A C-Clip Retainer is typically made of copper, spring steel, or stainless steel. It snaps into a machined groove of a shaft to create retention.
C-clips generally have a narrow section height, creating good clearance. C-clips don’t have teeth and deep sets, which means they have a lower thrust load rating than other clip types.
C-clips are also used to secure axles in place. A C-lock-type axle requires the removal of the differential cover plate and pinion shaft to access the clip retainer.
A C-Clamp Ball Joint Adapter is a tool used for ball joint repair. It is designed to fit over your ball joint and protect it during removal or installation. It’s usually available in different sizes. The ball joint adapter works with a C-clamp or press tool to enable controlled force application during removal and installation.
Essential for tasks like pressing out or installing ball joints, it ensures efficient and safe suspension system maintenance, reducing the risk of damage and promoting overall safety during repairs.
C-section kits increase the overall suspension travel on vehicles that utilize lowering kits to create limited rear axle travel. They are durable frame modification and reinforcement systems that allow for upward travel of your rear suspension, which helps limit bottoming out.
C-sections are manufactured with heavy-duty stamped steel contoured to match the factory frame rails. They usually feature a durable powder coat finish and high-quality hardware.
The Cab Corner is a body panel that can be found near the rear of the passenger cabin, where the border divides the cab from the truck bed. Because they’re often exposed to water and road salt, cab corners are also one of the weakest points of a truck. They also tend to come with factory holes, which can often get clogged with dirt, leading to rust forming over the panel.
A cab cover protects the cab and hood from extreme temperatures. It usually fits over the cab and pickup bed.
Aside from protecting the body, cab covers also protect the interior from heat.
Cab lights alert oncoming traffic that an oversized vehicle is approaching. They’re usually mounted on top of a truck to provide better visibility. These lights are especially useful at night on poorly lit roads and roads that don’t have dividers.
Cab roof lights are typically installed on top of truck cabs. Under federal law, trucks over 80 inches in width must have a cab roof light. The lights are meant to clearly show a vehicle’s width to oncoming traffic. The lights also need to be amber-colored to comply with the law. Some manufacturers have begun to offer amber cab roof lights straight out of the factory. However, other vehicles might not have cab roof lights and owners might need to install these.
The cabin air filter is an air filter located at the outside air inlet. It is designed to filter dirt and dust from the air before it enters the vehicle cabin. It is typically accessible through the dash, behind the glove box. This filter should regularly be replaced—every two years under normal circumstances or more often if the vehicle is driven on dusty roads frequently.
The Cabin Air Filter Cover is a body panel that conceals the cabin air filter, protecting it from damage and getting dirty. This part might be needed if the stock cabin air filter cover has worn out, become too damaged, or gone missing. The cabin air filter cover fits over the air filter and is easily removable to facilitate the cleaning and replacement of the filter. The HVAC system relies on the cabin air filter cover to help keep the cabin air filter intact and clean.
The Cabin Air Temperature Sensor or in-car temperature sensor monitors the temperature inside the vehicle.
In vehicles with electronic automatic temperature control (EATC), values from the cabin air temperature sensor and ambient temperature sensor are used to make output decisions.
Like most sensors, the cabin air temperature sensor is a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) sensor that decreases in resistance as the temperature increases.
Based on the values from the cabin air temperature sensor, the control module adjusts cooling load and fan speed.
The cable tie is an accessory that secures automotive electrical cables and wires, keeping the wiring together and preventing them from moving. This part might be required if an electrical part has many long wires that might become a tangled mess if left unsecured. Cable ties are usually wrapped around many cables and wires in the electrical system. Wiring harnesses need cable ties to manage their wires and prevent issues like physical damage.
A Caliper Spring is a retaining hardware that keeps the brake caliper in place, preventing unwanted movement between the caliper and caliper mount. It also ensures that the brake pad is positioned correctly.
A worn-out caliper spring can create unusual braking noises and might cause the entire braking hardware to fail prematurely.
A Cam Follower, also called a track or roller follower, is the part that moves up and down following a cam’s shape. It’s a crucial part of the engine because it turns the cam’s rotating motion into up-and-down movement, controlling the valves and other engine parts.
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The Cam Gear helps the camshaft rotate properly to make sure the camshaft’s timing is consistent and on time. It is typically made from fiber and comes in a helical cut to minimize noise. The cam gear is often twice as large as the crankshaft gear so that it completes one revolution for every two of the camshaft.
The Cam Housing Plug is a type of seal that covers holes in the engine, preventing oil from leaking. These plugs are disc-shaped and often made of polymer materials. They’re typically installed on the sides of a vehicle’s engine, sealing up holes where engine oil might leak.
The Cam Phaser, short for camshaft phaser, is the heart of the variable valve timing (VVT) system. Also known as the camshaft actuator, it adjusts the position or phase of the camshaft, which opens and closes the engine valves to allow air into the engine and for exhaust gases to exit. The cam phaser alters the position of the camshafts to adjust the engine’s valve timing. This helps improve engine performance and fuel economy.
The Cam Plug is a type of gasket specifically designed to prevent engine oil leakage. Cam plugs are circular, typically made of durable plastic or polymer material, and are mounted to the bottom side of the engine.
The camber and alignment kit includes tools designed to adjust a vehicle’s camber. The tools help ensure the wheels are properly aligned with the chassis by keeping the tires perpendicular to the ground.
Camber kits are used to change the direction a car leans to, either towards or away from the chassis. Many vehicles have tires that lean towards the chassis because this gives them more grip when driving.
The Camber Bolt Kit contains a chamber bolt and its different components. Some kits contain more than one set. A chamber bolt is used to easily fine-tune the suspension system, and it’s installed along at the ends of the upper control arm above a vehicle’s wheel. These bolts are typically made from hardened steel and are designed with more elongated heads to allow for more adjustment range. They’re typically easier to use than other camber adjustment methods like adjustable control arms or welding.
