu-
facturers have employed electric lamps to advantage on automobiles,
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
573
and while these were formerly fitted only to the high-grade cars the
development made in providing suitable current producers and lamps
having strong filaments has made possible the application of electric
lighting to all classes of cars. The usual method of current supply is
by storage battery, somewhat similar in principle to those used for
supplying ignition current but which are more substantially con-
structed and have plates of greater capacity than those usually pro-
Expansion Chamber to take
care of Changes in Volume
of Solution during Charge
and Discharge. '
Plastic Sealing
Compound. "~
Hardwood Case.
Battery Terminal
covered with Rub-
ber to prevent
Creeping of Acid.
Para Rubber
Jar.
Plates and
Elements.
. Plate or Element
Supports of Hard
Rubber.
Fig. 343. Special Storage Battery Employed to Furnish Lighting Current.
vided in ignition cells. The construction of a typical lighting battery
is shown at Fig. 343, this form having been -designed especially for
this class of work.
Mechanical generators of electricit}'' are also used in various
forms, and a number of small dynamos have been used successfully
in connection with a storage-battery system. When a dynamo is pro-
vided it usually supplies its current directly to a storage battery, and
the electricity for lighting is taken from the storage battery rather
than the dynamo. The reason for this is that any fluctuation of
engine speed makes the current production vary in value. If the
574
Tlie Modern Gasoline Automobile
engine was running slow and the lamps were attached directly to
the generator there would not be sufficient illumination. At the
other hand, if motor speeds were high and the generator was driven
faster, enough current might be produced to burn out the lamps.
When the current from the dynamo is directed to a storage battery
that member serves as an equalizer and will maintain a constant dis-
charge to the circuit in which the lamps are wired. It will absorb
Fig. 344. Side and Tail Lamps Using Electric Bulbs for Illumination. A
Kerosene Side Lamp with Tungsten Lamp in Corner. B Pillar Lamp for
Limousine Bodies Uses Electric Lamp Exclusively. C Small Electric Tail
Lamp.
excess electricity generated at high-motor speeds and will supply
that energy to .the lamps at such time that the generator would be
inadequate to supply the proper amount of current.
Various forms of lamps utilizing electric bulbs are shown at Figs.
344, 345, and 346. Those at A, Fig. 345, are side lamps that have
been designed especially for use with electric current, while those
depicte'd at B are combination forms in which the electric light bulb
has been inserted in an oil lamp of conventional pattern in such a
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
575
way that it will not interfere with the normal operation of the kero-
sene burner should it be desired to use the kerosene flame. This
feature is one that provides an important advantage in that a failure
B
Oil Container
Oil Fount
Fig. 345. A Side Lamps Designed to Use Only Electric Bulbs. B Methods
of Combining Kerosene Burner and Tungsten Bulb in Side Lamps.
576
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
of the electric lamps or source of current would not seriously incon-
venience the motorist, as he could use the kerosene burner and secure
adequate illumination to enable him to operate the car without
danger. The combination shown at Fig. 346 shows the adaptability
Red Lens
Fig. 346. Gray & Davis Combined Electric Tail Lamp and License Plate Holder,
a Device of Marked Utility.
and simplicity of the electric light to good advantage. In this the
electric lamp is mounted in connection with a license number in such
a way that a stream of white light is thrown on the number to il-
luminate it, whereas a red lens shows a danger signal to the rear.
The most important component of the modern electric lighting
system, and one that has made electric lighting practical, is the incan-
descent lamp. This produces light because a filament of conducting
material becomes heated by the passage of electric current and gives
off rays when it is in an incandescent condition. The electric bulbs
used in automobile lighting systems have tungsten filaments instead
of the carbon members formerly widely employed in lamps used for
house lighting. The tungsten filament gives a more intense and
concentrated light than the other forms, and its current consumption
is much lower. The filament is stronger and more enduring as it
is not liable to be broken by vibration incidental to motor car use.
An ordinary carbon filament consumes about 3.5 watts per candle
powei*,- while the tungsten loop uses but 1.25 watts to provide the
same degree of illumination. The economy of the tungsten filament
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
577
is of special importance if the current used for lighting is derived
from a chemical source, and even if a mechanical generator is used
this can be made lighter and more compact and require less power
to drive it than if ordinary carbon filament lamps of equivalent
candle power were used.
The types of lamps and bases used are shown at Fig. 347. The
bulb shown at A has a cluster-loop filament and an Edison screw
base. The lamp is screwed into a suitable threaded socket and the
circuit is completed when the stud on the lamp bottom makes contact
with a suitable contact spring in the socket. The objection advanced
against the Edison screw base is that this may be lopsened by vibra-
tion, and as soon as the lamp becomes loose and the button at the
bottom leaves a contact spring the circuit will be interrupted and
the light go out. The continued vibration may cause the lamp to
work out of the socket and become broken.
Many motorists favor the Edi-Swan method of bulb retention.
In this the lamp base is plain and is provided with a couple of small
locking pins. A special slotted socket is used and when the lamp is
Edison Cluster
Screw Socket Loop.
Edi-Swan Base. Bayonet Joint Socket
Fig. 347. Incandescent Bulbs and Sockets Used in Motor-Car Lamps.
put in place it depresses a strong spring that makes contact and which
also locks the lamp firmly in place when it is given a quarter turn,
so the pins fit into small depressions at the side of the main slot.
This form of lamp cannot jar loose and it is easily inserted or re-
moved from its socket. The object of using a short and thick fila-
578
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
ment of the cluster-loop type is to provide for secure anchorage of
the leading in wires, and at the same time to provide a more intense
and concentrated light, which is better adapted for use with the forms
of reflectors where the lamp must be at the correct focal point to
secure proper projection of the beam of light.
When an electric-lighting system is provided the current can be
adapted to other uses besides merely providing illumination of the
roadway. Small fixtures used for illuminating the speedometer,, oil
gauge or clock may be easily brought into use by merely pressing a
push button located at some convenient point. The interior of
Wire
Reflector
Fig. 348. Convenient Electric Fixtures That May. Be Included in Equipment of
Cars Using Electric Lighting Systems.
limousine bodies may be brightly illuminated, and other conveniences
in the form of trouble lamps and cigar lighters may be used to ad-
vantage. Some of the special forms of lamps are shown at Fig. 348.
That at A is a small dash fitting designed to throw the light from
the lamp directly against the face of a clock or speedometer. A
useful " trouble lamp " which combines a cigar lighter as well is
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
579
shown at B. The bulb is mounted in a special reflector attached to a
suitable handle which is connected to the source of current by a long,
flexible wire cable which permits the lamp to be used at all points
Bulb Adjusting Screw
Lamp Shell
Focusing Rod
Focusing Lever
Wires
Glass
Fig. 349. Sectional View of Gray & Davis Electric Headlight Showing Method
of Focusing Bulb by Accessible Adjusting Screw.
of the car. The form shown at C is a modification of the dash type
depicted at A and is used as a side bracket for interior illumination
of closed bodies. The search light illustrated at D is a modified
form of that shown at B and does not combine a cigar lighter.
An electric headlight of very good design is shown at Fig. 349.
580
The Modern Gasoline Automobile
The lamp is mounted in a movable base that may be adjusted so
the bulb will always be in the proper relation to the parabolic re-
flector to throw an intense beam of light. As will be evident the
construction of such a lamp is simple and makes possible smooth
forms, which are much neater appearing than gas lamps if only the
electric filament is used for illumination.
Many automobilists are inclined to be suspicious of innovations,
and because of their familiarity with kerosene oil and gas lamps they
Fig. 350. Combination Headlight Fitted with Both Gas Burner and Electric
Bulb. A Position of Bulb with Gas Flame in Use. B Bulb Furnishing
Light.
desire to retain these and use the electric bulb as well. This is easily
done in the case of side lights by putting in a bulb at some point
where it will not interfere with the regular burner. Gas burning
headlights may be converted to use electric current when desired
by simple adapters as depicted at Fig. 350. These are clamp members
attached to the burners. A lamp socket is mounted in such a man-
ner that it may be swung out of the way as shown at A, when it is
desired to use the gas flame or moved back so that it occupies about
the same position relative to the lens mirror as does the gas flame
I
y
using a rag soaked in gasoline, and taking care to touch only the spot.
This latter treatment calls for considerable skill, but with patience one
is usually successful.
CHAPTER XIII
Practical Hints to Assist in Locating Power-Plant Troubles Systematic
Detection of Conditions to which Imperfect Operation Can Be Ascribed
Faults in the Ignition System Derangements of the Carburetion Group
and Their Symptoms Cooling and Lubrication Group Troubles.
OXE versed in motor-car construction and repair processes does
not have any difficulty in tracing the common motor troubles to their
source and the expert readily recognizes the symptoms which denote
faulty action of any of the power-plant components. The average
motorist, who has but little mechanical experience, is apt to become
hopelessly confused when even the simpler derangements, liable to oc-
cur at any time, materialize. One who is not thoroughly familiar with
motor-car construction will seldom locate troubles by haphazard ex-
perimenting and it is only by a systematic search that the cause can
be discovered and the defects eliminated. In this chapter the writer
proposes to outline some of the most common power-plant troubles
and to give sufficient advice to enable those who are not thoroughly
informed to locate them by a logical process of elimination.
The internal-combustion motor, which is the power plant of all
gasoline automobiles, is composed of a number of distinct groups,
which in turn include distinct components. These various appliances
are so closely related to each other that defective action of any one
may interrupt the operation of the entire power plant. Some of the
auxiliary groups are more necessary than others and the power plant
will continue to operate for a time even after the failure of some
important parts of some of the auxiliary groups. The gasoline engine
in itself is a complete mechanism, but it is evident that it cannot de-
liver any power without some means of supplying gas to the cylinders
and igniting the compressed gas charge after it has been compressed
in the cylinders. From this it is patent that the. ignition and car-
buretion systems are just as essential parts of the power plant as the
641
642 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
piston, connecting rod, or cylinder of the motor. The failure of
either the carburetor or igniting means to function properly will be
immediately apparent by faulty action of the power plant.
To insure that the motor will continue to operate it is necessary to
keep it from overheating by some form of cooling system and to supply
oil to the moving parts to reduce friction. The cooling and lubrica-
tion groups are not so important as carburetion and ignition, as the
engine would run for a limited period of time even should the cooling
system fail or the oil supply cease. It would only be a few moments,
however, before the engine would overheat if the cooling system was
at fault, and the parts seize if the lubricating system should fail.
Any derangement in the carburetor or ignition mechanism would man-
ifest itself at once because the engine operation would be affected, but
a defect in the cooling or oiling system would not be noticed so readily.
The careful motorist will always inspect the motor mechanism
before starting on a trip of any consequence, and if inspection is care-
fully carried out and loose parts tightened it is seldom that irregular
operation will be found due to actual breakage of any of the compo-
nents of the mechanism. Deterioration due to natural causes matures
slowly, and sufficient warning is always given when parts begin to
wear so satisfactory repairs may be promptly made before serious de-
rangement or failure is manifested.
A Typical Engine Stoppage Analyzed. Before describing the points
that may fail in the various auxiliary systems it will be well to assume
a typical case of engine failure and show the process of locating the
trouble in a systematic manner by indicating the various steps which
are in logical order and which could reasonably be followed. In any
case of engine failure the ignition system, motor compression, and
carburetor should be tested first. If the ignition system is function-
ing properly one should determine the amount of compression in all
cylinders and if this is satisfactory the carbureting group should be
tested. If the ignition system is working properly and there is a
decided resistance in the cylinders when the starting handle is turned,
proving that there is good compression, one may suspect the carburetor.
If the ca'rburetor appears to be in good condition, the trouble
may be .caused by the ignition being out of time, which condition is
possible when the timer is 7 attached to the cam shaft by a set screw
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 643
or the magneto timing gear to the armature shaft by a taper
and nut retention instead of the more positive key or taper-pin
fastening. It is possible that the inlet manifold may be broken or
perforated, that the exhaust valve is stuck on its seat because of a
broken or bent stem, broken or loose cam, or failure of the cam-shaft
drive because the teeth are stripped from the engine shaft or cam-shaft
gears ; or because the key or other fastening on either gear has failed,
allowing that member to turn independently of the shaft to which it
normally is attached. The gasoline feed pipe may be clogged or broken,
the fuel supply may be depleted, or the shut-off cock in the gasoline
line may have jarred closed. The gasoline filter may be filled with
dirt or water which prevents passage of the fuel.
The defects outlined above, except the failure of the gasoline sup-
ply, are very rare, and if the container is found to contain fuel and
the pipe line to be clear to the carburetor, it is safe to assume the
vaporizing device is at fault. If fuel continually runs out of the
mixing chamber the carburetor is said to be flooded. This condition
results from failure of the shut-off needle to seat properly or from a
punctured hollow metal float or a gasoline-soaked cork float. It is
possible that not enough gasoline is present in the float chamber.
If the passage controlled by the float-needle valve is clogged or if the
float was badly out of adjustment, this contingency would be probable.
When the carburetor is examined, if the gasoline level appears to be
at the proper height, one may suspect that a particle of lint, or dust,
or fine scale, or rust from the gasoline tank has clogged the bore of the
jet in the mixing chamber.
If the ignition system and carburetor appear to be in good working
order, and the hand crank shows that there is no compression in one
or more of the cylinders, it means some defect in the valve system. If
the engine is a multiple-cylinder type and one finds poor compression
in all of the cylinders it may be due to the rare defect of improper
valve timing. This may be caused by a gear having altered its position
on the cam shaft or crank shaft, because of a sheared key or pin having
permitted the gear to turn about a half of a revolution and then
having caught and held the gear in place by a broken or jagged end
so that cam shaft would turn, but the valves open at the wrong time.
If but one of the cylinders is at fault and the rest appear to have
644 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
good compression the trouble may be due to a defective condition
either inside or outside of that cylinder. The external parts may
be inspected easily, so the following should be looked for: a broken
valve, a warped valve head, broken valve springs, sticking or bent
valve stems, dirt under valve seat, leak at valve-chamber cap or spark-
plug gasket. Defective priming cock, cracked cylinder head (rarely
occurs), leak through cracked spark-plug insulation, valve plunger
stuck in the guide, lack of clearance between valve-stem end and top
of plunger caused by loose adjusting screw which has worked up and
kept the valve from seating. The faulty compression may be due to
defects inside the motor. The piston head may be cracked (rarely
occurs), piston rings may be broken, the slots in the piston rings
may be in line, the rings may have lost their elasticity or have become
gummed in the grooves of the piston, or the piston and cylinder walls
may be badly scored by a loose wrist pin or by defective lubrication.
If the motor is a type with a separate head it is possible the gasket
or packing between the cylinder and combustion chamber may leak,
either admitting water to the cylinder or allowing compression to
escape.
Conditions That Cause Failure of Ignition System. If the first
test of the motor had showed that the compression was as it should
be and that there were no serious mechanical defects and there was
plenty of gasoline at the carburetor, this would have demonstrated
that the ignition s}^stem was not functioning property. If a battery
is employed to supply current the first step is to take the spark plugs
out of^ the cylinders and test the system by turning over the engine
by hand. If there is no spark in any of the plugs', this may be con-
sidered a positive indication that there is a broken main current lead
from the battery, a defective ground connection, a loose battery ter-
minal, or a broken connector. If none of these conditions are present,
it is safe to say that the battery is no longer capable of delivering
current. If there is no spark at the plugs, but the spark-coil vibrator
functions properly, this shows that the primary wiring is as it should
be and that the fault must be looked for in either the wires com-
prising the secondary circuit, or at the plugs.
The spark plugs may be short circuited by cracked insulation or
carbon and oil deposits around the electrode. The secondary wires
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 645
may be broken or have defective insulation which permits the current
to ground to some metal part of the frame or motor. The battery
strength should be tested with volt or ampere meter to determine if
the voltage and amperage are sufficient. Storage-battery capacity is
usually gauged by measuring the voltage while dry cells are judged by
their amperage. A storage battery should show at least two volts
per cell, while dry batteries that indicate less than seven amperes per
cell are not considered reliable or satisfactory for ignition service.
