Automotive Tools and Terms

Front

Ball joint separator

Back

A puller tool used to force a ball joint apart from a steering knuckle.

Front

Ball joint wear indicator

Back

A device on a ball joint that recesses into the joint to display the amount/degree of wear on the joint.

Front

Coil spring compressor

Back

A pneumatic or screw-type tool used to press the coils of a coil spring together during removal and installation.

Front

Curb weight

Back

The weight of an unoccupied vehicle with fuel, oil, and coolant filled, and all standard equipment installed.

Front

Fork tool

Back

A two-pronged tool shaped like a fork and used to pry a ball joint apart from a steering knuckle with the help of a hammer.

Front

Bounce test

Back

A simple test in which one corner of the vehicle body is pushed down and then released to determine shock absorber strength.

Front

Spring fatigue

Back

A weakening of the strength/resistance of a spring that occurs after prolonged service or damage.

Front

Stiction

Back

The initial resistance to movement between rubber seals or bushings and metal parts. It can cause noises between parts and affect vehicle ride smoothness.

Front

Strut spring compressor

Back

A pneumatic or screw-type tool used to compress the coils of a strut spring together during removal and installation.