The Camber Bushing is a bushing that adjusts a vehicle’s camber when installed. A vehicle’s camber is the inward or outward wheel tilt relative to the true vertical angle. Camber bushings are often used when a vehicle goes through height modifications or camber readjustment.
Some camber bushings are adjustable and can be tweaked to the correct camber depending on the vehicle’s needs. Camber bushings vary in size and design depending on the vehicle they’re meant to fit.
The Camber Link is composed of the inner and outer camber links. It connects the wheel hub to the chassis. In most vehicles, this is a tie-rod with ball cups at both ends, while others use one similar to a lower arm. It offers transverse wheel support, which allows the suspension to accommodate the up-and-down movement of the wheels.
Changing the camber link length adjusts the camber, while changing its positions may affect the roll center, the camber gain, or both.
The camshaft opens the valves via lobes that push against the force of the valve springs. The valve spring closes as the camshaft rotates off the lobe.
Timing gears, chains, and belts drive the camshaft. In some vehicles, the camshaft also operates the mechanical fuel pump, oil pump, and distributor.
There are generally two locations where the camshaft can be found.
The first one is inside the engine block. In this setup, the camshaft has bearings for additional support. The second location is overhead, which means the camshaft can be found in the cylinder heads.
The Camshaft Adjusting Unit is responsible for changing the position of the camshaft to run according to the engine’s requirements. A camshaft needs to be able to shift because it must be able to open and close the engine’s intake and exhaust valves.
The Camshaft Bearing supports the camshaft in a cam-in-block design. In this setup, the camshaft is located inside the engine block.
A cam-in-block setup has the crankshaft driving the camshaft with a gear or sprocket and chain drive.
The Camshaft Bolt or cam bolt attaches the camshaft pulley to the camshaft. It ensures that the camshaft doesn’t move excessively when mounted on the engine’s cylinder head.
New cam bolts designed to handle additional torque might be necessary after upgrades meant for increased engine output.
The Camshaft Cover covers the cylinder head, keeping oil in the engine and contaminants like dirt and water outside. This part might be needed if the current camshaft cover has developed an issue that prevents it from shielding the top of the engine. The camshaft cover sits on top of the cylinder head, and you might know it as the rocker cover or valve cover. The camshaft, valves, and rocker need the camshaft cover to help them stay sufficiently lubricated and free of contaminants.
The Camshaft Housing Gasket is a seal that sits between the camshaft housing and the cylinder head, preventing leakage and contamination. It also helps limit wear on related parts while reducing critical torque values. It can also distribute engine pressure evenly across the engine fasteners. Camshaft housing gaskets come in different shapes and sizes that can vary depending on the vehicle’s year, make, and model. Some gaskets are made of metal with a U shape, while others are circular.
The Camshaft Installation Tool is an automotive repair implement that helps grip a camshaft during installation. It prevents damage to the cam lobes and cam bearings when used. These tools are built with durable materials and precision engineered to suit different types of engines. Some camshaft installation tools are designed to work with specific engine types, while others are universal and can work with multiple engine types. The camshaft installation tool designs vary depending on the type of engine they’re made for.
Like most o-rings, the camshaft o-ring seals joints between separate parts and prevents gas and fluid leaks. The camshaft o-ring creates a seal between the engine’s cylinder head and components like the camshaft position sensor. Since camshaft o-rings are meant to prevent hot engine oil from leaking, they must withstand high temperatures and pressures. O-rings are small components, but deformed ones can cause oil leaks, which is a major issue that can cripple your vehicle.
The camshaft oiler kit is a kit with multiple camshaft oilers (sometimes abbreviated as cam oilers) that deliver lubricant to the cams. This kit might be needed if you need to replace damaged or worn-out cam oilers when repairing or upgrading your vehicle. The kit’s camshaft oilers attach to the camshaft. The camshaft needs the parts in the camshaft oiler kit to connect with the oil pump that delivers lubricant to the cam.
The Camshaft Position Sensor determines the position of the camshaft in a distributorless ignition system. This sensor essentially works the same way ignition pickups and trigger wheels do in an engine with a distributor. The basic timing signal is read off the crankshaft, eliminating ignition timing variations.
The Camshaft Position Sensor O-ring is a small gasket that seals the camshaft position sensor into its housing seats. It prevents oil from leaking and potentially damaging the camshaft position sensor and surrounding parts. Camshaft position sensor O-rings should be replaced whenever you install a new valve cover gasket. They’re usually made of durable rubber that can resist engine heat, oil degradation, and corrosion. They also come in different sizes to fit different makes and models.
The Camshaft Seal is an oil seal on one end of the camshaft. The seal is only used on engines with timing belts. It plugs one end of the camshaft to prevent engine oil from leaking through the crankcase.
The camshaft seal is a rubber ring that can eventually dry up due to extreme heat. It can also fail due to too much oil pressure on vehicles with overhead camshafts.
Camshaft Synchronizers are devices that record the rotation of the camshaft and send the data to the power control module (PCM). The information helps set the correct timing between the fuel injector and spark plug.
Engines with flat tappet camshafts have a part called a camshaft thrust button, which keeps the camshaft in the correct position so that it can move forward and backward during operation. The cam button is wedged between the timing chain cover and the camshaft pulley, which prevents the entire camshaft assembly from moving forward. Camshaft thrust buttons can be made of plastic or metal.
The Camshaft Thrust Washer supports the camshaft by managing the shaft’s movement along an axis and reducing the friction between parts. This part might be needed if you have problems caused by a bad camshaft thrust, such as noises and camshaft damage.
Camshaft thrust washers are located on the camshaft, and they keep the components aligned while also preventing excess wear. The camshaft depends on its thrust washers to protect components like the cam’s first lobe and the front cam bearing.
Also known as a half-moon key, the Camshaft Woodruff Key is a semi-circular key that prevents the gears, hubs, and other parts of the camshaft from moving independently. When excessive load is placed on the camshaft, it also acts as a fail-safe that protects the different parts of a camshaft from any damage by breaking first. Camshaft woodruff keys are inserted into a key seat to prevent them from moving around.