If there is no vibration at the coil trembler or vibrator the trouble
may be due to weak current source, broken timer wires, or defective
connections at the vibrator or commutator contact points. The elec-
trodes of the spark plug may be too far apart to permit a spark to
overcome the resistance of the compressed gas, even if a spark jumps
the air space, when the plug is laid on the cylinder.
If a magneto is fitted and a spark is obtained between the points
of the plug and that device or the wire leading to it from the magneto
is in proper condition, the trouble is probably caused by the magneto
being out of time. This may result if the driving gear is loose on
the armature shaft or crank shaft, and is a rare occurrence. If no
spark is produced at the plugs the secondary wire may be broken, the
ground wire may make contact with some metallic portion of the
chassis before it reaches the switch, the carbon collecting brushes may
be broken or not making contact, the contact points of the make-and-
break device may be out of adjustment, the wiring may be attached to
wrong terminals, the distributor filled with metallic particles, carbon,
dust or oil accumulations, the distributor contacts may not be making
proper connection because of wear and there may be a more serious
derangement, such as a burned out secondary winding or a punctured
condenser.
If the motor runs intermittently, i. e., starts and runs only a few
revolutions, aside from the conditions previously outlined, defective
operation may be due to seizing between parts because of insufficient
oil or deficient cooling, too much oil in the crank case which fouls
the cylinder after the crank shaft has revolved a few turns, and de-
rangements in the ignition or carburetion systems that may be easily
remedied. There are a number of defective conditions which may
exist in the ignition group, that will result in " skipping " or irregular
646 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
operation,, and the following is the logical order in which the various
points should be inspected ; the parts which demand inspection of tenest
are considered first: weak source of current due to worn out dry cells
or discharged storage batteries; weak magnets in magneto,, or de-
fective contacts at magneto; dirt in magneto distributor or poor con-
tact at collecting brushes. Dirty or cracked insulator at spark plug
will cause short circuit and can only be detected by careful exami-
nation. The following points should also be checked over when the
plug is inspected : Excessive space between electrodes, points too close
together, loose central electrodes, or loose point on plug body, soot
or oil particles between electrodes, or on the surface of the insulator.
When testing a dry battery, the terminals should be gone over
carefully to make sure that all terminal nuts are tight and that there
are no loose or broken cell connectors. The wiring at the coil, timer,
and switch should be inspected to see that all connections are tight
and that the insulation is not chafed or cracked. Defective insulation
will allow leakage of current, while loose connections make for irreg-
ular operation. In testing a storage battery care should be taken to
remove all the verdigris or sulphate from the terminals before at-
taching the testing wires. If a magneto is used there may be a short
circuit in the ground wire or a poor connection at either switch lever or
switch key.
The timer or distributor used with a battery-ignition system may
be dirty and if the device wabbles or has loose bearings, the primary
contact will be very poor. The insulating ring at the timer or dis-
tributor, or the fiber or hard-rubber bushings at magneto or timer
may allow loss of current if they are cracked. If the ignition system
employs low-tension sparking plates the igniter should be removed and
examined with particular reference to the sparking or contact points
which should be clean and free from pits or irregular projections.
The bushing which insulates the fixed contact or anvil from the plate
should be clean and free from oil or cracks. Wear in the operating
mechanism of the igniter will cause irregular operation. A poor
ground contact at a commutator of the high-tension system will cause
irregular ignition.
If a vibrator coil is employed the trembler platinum contact points
should be examined for pits or carbonized particles that would in-
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 647
terfere with good contact. If defective, they should be thoroughly
cleaned and the surfaces of the platinum point on both vibrator spring
and adjusting screw should be filed smooth to insure positive contact.
The tension of the vibrator spring should not be too light or too
heavy and the vibrator should work rapidly enough to make a sharp,
buzzing sound when contact is established at the timer. The adjust-
ing screw should be tight in the vibrator bridge and when proper
spring tension is obtained the regulating screw should be locked firmly
to prevent movement.
If the vibrator operates satisfactorily, but there is a brilliant spark
between the vibrator points and a poor spark at the spark plug, one
may assume that the coil condenser is punctured. Short circuits in
the condenser or internal wiring of induction coils or magnetos, which
are fortunately not common, can seldom be remedied except at the
factory where these devices were made. If an engine stops suddenly
and the 'defect is in the ignition system the trouble is usually never
more serious than a broken or loose wire. This may be easily lo-
cated by inspecting the wiring at the terminals. Irregular operation
or misfiring is harder to locate because the trouble can only be found
after the many possible defective conditions have been checked over,
one by one.
Common Defects in Fuel Systems. Defective carburetion often
causes misfiring or irregular operation. The common derangement of
the components of the fuel system that are common enough to Warrant
suspicion and the best methods for their location follows : First, dis-
connect the feed pipe from the curburetor and see if the gasoline
flows freely from the tank. If the stream coming out of the pipe is not
the full size of the orifice it is an indication that the pipe is clogged
with dirt or that there is an accumulation of rust, scale, or lint in the
strainer screens of the filter. It is also possible that the fuel shut-off
valve may be wholly or partly closed. If the gasoline flows by gravity
the liquid may be air bound in the tank, while if a pressure-feed sys-
tem is utilized the tank may leak so that it does not retain pressure;
the check valve retaining the pressure may be defective or the pipe
conveying the air or gas under pressure to the tank may be clogged.
If the gasoline flows from the pipe in a steady stream the carbur-
etor demands examination. There may be dirt or water in the float
648 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
chamber, which will constrict the passage between the float chamber
and the spray nozzle, or a particle of foreign matter may have entered
the nozzle and stopped up the fine holes therein. The float may bind
on its guide, the needle valve regulating the gasoline-inlet opening in
bowl may stick to its seat. Any of the conditions mentioned would
cut down the gasoline supply and the engine would not receive suffi-
cient quantities of gas. The air-valve spring may be weak or the air
valve broken. The gasoline-adjusting needle may be loose and jar
out of adjustment, or the air- valve spring-adjusting nuts may be such
a poor fit on the stem that adjustments will not be retained. Air may
leak in through the manifold, due to a porous casting, or leaky joints
in a built up form and dilute the mixture. The air-intake dust screen
may be so clogged with dirt and lint that not enough air will pass
through the mesh. Water or sediment in the gasoline will cause mis-
firing because the fuel feed varies 'when the water or dirt constricts
the standpipe bore.
It is possible that the carburetor may be out of adjustment. If
clouds of black smoke are emitted at the exhaust pipe it is positive
indication that too much gasoline is being supplied the mixture and
the supply should be cut down by screwing in the needle valve on
types where this method of regulation is provided, and by making sure
that the fuel level is at the proper height in those forms where the
spray nozzle has no means of adjustment. If the mixture contains
too much air there will be a pronounced popping back in the carburetor.
This may be overcome by screwing in the air-valve adjustment so the
spring tension is increased or by slightly opening up the gasoline-
supply regulation needle. When a carburetor is properly adjusted
and the mixture delivered the cylinder burns properly, the exhaust
gas will be clean and free from the objectionable odor present when
gasoline is burned in excess.
If a muffler cut-out is provided the character of combustion may
be judged by the color of the flame which issues from it when the
engine is running with an open throttle after nightfall. If the
flame is red, it indicates too much gasoline. If -yellowish, it shows
an excess of air, while a properly proportioned mixture will be evi-
denced by^a pronounced blue flame, such as given by a gas-stove
burner.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 649
Defects in Oiling Systems. While troubles existing in the ignition
or carburetion groups are usually denoted by imperfect operation of
the motor, such as lost power, and misfiring, derangements of the
lubrication or cooling systems are usually evident by overheating, dim-
inution in engine capacity, or noisy operation. Overheating may be
caused by poor carburetion as much as by deficient cooling or insuffi-
cient oiling. When the oiling group is not functioning as it should
the friction between the motor parts produces heat. If the cooling
system is in proper condition, as will be evidenced by the condition of
the water in the radiator, and the carburetion group appears to be in
good condition, the overheating is probably caused by some defect in
the oiling system.
The conditions that most commonly result in poor lubrication are :
Insufficient oil in the engine crank case or sump, broken or clogged
oil pipes, screen at filter filled with lint or dirt, broken oil pump, or
defective oil-pump drive. The supply of oil may be reduced by a
defective inlet or discharge-check valve at the mechanical oiler or worn
pumps. A clogged oil passage or pipe leading to an important bear-
ing point will cause trouble because the oil cannot get between the
working surfaces. When simple compression pressure feed lubricators
are employed the check valves may be defective or the container may
leak. Either of these conditions will prevent the accumulation of
pressure on the surface of the oil and the feed will not be positive. The
sight-feed glasses may fill with oil because the pipes leading from them
to the engine are full, or because the conductor is clogged with oil wax.
This gives sufficient warning, however, and the oil pipe may be easily
cleared by removing it and blowing it out with air or steam under
pressure. It is well to remember that much of the trouble caused by
defective oiling may be prevented by using only the best grades of lu-
bricant, and even if all parts of the oil system are 'working properly,
oils of poor quality will cause friction and overheating.
Defects in Cooling Systems Outlined. Cooling systems are very
simple and are not liable to give trouble as a rule if the radiator is
jkept full of clean water and the circulation is not impeded. When
[overheating is due to defective cooling the most common troubles are
'those that impede water circulation. If the radiator is clogged or the
jpiping or water jackets filled with rust or sediment the speed of water
650 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
circulation will be slow, which will also be the case if the water pump
or its driving means fail. Some cooling systems are so closely pro-
portioned to the actual requirements that the stoppage of a cooling
fan will be enough to cause the engine to overheat. Any scale or
sediment in the water jackets or in the piping or radiator passages
will reduce the heat conductivity of the metal exposed to the air, and
the water will not be cooled as quickly as though the scale was not
present.
The rubber hose often used in making the flexible connections de-
manded between the radiator and water manifolds of the engine may
deteriorate inside and particles of rubber hang down that will reduce
the. area of the passage. The grease from the grease cups mounted
on the pump-shaft bearing to lubricate that member often finds its
way into the water system and rots the inner walls of the rubber hose,
this resulting in strips of the partly decomposed rubber lining hang-
ing down and restricting the passage. The cooling system is prone to
overheat after antifreezing solutions of which calcium chloride forms
a part have been used. This is due to the formation of crystals of
salt in the radiator passages or water jackets, and these crystals can
only be dissolved by suitable chemical means, or removed by scraping
when the construction permits.
Overheating is often caused by some condition in the fuel system
that produces too rich mixture. Excess gasoline may be supplied if
any of the following conditions are present: Bore of spray nozzle or
standpipe too large, auxiliary air-valve spring too tight, gasoline level
too high, loose regulating valve, fuel-soaked cork float, punctured
sheet-metal float, dirt under float control shut-off valve or insufficient
air supply because of a clogged air screen. If pressure feed is utilized
there may be too much gas pressure in the tank, or the float controlled
mechanism operating the shut-off in either the auxiliary tank on the
dash or the float bowl of the carburetor may not act quickly enough.
Some Causes of Noisy Operation. There are a number of power-
plant derangements which give positive indication because of noisy
operation. Any knocking or rattling sounds are usually produced by
wear in connecting rods or main bearings of the engine, though some-
times s a sharp metallic knock, which is very much the same as that
produced by a loose bearing, is due to carbon deposits in the cylinder
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 651
heads, or premature ignition due to advanced spark-time lever.
Squeaking sounds invariably indicate dry bearings, and whenever such
a sound is heard it should be immediately located and oil applied to
the parts thus denoting their dry condition. Whistling or blowing
sounds are produced by leaks, either in the engine itself or in the
gas manifolds. A sharp whistle denotes the escape of gas under pres-
sure and is usually caused by a defective packing or gasket that seals
a portion of the combustion chamber or that is used for a joint as the
exhaust manifold. A blowing sound indicates a leaky packing in
crank case. Grinding noises in the motor are usually caused by the
timing gears and will obtain if these gears are dry or if they have
become worn. Whenever a loud knocking sound is heard careful in-
spection should be made to locate the cause of the trouble. Much
harm may be done in a few minutes if the engine is run with loose
connecting rod or bearings that would be prevented by taking up the
wear or looseness between the parts by some means of adjustment.
As a general rule the average motorist is not sufficiently informed
mechanically to undertake repairs of worn motor parts, and whenever
repairs of a mechanical nature are necessary it will be much more sat-
isfactory and cheaper to have them done by^ experienced mechanics or
repairmen. Ordinary adjustments may be attempted by even the
inexpert, but it should be remembered that nothing may be changed
without a good reason existing for making the alteration. It is not
proposed to discuss the various causes of noisy operation at length be-
cause the defective conditions which are evident by noisy action can
usually be remedied only by skilled labor. The common defects of
the auxiliary groups have been mentioned in detail, however, because
these troubles may occur on the road and it is well for the motorist
to be familiar with the common derangements that may result in ir-
regular engine operation or loss of power.
It is not in the scope of a work of this nature to analyze fully the
mechanical derangement and methods of restoration because a separate
' volume would be needed to bring these points out adequately enough
to be of value. If the motorist follows the hints given in this chap-
ter he is not likely to be stalled on the road by simpler defects which
he can remedy as well as the more expert. It is well to remember
! that common troubles can only be located by systematic search and
652 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
that causes of imperfect engine action are often located by those who
do not recognize the symptoms because they follow a logical process
of elimination. It must be evident that all of the defects outlined
will never happen within the average experience, but the conditions
defined have been named because they have occurred often enough and
are sufficiently common to warrant suspicion if trouble is experienced.
CHAPTEE XIV
Keeping Up the Motor-Car Chassis Common Defects of Clutches and Gear-
sets Faults in Chain- and Shaft-Driving Systems Troubles in Front and
Rear Axles Adjustment of Brakes Care of Miscellaneous Chassis Com-
ponents Maintenance of Body Finish, Tops, and Upholstery.
WHEN any defects exist in the power plant they are immediately
evidenced by lost power, misfiring, overheating, or other positive indi-
cations that cannot be neglected. There are many points in the chas-
sis that may wear and be faulty in action that will not be immediately
apparent. Deterioration may exist in the power-transmission elements
which will mean a serious diminution in power, but as the motor car
will run more or less capably the faults are not generally known and
cannot be definitely located by motorists. There are some points
where wear or loose parts may directly concern the safety of the oc-
cupants of the car. For instance, any defect in either the steering
gear or the brakes might result disastrously 'in event of failure. It is
not possible to discuss all the points that may need attention or to
consider at length the restoration of defective components, but it is
well to consider some of the common troubles which may result in im-
perfect operation and which can be easily eliminated.
Common Defects in Clutches. Considering first the member of
the transmission system that will affect the efficiency of the entire as-
sembly when deranged, it will be well to discuss the troubles common
to the various types of clutches. The defective conditions that most
often materialize are too sudden engagement which causes " grabbing,"
failure to engage properly, slipping under load, and poor release.
Clutches utilizing a leather facing will cause trouble after a time be-
cause of natural wear or some defect of the friction facing. The
leather may be charred by heat caused by slipping, or it may have
become packed down hard and have lost most of its resiliency. The
: clutch spring may be weakened, or broken ; this will cause the clutch
to slip even if 'the leather facing of the cone is in good condition.
653
654 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
The two troubles usually met with by the motorist are harsh action,
as one extreme condition, and loss of power through slippage as the
other.
When a cone clutch engages too suddenly it is generally caused
by the surface of the leather lining becoming hard and not having
sufficient resiliency to yield to some extent when first brought into
frictional contact. To insure gradual clutch application the facing
should be soft and elastic. If the leather is not burned or worn unduly
it may often be softened by rubbing it with neatsfoot oil. Kerosene
oil is often enough to keep the clutch leather pliable and it possesses
so little lubricating value that the clutch members are not liable to
slip because of a reduced coefficient of friction such as often caused
by the application of more viscous lubricants. Kerosene has other
advantages, among which may be mentioned quick penetration of the
leather and not collecting grit or gumming.
When a cone clutch slips it is usually due to a coating of oil on
the frictional material that decreases the value of the coefficient of
friction to such a point that the pressure of the clutch spring is not
enough to maintain sufficient frictional contact between the male and
female members to insure driving. The remedy for this condition is
to absorb the surplus oil by rubbing a small quantity of Fuller's earth
into the leather surface. When the clutch cone is .in place it is not
easy to reach the surface of the leather, so the first step would be to
disengage or release the clutch and to place enough of the Fuller's
earth on a piece of paper or card so it can be sprinkled into the space
left between the male and female members when the former is properly
released. Borax is sometimes recommended for the same purpose and
when the earth or borax are not available the carbide dust or lime
residue from the acetylene-gas generator may be used to advantage.
