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Split Guide Ring

Part of a torque converter assembly designed to reduce fluid turbulence and improve efficiency.

Split Pin

A round, split-spring steel tubular roll pin used for locking purposes, such as a gear to a shaft.

Split Point

The pressure at which a proportioning valve closes during brake application and reduces the rate at which further pressure is applied to the rear drum brakes.

Split Sump

A term used for split crankcase.

Split Torque Converter

A design having a simple planetary gear set to divide engine torque between mechanical and hydraulic operation.

Split Valve Guide

A two-piece valve guide used in some older flathead engines with mushroom valves.

Spoiler

1. An aerodynamic device that "spoils" the airflow over the vehicle. 2. A device attached below the front bumper to reduce drag by deflecting air away from the vehicle. 3. A device mounted on the rear deck to provide a downward force.

Spoke

The wire-like bracing between the hub and the rim of a wire wheel.

Spokes

Wire wheels.

Sponge Lead

Lead with many small holes used to make a surface porous or songlike for use in battery negative plates.

Spongy Brake Pedal

A condition where the brake pedal is not solid when depressed, but bounces softly. This is caused by air in the hydraulic lines, distortion or stretching of the connecting parts, or swelling of the hydraulic hoses.

Spongy Pedal

A term used for spongy brake pedal.

Spontaneous Combustion

The process by which a material ignites and burns by itself.

Spook

To psych, distract, or unnerve a competitor at the start of a race.

Spool

1. A final drive without any differential action. 2. A term used for locked rear end.

Spool Valve

A rod used to control oil flow in an automatic transmission.

Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)

A very popular truck-like vehicle with a box0like open or enclosed body, generally having a short wheel base, a manual four- or five-speed transmission, and four-wheel drive.

Sports Car

1. A two-seated vehicle with a manual transmission built for performance rather than passenger comfort. 2. A vehicle built to incorporate the appearance, performance, and handling of a race car, but retain the qualities and requirements for regular road use.

Sports Car Club Of America (SCCA)

A major road-racing sanctioning body.

Sports Sedan (SS)

A pony car under USAC stock car rules.