The Canoe/Kayak Rack is a type of roof rack accessory specifically designed to carry a canoe or kayak. It’s helpful for campers and other extreme sports enthusiasts because without it, there would be no way for the canoe or kayak to fit in the vehicle. This type of rack consists of a pair of holders that form a v-like shape for the canoe or kayak bottom to rest on. From there, the equipment can be tied down and secured.
The Distributor Cap and Rotor transfer voltage from the ignition coils to the engine cylinders, igniting the air-fuel mixture, which must ignite at the correct time in each cylinder. The cap and rotor are crucial to engine operation.
A car charger is a device that you can plug into your vehicle’s auxiliary power outlet so that you can charge gadgets and accessories. A car charger takes power directly from your vehicle’s battery. A car mobile charger is quite useful for people who are always on the go. A car charger typically lowers the voltage to match your phone’s charging requirements. Without the charger, the high voltage from the car’s battery can damage your phone’s delicate circuits.
The Car Cleaning Cloth is a tool for removing dirt and moisture from surfaces. This part might be needed if the current cleaning clothes have become damaged or worn out. Car cleaning clothes are often made of microfiber, and some are designed for use on external surfaces, while others are only intended for use in the interior. Cloths are used to apply some cleaning substances on dirty parts and remove the residue once the cleaner has finished cleaning the surfaces.
A Car Cover helps protect a car, truck, van, or SUV from the elements and other contaminants that may damage your vehicle. It also reduces the need for frequent car washes since it keeps dirt and dust from accumulating on a vehicle’s exterior. Additionally, it can also protect a vehicle from minor scratches that could its look.
The Car Duster is a tool used to remove dirt and dust from a vehicle’s interior and exterior. Car dusters can vary according to size, shape, and color, but they’re typically made of microfiber to prevent scratches on the car’s exterior. Some dusters are specifically designed to reach into small spaces, such as the tire gap. You can wash them when they get dirty, making them an efficient tool that can clean multiple surfaces in your car.
Car Shampoo is a specially formulated cleaning liquid designed to work specifically on vehicles. There are different formulas on the market to deal with both light layers of dirt and heavily soiled vehicle bodies. The shampoo is designed to remove dirt remnants from the car body. To avoid possible scratches, car shampoo is commonly used after an all-purpose cleaner and a snow foam pre-wash. Shampoos come in different colors and consistencies, with some having higher concentrations than others.
A vehicle’s car stereo is also called the head unit. The stereo is usually installed on a vehicle’s dashboard, just in front of the center console. The stereo is pushed into a hole in the dashboard and connected to wires that control the speakers. Your stereo also allows you to choose your radio frequency, speaker volume, and equalizer settings. Modern stereos have touchscreens, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone support.
The Car War Brush scrubs surfaces to clean them. You might need this brush to replace your old cleaning tool because it has worn out and might accidentally damage the part you’re cleaning. Some car wash brushes are safe to use on textile and leather surfaces, while other brushes are intended for harder surfaces like the rims and wheels. Your car’s surfaces need the right car wash brush to remove dirt without leaving scrapes and scratches.
Also known as car wash shampoo, Car Wash Soap is specifically formulated to remove mud, dirt, and other debris from your vehicle’s body. Different types of car wash soaps will have different functions. Some examples include general car wash soaps, wash and wax soaps, and ceramic car soaps. You can also get a strip wash soap that gets rid of any old wax, sealants, or dirt before applying another layer of wax.
Car Wipes are a type of wet wipe specially manufactured for plastic, vinyl, and rubber automotive trim. Different variants exist with various purposes. For instance, some car wipes have a cleaning formula with anti-grease properties, while others have added protectant to protect trim from UV light and extend its lifespan. Certain car wipes are also scented with different smells to leave a lingering, pleasant aroma on the cleaned surface.
The Carburetor atomizes fuel into a spray that aids the combustion process in the engine cylinders. Atomized fuel mixes with the air in the cylinders, powering the vehicle when ignited. The carburetor is typically found on top of the engine, underneath the air filter.
The Carburetor Accelerator Pump Diaphragm is a rubber-like material on the accelerator pump that moves up and down depending on the changes the engine demands.
The accelerator pump is an essential part of the carburetor that provides a temporary fuel boost during a cold start or rapid acceleration to prevent engine hesitation.
The Carburetor Base Gasket is a tensioner that connects the serpentine or drive belt to the A/C condenser to transfer energy from the engine crankshaft. It applies tension to the connected belt, keeping it tight to avoid slippage. In some vehicles, the A/C belt tensioner connects the condenser to a separate A/C V-belt. Belt tensioners are typically made from metal, but some modern tensioners can also be made out of plastic.
The Carburetor Choke, also known as the butterfly valve, is a component designed to reduce air intake. This allows a fuel-rich charge to enter the cylinders whenever a cold engine starts. The carburetor choke typically opens as the engine warms up, letting more air in. It is usually found in the carburetor, which is located on top of the engine and underneath the air filter.
The Carburetor Float is mounted on the side of the carburetor. It’s a small tank kept at atmospheric pressure and fed by the main fuel tank, as the carburetor can’t use fuel under pressure. It’s made of hollow plastic, metal, or fuel-resistant foam, so it floats in the fuel.
A Carburetor Fuel Feed Line helps carry fuel from the fuel pump all the way to the injectors and maintains constant pressure to ensure optimal engine operation.
A feed line is part of the entire fuel supply system, which also consists of the fuel level sensor, filter, safety valve, and connecting pipes.
The Carburetor Idle Stop Solenoid is responsible for setting the engine’s curb idle speed. It does this by maintaining the proper throttle opening when the ignition is on and allowing the throttle to close farther when the ignition is off. It minimizes engine run-on by shutting off the engine’s air supply.