If slipping is caused by weakening of the clutch spring it may be
prevented by substituting springs of proper strength or by increasing
the degree of compression of the weak springs by some means of ad-
justment if provided for the purpose.
Another annoying condition that sometimes obtains when a cone
clutch is used is spinning or continued rotation of the male member
when qlutch-spring pressure is released. This may be the result of
natural causes but it is sometimes caused by a defect in the clutch
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 655
mechanism. If the bearing on which the cone revolves when dis-
engaged seizes because of lack of lubricant the male member of the
clutch will continue to rotate even when spring pressure is released.
The ball-thrust bearing employed to resist spring tension may become
wedged by a broken ball and this will cause the rotation of the crank
shaft to be imparted to the cone member,, through the spring, which
must turn with the crank shaft instead of remaining stationary, as
would be the case if the ball-thrust bearing was functioning properly.
On those cars fitted with multiple-disk clutches the same troubles
may be experienced as with other types. If a multiple-disk clutch
does not release properly it is because the surfaces of the plates have
become rough and tend to drag. The plates of a multiple-disk clutch
should be free from roughness and the surfaces should always be
smooth and clean. Harsh engagement also results by the absence of
oil in those types where the disks are designed to run into an oil bath.
Spinning or continued rotation of a multiple-disk clutch often results
from seizing due to gummed oil, the presence of carbon or burned oil
between the plates and sometimes by a lack of oil between the mem-
bers. When a multiple-disk clutch slips, it is generally caused by
lack of strength of the clutch springs or distortion of the plates. To
secure the best results from a multiple-disk clutch it is imperative
that only certain grades of oil be used. If one uses a cheap or in-
ferior lubricant it will gum and carbonize because of the heat present
when the plates slip or it will have such viscosity that it will gum up
between the plates. Most authorities recommend a good grade of
light or medium cylinder oil in multiple-disk clutches where lubricant
is required. In some cases faulty multiple-disk clutch action is due
to " brooming," which is the condition that exists when the sides of
the keyways or the edges of the disk become burred over and prevent
full contact of the plates.
Faulty clutch action has often been traced to points separate from
the clutch mechanism. Some cases of failure of clutch to release have
been found due to imperfect relation of interlocking levers and rods
3r wear in some mechanical parts. If a clutch-shifting collar is worn
unduly or the small pins in the rod connecting the clutch pedal with
"he release mechanism have worn to any extent the pedal may be fully
lepressed and yet the pressure of the spring depended upon t'o keep
656 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
the parts in contact will not be reduced to any extent. Sometimes the
emergency-brake lever may have an interlocking leverage to release the
clutch when it is applied, and when the brake rods are shortened to
compensate for wear of the brakes the change in length of the operat-
ing rods may throw out the clutch mechanism slightly and cause slip-
ping of the clutch because the spring pressure may be partially relieved.
Derangements in Change-Speed Gearing. As previously explained,
the simplest form of gearing to obtain various speed ratios is the
friction-disk type. Failure to drive properly may result from exces-
sive oil on either the face of the driving disk or the periphery of the
driving wheel, lost motion, wear or spring at various points in the
operating mechanism, or deterioration of the surfaces of either driving
disks or driven wheel. If trouble is experienced in a friction trans-
mission the first point to inspect is the condition of the friction sur-
faces. If excessive deposits of oil have caused slipping it should be
thoroughly removed with gasoline and the surface of both disk and
wheel sprinkled with talc powder. If the face of the aluminum-alloy
driving disk is grooved or roughened, slipping is inevitable until the
disk is refaced absolutely true. The strawboard-fiber friction band
of the driven wheel may " broom " out, and this will cause slipping
because the surface is not true. As a general rule, the fiber ring of
the friction transmission should be renewed after it has been used
from 2,500 to 3,000 miles. Wear at the countershaft bearings will
produce a tendency for the driven wheel to crowd toward the center
or edge of the driving disk, depending upon the relation of the actual
line of contact with the theoretical contact line drawn through the
disk. Lost motion or spring in the parts serving to engage the fric-
tion surfaces will cause slipping because the degree of pressure neces-
sary to secure the frictional adhesion required between the members
to secure positive driving will be reduced.
The chief trouble with a planetary transmission is caused by slip- .
ping clutcli^ands. These are provided with adjustments that can be
tightened in case of wear and should grip positively. If either the
slow or reverse bands are adjusted too tight they will bind on the
drums and produce friction, which in turn will decrease the efficiency
of the drive. Noisy action of planetary gearing is usually caused l>y
lack of* lubrication or excessive wear in the gearing. If the oiling is
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 657
properly taken care of this condition will be practically eliminated.
Sometimes the high-speed clutch may slip, but most planetary gears
are provided with adjustable clutches so any wear may be readily
taken up.
When sliding-gear transmissions are used the most common defect
is difficulty in shifting gears and noisy operation. The difficulty met
with in gear shifting is usually caused by the edges of the teeth of
the shifting members having burred over so that they do not pass
readily into the spaces between the teeth of the gears they engage
with. Another cause of poor gear shifting is deterioration of the
bearings which may change the center distances of the shafts to a
certain degree, and the relation of the gears may be changed relative
to each other so they will not slide into mesh as freely as they should.
Noisy operation is usually due to a defective condition of lubrication,
and if the gears are not worn too much it may be minimized to a large
extent by filling the gear case with oil of sufficient consistency to
cushion the gear teeth and yet not be so viscous that it will not flow
readily to all bearing points. A difficulty in shifting is sometimes due
to binding in the control levers or selective rods, and these should
always work freely if prompt gear shifting is required. If consider-
able difficulty is experienced in meshing the gears and the trouble is
not found in the gearset, it will be well to examine the clutch to
make sure that the driven member attached to the gearset main
shaft does not " spin " or continue to revolve after the foot pedal
is depressed.
Faults in Chain- and Shaft-Driving Systems. While power trans-
mission by chains is not as common at the present time in pleasure-
car practice as it has been in the past, side-chain drive is used to
considerable advantage in motor-truck work so the following hints
on chain care and adjustment will prove timely. Much of the trouble
experienced when chain drive is employed can be traced to faulty
design as a basis. The teeth of the sprockets may ^jt be properly
shaped and may not be of the form best adapted for the chain designed
to run over them. As most chains are exposed and run without a
covering of any kind, the action of the road dust and gravel is to com-
bine with the grease often rubbed on the outside on the pretext of
oiling the chain and form an abrasive that will produce rapid wear
658 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
between chain and sprocket and the various links of which the chain
is composed.
To obtain the best results from chain drive the chains must be
maintained in correct adjustment by the radius rods provided for the
purpose. If a chain is allowed to run too loose it will " whip " and is
liable to climb the teeth of the sprocket. If the chain is adjusted
too tight, there will be a strain on all parts and it is liable to " snap "
when it leaves the sprocket, especially if the teeth are worn hook shape.
A safe rule to remember when adjusting chains is to have them tight
enough so that it is not possible to raise it from the first tooth with
which it meshes on either sprocket, even with the aid of a lever such
as large screw driver or tire iron.
Chains must be kept clean and properly oiled. The best method
of removing the dirt is to take the chain off the sprockets and let it
soak long enough in a large pan containing kerosene so all the dirt
and gummed oil is removed thoroughly from all the interior bearing
surfaces. It should be gone over thoroughly with a stiff bristle brush
until each link works freely. The chain is then immersed in a pan
of gasoline to remove any small particles of grit that the kerosene may
have failed to dissolve. After the gasoline bath it is wiped with a
clean cloth until it is dry and clean. The proper method of chain
lubrication is not generally understood and in many instances it is
accomplished by coating the outside of the chain with a graphite-
grease combination that serves no useful purpose, and acts merely
as a collecting agent for dust and grit. The proper method of chain
oiling is by immersing the cleaned chain in a molten mixture of tal-
low or mineral grease and graphite. The entire chain is immersed
in this mixture, which is kept hot so it will penetrate all the minute
interstices of the chain links and produce a thin coating of lubricant
at all the working surfaces. The chain is removed from the bath
of lubricant and while still hot all surplus oil is wiped off until the
outside of the chain is dry and clean. This method insures pro pet-
lubrication of the many small joints usually neglected and should be
done every thousand miles.
But little trouble is experienced with shaft-driving systems bo-
. cause the driving gearing and universal joints are so well enclosed on
modern axles. The bevel-driving gears are packed in lubricant
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 659
as a rule, and but little wear is noted, even after several seasons of use.
An important point to observe with all forms of axles is to make
sure that the antifriction bearings are kept properly cleaned and
oiled. The oil used should contain no acid and should be of the
best quality. Care should be taken in washing the car so that water
will be prevented from entering the bearing points. If the bevel
gears of the rear axle grind it is due to improper adjustment or ex-
cessive wear between the teeth. Grinding sounds usually result from
meshing the gears too deeply, while loose adjustment is manifested by
rattling.
Care of Front Axles and Steering Connections. The wheels of
front axles, especially on the lighter .runabouts fitted with ball bearings
of the pressed steel cup and adjustable cone type, should be carefully
examined from time to time. As a general rule, the wear upon the
cones of such bearings is rapid because of the stresses obtaining at
this point. It is well to jack up the axle from time to time and turn
the wheels by hand to insure that they turn freely, and to move them
to see if there is any play or loss motion that would indicate either
wear or poor adjustment of the bearings. When examined the balls
should be perfectly round and smooth and the cones and races should
have unbroken surfaces. Care should be'*taken in adjusting the cone
so the wheels turn freely and yet they should be tight enough so no
play will exist between the front wheel and the bearings. If the
cones are adjusted up too tight the balls will be wedged in such a
way that they will soon cut into the race ways. As a general rule,
annular ball bearings will need but little attention. The steering
knuckles should be looked over to see that the spindle bolts are right,
and the various joints of the drag link and tiebar should be carefully
examined for any lost motion. It is desirable to encase all the small
joints forming part of the steering system in small leather bags packed
with lubricant, because if these joints are kept well oiled and protected
from grit there will be but little wear at those points.
Adjustment of Brakes. The means of adjusting brakes may be
easily ascertained by inspection. If brakes do not hold properly and
the friction facing is in good condition and free from oil, the failure
to grip the drum is probably due to wear in the operating leverage.
On some form of brakes, notably those which are expanded by a toggle
660 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
joint or cam motion, compensation for wear of the brake shoes is
often made by shortening the rods running from the brake to the
operating lever. External brakes are usually provided with an adjust-
ment on the brake band, which permits one to draw the ends of the
band closer together and take up much of the lost motion between
the band and the brake drum. When adjusting brakes it is necessary
to make the adjustment so the brakes will take hold together. If
one member is adjusted so that it will grip its drum before the other
does, there will be considerable strain on the tires and a tendency to
side slipping every time the brakes are applied. After the brakes are
adjusted it is well to jack up the axle to make sure that the wheels
turn freely and that there is no binding between the brake members
and the drums on the hubs. If the brakes are adjusted too tightly
the friction will cause heat after the car has been run a short distance,
and this increase in temperature is a very good indication of power
loss by friction between the brake and the drum. If the brakes are
not adjusted sufficiently tight a full movement of the pedal or hand
lever will prove inadequate to apply the brakes tight enough to stop
rotation of the wheels. The bearings used in rear wheels are usually
of the nonadjustable antifriction types and require practically no at-
tention except to keep them properly oiled and cleaned.
Care of Miscellaneous Chassis Components. A common trouble
with all types of motor-car frames is that after a period of use they
may sag down at the center. This condition may produce difficulty in
clutch shifting or gear actuation because it may cause cramping
or binding of the operating mechanism. A sagging frame is usually
strengthened and brought back into place by a strut rod and turn
buckle arrangement which may be installed under the defective mem-
ber by any competent mechanic. The various frame members some-
times become loose owing to the play in the rivets caused by the frame
distortions. Another point of importance is lost motion in spring
hangers and shackles and often the bolts passing through the spring
eye and the shackle links may be found worn half through if in-
spected after a season's use. On many cars no provision has been
made for lubricating these points and the deterioration produces
squeaking and rattles when the car is operated over rough roads. If
the spring action is harsh and if these members squeak the spring
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 661
leaves should be pried apart after the spring clips have been loosened
a trifle and oil introduced between the leaves.
Back lash in the steering mechanism is often a source of annoyance
to motorists, but if it is present only in the reduction gears at the
bottom of the steering posts it is not a serious defect. On some types
of worm and worm-wheel gears the worm-wheel shaft is provided with
eccentric bushings and a certain amount of wear may be taken up by
turning these so that the gear teeth are brought into closer relation.
In cases where the control-lever rods go down through the center of the
steering column accumulations of rust will sometimes cause stiff action.
This condition is easily remedied by removing the rod and surround-
ing tube member, cleaning out the rust, and putting the parts back
after they have been thoroughly oiled.
The suggestions given in this chapter and the preceding one should
prove of value to all motorists by assisting them in securing a knowl-
edge of the more common troubles incidental to motor-car operation.
The general suggestions given cannot be considered applying to any
specific case because they are so general in character, and obviously the
differences in construction of the various cars will have to be taken
into consideration in attempting to apply the suggestions given
advantageously. Enough of the ordinary defects have been men-
tioned so that almost any ordinary derangement can be located and
remedied.
Maintenance of Body and Upholstery. Many motorists are at loss
to understand the reason for quick deterioration of the brightly var-
nished surfaces of a motor-car body that has been in use for some time.
The paint may be blistered or cracked or the finish may be spotted
at various points. Bodies that were formerly black will assume a blu-
ish tinge and bright varnish will soon become dull. If the car is an
expensive one, the motorist is justified in expecting a degree of finish
that will endure, but those who purchase cheaper cars must expect
to lose the bright finish after the car has been used for a time. Where
cars are manufactured in large quantities, the varnish is often applied
before some of the under coats are thoroughly dried, and the result
will be a series of blisters. Another result of hasty manufacture and
of putting the car in service soon after painting is spotting. This is
produced by dry mud which extracts some of the oil or gum from
662 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
the varnish and may often be caused by actual chemical action of
alkaline mud. The mud of city streets, especially at points where
there is a great deal of animal traffic, is highly charged with ammonia,,
and in certain clay or lime districts the mud is very destructive to the
varnish luster.
Even when a car has been properly varnished and finished there
are many conditions for which the motorist is directly or indirectly
to blame which will ruin even the highest grade of paint and varnish.
For instance, when cars are cleaned at garages various soaps and wash-
ing compounds are used which contain alkaline materials to assist
in removing dirt and oil but which are very destructive to the highly
finished, varnished surfaces. Most of the soaps upon the market con-
tain ingredients which have a chemical action on the oils of paint and
causes it to deteriorate. There are soaps which do not damage painted
surfaces, but these are usually more costly and require more care and
labor to remove the dirt accumulation so they are not apt .to be gen-
erally used. The grades of soap that act the quickest in cutting grease
are those that will more quickly dull the surfaces of the body.
Some very good carriage painters go so far as advising that no
soap be used on finely varnished surfaces. Some painters advise
against dusting off a car and claim that accumulations of this sub-
stance should be removed from the surface by washing. It is con-
tended that wiping off the dust will have the effect of scratching the
varnished surfaces and that the best method of removing either dust,
mud, or dirt, is to flush the surfaces with water from a hose. After
as much of the dirt has been removed by this method as possible a
sponge may be used, but care must be taken that no grit is permitted
to collect beneath the sponge and that the stream of water from the
hose be always kept at work ahead of the sponge.
If any grease is present on the running gear it should be removed
with gasoline or benzene, and while these substances may deaden the
varnished surfaces temporarily the blemish will not remain if the dull
varnish is polished with a clean soft cloth wet with linseed oil. The
finish of many automobiles is ruined by allowing accumulations of oil
or asphalt from freshly tarred or oiled roads to remain on the body
work. These substances should not be allowed to remain any longer
than possible, and if the oil or asphalt has become hardened, it may
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 663
be dissolved by using naphtha, vaseline, or even butter. After the oily
accumulations have been dissolved the car should be very carefully
washed to remove all traces of the oily mud or the solvents.
