Car electrics: handbooks - theory and principles (1/3)

Competition Car Electrics - A practical handbook

The requirements for a competition car electrical system are significantly different from those of a standard road car. Such luxuries as electric windows and central locking are superfluous. Conversely, equipment such as emergency electrical cut-outs and fire extinguisher systems may be required.
Electrical system reliability is an often-overlooked aspect of competition car design, and a common source of trouble.

Here is a practical, illustrated guide to all aspects of electrical system design and implementation, essential reading for anyone running or constructing a competition car or modifying a road car for competition use.

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Automotive Wiring

Automotive wiring is a primary skill required for proper completion and safe operation of any custom build, whether it is a traditional custom, hot rod, or classic daily driver. While restorers typically have the option of buying a new or reproduction wiring harness, custom enthusiasts often have few options except to figure out how to do it themselves.

This book guides builders through every step from determining what components they need, to selecting wire type and gauge, methods of connection, and other considerations. The book includes numerous charts showing typical configurations and suggested installations.
A troubleshooting section lends a hand in tracking down the inevitable problems that can arise.

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Automotive Wiring and Electrical Systems : Circuit Design and Assembly

The perfect book to unshroud the mysteries of automotive electrics and electronic systems. The basics of electrical principles, including voltage, amperage, resistance, and Ohm's law, are revealed in clear and concise detail so the enthusiast understands what these mean in the construction and repair of automotive electrical circuits.

All the tools and the proper equipment required for automotive electrical tasks are covered. In addition, this in-depth guide explains how to perform more complex tasks, such as adding new circuits, installing aftermarket electronics, repairing existing circuits, and troubleshooting.

It also explains how to complete popular wiring projects, such as adding late-model electronic accessories and convenience items to earlier-model cars, installing relay systems, designing and assembling multi-function circuits and harnesses, and much more.

With this book in hand, you will be able to assemble, design, and build single- and multi-function circuits and harnesses, troubleshoot and repair existing circuits, and install aftermarket systems and electronics.
"Automotive Wiring and Electrical Systems" is the perfect book for wiring a hot rod from scratch, modifying muscle car electrical circuits for cooling fans and/or power windows, or adding a big stereo and other conveniences to modern performance cars.

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More information on the CarTech Workbench books

Car Electrical & Electronic Systems

This illustrated handbook explains how to understand, diagnose, repair, and modify car electrical and electronic systems. No prior knowledge is required. It starts with basic electrical circuits and progresses to advanced systems, including engine management, transmission control, and stability control.

The book covers common problems such as alternator charging faults and headlight issues, and also more advanced work involving On-Board Diagnostics, multimeters, and oscilloscopes. It explains practical tasks such as choosing between series and parallel circuits for accessories, testing sensors with a multimeter, installing electronic timers, and selecting the right oscilloscope.

The author has over 25 years of experience writing about automotive electronics and has carried out many modifications on his own vehicles, including unique projects.
This is a practical, hands-on guide for anyone interested in car electrical and electronic systems.

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Automobile Mechanical and Electrical Systems

The second edition of "Automobile Mechanical and Electrical Systems" concentrates on core technologies to provide the essential information required to understand how different vehicle systems work.
It gives a complete overview of the components and workings of a vehicle from the engine through to the chassis and electronics. It also explains the necessary tools and equipment needed in effective car maintenance and repair, and relevant safety procedures are included throughout.

Designed to make learning easier, this book contains:
- Photographs, flow charts and quick reference tables
- Detailed diagrams and clear descriptions that simplify the more complicated topics and aid revision
- Useful features throughout, including definitions, key facts and `safety first' considerations.

In full colour and with support materials from the author's website, this is the guide no student enrolled on an automotive maintenance and repair course should be without.

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