A carburetor kit contains a set of components that are needed to restore the performance and reliability of a vehicle’s carburetor. The kit can include components like gaskets, washers, valves, and springs. The components included in a kit are going to vary depending on the engine its intended engine. Replacing a carburetor’s worn-out components is necessary because the carburetor plays a key role in managing an engine’s air-fuel mixture.
A cargo area liner is a piece of cloth or carpet that lines an SUV’s cargo area. Vehicle carpets are meant to protect its metal floor from dirt, wear, and corrosive compounds like salt. Vehicle liners and carpets are designed to keep the car looking clean. That said, liners can accumulate dust over time. Luckily, they can be easily removed for cleaning or replacement.
The cargo bag is an external accessory that can store large items and protect its contents from direct exposure to weather. This accessory might be needed if you want to temporarily expand your vehicle’s storage capacity without costly and heavy modifications to your vehicle. Cargo bags are mounted on a vehicle’s exterior, usually the roof but also on the rear. Your cargo can be transported in a cargo bag while staying dry and relatively unaffected by cold and heat.
The Cargo Basket is a storage basket that increases the carrying capacity of your vehicle. It’s typically mounted to the roof of the vehicle, where you can place bulky objects that might not fit in your trunk or cabin. Cargo baskets come in different shapes and sizes, but they’re usually made of heavy-duty steel with a rust-free coating. To install them, you usually have to mount them on your vehicle’s cross bars.
A Cargo Carrier is a rack or container that attaches to a vehicle’s exterior. There are various designs on the market for different purposes. Some cargo carriers are mounts for bikes, kayaks, and other outdoor equipment. Others are capsule-like storage compartments that go on a roof rack. Whatever the design, cargo carriers provide extra storage space for a vehicle by utilizing the space outside the cabin and trunk.
The cargo door weatherstrip seal prevents water from leaking into the cabin through the gap between the cargo door and the vehicle body. Like many weatherstrip seals in a vehicle, the seal is supposed to cover a gap. The cargo door weatherstrip seal covers the gap between body panels and openings like doors. Weatherstrip seals are typically made with rubber. Hence, this material can develop cracks and become brittle over time, which can cause water to leak inside your vehicle’s cabin. When this happens, it’s time to replace the weatherstrip seals.
The Cargo Light Connector enables a cargo light to attach to specific types of wire harnesses. This part might be needed if you have compatibility issues after replacing your vehicle’s wire harness or cargo light connector. Cargo light connectors are mounted on the end of the wiring harness that plugs into the light, and they deliver voltage to the device. The cargo light and wiring harness rely on this part for a steady power supply.
The Cargo Light Gasket is a type of gasket specifically designed to stop water and other debris from leaking into the cargo light housing. Cargo light gaskets come in different shapes and sizes, but they’re typically made of rubber. They help the cargo light function efficiently, allowing you to better see inside your cabin. You can purchase cargo light gaskets individually or in pairs. Some gaskets are die-cut for a perfect fit, making them easier to install.
The Cargo Light Switch is a switch that controls the light in a vehicle’s cargo area. This makes searching through the vehicle’s cargo area easier even when the vehicle’s parked in dark areas. The cargo light switch connects to the rest of the vehicle’s electrical system and receives power from the alternator and battery. Depending on the vehicle’s make and model, the switch can be a button or a traditional switch type.
A Cargo Mat is laid down at the bottom of a vehicle’s trunk or cargo area. It protects the compartment from stains, moisture, debris, and scratches.
This mat also helps prevent the luggage, equipment, tools, groceries, and other cargo from moving around while driving.
Cargo organizers are accessories that store various items inside your vehicle. There are cargo organizers meant to be installed in various parts of a vehicle including the cargo bay, behind the driver’s seat, and trunk. These cargo organizers can be bags that have zippers and pockets. Alternatively, cargo organizers can be like toolboxes that are mounted in locations like a truck bed. Overall, organizers are meant to keep your vehicle’s tools and other accessories tucked away and tidy.
The Cargo Rack is an accessory that provides additional storage in the truck bed area. This accessory might be required to expand your vehicle’s cargo capacity. Cargo racks are usually mounted on the truck’s bed rails and their attachment points help secure items with cables and ropes. If you want more hauling capacity out of your vehicle, a cargo rack can help expand the available storage space.
The Cargo Rack Mounting Kit is a mounting kit that provides support for your cargo rack. Most mounting kits are made of steel or aluminum, but you can also find some made of hard plastic. They vary in size and shape, which means not every kit will be compatible with your cargo rack. When choosing a mounting kit, it’s important to find one that fits your vehicle and cargo rack.
A Cargo Strap is used to tie down a vehicle when being towed. Cargo straps usually fit over tires and are attached to the tie down points on the floor of a trailer. Most cargo straps have a ratchet component for tightening purposes.
A Cargo Tie Down Anchor is a secure point that anchors straps, ropes, bungee cords, etc. for securing cargo during transport to prevent items from moving while driving.
A Cargo Tray is a flat surface that has raised sides that can keep certain items in place. It can also prevent dirt and stains from damaging your vehicle’s floor.
A Carpet Kit is designed to make it easier to replace the vehicle’s carpet. It comes in different kinds, colors, and materials. Carpet kits are specifically made for automotive use, so they meet specifications for UV, fire, water, and dirt resistance.
Accessories and Interior
The Carrier Axle Kit includes components that make up the axle carrier assembly. The carrier axle assembly houses different parts, including the differential casing, differential bearings, and differential assembly.
The Catalytic Converter is a component of the exhaust system that controls emissions and prevents the release of greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere. It is responsible for converting the toxic gasses created during combustion into water vapor and carbon dioxide. This reduces the overall emissions of a vehicle and improves its performance. The catalytic converter can typically be found in the vehicle’s exhaust system between the engine and the muffler.
ACell Phone Holder is a hold or mount to make a mobile phone easier to use inside a vehicle. There are different types of phone stands. You can sit some on a surface, mount them on an object, or stick them to a surface.