Of course there are portions of the car where it is difficult to have
the paint stay in good condition. The paint is often burned off that
part of the hood on a gasoline machine adjacent the exhaust pipe or
on those portions of the hood of a steam car which cover the boiler
or burner. Any part of the hood subjected to considerable heat will
become discolored after a time and if the heat is intense the paint will
burn and blister. If care is taken to keep the body properly washed
by using only the best grade of carriage soap obtainable and only
clean water, sponges, and chamois cloths, the body finish will be pre-
served for a much longer time than if washing is neglected and the
mud or dirt allowed to dry on the varnished surfaces. The use of
quick-acting soaps should be avoided as much as possible and tar or
oil accumulations should be removed as soon as conditions will permit.
If a car is kept in a barn or shed housing horses or cattle, or adjacent
to a stable the fumes of ammonia will soon cause deterioration of the
paint and varnish. One should never touch dusty surfaces with the
hands or attempt to remove the dust by brushing off with a cloth.
As a general rule, an automobile body will need to be gone over every
season. The first year that the car is in use the paint should be in
good enough condition, if proper attention has been paid to washing,
so that a coat of varnish will suffice to restore the body to its pristine
brilliancy. A car that has been used more than one season will need
both painting and varnishing to make a good job.
The matter of cleaning and caring for tops and upholstery is also
one that should be considered to some extent. Mohair tops are usu-
ally fitted to high-grade cars, leather to medium-priced cars, and imi-
tation leather or pantosote on the cheaper cars. In cleaning mohair
tops, it is necessary to remove not only dust and dirt but particles of
grease or oily matter thrown up against it by the wheels from erther
the road surface or portions of the mechanism. Dust should be re-
moved with a moist sponge, while grease or oil stains can be taken
off by a sponge and good soapsuds. Leather and imitation-leather
tops should be treated with some form of preservative. Some dress-
ings may be purchased all ready mixed and may be applied by the
664 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
motorist himself. Others may be prepared at very little expense.
Shabby leather may be made to look brighter by rubbing over the
surface with either linseed oil or the well-beaten white of an egg
mixed with a little black ink. Before applying any type of dressing,
it is advised to go over the surface with neatsfoot oil until it has
been properly softened, and often the oil treatment will be sufficient for
all practical purposes.
The following recipe is given as a good preservative for leather.
It is composed of six parts of spermaceti, eighteen parts of beeswax,
five parts of asphalt varnish, five parts black vine twig, two parts
Prussian blue, one part nitrobenzol, one part powdered borax, and
sixty-six parts oil of turpentine. The wax is melted and the borax
is added, after which the mixture is stirred until a jellylike mass is
formed. In another pan the spermaceti is melted, the varnish which
has been previously mixed with turpentine is added, and the mass
stirred well and added to wax mixture in the other vessel. The color
is the last ingredient added, this having been previously rubbed smooth
with a little of the mixture. The material is applied with a brush
about once a week in small quantities and is wiped well with a soft
cloth to polish after application.
Another formula for giving new life to leather tops or upholstery
is given as follows :
Ground Ruby Shellac 2 . 25 parts
Dark Resin 91 parts
Sandaric 115 parts
Gum Resin 115 parts
Aniline Black (Spirit Soluble) 115 parts
Lamp Black 115 parts
Wood Alcohol 22 . 50 parts
The first step in preparing this mixture is to dissolve the sandaric,
dark resin, gurri resin, and shellac in the alcohol; next the
aniline black is added and finally the lamp black, which has been
ground to a paste with a little of the liquid, is mixed in. After the
whole has been thoroughly mixed it is filtered. This is applied to
the top or upholstery with a brush and is polished with a soft cloth
or brush.
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 665
On genuine leather tops, upholstery, and for the leather straps
holding the top a good grade of harness oil is often sufficient. The
following will be found an effective mixture :
Oil of Turpentine 2 ozs.
Lamp Black y% oz.
Neatsfoot oil 10 ozs.
Vaseline 4 ozs.
The lamp black is mixed with the turpentine and the neatsf oot oil,
and the vaseline is thinned by heating it, and the ingredients are
mixed by shaking together. When the mixture cools it will be in
the form of a grease or paste which is rubbed well into the leather to
be preserved or softened.
If a car has been used on a wet or stormy day the top should be
kept up until it is thoroughly dry, as if it is inserted in the top case
or folded while wet the lining might mildew or rot. In folding tops
care should be taken to have the folds even and to have as few
wrinkles as possible. The various bows comprising the framework of
the top should be separated by small rubber pads and the whole firmly
strapped together by leather bands applied at each side of the folded
top frame to prevent rattle.
Upholstery is usually preserved by slip covers of various grades of
cloth applied to the cushions and to the backs of the seats. As
most cushions and seat backs are upholstered with leather or the
various fabrics imitating it, the same dressings that have been recom-
mended for tops may be used to advantage in treating the cushions
and seat backs. In some of the higher-priced cars, especially of the
closed-body form, various grades of broadcloth, Bedford cord, or other
textile fabrics are used. When these become dirty they must be
treated very carefully and by an experienced cleaner because ordinary
methods of removing grease spots will cause unsightly discolorations
of the fine fabrics. Where high-grade upholstering materials are used
slip covers are really necessary. These should be kept in place at all
times that the passengers are in ordinary street or business dress, but
may be removed and the clean upholstering used at such times that
it is desirable not to dirty the clothing as when evening clothes
are worn. If the cushions or seat backs are torn, or otherwise dam-
666 The Modern Gasoline Automobile
aged, restoration can only be made by an upholsterer or carriage
trimmer. Whenever any of the preservative dressings are applied
to the upholstery, it is well to wipe off all traces of the dressing very
carefully in order that it will not soil the clothing.
How to Keep the Hands Soft. The mechanism of an automobile
is very dirty and the fact that this grime is very hard to remove from
the hands often deters motorists from making necessary adjustments.
It is not difficult to keep the hands soft and to remove dirt or grease
accumulations if proper precautions are taken before the work is
started. The first operation is to coat the hands thoroughly with a
fine soft-soap paste and rub it thoroughly into the pores of the skin
and under the finger nails before starting in to work. After a little
rubbing the soap is absorbed by the pores and apparently disappears.
When the repairs are completed the hands are dipped in water and a
little powdered pumice stone or sawdust soaked in kerosene oil is
rubbed in thoroughly until the soap is brought to a lather. The hands
are then washed in the ordinary manner and the dirty soap removed
from under the finger nails. As the pores are filled with soap they
cannot fill with dirt and the protecting influence of the soap under
the nails keeps out the dirt, which cannot collect at points where it is
not readily accessible. Bran or sawdust moistened in kerosene and
used in connection with ordinary soap is very good to remove the dirt
without injuring the hands. Various grades of prepared hand soap
may be obtained on the market but most of these contain ingredients
which injure the skin. Strong alkalies are used in many cases to
remove the dirt and such compounds should not be used if they dis-
color the can in which they are sold. Any substance that will have a
strong enough chemical action on metal to corrode it is not fit to be
used on the skin.
A Few Words of Caution in Conclusion. In order to obtain the
best results from an automobile it is imperative that the owner famil-
iarize himself with all the details of its operation unless he is sufficient-
ly wealthy to hire help to drive and look after the car. All car
owners who expect to look after their own machines must first acquire
a knowledge of all details of the oiling system and the various points
of the chassis that require oiling. More machines wear out because
of lack of proper attention to lubrication than because of the amount of
The Modern Gasoline Automobile 667
work done, as present designs of modern automobile parts are thor-
oughly reliable and can be depended on to give satisfactory service
for many thousand miles without mechanical deterioration. These
results can only be obtained if care is taken to keep every moving
part clean and properly lubricated.
The rules given for the proper care of tires should be followed
to the letter because the item of tire maintenance is one of the most
costly of all the expenses incidental to motor-car operation. Careful
driving and the judicious control of the car will do much toward
maintaining efficiency of the mechanism and it is well to remember
that more harm can be done to the various chassis parts by a fast
run of a few hundred miles than will result from thousands of miles of
slower driving. It is well to drive cautiously at all times and to
remember that other users of the highways have rights that must be
respected. When operating a car on rough roads the speed should
always be reduced to a low point., and usually the comfort of the pas-
sengers will provide the best indication of whether the car is being
operated at the proper speed or not.
As soon as any parts are defective and repairs are necessary that
cannot be made by the motorist himself the work of restoration should
be given to a competent mechanic even if'his charges are higher. than
those having less experience. At the end of every active riding season
and before the inception of the new period of service the car should be
thoroughly overhauled, and one who is able to appreciate the value of
this work of restoration and who takes care of the mechanism always
has a machine that is in good running order and that will give satis-
factory service. Many motorists are short-sighted because they neg-
lect the mechanism and run the machine as long as it will hold to-
gether. As a rule, these are the pessimists who hold that automobiles
are an unreliable and costly possession.
INDEX
Accessibility of Crankcase Parts, 216.
Acetylene Gas, Compressed, 572.
Acetylene Gas Generator, 570.
Acetylene Gas, Lamps for, 572.
Acetylene Gas Lighting System, 570.
Acetylene Gas Production, 570.
Acid Cure Vulcanizer, 545.
Acid Test in Cooling Mixtures, 635.
Ackerman Pivoted Axles, 474.
Action of Acetylene Generator, 570.
Action of Automatic Governor, 263.
Action of Bubbling Carburetor, 248.
Action of Compensating Carburetor,
255.
Action of Differential Gearing, 491.
Action of Dynamo, Principles of, 317.
Action of Dynamo Speed Governor,
319.
Action of Float Feed Carburetor, 254.
Action of Simple Ignition System,
328.
Action of Solid and Air Tires Com-
* pared, 518.
Action of Steering Gear, 475.
Action of Storage Battery, 313.
Action of Venturi Tube, 257.
Action of Wick Carburetor, 247.
Actual Duration of Strokes, 91.
Adjustable Springs, Use on Cone
Clutch, 418.
Adjusting Carburetors, Methods of,
648.
Adjustment for Wear of Steering
Gears, 478.
Adjustment of Brakes, 660.
Adjustment of Carburetors, 256.
Adjustment of Driving Chains, 658.
Adjustment of Front Wheel Bearings,
659.
Advantages of Concentric Float De-
sign, 256.
Advantages of Dynamo, 317.
Advantages of En-Bloc Construction,
124.
Advantages of Engine Starters, 561.
Advantages of Gasoline Car, 37.
Advantages of Left-Hand Control,
627.
Advantages of Long Stroke, 126.
Advantages of Off-set Cylinders, 130.
Advantages of Planetary Gearing, 439.
Advantages of Selective Sliding Gear
System, 447.
Advantages of Steam Car, 37.
Advantages of Three-Point Support,
114.
Advantages of Underslung Frame,
461.
Advantages of Worm Gearing, 495.
Air and Gasoline Proportions, 240.
Air Blower for Cooling Cylinders, 400.
Air Bottle for Tire Inflation, 552.
Air Circulating Fan, 396.
Air Cooled Engine Design, 398.
Air Cooling, by " Convection, 397.
Air Cooling, by Radiation, 397.
Air Cooling, Franklin Method, 403.
Air Cooling, Frayer-Miller Method,
403.
Air Cooling Methods, 390.
669
670
Index
Air Cooling Two-Cycle Motor, 402.
Air Cooling, Use of Auxiliary Exhaust
Valve, 399.
Air Currents, Direction of, 65.
Air Pressure, Correct for Tires, 551.
Air Pressures, Increase by Heat, 551.
Air Resistance and Body Design,
62.
Air Resistance, Power to Overcome,
64.
Air Starters, 564.
Air Valve for Pneumatic Tires, 522.
Air Valve Troubles, 554.
Alarms for Motor Cars, 588.
Alcohol and Acetylene Combination,
236.
Alcohol, Denatured, 236.
Alcohol, Glycerine, and Water Solu-
tions, 636.
Alloy Steels for Springs, 471.
Ampere, Definition of, 312.
Amplex Two-Cycle Motor, 218.
Analysis of Typical Engine Stoppage,
642.
Animal Drawn Conveyance, Steering,
473.
Anti-Freezing Compounds, 634.
Anti-Freezing Compounds, Glycerine,
635.
Anti-Freezing Solutions, Denatured Al-
cohol, 636.
Anti-Skid Treads for Tires, 525.
Application of Liquid Fuels, 237.
Applying Non-Skid Chains, 530.
Arrangement of Contacts in Timers,
326.
Artillery Wheel, Construction of, 511.
Assembly, Hupp Cam Case, 154.
Assembly of Typical Chassis, 51.
Automatic Governor Action, 263.
Automatic Governor for Dynamo
Speed, 319.
Automatic Governor for Gas Supply,
263.
Automobile and Locomotive, Compari-
son of, 47.
Automobile Design, Progress of, 39.
Automobile, Necessary Elements of,
44.
Automobile Power Plant Control by
Governor, 610.
Automobile Power Plant Control by
Spark Lever, 610.
Automobile Power Plant Control by
Throttle, 610.
Automobile Power Plants, Flexibility
of, 609.
Automobile Power Plant, Method of
Starting, 607.
Automobile, Power Transmission Sys-
tem of, 408.
Automobile Steering Gears, 475.
Automobile Tires, Cushion Types, 534.
Automobile Tires, Forms of, 517.
Automobile Tires, Pneumatic, 519.
Automobile Tires, Solid Rubber, 537.
Automobile Wheels, Cast Metal, 512.
Automobile Wheels, Forms of, 509.
Automobile Wheels, Resilient, 515.
Automobile Wheels, Stamped Metal,
512.
Automobile Wheels, Suspension Type,
513.
Automobile Wheels, Wire, 509.
Automobile Wheels, Wood, 509.
Automobiles, How Steered, 473.
Automobiles, Winter Care of, 634.
Automobiles, Yearly Output, 35.
Auxiliary Air Valve Forms, 261.
Auxiliary Exhaust Valves, Utility of,
399.
Auxiliary Friction Pads in Clutch,
418.
Axle Loads, Influence on Tires, 550.
Axles, Ackerman Pivoted, 474.
Axles, Methods of Spring Attachment,
471.
Axles, Rear, 487.
Index
671
B
Back Lash in Steering Mechanism,
661.
Ball Bearing Connecting Rod, 194.
Ball Bearing Crankshafts, 205.
Ball Thrust Bearings in Steering
Gears, 481.
Barrel Type Crankcase, 215.
Battery Capacity, Tests for, 645.
Battery for Electric Lighting, 5-73.
Battery Ignition Systems, 341.
Battery Ignition Systems, Four-Cylin-
der, 341.
Bearings, Ball Thrust, in Steering
Gears, 481.
Bearings for Connecting Rods, 193,
Bearings for Front Hubs, 483.
Benzol and Its Properties, 233.
Bevel Gear Driving, 493.
Bevel Seat Valve, 146.
Blower Type Air Fan, 400.
Blowing and Whistling in Power
Plant, Causes of, 651.
Blowing Back, Cause of, 177.
Blow Out, Cause of, 552.
Blow Out, Repair of, 555.
Body Design and Air Resistance, 62.
Body Design and Dust Disturbance,
62.
Body Design, Stream Line, 67.
Body Finish and Upholstery, Mainte-
nance of, 661.
Bore and Stroke Ratio, 126.
Brakes, Combination, 502.
Brakes, Effect on Side Slip, 505.
Brakes, External Contracting, 501.
Brakes, Form Used on Wagons, 499.
Brakes, Front Wheel, 505.
Brakes, Internal Expanding, 501.
Brakes, Method of Mounting, 503.
Brakes, Methods of Adjusting, 660.
Brakes, Multiple-Disk Type, 504.
Brakes, Operation of Front Wheel, 507.
Brakes, to Stop Cone Clutch Rota-
tion, 420.
Brakes, to Stop Three Plate Clutch
Rotation, 424.
Brakes, Utility of, 499.
Breeze Carburetor Construction, 278.
Brightly Finished Parts, Care of, 601.
" Brooming Out " of Friction Ring,
656.
Bubbling Carburetor Action, 248.
Buick Control System, 624.
