Page 280 - Mechanic Diesel - TT

MECHANIC DIESEL - CITS

Where the dashboard originally included an array of simple controls (e.g., the steering wheel) and instrumentation
to show speed, fuel level and oil pressure, the modern dashboard may accommodate a broad array of gauges,
and controls as well as information, climate control and entertainment systems.

Contemporary dashboards may include the speedometer, tachometer, odometer, engine coolant temperature
gauge, and fuel gauge, turn indicators, gearshift position indicator, seat belt warning light, parking-brake warning
light, [4] and engine-malfunction lights. Heavy vehicles that feature air brakes, such as trucks and buses will also
have gauges to indicate the available air pressure in the braking system. Other features may include a gauge
for alternator voltage, indicators for low fuel, low oil pressure, low tire pressure and faults in the airbag (SRS)
systems, glove compartment, ashtray and a cigarette lighter or power outlet – as well as heating and ventilation
systems, lighting controls, safety systems, entertainment equipment and information systems.
Types of gauges: These are six common types of dashboard gauges. Let’s understand their functions and how
one can read them....
• Speedo meter: If someone has to rank the most important gauge in a car, it would be the speedometer.
However, a speedometer’s function is highly dependent on car tyres. Therefore, even minor inaccuracies
can affect your car’s speed. Previously a car’s speed was measured through a complicated system, but it got
simplified with the electronic sensors.
How to read a Speedometer?
Speedometers contain two semicircles with markings. The smaller or inner semicircle indicates your car’s speed
in kilometres per hour (km/h). However, the outer semicircle indicates your speed in miles per hour (mph).

• Fuel gauge

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CITS : Automotive - Mechanic Diesel - Lesson 84 CITS : Automotive - Mechanic Diesel - Lesson 84