The Center Bearing supports a vehicle’s driveshaft by keeping it on its axis when it rotates. Though small, the center bearing is crucial in ensuring the consistent performance of a vehicle. This is because the driveshaft is responsible for transmitting mechanical power and torque from the engine to other components.
The Center Link is a connecting rod that sits between the two tie rods in a parallelogram-type steering linkage.
The center link transfers torque from the steering gear to the steering knuckles, turning the front wheels in the process.
This connecting rod evenly distributes the steering force to both front wheels, aiding the vehicle’s overall stability and preventing uneven steering.
The center link bushing acts like a cushion between the center link and tie rods. The center link or drag link is a key part of a vehicle’s steering system because it connects the left and right front wheels. Like most bushings, the center link bushing has a rubber compound in between the two mounting points, allowing it to absorb vibrations as it transfers movement.
Some vehicles have chain guides or timing chain guides to prevent the chain from fluttering and coming off. This can happen when the engine speed changes or when your vehicle hits bumps since the chain is a heavy part. Keeping the timing chain in line is important since it powers the engine’s valvetrain. Chain guides are designed to last an engine’s life, but they can wear out prematurely when the chain or tensioners are malfunctioning.
The Chain Tensioner applies the appropriate tension to the timing chain around the crankshaft sprocket and camshaft sprocket. Also called a timing chain tensioner, it might be needed if the stock or current tensioner develops a problem that causes stalling, rough running, or strange noises. Mounted in the cylinder block, the chain tensioner uses either spring tension, hydraulic pressure, or both to tension the timing chain. The timing chain relies on the chain tensioner to remain tight and avoid rattling or coming off the sprockets.
The Chain Tensioner Gasket seals the timing chain tensioner to the cylinder head. It’s a flat seal that fits between the chain tensioner and gasket, which is mounted on top of the cylinder head. Chain tensioner gaskets help sustain the tension in the timing chain, allowing the pistons and valves to function in sync. You can purchase a chain tensioner gasket on its own or as part of a set.
The Chain Tensioner Piston is a piston that sits inside the working area of a hydraulically dampened chain tensioner. It drives the oil inside through the damping column, which helps facilitate chain force dampening in the timing chain drive. The piston works in tandem with other parts of the chain tensioner such as the chain tensioner valve, which opens to allow oil into the tensioner’s working area. The piston is protected from the elements by the chain tensioner housing.
Chamois towels are great for drying your vehicle’s paint surface after a wash or rinse because they’re quite absorbent. Unlike other towels, drying a surface without any streaks with chamois towels only requires one pass. When chamois towels dry, they can become stiff. If you’re rubbing the vehicle’s surface, you have to ensure that the towel is moist and soft. Otherwise, you risk scratching the surface.
The Channel Liner is a waterproof lining material that lines glass run channels around car windows, division bars between windows, and guide bars on lock sides of hardtops and convertible soft tops. This part might be needed as replacement for damaged and worn-out liners in your vehicle. Channel liners fit in glass run channels, division bars, guide bars, and other similar parts. Car windows, hardtops, and soft tops rely on the channel liner to seal them.
The Chassis Support Panel is a metal panel that supports the vehicle’s chassis. It attaches to other sections of the vehicle’s body to create a supportive structure for the vehicle’s interior and systems.
The Chassis Wire Harness is a collection of wires that connect the electrical components on the vehicle’s frame to the power source. This part might be needed if you have to replace or upgrade your vehicle’s existing chassis wire harness. The chassis wire harness is distributed throughout the vehicle’s chassis, and it handles the electrical demands of various accessories and internal systems. Vehicle lights, ABS sensors, and suspension control modules receive power through the chassis wire harness.
The Check Valve is a type of valve that prevents backflow by allowing liquid and air to flow in only one direction. There are three types of check valves, namely non-return, vent, and fill and drain. While they can vary in design, they share the same function, which is to prevent backflow in the engine. Some check valves have a ball bearing, poppet, or seal that prevents liquid from flowing back to the source.
A choke diaphragm is a component that restricts airflow into the carburetor when the engine has just been started. Modifying or restricting airflow that enters the intake manifold makes a rich air-fuel ratio, which allows an engine to run better while it’s still cold. When the engine is warmed up, the choke plate gradually opens to allow more air to enter the engine and leads to a leaner mixture.
The Choke Knob Cover covers the lever that controls the throttle. Also called a throttle lever knob, this part might be needed if you have to replace the existing knob. The choke knob cover fits over the throttle lever, and it keeps the lever clean and comfortable. The throttle depends on the choke knob cover to make controlling it easier.
The Choke Thermostat is an important part of the carburetor that helps adjust and maintain the correct air-fuel ratio. It closes the butterfly valve when it detects a cold engine, and it opens the valve when the engine turns warm and needs more air. When a choke thermostat malfunctions, you’ll start to notice several engine issues. This can range from a cold engine that won’t start to the engine hesitating during warm-up.
A Cigarette Lighter in a vehicle is a DC power outlet with an electrically heated lighter. Although it was originally designed to provide power to heat a lighter, it’s now commonly used as an auxiliary DC connector. It gets power from the vehicle’s electrical system and delivers electricity to portable accessories.
The Circular Plug is a round assembly piece that fits over various vehicle components, like the valve cover. It can be made from metal, rubber, or plastic, depending on its location and purpose. The plug’s exact dimensions vary based on the vehicle’s make and model. Some circular plugs are half-circles.
A Clay Bar is a resin typically used in vehicle detailing. It is designed to remove dirt and debris from a vehicle’s paint.
The Climate Control Unit is responsible for ensuring that the temperature inside the vehicle’s cabin is always optimal. It adjusts the vehicle’s heater/air conditioner settings depending on the driver’s preferred temperature. The climate control unit can typically be found on the vehicle dashboard.
A Clutch Adjuster is a component in manual transmissions that adjusts the clutch cable’s tension and slack. There are usually two types of adjusters, namely manual clutch adjusters and hydraulic clutch adjusters.