Bulb Retention, Edison Screw Base,
577.
Bulb Retention, Edi-Swan Base, 577,
Built Up Camshafts, 198.
Built Up Crankshaft, 200.
Built Up Induction Pipe, 294.
Cadillac Starting System, 568.
Calcium Chloride Solutions, 634.
Calcium Chloride Solutions, Freezing
Points, 635.
Cambering, Object of, 463.
Cambering Side Members of Frames,
463.
Cam Case Assembly, Hupp, 154.
Cam Follower, Mushroom Type, 150.
Cam Follower, Roller Type, 150.
Cam for Gradual Closing, 149.
Cam for Maximum Valve Opening,
149.
Cam for Quick Lift, 149.
Camshaft Drive, Silent Chain, 156.
Camshaft Drive, Spur Gearing, 155.
Camshaft Driving Methods, 155.
Camshaft Forms, 197.
Camshafts, Built Up, 198.
Camshafts, One Piece, 198.
Cams, Valve Lifting, 149.
Carbon Filament Bulb, Current Con-
sumption of, 577.
672
Index
Carburetion Principles, 239.
Carburetor Adjustment Methods, 256.
Carburetor Design, Elements of, 255.
Carburetor Requirements, 241.
Carburetor, Schebler Model "E," 265.
Carburetor, Simple Spray Type, 249.
Carburetors, Breeze, 278.
Carburetors, Chapin, 271.
Carburetors, Excelsior, 272.
Carburetors, F. I. A. T. Double Jet,
281.
Carburetors, G and A, 276.
Carburetors, Holley, 268.
Carburetors, Holley Kerosene, 288.
Carburetors, Kingston, 266.
Carburetors, Mercedes, 270.
Carburetors, Multiple-Nozzle, 278.
Carburetors, Peerless, 276.
Carburetors, Pierce, 273.
Carburetors, Saurer Economy, 282.
Carburetors, Stromberg Double Jet,
280.
Carburetors, Troubles of, 648.
Carburetors, Zenith Double Jet, 289.
Car Lifting Jacks, 601.
Care of Finished Parts, 601.
Care of Front Axles, 659.
Care of Hands when Repairing, 666.
Care of Miscellaneous Chassis Parts,
660.
Care of Shaft Driving Systems, 359.
Care of Steering Connections, 659.
Care of Wet Top, 665.
Case for Tire Repair Material, 544.
Casing for Driving Chains, 497.
Cast Induction Piping, 294.
Cast-Iron Head Valve, 147.
Cast Metal Automobile Wheels, 512.
Causes for Failure of Ignition Sys-
tems, 644.
Causes of Blowing and Whistling, 651.
Causes of Blowing Back, 177.
Causes of Body Finish Dulling, 662.
Causes of. Difficult Gear Shifting, 657.
Causes of Faulty Magneto Action,
645.
Causes of Friction Disks Slipping, 656.
Causes of Grinding Noise in Engine,
651.
Causes of Improperly Timed Ignition,
643.
Causes of Irregular Ignition, 646.
Causes of Knocking Sounds, 651.
Causes of Noisy Power Plant Opera-
tion, 650.
Causes of No Spark at Plugs, 644.
Causes of Poor Compression, 644.
Causes of Poor Fuel Feed from Tank,
647.
Causes of Squeaking Sounds, 651.
Causes of Tire Failure, 552.
Caution, a Few Words of, 667.
Center of Gravity, Definition of, 464.
Center of Gravity, Influence on Stabil-
ity, 461.
Chain Protection Cases, 497.
Chains, Anti-Skid Forms, 528.
Chains, Non-Skid, Application of, 530.
Chalmers Starting System, 566.
Change Speed Gearing, Combined
with Countershaft, 456.
Change Speed Gearing, Combined
with Power Plant, 454.
Change Speed Gearing, Combined with
Rear Axle, 457.
Change Speed Gearing, Face Friction,
431.
Change Speed Gearing, Functions of,
429.
Change Speed Gearing, Individual
Clutch, 440.
Change Speed Gearing, Location of,
453.
Change Speed Gearing, Planetary, 435.
Change Speed Gearing, Progressive
Sliding Gear, 494.
Change Speed Gearing, Selective Type,
446.
Index
673
Change Speed Gearing, Silent Chain
Types, 441.
Change Speed Gearing, Sliding Gear
Types, 444.
Change Speed Gearing, Types of, 430.
Change Speed Gearing, Utility of, 429.
Chapin Carburetor Construction, 271.
Charging the Gasoline Engine Cylin-
der, 81.
Chassis, Assembly of, 51.
Chassis, Definition of, 48.
Chassis Frame Construction, 51.
Chassis Frame, Use of, 460.
Chassis Parts, Care of, 6GO.
Chemical Action, Producing Electric-
ity by, 309.
Chemistry of Combustion, 240.
Circuits of Electric Lighting Systems,
582.
Circulating Pumps, Centrifugal, for
Water, 392.
Circulating Pumps, Gear, for Water,
392.
Classes of Frame Construction, 463.
Classification of Motor Car Types.
69.
Cleaning Mohair Tops, 663.
Closing Exhaust Valve, 178.
Closing Inlet Valve, 180.
Clutch and Brake Interlock, 623.
Clutch, Function of, 409.
Clutch Materials, Frictional Adhesion
of, 411.
Clutches, Common Defects of, 653.
Clutches, Construction of Five-Plate,
424.
Clutches, Construction of Multiple-
Disk, 425.
Clutches, Construction of Three-Plate,
421.
Clutches, Design of Cones, 416.
Clutches, Factors Determining Effi-
ciency of, 420.
Clutches, Inverted Cone Type, 415.
Clutches, Metal to Metal Cone Type,
417.
Clutches, Methods of Retaining Fac-
ing, 416.
Clutches, Oak Tanned Leather Facing,
412.
Clutches, Parts of Cone Forms, 413.
Clutches of Planetary Gearsets, 428.
Clutches, Requirements of, 410.
Clutches, " Spinning " Cones, 420.
Clutches, Use of Auxiliary Friction
Pads, 418.
Clutches, Use of Cone Brake, 420.
Clutches, Value of Cork Inserts, 412.
Coil for Low Tension Ignition, 345.
Combination Gas and Electric Lamps,
580.
Combination Kerosene and Electric
Lamps, 574.
Combination " Live " and " Dead "
Rear Axle, 490.
Combination Magneto and Battery Ig-
nition System, 365.
Combination of Alcohol and Acety-
lene, 236.
Combination Piston and Sleeve Valves,
161.
Combination Spark Plug and Relief
Cock, 336.
Combined Clutch and Brake Pedal,
Use of, 629.
Combustion Chamber Design, 126.
Combustion, Chemistry of, 240.
Common Defects in Clutches, 653.
Common Troubles of Fuel System, 647.
Comparing Automobile and Locomo-
tive, 47.
Comparing Cannon and Gas Engine,
79.
Compensating Carburetor Action, 255.
Compensating for Varying Atmos-
pheric Conditions, 298.
Compound Spring Forms, 473.
Compounds, Anti-Freezing, 634.
674
Index
Compressed Acetylene Gas Tank, 572.
Compressed Air Starting System, 564.
Compressing the Gas Charge, 81.
Compression Stroke, Definition of, 82.
Concentric Float Design, Advantages
of, 256.
Concentric Piston Ring Design, 191.
Concentric Valve Construction, 143.
Conical Rotary Valves, 168.
Cone Clutch Forms, 413.
Cone Clutch, Metal to Metal Type,
417.
Cone Clutch with Adjustable Springs,
418.
Cone Clutches, Care of Leather Facing,
654.
Cone Clutches, Causes of Harsh Ac-
tion, 654.
Cone Clutches, Causes of Slipping, 654.
Cone Clutches, Causes of Spinning, 654.
Connecting Rod, Ball Bearing, 194.
Connecting Rod Bearings, 193.
Connecting Rod Forms, 193.
Connecting Rod, Functions of, 79.
Connecting Rod, Hinged, 194.
Connecting Rod, Marine Type, 194.
Connecting Rods, One Piece, 194.
Connecting Rods, Shapes of Sections,
196.
Connections of Parts of Induction
Coils, 330.
Constant Level Splash Oiling System,
379.
Constant Speed Dynamo, 319.
Constructional Details of Pistons, 186.
Construction of Breeze Carburetor,
278.
Construction of Chapin Carburetor,
271.
Construction of Chassis Frame, 51.
Construction of Engine Base, 214.
Construction of Excelsior Carburetor,
272.
Construction of Ford Magneto, 321.
Construction of Flywheels, 207.
Construction of G and A Carburetor,
276.
Construction of Gasoline Strainers,
286.
Construction of Induction Coil, 329.
Construction of Induction Piping, 294.
Construction of Kingston Carburetor,
266.
t Construction of Knight Motor, 99.
Construction of Magneto Generators,
347.
Construction of Mercedes Carburetor,
270.
Construction of Multiple-Disk
Clutches, 425.
Construction of Peerless Carburetor,
276.
Construction of Pierce Carburetor, 273.
Construction of Piston Rings, 190.
Construction of Schebler Model " E "
Vaporizer, 265.
Construction of Storage Battery, 314.
Construction of Five-Plate Clutches,
424.
Construction of Valve Head, 147.
Construction of Valves, 146.
Construction of Windshields, 585.
Construction, Trend of, 40.
Control System of Buick Car, 624.
Control System of Carter Car, 614.
Control System of Ford Car, 618.
Control System of Jackson Car, 630.
Control System of Knox Car, 630.
Control System of Liberty-Brush Car.
620.
Control System of Maxwell Car, 616
Control System of Mitchell Car, 630.
Control System of Pierce-Arrow Car.
623.
Control System of Reo Car, 628.
Controlling Car with Friction Trans-
mission, 614.
Controlling Planetary Gears, 616.
Index
675
Conventional Frame Type, 460.
Conventional Rear Axle Transmis-
sion, 459.
Cooling Systems, Air, 390.
Cooling Systems, Defects of, 649.
Cooling Systems in Use, 389.
Cooling Systems, Reason for Use,
388.
Cooling Systems, Thefmo-Syphon, 393.
Cork Float Features, 258.
Cork Inserts, Value in Clutches, 412.
Cote Two-Cycle Motor, 220.
Countershaft and Change Speed Gear-
ing, 456, 457.
Crankcase, Barrel Type, 215.
Crankcase Parts, Accessibility of, 216.
Crankcase, Two-Piece, 215.
Crankshaft, Built Up, 200.
Crankshaft Construction, 199.
Crankshaft Design, Influence of Cyl-
inders on, 124.
Crankshaft, Functions of, 80.
Crankshaft, Two Bearing Four-Cylin-
der, 203.
Crankshaft, Two-Throw, 202.
Crankshaft Types Outlined, 199.
Crankshafts, Ball Bearing, 205.
Crankshafts, Five Bearing, 203.
Crankshafts, Offset, 131.
Crankshafts, Three Bearing, 203.
Current Consumption of Carbon Fila-
ment, 577.
Current Consumption, Tungsten Fila-
ment, 577.
Current Production by Chemical Ac-
tion, 309.
Current Strength from Storage Bat-
tery, 316.
Cushion Tire, Combination, 536.
Cushion Tire, Dual Tread, 535.
Cushion Tire, Sectional, 536.
Cushion Tires, 534.
Cut-out Valve, Utility of, 305.
Cycle of Gasoline Engine, 82,
Cylinder Casting Methods Influence
Crankshaft Design, 124.
Cylinder Cooling by Water, 389.
Cylinder Cooling, Theory of, 389.
Cylinder Construction Methods, 119.
Cylinder, Knox Individual, 141.
Cylinder, L Head Type, 140.
Cylinder, Lubricants for, 372.
Cylinder, Separable Head Types, 123.
Cylinder, T Head Type, 137.
Cylinder, Valve in the Head Type,
137.
Cylinders Cast En-bloc, 121.
Cylinders Cast Individually, Features
of, 121.
Cylinders Cast in Pairs, Features of,
121.
Darracq, Rotary Distributor Valve,
173.
" Dead," Rear Axle, 487.
Defects in Sliding Gear Transmission,
657.
Defects in Spark Plugs, 646.
Defects in Timers or Distributors, 646.
Defects in Vibrator Coils, 647.
Defects in Wiring, 647.
Defects of Cooling Systems, 641.
Defects of Oiling Systems, 649.
Defects of Planetary Transmission,
656.
Defining L Head Cylinder Design, 145.
Definition of Amperage, 312.
Definition of Center of Gravity, 461.
Definition of Chassis, 48.
Definition of Compression Stroke, 82.
Definition of Exhaust Stroke, 82.
Definition of Friction, 369.
Definition of Intake Stroke, 82.
Definition of Piston Speed, 129.
Definition of Power Stroke, 82,
Definition of Voltage, 312.
676
Index
Definition of Wattage, 312.
Deflector, Location of, 187.
Demountable Rim Forms, 531.
Denatured Alcohol as Fuel, 236.
Denatured Alcohol, Use as Anti-freez-
ing Compound, 636.
Derangements of Friction Gearing,
656.
Derivation of Lubricants, 371.
Describing Conventional Exhaust
Valve Operation, 101.
Describing Conventional Inlet Valve
Operation, 101.
Description of Amplex Motor, 218.
Description of Knight Sleeve Valve
Operation, 103.
Design of Air Cooled Engines, 398.
Design of Clutch Cones, 416.
Design of Combustion Chamber, 126.
Design of Concentric Piston Ring,
191.
Design of Eccentric Piston Ring, 191.
Design of Float Bowl, 258.
Design of Frames, 460.
Design of French Rotary Valves, 167.
Design of Leaf Springs, 467.
Design of L Head Cylinder, 145.
Design of Oscillating Wristpin, 190.
Design of Spark Plugs, 332.
Design of Valves, 145.
Determining Power Needed to Propel
Car, 68.
Development of Float Feed Vaporizers,
252.
Devices for Supplying Lubricant, 374.
Diagrams, Valve Timing, 182.
Diameter Limits of Fly-wheels, 210.
Differential Gearing, Action of, 491.
Differential Gear, 'Purpose of, 490.
Differential Piston Design, 187.
Differential Piston Two-Cycle Engine,
111.
Direct Air Cooling System, 397.
Direction, of Air Currents, 65.
Disadvantages of Chemical Current
Producers, 317.
Disadvantages of Gravity Oilers, 376.
Disadvantages of Simple Battery, 313.
Disadvantages of Single Cylinder Mo-
tors, 84.
Disadvantages of Spring Wheels, 517.
Disadvantages of Two-Cycle Engines,
112.
Disadvantages of Wire Wheels, 513.
Disk Rotary Valves, 166.
Disposition of Exhaust Gases, 300.
Distillates of Petroleum, 232.
Distributor, Secondary, Action of, 324.
Division of Mechanism in Gro.ups, 40.
Double Cone Rotary Valves, 167.
Double Reduction Gearing in Rear
Axles, 496.
Drag Link, Functions of, 476.
Driving Chains, Adjustment of, 658.
Driving Chains, Faults of, 657.
Driving Chains, Proper Method of
Lubricating, 658.
Driving Instructions, General, 631.
Driving Magneto Armatures, 361.
Drop Frame Type, 464.
Dry Battery Action, 310.
Dry Battery for Current Supply, 310.
Drum Type Rotary Valves, 166.
Dual Cylinder Castings, 121.
Dual Ignition Systems, 366.
Dual Tread Cushion Tire, 535.
Dust Disturbance and Body Design, 62.
Dynamo, Constant Speed Type, 319.
Dynamo Electric Machines, 317.
Dynamo Speed Governor, Action of,
319.
E
Early Methods of Gas Ignition, 307.
Early Vaporizer Forms, 247.
Eccentric Bushings in Steering Gears,
478.
Index
677
Eccentric Piston Ring Design. 191.
Economy of Fuel, Effect of Spark
Lever, 612.
Edison Screw Base Lamp, 577.
Kdi-S\van Bulb Retention, 577.
Efficiency of Power Transmission
Systems, 406.
Efficiency of Shaft Driving Method,
486.
Efficiency of Side Chain Drive, 484.
Efficiency of Single Chain Drive, 484.
Efficiency of Worm Gearing, 495.
Eight-Cylinder V Motor, 229.
