Automotive Chassis and Frame Components Key Terms

Learn automotive chassis and frame components key terms to comprehend automotive frame design

In the automotive industry, the terminology of the past is not necessarily the terminology of today. Studying automotive chassis and frame components key terms gives you the current definitions so you don't confuse yourself and others when working on a vehicle.

Use your knowledge of automotive chassis and frame components key terms to effectively communicate with distributors and customers when working on cars, trucks and other vehicles. This demonstrates your professionalism in keeping current in the automotive industry.

 

Body in white

The body in white, also called BWI, is a vehicle's main structure. Manufacturers generally make it from welded steel pressings, making a solid, stiff and strong frame.
Try: ANSYS addresses the changes in BWI as manufacturers attempt to meet government fuel-efficiency regulations. It highlights the use of simulation in body-in-white design.

Chassis

This term refers to the frame of a car, but modern usage defines it as all the components connecting the body in white, from the wheels to the steering and the engine. Examples of these components are the suspension and subframe.
Try: FTM Studio offers a look into automobile chassis history. It covers decades from the 1940s through the 1980s.

Suspension

The suspension is a component of the chassis of a vehicle. It includes parts such as the wheels, shock absorbers and springs that connect to the vehicle's axles and wheels. The system is mechanical.
Try: TechInsights, a Division of United Business Media, offers articles highlighting the design of suspension in the chassis.

Differential

The differential is the part of the chassis that allows the wheels on a vehicle to rotate at different speeds, using gears for situations such as turning a corner. It does this while giving each wheel an equal amount of torque.
Try: TheAutoChannel takes a look at how Ford utilizes a differential in the Ford Focus.

Cab and chassis

This terminology refers to specialized chassis components outfitted with bodies for vehicles such as trucks, motor homes, ambulances and fire engines.
Try: Sunrise Equipment Company offers a number of cab and chassis vehicles for rent, lease or buying. It has images of many of the cab and chassis models on its website.

Driveshaft

The driveshaft is the chassis component that transfers power from a motor or engine to the parts that need it. It generally does this through a rotary motion.
Try: ClassicTruckShop.com offers tips for working on the driveshaft part of the chassis. It recommends tools, offers tips on setting up the chassis and offers information on testing.

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