The clutch cable transmits the driver’s clutch pedal input to the clutch components. Some cables can have a casing, while others only have a bare metal cable. The cable has connectors on both ends to latch to the pedal and clutch component. The cable needs to be extremely durable since the clutch’s function is directly tied to it. The driver won’t be able to engage or disengage the clutch if the cable fails.
The clutch cable boot is a part that covers the clutch cable, protecting it from dirt and debris that might damage it. The clutch cable boot fits over a vehicle’s clutch cable and helps keep moisture and transmission noise out of the cabin. The clutch cable needs a new clutch cable boot for smooth operation and long-lasting service life.
The Clutch Cable Bracket is a metal bracket that holds the clutch cable in place so it doesn’t swing around inside the engine. It’s a small metal part that can be fastened to different parts of the engine as needed to position the clutch cable optimally. Positioning the clutch cable needs to be done well or it might weaken or snap at the bracketed point, which would negatively affect the vehicle’s transmission. Some clutch cable brackets are designed to replace snapped off parts that originally served to hold the clutch cable in place.
The Clutch Cable Retainer is the component responsible for securing the clutch cable, holding it in place to prevent it from moving about. Though small, it’s a critical component because it prevents the clutch cable from slipping out of position, allowing the clutch to operate smoothly and efficiently.
A clutch disc is a round plate covered with friction material. The clutch disc is mounted between the engine flywheel and a pressure plate. These two components are connected to the engine. Meanwhile, the clutch disc is connected to the transmission. When disengaging the clutch pedal, the spinning pressure plate and flywheel sandwiches the stationary clutch disc, which connects the engine to the vehicle’s transmission and wheels. But over time, the clutch disc wears out. Hence, it’s a component that eventually needs to be replaced in manual transmission vehicles.
The Clutch Flywheel Conversion Kit contains everything you need to upgrade the flywheel and clutch with better-performing parts. You might need the kit to fix faulty parts or upgrade your vehicle with a high-performance clutch and flywheel. The clutch flywheel conversion kit also extends the lifespan of associated parts by improving heat dissipation and torque transfer. The engine and transmission will benefit from the conversion kit replacing the clutch and flywheel with new parts.
The Clutch Hose is a flexible line that connects the clutch master cylinder to the clutch slave cylinder. It allows the hydraulic fluid to flow between these two cylinders, making it easier to engage and disengage the clutch when changing gears. Modern clutch hoses often have a braided steel exterior for added durability. Over time, however, it can wear and fail, causing hydraulic fluid to leak from the cylinders.
The Clutch Hose Connector is a component that connects the clutch hose to the rest of the clutch system, where it helps facilitate hydraulic fluid movement. The connector is designed to be highly secure to prevent leaks and maintain the proper pressure levels along the hydraulic fluid line. In certain vehicle makes and models, the clutch hose connector attaches the clutch hose to the master cylinder. Another possible design integrates a disconnection valve to the connector.
A clutch kit is a set of components that you’ll need if you’re replacing your vehicle’s old and worn-out clutch. This kit can include components like the flywheel, release bearing, clutch disc, pilot bushing, and alignment tool. Overall, these components allow power flow from the engine to be connected or disconnected depending on the driver’s clutch pedal inputs. The clutch disc in particular can wear out over time because it’s designed to create friction so that the engine can turn the vehicle’s wheels.
The Clutch Lever is a part that works as a linkage between the clutch pedal and clutch assembly in a manual transmission. This part might be needed if the current or stock clutch lever develops an issue that prevents it from engaging and disengaging the clutch. The clutch lever is next to the brake pedal, and it lets you seamlessly shift gears and precisely manage the engine power going to the wheels. Manual cars need the clutch lever to connect and release the engine’s rotary motion with the gear change.
The Clutch Lever Shaft is a shaft typically found in manual transmissions with a pinned clutch release fork and pinned clutch lever. It helps the clutch lever function as intended, so you can switch gears with ease. You can buy a clutch lever shaft on its own or get an entire kit that includes other parts of the clutch assembly. Most clutch lever shafts are made of durable metal alloy material that’s resistant to wear.
The Clutch Line is a part of the vehicle’s transmission system that facilitates smooth, efficient shifting. It transmits hydraulic pressure to the slave cylinder from the master cylinder. Stock clutch lines are often rubber, and upgraded lines are made up of lengths of braided metal. Some clutch lines have spiral-grooved ends for easy installation and removal. How long the lines are and their connector types change depending on the makes and models of vehicles they fit in.
The Clutch Master Cylinder is a part equipped with manual transmissions that serves as the pump for hydraulically operated clutch systems. When the driver presses the clutch pedal, it pushes fluid through the system to the clutch slave cylinder to allow the clutch to disengage.
The Clutch Pedal is designed to engage or disengage the engine from the transmission, allowing drivers to shift their vehicles to different gears.
Stepping on the clutch pedal disengages the engine, meaning drivers cannot accelerate and must remain in free gear. Releasing the clutch engages the engine, making the vehicle accelerate.
The Clutch Pedal Bushing is a cylindrical component found along the vehicle’s clutch rod or elsewhere in the clutch system. It improves efficiency of the clutch’s rotating or sliding parts while also reducing vibration and noise. The clutch pedal bushing is either made from metal or plastic, and it helps facilitate the clutch’s movements as it connects and disconnects the vehicle’s engine from the wheels during gear shifts.
The Clutch Pedal Pad is a protective material that fits over the clutch pedal. It also increases the surface area of the pedal, making it easier to step on.
The Clutch Pedal Position Switch is a safety feature found in manual transmission vehicles. The switch allows electricity to flow into the vehicle’s ignition circuit when you depress the clutch pedal, starting the car when you turn the key.
Clutch Pedal Return Springs are responsible for keeping the pedals of a vehicle stable and secure, preventing them from rattling and making other noises. It doesn’t directly impact the operation of the clutch.