Electrical Alarms, 588.
Electrical Ignition Means, 308.
Electrically Welded Valve, 147.
Electric Car Features, 37.
Electric Cell, Dry Type, 310.
Electric Cell, Parts of, 309.
Electric Cell, Simple Primary, 309.
Electric Headlight Design, 579.
Electric Ignition Systems, Elements of,
3u8.
Electric Lamps, Combination Gas,
580.
Electric Lamps, Combination Type,
574.
Electric Lighting Battery, 573.
Electric Lighting Fixtures, 578.
Electric Lighting System, 573.
Electric Lighting System, Fixtures for,
578.
Electric Lighting System, Headlight
for, 579.
Electric Lighting System, Six Lamp,
582.
Electric Lighting System, Three Lamp,
582.
Electric Lighting Systems, Circuits for,
582.
Electric Spark for Ignition, 308.
Electric Starting System, 567.
Electrolytic Action of Alkaline Solu-
tions, 634.
Elements of Carburetor Design, 255.
Elements of Electric Ignition Systems,
308.
Elements of Typical Water Cooling
Group, 391.
Elliot Type Steering Knuckle, 483.
En-Bloc Cylinder Castings, 121.
Engine Base Construction, 214.
Engine Cylinder, Functions of, 79.
Engine, Darracq Rotary Valve, 173.
Engine Design, Influence of Cylinder
Construction of, 133.
Engine, Eight Cylinder Type, 229.
Engine, Hewitt Piston Valve, 173.
Engine, Itala Rotary Valve, 163.
Engine, Mead Rotary Valve, 166.
Engine, Reynolds Rotary Valve, 166.
Engine Starter Forms, 561.
Engine, Three-Port, Two-Cycle, 110.
Engine, Two-Cycle Principles, 105.
Engine, Two-Port, Two-Cycle, 106.
Engines for Automobiles, Forms of,
76.
Engines, Instructions for Valve Tim-
ing, 185.
Engines, Miesse Valveless, 161.
Equipment for Motor Car, 560.
Essential Elements of Gas Engine,
80.
Excelsior Carburetor Construction,
272.
Excessive Spark Advance, Effect of,
611.
Exhaust Gases, Disposition of, 300.
Exhaust Manifold with Ejector Ac-
tion, 304.
Fxhaust Operated Alarms, 588.
Exhaust Stroke, Definition of, 82.
Exhaust Valve Closing, 178.
Exhaust Valve Lead Given, 178.
Exhaust Valve Operation, Description
of, 101.
Exhausting the Burnt Gas, 82.
Exploding the Gas Charge, 81.
678
Index
F
Face Friction Gearing, 431.
Factors Determining Efficiency of Cone
Clutches, 420.
Factors Determining Flywheel Diam-
eter, 210.
Factors Determining Flywheel Weight,
207.
Fan Blade Spoke Flywheels, 208.
Fans for Circulating Air, 400.
Fans for Cooling Systems, 396.
Faults of Chain Driving Systems, 657.
Faulty Magneto Action, Causes of,
645.
Features of Cork Floats, 258.
Features of Cylinders Cast in Pairs,
121.
Features of Electric Cars, 37.
Features of Four-Cylinder Motor, 94.
Features of Individually Cast Cylin-
ders, 121.
Features of Holley Carburetor, 268.
Features of Hollow Metal Floats, 258.
Features of Knight Motor, 97.
Features of Knox Cylinder Head, 141.
Features of Low Tension Ignition Sys-
tem, 343.
Features of Multiple-Disk Clutches,
425.
Features of Two-Cylinder Motor, 93.
Features of Unit Power Plants, 113.
Features of Valve Location, 136.
F. I. A. T. Double Jet Carburetor,
281.
Fiber Friction Ring, -Life of, 656.
Figuring Frontal Area of Auto, 63.
Fire Inflation Gauges, 552.
Five Bearing Four-Cylinder Crank-
shafts, 203.
Five Plate Clutch Construction, 424.
Fixtures for Electric Lighting, 578.
Fixed Winding Type Magneto, 356.
Flat Seat Valve, 146.
Flexibility of Automobile Power
Plants, 609.
Float Bowl Design, 258.
Float Feed Carburetor Action, 254.
Float Feed Vaporizers, Development
of, 252.
Floating Type Rear Axle, 487.
Floats, Cork, 258.
Floats, Hollow Metal, 258.
Flywheel, Blower Type, 402.
Flywheel Construction, 207.
Flywheel, Function of, 207.
Flywheel, Function of, 80, 207.
Flywheel Retention by Flange and
Bolts, 211.
Flywheel Retention by Gib Key, 211.
Flywheel Retention by Taper and
Key, 211.
Flywheel Weight, Factors Determin-
ing, 207.
Flywheels, Factors Determining Diam-
eter, 210.
Flywheels, Interpretation of Marks,
184.
Flywheels, Method of Marking Rims,
' 213.
Flywheels, Retention of, 210.
Flywheels with Fan Blade Spokes, 208.
Forced Circulation System, 389.
Ford Magneto, Action of, 321.
Ford Model " T," Control System of,
618.
Forms of Auxiliary Air Valves, 261.
Forms of Camshafts, 197.
Forms of Cone Clutches, 413.
Forms of Connecting Rods, 193.
Forms of Electrical Ignition, 308.
Forms of Engines Commonly Used, 76.
Forms of Flywheels, 207.
Forms of Front Axles, 481.
Forms of Gasoline Spray Nozzles, 260.
Forms of Induction Manifolds, 294.
Forms of Jacks, 601.
Forms of Mixing Chambers, 256.
Index
679
Forms of Mufflers, 302.
Forms of Oil Pumps, 377.
Four-Cycle Engine Action, 78.
Four-Cycle Power Plants, 225.
Four-Cylinder Engine Ignition Sys-
tem, 341.
Four-Cylinder Induction Manifolds,
290.
Four-Cylinder Motor, Sequence of
Cycles, 88.
Four-Cylinder Vertical Motor Fea-
tures, 94.
Four Speed Selective, Gearset Design.
451.
Frame Construction, Classes of, 463.
Frame Construction, Materials Used,
4G2.
Frame Construction, Pressed Steel,
463.
Frame Construction, Steel Tubing,
462.
Frame Construction, Wood, 462.
Frame Design, 460.
Frame Suspension Means, 465.
Frame Types, Conventional, 460.
Frame Types, Underslung, 461.
Frame, Utility of, 460.
Frames, Drop Type, 464.
Frames, Methods of Spring Attach-
ment, 471.
Frames, Upswept Type, 464.
Freezing Point of Alcohol Solutions,
636.
Freezing Points of Calcium Chloride
Solutions, 635.
French Rotary Valve Design, 167.
Frictional Adhesion of Clutch Mate-
rials, 411.
Friction Clutch Operation, 411.
Friction, Definition of, 369.
Friction Gearing, Defects of, 656.
Friction Pedal, Operation of, 616.
Friction Transmission for Shaft Drive,
433.
Friction Transmission, Operation of,
431.
Friction Transmission, Side Chain
Drive, 433.
Friction Transmission, Single Chain
Drive, 433.
Frontal Area of Automobiles, Figuring
of, 63.
Front Axle Forms, 481.
Front Axle, I Beam, 481.
Front Axle, Tubular, 481.
Front Axles, Care of, 659.
Front End Suspension, 468.
Front Hub Bearings, 483.
Front Hub Construction, 482.
Front Wheel Bearings, Adjustment ofj
659.
Front Wheel Brakes, 505.
Front Wheel Brakes, Disadvantages
of, 508.
Front Wheel Brakes, Operation of,
507.
Fuel Consumption of Knight Motor,
105.
Fuel ^System, Common Troubles of,
647.
Fuels for Engines, Alcohol, 234.
Fuels for Engines, Benzol, 233.
Fuels for Engines, Gasoline, 232.
Fuels for Engines, Kerosene, 234.
Fuels for Engines, Solid Gasoline, 238.
Full Elliptic Springs, 467.
Function of Clutch, 409.
Function of Flywheel, 80, 207.
Function of Spark Plug, 80.
Function of Wristpin, 188.
Functions of Change Speed Gearing,
429. .
Functions of Connecting Eod, 79.
Functions of Crankshaft, 79.
Functions of Drag Link, 476.
Functions of Engine Cylinder, 79.
Functions of Motor Car Parts, 47, 49.
Functions of Piston, 79.
680
Index
Functions of Piston Rings, 190.
Functions of Shock Absorbers, 585.
Functions of Spark Gap, 337.
Functions of Spring Shackles, 468.
Functions of Timer and Distributor,
321.
Functions of Tie Bar, 475.
Functions of Two-Cycle Cylinder
Ports, 108.
G
G and A Carburetor Construction,
276.
Gas Charge in Cylinder, Compression
of, 81.
Gas Charge in Cylinder, Exhausting,
82.
Gas Charge in Cylinder, Explosion of,
81.
Gas Charge in Cylinder, Pressure of,
81.
Gas Engine and Cannon Compared,
79.
Gas Engine, Essential Elements of,
80.
Gas Mixture Supply Regulation, 262.
Gas Supply Regulation by Governor,
263.
Gasoline Car, Advantages of, 37.
Gasoline Engine, Cycle of, 82.
Gasoline Engine Cylinder, Charging
the, 81.
Gasoline Engine Ignition Systems, 307.
Gasoline Engine Starters, 561.
Gasoline Strainers, Construction of,
286.
Gasoline Strainers, Installation of,
280.
Gasoline Strainers, Utility of, 286.
Gasoline Supply by Gravity Feed, 244.
Gasoline Supply by Pressure Feed,
244.
Gasoline Supply by Pump, 246.
Gauges for Tire Inflation, 552.
Gearing, Bevel and Spur Combination,
499.
Gearing, Double Reduction Axle, 496.
Gearing, Face Friction, 431.
Gearing for Camshaft Drive, 155.
Gear Pump, Oil, 377.
Gear Shifting, Cause of Defects in,
657.
Gear Shifting on Knox Cars, 625.
Gear Shifting on Locomobile Cars,
625.
Gear Shifting on Peerless Cars, 624.
General Driving Instructions, 631.
General Supplies for Repairing, 597.
Generator for Acetylene Gas, 570.
Glycerine, Use of, as Anti -Freezing
Compound, 635.
Gravity Feed Systems, 244.
Gravity Oilers, Disadvantages of, 376.
Grinding Noises in Engine, Causes of,
651.
II
Hand Wheel Movement in Steering
Gears, 479.
Heat Loss Through Exhaust Valve,
388.
Heat Loss Through Water Jacket,
388.
Helical Coil Spring Suspension, 473.
Hewitt Piston Valve Motor, 173.
Hickory, Use of, in Wheels, 512.
High Tension Ignition System, 341.
Hinged Connecting Rod, 194.
Hints for Tire Manipulation, 545.
Holley Carburetor Features, 268.
Holley Hot and Cold Air Shutter,
298.
Holley Kerosene Carburetor, 288.
Hollow Metal Float Features, 258.
Index
681
Horizontal Single-Cylinder Motor, 83.
Horizontally Split Two Piece Crank-
case, 215.
How Automobiles are Steered, 473.
How Gasoline Engine Works, 78.
How Supplies are Carried, 603.
How to Keep Hands Soft, 666.
How to Prevent " Kick Back," 608.
Hubs, Construction for Front Wheels,
482.
Hupp Cam Case Assembly, 154.
Hydraulic Valve Operation Means,
151.
I Beam Front Axle, 481.
Igniter Plate for Low Tension Igni-
tion, 344.
Igniter Plate, Operation of, 345.
Ignition by Electric Spark, 308.
Ignition by Flame, 307.
Ignition by Hot Head, 308.
Ignition by Incandescent Tube, 307.
Ignition Magneto, Parts and Func-
tions, 350.
Ignition Magneto, Spacing of Contacts,
349.
Ignition Magnetos, Forms of, 359.
Ignition Magnetos, Installation of,
360.
Ignition Magnetos, Methods of Reten-
tion, 361.
Ignition Magnetos, Speed of Armature,
349.
Ignition Magnetos, Systems Used, 350.
Ignition out of Time, Causes of, 643.
Ignition Starters, 563.
Ignition System, Causes of Failure,
649.
Ignition Systems, Battery, 341.
Ignition Systems, Distributor, 342.
Ignition Systems, Early Types, 307.
Ignition Systems, Gasoline Engine, 307.
Ignition Systems, Magneto, 350.
Ignition Systems, Six-Cylinder, 343.
Ignition, Time of, 181.
Impediments to Water Circulation,
650.
Incandescent Bulbs for Electric Lamps,
576.
Indirect Valve Operation Method, 150.
Individually Cast Cylinder, Features,
121.
Individual Clutch Change Speed Gear-
ing, 440.
Individual 'Clutch Gearset with Silent
Chains, 441.
Individual Pump Oiling Method, 385.
Induction Coil Action, Theory of, 329.
Induction Coil, Connections of Parts,
330.
Induction Coil Construction, 329.
Induction Coil, Typical Form, 329.
Induction Manifold for Kerosene, 290.
Induction Manifold Forms, 294.
Induction Manifolds, Four-Cylinder,
296.
Induction Manifolds, Six- Cylinder,
297.
Jnduction Piping, Built up, 294.
Induction Piping, Cast Forms, 294.
Induction Piping, Construction of,
294.
Influence of Cylinder Construction on
Engine Design, 133.
Inlet Valve Closing, 180.
Inlet Valve Opening, 179.
Inlet Valve Operation, Description of,
101.
Installation of Gasoline Strainers, 286.
Installation of Magnetos, 360.
Installation of Power Plants, 113.
Installation of Spark Plugs, 335.
Instruction for Valve Timing, 176.
Insulation for Induction Coils, 330.
Insulation for Secondary Distributor,
324.
682
Index
Insulation for Timer Contacts, 324.
Insulation Materials for Plugs, 334.
Insulation, Mica for Spark Plugs,
333.
Insulation, Porcelain for Spark Plugs,
333.
Intake Stroke, Definition of, 82.
Internal Brake, Cam Expanded, 501.
Internal Brake, Toggle Expanded, 501.
Interpretation of Flywheel Marks, 184.
Inverted Cone Clutch Construction,
415.
Irregular Ignition, Causes of, 046.
Irreversible Steering Gears, 475.
Itala Rotary Valve Motor, 163.
Jack, Forms of, 601.
Jacks, Car Lifting, 601.
Jackson Cars, Control System of, 630.
Janney-Steinmetz Air Starter, 565.
Joining Cells in Multiple, 312.
Joining Cells in Multiple Series, 312.
Joining Cells in Series, 312.
Joints in Piston Rings, 191.
Judging Combustion by Color of Ex-
haust, 648.
Kerosene as Engine Fuel, 234.
Kerosene Supply by Injection, 291.
" Kick Back," How to Prevent, 608.
Kingston Carburetor Construction,
266.
Knight Motor, Fuel Consumption of,
105.
Knight Motor Test Results, 104.
Knight Sleeve Valves, 99, 160.
Knight Sleeve Valves, Operation of,
103.
Knight Slide Valve Motor Feature's.
97.
Knight Sliding Sleeve Valves, 161.
Knocking Sounds, Causes of, 651.
Knox Cars, Control System of, 630.
Knox Cars, Gear Shifting Method, 625.
L Head Cylinder Construction, 140.
L Head Cylinder Design, 145.
Laminated Leaf Springs, 466.
Laminated Wood Frames, 462.
Lamps for Acetylene Lighting, 572.
Lamps for Electric Lighting, 574.
Lanchester Wick Carburetor, 257.
Lead Given Exhaust Valve, 178.
Leaf Springs, Design of, 467.
Leather Auto Tops, Method of Treat-
ing, 664.
Leather Clutch Facings, Care of,
654.
Leather, Oak Tanned for Clutches,
412.
Leather, Retaining Facing of Cone,
416.
Leather, Retention by Rivets, 416.
Leather, Retention by T Bolts, 416.
Leather Top Treatment, Preparations
for, 664.
Left Hand Control, Advantages of,
627.
Legros Two-Cycle Motor, 220.
Liberty-Brush Runabout, Control Sys-
tem of, 620.
Life of Fiber Friction Ring, 650.
Lighting System, Acetylene Gas, 570.