The clutch pedal shaft is a rod with a perpendicular hook. This rod is connected to the clutch pedal and the pedal shaft acts as a kind of lever that pulls the clutch cable when the clutch pedal is pressed. The hooked portion of the clutch pedal shaft then pulls a cable, which leads to the vehicle’s clutch release bearing. This action disengages the vehicle’s clutch, allowing the driver to switch gears.
The Clutch Release Arm is a mechanical component that pushes the release bearing towards the pressure plate, causing the pressure plate to move away from the flywheel in the process.
Pushing the releaser bearing against the pressure plate will also break the connection between the clutch disc and flywheel, disengaging the transmission from the engine.
The Clutch Rod is a piece of mechanical hardware that presses against the release fork whenever the clutch pedal is depressed.
In turn, the release fork then presses against the fingers of the clutch pressure plate, eventually disengaging the clutch.
The Clutch Sensor, also known as the clutch switch, prevents the engine from starting until the clutch is fully depressed. Some vehicles with cruise control also have clutch sensors that help disengage the cruise control when the clutch pedal is pressed.
The Clutch Slave Cylinder is the part that disengages the clutch from the engine whenever the driver presses the clutch pedal. This allows drivers to shift gears smoothly and safely.
The Clutch Spring is responsible for engaging and disengaging the vehicle’s clutch. It applies pressure to the clutch plate when the clutch pedal is depressed, compressing the springs and disengaging the clutch. This component makes shifting between gears smoother.
A CO2 air intake chamber is a critical component of self-leveling suspensions. These types of suspensions keep the vehicle at the same ride height regardless of how much weight the vehicle is carrying. CO2 air intake chambers can also be called accumulators in Mercedes vehicles with active body control. Despite their name, these chambers contain nitrogen gas and are designed to be compressed by hydraulic fluid when weight is added onto the vehicle. The amount of hydraulic fluid inside the chamber and how much the nitrogen is compressed will vary depending on the load.
Related Parts
The carbon dioxide (CO2) ram cylinder solenoid controls the ram-type cylinder in the automatic transmission. The solenoid is the switch that switches between open and closed positions to operate the ram in the cylinder. When the solenoid is in the closed position, it completes a circuit that activates the ram, which is made of a sturdy metal like stainless steel and dampened by a stop made from a shock-absorbent material.
The Coil Over Kit contains various parts that comprise a coil over suspension. It might be required if you want to replace your vehicle’s current suspension with a coil over-type or if you need to repair an existing coil over. The kit allows individual adjustment of the ground clearance without using special tools. The coil over suspension might need parts from the coil over kit to replace damaged or worn-out parts.
Also known as a ballast resistor, the Coil Resistor is a type of resistor specifically designed to limit the current in a circuit. Coil resistors are placed between the ignition coil and coil stud, reducing the risk of ignition coil failure. When you turn on the engine, the ignition ballast resistor helps reduce the coil voltage and coil current, resulting in a low-temperature rise. This helps prolong the life of the ignition coil.
The Coil Spring Compressor is a tool that safely compresses springs in a vehicle’s suspension system for easy removal and replacement. There are different coil spring compressor types that can be used for various front suspension systems. Certain spring compressors hook up to the coil spring’s inside. These are for conventional springs. Other compressors hook up to the outside of the spring. These work on MacPherson struts and similar suspension arrangements.
The Connecting Rod is the mechanical link between the piston and the crankshaft. This part might be needed if you have a bad rod that shows symptoms like knocking sounds, low oil pressure, excessive oil use, and overheating. Connecting rods are found between each piston and the crankshaft in the engine, and they transmit the piston’s motion to the shaft. The crankshaft takes the motion from the connecting rod and converts it into a rotating motion for the transmission.
The Control Arm Bolt is a bolt-type fastener that attaches the control arm to the vehicle’s chassis. This part might be needed if one of the stock bolts has worn out and become loose, forcing the control arm out of alignment. Control bolts fit through the brackets and control arm bushings, and they help align the vehicle. The tires rely on the control arm bolts to maintain the correct alignment.
The Control Arm Bracket is an important part of your vehicle’s suspension. It’s specifically designed to keep your control arms at the right angle. This helps improve ride comfort and reduce brake drive. High-quality control arm brackets are made of heavy-duty metal that can withstand rust and corrosion. While some brackets have a bolt-on system that makes them easy to install, some brackets will require removing the factory bracket and welding the new brackets to the axle.
The Control Arm Bushing is one of a set of bushings connected to the suspension system’s control arm. Each bushing has an outer metal sleeve with a durable rubber or polyurethane bushing inside and an inner metal sleeve. The bushings cushion the suspension system, serving to control noises and vibrations. They help the suspension soften bumps on the road so the vehicle’s occupants aren’t thrown around. The bushings can flex and move while not losing stiffness.
A courtesy light switch is a small switch located somewhere on a vehicle’s door frame that detects whether the door is opened or not. This switch is meant to activate the vehicle’s courtesy or dome lights so that passengers can see the vehicle’s interior when they’re entering or exiting the cabin. This switch sends a signal to a vehicle’s body control module, which is the component that activates the light.
The cowl cover is the plastic body panel between the windshield and the hood. This panel is meant to cover the gap between the windshield and hood from contaminants like leaves, debris, and dirt. Most vehicles have black cowl covers and it’s also where the windshield wipers are mounted. The cowl cover also acts like a filter for the filter’s air ducts, which is the vent responsible for taking outside air for the vehicle’s air conditioning system.
The cowl deflector is a part that prevents debris and dirt from entering the gap between the hood and windshield. You might need this if you will go off-roading. Also called cowl guards, cowl deflectors are mounted on the cowl underneath the windshield wipers. The cabin filter and windshield wiper system rely on the cowl deflectors to protect them from damaging debris that might enter the cowl.
The Cowl Hood is a type of car hood that comes with cowl vents, ventilation devices that allow air to flow in and out of the engine bay freely. This helps prevent heat from building up in the engine bay, which can damage engine components that can be expensive to fix. You can find cowl hoods with different designs, but most of them feature a mesh filter covering the vents.
A car creeper is a rolling platform that mechanics can lay their back on while working on a vehicle’s underside. This platform helps mechanics access a vehicle’s underside, allowing them to stay comfortable while working on a vehicle’s underside for extended periods. At the same time, creepers allow mechanics to easily move around under the vehicle without straining their back or getting dirty.
The Creeper Seat is a rolling chair or stool with wheels beneath each leg and at least one storage tray to hold tools and parts. Also called a mechanic’s seat, the creeper seat helps you stay comfortable while working on your vehicle. Creeper seats can move around the garage and store small items within reach. They can take some strain off your back when you work on your car or truck for long periods.
The Crimper is a tool for joining components or materials by pressing them together and forming a crimp. This crimped seal can attach connectors to the ends of electrical cables. Many crimpers on the market are multi-functional. They can compress, bend, cut, and strip the wires, making it a flexible tool for different electrical jobs. Some crimpers are designed to suit specific cables, wires, gauges, and pipes, while others can work on several different kinds.
The Crossmember is a metal bar that runs across a vehicle to support the transmission and suspension system. This component is designed to resist twisting and deflection when driving, reinforcing the structure of the vehicle. The crossmember is typically linked to the engine mount. This component is often found in vehicles with unibody designs.
The Crush Sleeve sits between the inner and outer pinion bearings to keep the pressure outward against both bearings. The sleeve is crushed upon final differential assembly to keep the pressure consistent in the bearing cups.
A Cup Holder is used to store beverages and other small items. This feature was introduced during the 1950s when drive-in restaurants were popular.
A CV Axle Retainer Plate is a plate of metal designed to retain a constant velocity (CV) axle to its housing, essentially bolting it in. They’re typically pressed against the axle bearing and seal. CV axles are built to allow for a wider range of motion and angles in front-wheel drive vehicles, and CV axle retainer plates are made to accommodate them accordingly. CV axle retainer plates have an arch-like design with two holes on either end for the bolts to fit through.
The constant velocity (CV) boot is a pliable material that surrounds the CV joint. Also referred to as the CV joint boot, this protective cover is designed to withstand harsh road and weather conditions.
Natural rubber, silicone rubber, hard thermoplastic, and urethane are the most common types of materials that are used to make CV joint boots.
Aside from the CV Boot’s conventional design, some aftermarket manufacturers offer a split-style boot. This design doesn’t require the removal of the drive axle shaft when replacing the boot
The CV Boot Clamp is a clasp that secures rubber CV boots onto the driveshaft. CV boot clamps can vary in size, shape, and material. Some clamps are flexible, allowing different sizes of rubber boots to be mounted. They’re usually easy to install, but can be hard to remove and might require special pliers. Adjustable and tension/wind-up clamps are two common types of CV boot clamps.
The CV Joint delivers the torque from the transmission system to the drive wheels. It accomplishes this at a steady, constant speed. This helps the vehicle transfer the power generated by the engine to the front wheels efficiently. The CV joint can typically be found at the end of each drive shaft, connecting the wheels to the axles and the transmission system.
The CV joint gasket is a part that helps seal the CV joint on the driveshaft. This part might be needed if you’re replacing a damaged or worn-out CV joint. CV joint gaskets fit in the recess between the CV joint and the flange, and they help enable metal-to-metal contact between the parts. The CV joint relies on this gasket to keep lubricant from contaminating its contact point with the transmission.
The CV Joint Grease is a heavy-duty grease applied to CV and universal joints for lubrication. It’s usually a smooth black grease formulated with extreme pressure additives to protect the joints from wear, water, and oxidation. Depending on the type of grease, you can also use it for ball joints, king pins, and general chassis lubrication. You can find CV joint grease sold in either a tube or smaller packets that are easy to squeeze.
A CV Joint Rebuild Kit has the necessary components to repair a worn driveshaft CV joint like boots, clamps, and clips. Some kits also come with a special grease, which is meant to fill the boot that fits over the CV joint.
CV roll pins are self-retaining fasteners used to connect the CV axle to other drivetrain components. They’re typically used as a kind of key that connects one shaft to another. Roll pins can also be used like a nail, fastening flat faces of mating parts together. The roll pin looks like a long cylindrical piece of steel that’s cut lengthwise. It’s compressed when inserted into holes and exerts outward pressure onto an opening like a nail, which allows it to stay secure. Sometimes, CV roll pins are also called axle pins, roll pins, or C pins. Since roll pins are relatively small parts, they’re typically sold in sets.
The continuously variable transmission (CVT) fluid is a synthetic lubricant that lubricates the internal moving parts of the CVT. It is specifically formulated to meet the demands of CVTs. CVT fluid is used in continuously variable transmissions and designed with the frictional properties required by this transmission type. The CVT needs this fluid to minimize friction, reduce heat, and decrease wear from metal-on-metal contact between moving parts.
A cylinder deactivation solenoid is a component in modern engines that controls cylinder deactivation, which is a feature that improves fuel efficiency. When the powertrain control module activates the solenoid, the deactivated cylinder’s rocker arms will disengage from their pushrods. When the pushrods are separated, the camshaft can’t lift the valves. Hence, the valves will remain closed and the cylinder won’t be able to pull in air and create power.
The Cylinder Head acts as the combustion chamber’s roof by covering the cylinder’s top and holding critical engine parts like the intake valves, exhaust valves, and lifters. This part might be needed if one of the current cylinder heads has degraded or failed. Cylinder heads are usually mounted on top of the engine block, where they regulate the movement of air, fuel, coolant, and exhaust. The engine needs the cylinder heads for safe and efficient operation.
Cylinder Head Bolts are connecting elements that sit between the engine’s cylinder head, cylinder head gasket, and engine block. They hold the cylinder head in place, keeping the combustion chamber, lubricant channels, coolant channels, and ambient air sealed.
These bolts are made from sturdy materials to withstand the extreme temperatures in the engine. When tightened, the bolts exert pressure on the cylinder head, which helps create an adequate seal in the engine.
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