Lighting Systems, Electric, 573.
Lighting Systems, Motor Car, 569.
Liquid Fuel Application, 231.
Liquid Fuel Storage, 244.
"Live" Rear Axles, 487.
Locating Power Plant Troubles. 641.
Index
683
Location of Change Speed Gearing,
453.
Location of Deflector, 187.
Location of Motor Car Parts, 47, 49.
Locomobile Cars, Gear Shifting
Method, 625.
Long Stroke Advantages, 126.
Loosening Clincher Shoes, 546.
Low Tension Igniter Plate, 344.
Low Tension Ignition, Coil for, 345.
Low Tension Ignition, Disadvantages
of, 346.
Low Tension Ignition System, 343.
Low Tension Ignition Wiring Scheme,
345.
Lubricants, Cylinder, 372.
Lubricants, Derivation of, 371.
Lubricants, Devices for Supplying, 374.
Lubricants, Fire Test of Cylinder Oil,
373.
Lubricants, Flash Test of Cylinder Oil,
373.
Lubricants, Fluid, 371.
Lubricants, Oleo-Naphthas, 371.
Lubricants, Organic, 371.
Lubricants, Qualities Needed, 370.
Lubricants, Semi-Solid, 371.
Lubricants, Solid, 371.
Lubricating System, Winter Care of,
637.
Lubrication, by Centrifugal Force, 387.
Lubrication, Gravity Method, 379.
Lubrication, Individual Pump System,
385.
Lubrication, Mechanical, 377.
Lubrication of Driving Chains, 658.
Lubrication of Mechanism, Reason for,
368.
Lubrication, Positive Systems, 377.
Lubrication, Pressure Feed, 384.
Lubrication, Splash System, 379.
Lubrication, Theory of, 370.
Lubricators, Individual Pump Type,
385.
Lubricators, Mechanical, 377.
Lubricators, Sight Feed Gravity Cups.
374.
Lubricators, Types of ; 374.
M
Magneto Armatures, Methods of Driv-
ing, 361.
Magneto-Generator Construction, 347.
Magneto Ignition, Double System, 364.
Magneto Ignition, Dual System, 366.
Magneto Ignition Systems, 350.
Magnetos, Wiring of High Tension,
352.
Magnetos, Wiring of Transformer
Type, 354.
Magneto with Fixed Winding, 356.
Maintenance of Body and Upholstery,
661.
Manifolds for Oil Distribution, 382.
Marine Type Connecting Rod, 194.
Materials for Frame Construction, 462.
Materials, Metallic, for Clutches, 411.
Materials Used in Tire Construction,
519.
Maxwell " AA," Control System of,
616.
Mead Rotary Valves, 166.
Mechanically Fastened Tire Tools, 547.
Mechanical Oiling Methods, 377.
Mechanical Production of Electricity,
317.
Mechanical Starters, 562.
Mechanism, Division in Groups, 46.
Mercedes Carburetor Construction,
270.
Mercedes Steering Knuckle, 483.
Metal Automobile Wheel Types, 512.
Metal, Cast Automobile Wheels, 512.
Metallic Materials Used in Clutches.
411.
Method of Cone Clutch Operation, 414.
684
Index
Method of Indirect Valve Operation,
150.
Method of Leather Retention, Cone
Clutches, 416.
Method of Marking Flywheel Rim,
213.
Method of Using Starting Crank,
608.
Methods of Air Cooling, 390.
Methods of Constructing Crankshafts,
199.
Methods of Cylinder Construction,
119.
Methods of Driving Cam Shaft, 155.
Methods of Flywheel Retention, 210.
Methods of Oil Distribution, 378.
Methods of Valve Operation, 150.
Methods of Valve Placing, 137.
Methods of Wiring Primary Cells,
311.
Methods of Wristpin Retention, 188.
Mica Insulated Plug, 332.
Miscellaneous Chassis Parts, Care of,
660.
Miscellaneous Supplies, 602.
Mitchell Car, Control System of, 630.
Mixing Chamber Forms, 256.
Mohair Auto Tops, Method of Clean-
ing, 663.
Motor Car Alarms, 588.
Motor Car Alarms, Electrical, 588.
Motor Car Alarms, Exhaust Oper-
ated, 588.
Motor Car Brakes, Adjustment of,
660.
Motor Car Equipment, 560.
Motor Car Lighting Systems, 569.
Motor Car Maintenance, Supplies for,
599.
Motor Car Parts, Functions of, 47, 49.
Motor Car Parts, Location of, 47, 49.
Motor Car Principles, 43.
Motor Car Repairs, Tools for, 594.
Motor Car Types, Classification of, 69.
Motor Control Levers, Mounting on
Steering Gear, 481.
Motor Control System, Typical, 609.
Motor Installation, Under Seat, 117.
Motor, Knight Slide Valve, 97.
Motor Speed Regulation, 610.
Muffler Forms, 302.
Mufflers, Water-cooled, 303.
Multiple Connection for Cells, 312.
Multiple-Disk Brakes, 504.
Multiple-Disk Clutches, Care of, 654.
Multiple-Disk Clutches, Features of,
425.
Multiple-Nozzle Carburetors, 278.
Multiple-Series Connections for Cells,
312.
Mushroom Cam Follower, 150.
N
Natural Circulation System, 389.
Necessary Elements of Automobiles,
44.
"Never Miss" Starting System, 565.
Noisy Action of Planetary Gearing,
656.
Noisy Power Plant, Causes of, 050.
Number of Speeds in Sliding Gearsets,
447.
O
Oak Tanned Leather for Clutches, 412.
Obtaining Gasoline for Priming Cylin-
ders, 638.
Obtaining Varying Car Speeds with
Friction Gears, 614.
Off-Set Crankshafts, 131.
Off-Set Cylinder Advantages, 130.
Oil Distribution by Manifolds, 382.
Oil Distribution by Pressure, 384.
Oil Distribution Methods, 378.
Oil Pump Forms, 377.
Index
685
Oil Spots on Clothing, Removal of,
639.
Oil Spots, Preparations for Removing,
640.
Oiling Devices, Requirements of, 374.
Oiling Methods, Individual Pumps,
385.
Oiling Methods, Mechanical, 377.
Oiling, Suggestions for, 632.
Oiling Systems, Constant Level Splash,
379.
Oiling Systems, Defects of, 649.
Oils, Derivation and Use, 371.
Oils for Cooling Systems, 637.
One Piece Camshafts, 198.
One Piece Connecting Rod, 194.
One Piece Steel Valve, 147.
Opening Inlet Valve, 179.
Operating Front Wheel Brakes, 507.
Operating Means for Ring Valves, 171.
Operating Sliding Gearsets, 623.
Operation of Cone Clutches, 414.
Operation of Cooling Group, 391.
Operation of Differential Piston En-
gine, 111.
Operation of Friction Clutches, 411.
Operation of Friction Transmission,
431.
Operation of Igniter Plate, 345.
Operation of Individual Clutch Gear-
set, 623.
Operation of Planetary Gearing, 435.
Operation of Selective Sliding Gear-
set, 623.
Operation of Sliding Gearsets, 444.
Operation of Three-Port Two-Cycle
Engine, 110.
Operation of Two-Port Two-Cycle En-
gines, 106.
Operation of Valves, 150.
Oscillating Wristpin Design, 190.
Outer Casing, How to Remove, 547.
Outer Casing, Loosening from Rim,
547.
Overheating Caused by Rich Mixture,
650.
Packing Small Spare Parts, 606.
Parts of Automobile Power Transmis-
sion System, 408.
Parts of Dry Battery, 310.
Parts of Ignition Magneto, 348.
Parts of Pressed Steel Frames, 463.
Parts of Simple Electric Cell, 309.
Parts of Simple Ignition System, 327.
Parts of Spark Plugs, 332.
Parts of Two-Cycle Engines, 106.
Peerless Carburetor Construction, 276.
Peerless Cars, Gear Shifting Method,
624.
Petroleum Distillates, 232.
Peugeot Rear Axle, 499.
Pierce- Arrow Cars, Control System of,
623.
Pierce Carburetor Construction, 273.
Pinching Inner Tubes, 558.
Pi&on, Construction of Differential
Type, 111.
Piston, Design of Differential Type,
187.
Piston, Functions of, 79.
Piston Rings, Concentric, 191.
Piston Rings, Construction of, 190.
Piston Rings, Eccentric, 191.
Piston Rings, Functions of, 190.
Piston Rings, Methods of Joining, 191.
Piston Speed, Definition of, 129.
Piston Speed, Safe Limit of, 129.
Piston, Two-Cycle, 186.
Piston, Two-Diameter, 187.
Piston Valves, Hewitt, 173.
Pistons, Construction of, 186.
Planetary Change Speed Gear, Control
of, 616.
Planetary Gearing, Advantages of.
439.
686
Index
Planetary Gearing, All Spur Type,
437.
Planetary Gearing, Operation of, 435.
Planetary Gearsets, Cause of Noisy
Action, 650.
Planetary Gearsets, Clutches for, 428.
Planetary Gearsets, Defects of, 656.
Plug Gaps for Magneto Current, 366.
Plunger for Wristpin Retention, 190.
Plunger Pump, Oil, 377.
Plungers, Valve Operating, 150.
Pneumatic Tire Action, 519.
Pneumatic Tire Construction, 519.
Pneumatic Tires, Air yalve for, 522.
Pneumatic Tires, Anti-Skid Treads,
525.
Pneumatic Tires, Bolted-on Type,
524.
Pneumatic Tires, Clincher Type, 523.
Pneumatic Tires, Dunlop Type, 523.
Pneumatic Tires, Inner Tube Construc-
tion, 519.
Pneumatic Tires, Methods of Casing
Retention, 522 4
Pneumatic Tires, Non-Skid Chains for,
528.
Pneumatic Tires, Outer Casings, 519.
Pneumatic Tires, Protectors for, 528.
Pneumatic Tires, Quick Detachable,
522.
Pneumatic Tires, Repair of, 554.
Pneumatic Tires, Rims for, 522.
Pneumatic Tires, Troubles of, 552.
Poor Carburetor Adjustment, Symp-
toms of, 648.
Poor Compression, Causes of, 644.
Poor Washing Soaps, Effects on Var-
nish, 662.
Porcelain Insulated Plug, 332.
Portable Vulcanizers, Utility of, 555.
Power Needed to Overcome Air Resist-
ance, 64.
Power Needed to Propel Car, Deter-
mination of> 68,
Power Plant, Features of Unit Con-
struction, 114.
Power Plant, Four Point Support,
115.
Power Plant Installation, 113.
Power Plant Troubles, Location of,
641.
Power Stroke, Definition of, 82.
Power Transmission by Bevel and
Spur Gearing, 499.
Power Transmission by Bevel Gearing,
493.
Power Transmission by Shafts, 484.
Power Transmission by Side Chains,
484.
Power Transmission by Worm Gear-
ing, 493.
Power Transmission Efficiency, 406.
Power Transmission, Single Chain, 484.
Power Transmission Systems, 484.
Preparations for Removing Oil Spots,
639.
Preparations for Treatment of Leather,
664.
Pressed Steel Frame, 463.
Pressed Steel Frame Parts, 463.
Preservation of Upholstery, 665.
Pressure at End of Compression
Stroke, 81.
Pressure Feed Oil Systems; 384.
Pressure Feed Systems, 244.
Primary Cell Wiring Methods, 311.
Principles of Carburetion, 239.
Principles of Dynamo Action, 317.
Principles of Engine Starters, 561.
Principles of Motor Cars, 43.
Principles of Two-Cycle Engines, 105.
Problem of Spring Selection, 465.
Producing Acetylene Gas, 570.
Production of Electricity by Mechani-
cal Means, 317.
Progress of Automobile Design, 39.
Progressive Sliding Gearset, 444.
Properties of Benzol, 333.
Index
687
Proportions of Air and Gas Mixtures,
240.
Proportions of Valves, 146.
Protection Casing for Driving Chains,
497.
Protectors, Disadvantages of, 528.
Protectors for Tires, 528.
Pump, Gear for Circulating Oil,
377.
Pump, Plunger Type for Oil, 377.
Pump Supply System, 246.
Punctures, Repair of, 554.
Purpose of Differential Gear, 490.
Qualities Desired of Lubricants, 370.
R
Rack and Pinion Steering Gears, 475.
Radiator Compounds, Anti-Freezing,
634.
Radiator Protection by Shield, 638.
Radiator Solutions, Calcium-Chloride,
634.
Radiator Solutions, Oil, 637.
Ratio of Bore and Stroke, 126.
Rayner Two-Cycle Motor, 223.
Rear Axle and Change Speed Gearing,
457, 459.
Rear Axle, Combination Type, 490.
Rear Axle, Floating Type, 487.
Rear Axle Forms, 487.
Rear Axle, Peugeot, 499.
Rear Axle, Torbensen, 497.
Rear Axle Transmission, Conventional,
459.
Rear Axles, " Dead " Type, 487.
Rear Axles " Live " Types, 487.
Rear Axles wth Double Reduction
Gears, 496.
Rear End Suspension, 469.
Reason for Cooling Systems, 388.
Reason for Lubrication of Mechanism,
368.
Reasons for Spark Advance, 611.
Regulation of Gas Mixture Supply,
262.
Regulation of Motor Speed, 610.
Removal of Bolted-on Casing, 547.
Removing Grease from Running
Gears, 662.
Removing Outer Casing, 547.
Reo Car, Control System of, 628.
Repairing Punctures, 554.
Repairing Sagging Frame Members,
660.
Repair Outfits for Automobiles, 592.
Requirements of Carburetor, 241.
Requirements of Clutches, 410.
Requirements of Oiling Devices, 374.
Results of Knight Motor Trials, 104.
Retaining Magneto on Base, 361.
Retarded Spark, Effect of, 611.
Retention of Leather Cone Clutches,
416.
Reynolds Rotary Valve Motor, 166.
Rich Gas Causes Overheating, 650.
Rims, Clincher, 522.
Rims, Fisk, 524.
Rims for Solid Rubber Tires, 537.
Rims, Demountable, 531.
Rims, Dunlop, 522.
Rims, Quick Detachable, 522.
Ring for Wristpin Retention, 188.
Ring Valve Operating Means, 171.
Ring Valves, Sphinx, 169.
Rocker Arm, Valve Operating, 150.
Roller Cam Follower, 150.
Rope for Motorists, 603.
Rope for Motorists, Utility of, 603.
Rotary Valve, Double Cone, 167.
Rotary Valves, Conical, 168.
Rotary Valves, Disk, 166.
Rotary Valves, Drum, 166.
688
Index
Rotary Valves, Itala, 163.
Rotary Valves, Mead, 166.
Rotary Valves, Reynolds, 166.
Rules for Manipulating Spark Lever,
611.
Rules for Obtaining Best Tire Service,
558.
Rules for Tire Inflation, 549.
Rules for Tire Selection, 549.
Running Gears, Removing Grease
from, 662.
S
Safe Piston Speed, 129.
Sagging Frame Members, Strengthen-
ing, 660.
Sand Blister, Cause of, 554.
Saurer Economy Carburetor, 282.
Schebler Model " E " Vaporizer, 265.
Screw and Nut Steering Gear, 477.
Scroll Elliptic Springs, 468.
Secondary Distributor Action, 324.
Sectional Cushion Tire, 536.
Selective Sliding Gearset, 446.
Selective Sliding Gearset, Advan-
tages of, 447.
Selective Sliding Gearset, Operation
of, 623.
Self-Starters for Gasoline Engines, 561.
Semi-Elliptic Springs, 467.
Separable Head Cylinder Construction,
123.
Sequence of Cycles, Four-Cylinder, 88.
Sequence of Cycles, Single-Cylinder, 87.
Sequence of Cycles, Six-Cylinder, 90.
Sequence of Cycles, Three-Cylinder, 87.
Sequence of Cycles, Two-Cylinder, 87.
Series Connection for Cells, 312.
Set Screws for Wristpin Retention,
188.
Shaft Drive from Friction Transmis-
sion, 433.
Shaft Driving Methods, 484.
Shaft Driving Systems, Care of, 650.
Shaft for Pump and Timer Drive,
198.
Shapes of Connecting Rod Sections,
196.
Shield for Radiator Protection, 638.
Shock Absorber, Coil Spring, 585.
Shock Absorbers, Auxiliary Spring
Type, 586.
Shock Absorbers, Cam and Spring
Type, 586.
Shock Absorbers, Forms of, 585.
Shock Absorbers, Friction Type, 587.
Shock Absorbers, Functions of, 585.
Shock Absorbers, Oil Check, 587.
Shock Absorbers, Rubber Buffer, 585.
Side Chain Drive System, 484.
Side Chain Drive from Friction Trans-
mission, 433.
Side Slipping, Cause of, 505.
Side Springs, 468.
Sight Feed Lubricators, 375.
Signals and Alarms, 588.
Silent Chain Camshaft Drive, 156.
Silent Chains, Use in Gearset, 441.
Simple Battery, Disadvantages of, 313.
Simple Electric Cell, Action of, 309.
Simple Ignition System, Action of,
328.
Simple Ignition System Parts, 327.
Simple Spray Carburetor, 249.
Simple Storage Cell, Action of, 314.
Single Chain Drive, 484.
Single-Cylinder Motor, Horizontal, 83.
Single-Cylinder Motor, Vertical, 84.
Single-Cylinder Sequence of Cycles, 87.
Six-Cylinder Engine Ignition System.
343.
Six-Cylinder Induction Manifolds, 297.
Six-Cylinder Motor, Sequence of
Cycles, 90.
Sleeve and Piston Valve Combination.
161.
Index
689
Sleeve Valves, Knight, 99, 160.
Slide Valve Motor, Knight, 97.
Sliding Gearsets, Design of Four-
Speed Type, 451.
Sliding Gearsets, Number of Speeds
Provided, 447.
Sliding Gearsets, Operation of, 444,
G23.
Sliding Gearset, Three-Speed Select-
ive, 451.
Sliding Gearset without Direct Drive,
449.
Sliding Gear Transmissions, Defects of,
G57.
Slip Covers for Upholstery, 665.
Slipping of Friction Disk, Prevention
of, 656.
Small Spare Parts, Packing, 600.
Solid Gasoline as Fuel, 238.
Solid Rubber Tires, Attachment of,
538.
Solid Rubber Tires, Dual Forms,
538.
Solid Tire Action, 519.
Spacing Magneto Distributor Contacts,
350.
Spare Parts for Repairing, 597.
Spark Advance, Reasons for, 611.
Spark Gap, Function of, 337.
Spark Lever Position, Effect on Fuel
Economy, 612.
Spark Lever Position for Varying
Speeds, 612.
Spark Lever, Rules for Manipulating,
611.
Spark Plug Design, 332.
Spark Plug, Functions of, 30.
Spark Plug Parts, 332.
Spark Plug, Waterproof Connection,
338.
Spark Plugs, Air Gap for Magneto
. Current, 366.
Spark Plugs, Combined with Glass
Insets, 338.
Spark Plugs, Combined with Relief
Cock,- 336.
Spark Plugs, Defects, 646.
Spark Plugs, for Two- Spark Ignition,
339.
Spark Plugs, Installation of, 335.
Spark Plugs, Two-Pole, 340.
Speed Measuring Devices, 589.
Speedometer, Centrifugal Type, 591.
Speedometer Forms, 589.
Speedometer Operating Principles, 590.
Sphinx Ring Valve Motor, 169.
Spinning of Clutch Cones, 420.
Spot Removing Preparations, 639.
Spray Nozzle Forms, 260.
Squeaking Sounds, Causes of, 651.
Spring Attachment to Axles, 471.
Spring Attachment to Frames, 471.
Spring Selection, Problem of, 465.
Spring Shackles, Functions of, 468.
Spring Wheel Forms, 515.
Spring Wheels, Disadvantages of, 517.
Springs, Alloy Steel, 471.
Springs, Compound Forms, 473.
Springs, Full Elliptic, 467.
Springs, Helical Coil, 473.
Springs, Influence on Traction Resist-
ance, 471.
Springs, Laminated Leaf, 466.
Springs, Scroll- Elliptic, 468.
Springs, Semi-Elliptic, 467.
Springs, Side, 468.
Springs, Three-Quarter Elliptic, 468.
Stability, Influence of Center of Grav-
ity, 461.
Stamped Metal Wheels, 512.
Starters, Air, 564.
Starters for Automobile Engines, 561.
Starters, Ignition, 563.
Starters, Mechanical, 562.
Starting Automobile Power Plant,
607.
Starting Car with Selective Gearing,
690
Index
Starting Crank, Method of Using,
608.
Starting Gasoline Engine by Air, 564.
Starting Gasoline Engine on Cold
Morning, 637.
Starting Mult i- Cylinder Engines, 608.
Starting System, Cadillac, 568.
Starting System, Chalmers, 566.
Starting System, Janney-Steinmetz,
565.
Starting' System, "Never Miss," 565.
Starting Systems, Electrical, 567.
Steam Car, Advantages of, 37.
Steel Tubing, Use in Frames, 462.
Steering Animal Drawn Conveyance,
473.
Steering Connections, Care of, 659.
Steering Gear Action, 475.
Steering Gears, Adjustment for Wear,
478.
Steering Gears for Automobiles, 475.
Steering Gears, Hand Wheel Move-
ment, 479.
Steering Gears, Irreversible, 475.
Steering Gears, Mounting of Control
Levers, 481.
Steering Gears, Rack and Pinion, 475.
Steering Gears, Screw and Nut, 477.
Steering Gears, Use of Ball Thrust
Bearings, 481.
Steering Gears, Utility of Eccentric
Bushings, 478.
Steering Gears, Worm and Worm
Gear, 475.
Steering Knuckles, Elliot Type, 483.
Steering Knuckles, Mercedes, 483.
Steering Knuckles, Utility of, 475.
Steering Mechanism, Back Lash in,
661.
Stone Bruise in Tires, 553.
Stopping Car with Selective Gearing,
, 627.
Storage Battery Action, 313.
Storage Battery Construction, 314.
Storage Battery, Current Strength,
316.
Storage Battery for Automobile Work,
315.
Storage Cell, Action of Simple Type,
314.
Storage of Liquid Fuel, 244.
Straight Line Shaft Drive, 486.
Stream Line Body Design, 67.
Strength of Valve Springs, 158.
Strength of Wire Automobile Wheels,
513.
Strokes, Actual Duration^of, 91.
Stromberg Double Jet Carburetor, 280.
Suggestions for Oiling, 632.
Summary of Valve Operation
Methods, 154.
Supplies for Motor Car Maintenance,
599.
Supplies, Method of Carrying, 603.
Supplies, Miscellaneous, 602.
Supplying Kerosene by Direct Injec-
tion, 291.
Suspension of Frame, 465.
Suspension of Front End, 468.
Suspension of Rear End, 469.
Symptoms Denoting Defective Car-
buretion, 648.
Symptoms of Poor Carburetor Adjust-
ment, 648.
Test for Acid in Calcium Chloride
Solution, 635.
Tests for Battery Capacity, 645.
Tests of Knight Motor, 104.
T Head Cylinder Construction, 137.
Theory of Cylinder Cooling, 389.
Theory of Induction Coil Action, 329.
Theory of Lubrication, 370.
Theory of Thermo-Syphon Cooling
System, 393.
Thermo-Syphon Cooling Systems, 393.
Index
691
Threaded Plugs for Wristpin Reten-
tion, 188.
Three Bearing Four-Cylinder Crank-
shafts, 203.
Three-Cylinder Motor, Sequence of
Cycles, 88.
Three-Plate Clutch Constniction, 421.
Three-Plate Clutch with Brake, 424.
Three-Point Support Advantages, 114.
-Three-Port Two-Cycle Engine Opera-
tion, 110.
Three-Quarter Elliptic Springs, 468.
Three-Quarter Scroll Elliptic Springs,
468.
Three- Speed Selective Sliding Gearset,
451.
Tie Bar, Functions of, 475.
Time of Ignition, 181.
Timer and -Distributor Forms, 321.
Timer and Pump Drive Shaft, 198.
Timer, Four-Cylinder Types, 324.
Timer, Touch Contact, 323.
Timer, Wipe Contact, 323.
Timers, Arrangements of Contacts, 326.
Timers or Distributors, Defects of, 646.
Timers, One-Cylinder Types, 322.
Timers, Speed of Rotation, 322.
Tire Failure, Causes of, 552.
Tire Inflation, Importance of, 551.
Tire Inflation Methods, 552.
Tire Inflation, Table of Pressures, 551.
Tire Manipulation Hints, 545.
Tire Irons, Forms of, 542.
Tire Irons, Use of, 542.
Tire Protectors, 528.
Tire Repair Outfit, 545.
Tire Restoration, Supplies for, 540.
Tire Restoration, Tools for, 540.
Tire Size, Table for Selection, 550.
Tire Sizes and Axle Loads, 550.
Tires for Automobiles, 517.
Tool Roll and Tool Assortment, 592.
Tools and Miscellaneous Equipment,
592.
Tools for Mechanically Fastened Tires,
547.
Tools, Use and Care of, 594.
Torbensen Rear Axle, 497.
Traction Resistance, Influence of
Springs, 471.
Transforming Reciprocating to Rotary
Motion, 89.
Transmission of Power, 484.
Treads, Anti-Skid, 525.
Treads, Raised Type, 525.
Treating Leather Tops, 664.
Trend of Construction, 40.
Troubles in Carburetors, 648.
Tubular Front Axle, 481.
Tungsten Filament Bulbs, 577.
Tungsten Filament, Current Consump-
tion of, 577.
Two Bearing Four-Cylinder Crank-
shaft, 203.
Two-Cycle Cylinder Ports, Function
of, 108.
Two-Cycle Engine, Differential Piston
Type, 111.
Two-Cycle Engine Disadvantages, 112.
Two-C;pde Engine Parts, 106.
Two-Cycle Engine Principles, luo.
Two-Cycle Motor, Air Cooled, 402.
Two-Cycle Motor, Amplex, 218.
Two-Cycle Motor, Cote, 220.
Two-Cycle Motor, Legros, 220.
Two-Cycle Motor, Rayner, 223.
Two-Cycle Piston, 186.
Two-Cylinder Motor, Sequence of
Cycles, 87.
Two-Cylinder Opposed Motor Features,
93.
Two-Diameter Piston, 187.
Two-Pole Spark Plug, 340.
Two-Port Two-Cycle Engine Opera-
tion, 106.
Two-Spark Ignition System, 339.
Two-Throw Crankshaft, 202.
Types of Change Speed Gearing, 430.
692
Index
Types of Cooling Systems, 389.
Types of Crankshafts, 199.
Types of Lubricators, 374.
Types of Valve Plungers, 150.
Typical Engine Stoppage Analyzed,
642.
Typical Four-Cycle Power Plants,
225.
Typical Front Wheel Brakes, 506.
Typical Induction Coil, 329.
Typical Magneto Forms, 359.
Typical Motor Control System, 609.
Typical Valve Timing Diagrams, 182.
U
Underslung Frame Advantages, 461.
Underslung Frames, 461.
Unit Power Plant Features, 113.
Upholstery, Preservation of, 665.
Upswept Frame Type, 464.
Use and Care of Tools, 594.
Use of Combined Clutch and Brake
Pedal, 629.
Use of Cone Brake, 420.
Utility of Auxiliary Exhaust Valve,
399.
Utility of Change Speed Gearing,
429.
Utility of Cut-Out Valve, 305.
Utility of Eccentric Bushings, 478.
Utility of Friction Pedal, 6l6.
Utility of Gas Engine Valves, 80.
Utility of Gasoline Strainers, 286.
Utility of Motor Car Brakes, 499.
Utility of Windshields, 584.
Valve, Bevel Seat, 146.
Valve, Cast-Iron Head, 147.
Valve Construction, 146.
Valve Design, 145.'
Valve, Electrically Welded, 147.
Valve, Flat Seat, 146.
Valve for Pneumatic Tires, 522.
Valve Head Construction, 147.
Valve in the Head Construction, 137.
Valveless Miesse Engine, 161.
Valve Lifting Cams, 149.
Valve Location Features, 136.
Valve, One Piece Steel, 147.
Valve Operation by Plunger, 150.
Valve Operation by Rocker Arm, 150.
Valve Operation, Hydraulic, 151.
Valve Operation, Indirect, 151.
Valve Operation Methods, 150.
Valve Operation, Methods Summar-
ized, 154.
Valve Placing Methods, 137.
Valve Plunger Types, 150.
Valve Proportions, 146.
Valve Springs, Strength of, 158.
Valve Timing, Closing Inlet, 180.
Valve Timing, Exhaust Closing, 178.
Valve Timing, Exhaust Valve Lead,
178.
Valve Timing Instructions, 176.
Valve Timing, Marking Flywheel, 183.
Valve Timing, Opening Inlet, 179.
Valve Timing, Steps in, 185.
Valve Timing, Typical Diagrams, 182.
Valves, Concentric Construction, 143.
Valves, Darracq Rotary Distributor,
173.
Valves, Piston, 161, 173.
Valves, Rotary, 163, 166, 167.
Valves Sleeve, 160, 161.
Valves Split Ring, 169.
Valves, Utility of, 80.
Vaporizing Gasoline, Early Methods,
247.
Varnish Deterioration Because of Poor
Washing Soap, 662.
Varnish Deterioration, Effect of Am-
monia Fumes, 663.
Index
693
Venturi Tube Action, 257.
Vertical Single-Cylinder Motor, 84.
Vibrator Coil Defects, 647.
Voltage, Definition of, 312.
Voltage Required for Ignition, 316.
Vulcanizers, Acid Cure, 545.
Vulcanizers, Electrical, 556.
Vulcanizers, Method of Using, 556.
Vulcanizer, Vapor, 556.
Vulcanizing, Temperatures for, 556.
W
Wagon Brake Form, 499.
Water Circulating Pumps, 392.
Water Circulation, Impediments to,
650.
Water-Cooled Mufflers, 303.
Water Cooling by Forced Circulation,
389.
Water Cooling by Natural Circulation,
389.
Water Cooling Methods, 389.
Waterproof Spark Plug Connection,
338.
Watt, Definition of, 312.
Wick Carburetor Action, 247.
Wick Carburetor, Lanchester, 251.
Windshields, Construction of, 585.
Windshields, Glass, 585.
Windshields, Leather and Celluloid,
584.
Windshields, Utility of, 584.
Winter Care of Automobiles, 634.
Winter Care of Lubricating System,
637.
Wire Automobile Wheels, 509.
Wire Automobile Wheels, Strength of,
513.
Wire for Magneto Ignition Systems.
366.
Wire Wheels, Disadvantages of, 513.
Wiring, Defects of, 647.
Wiring Diagram, Four-Cylinder
Double System, 365.
Wiring Diagram of Low Tension Sys-
tem, 345.
Wiring of Battery Ignition Systems,
342.
Wiring Systems, High Tension Mag-
neto, 352.
Wiring System, Transformer Coil
Magneto, 354.
Wood Automobile Wheels, 509.
Wooden Wheels, Artillery Hub, 509.
Wooden Wheels, Sarven Hub, 509.
Wood Frames, 462.
Worm and Worm Gear Steering, 475.
W T orm Gear Driving, 493.
Worm Gearing, Advantages of, 495.
Worm Gearing, Efficiency of, 495.
Wristpin, Functions of, 188.
Wristpin Retention by Plunger, 190.
Wristpil Retention by Ring, 188.
Wristpin Retention by Set Screw, 188.
Wristpin Retention by Threaded
Plugs, 188.
Wristpin, Retention of, 188.
Yearly Output of Automobiles, 35.
Zenith Double Jet Carburetor, 284.
STAMPED BELOW
AN INITIAL FINE OF 25 CENTS
WILL BE ASSESSED FOR FAILURE TO RETURN
THIS BOOK ON THE DATE DUE. THE PENALTY
WILL INCREASE TO SO CENTS ON THE FOURTH
DAY AND TO $1.OO ON THE SEVENTH DAY
OVERDUE.
APR 30 1941 M
OCT 28
la44
"Vcr,
WlBl
1
1
*
IAY 9 1987
LD 21-100m-7,'40 (6936s)
'U.C.
BERKELEY LIBRARIES
YC 1939"
i
r
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY