Automobile driving self-taught

Front matter

Copyright N®

COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT

I!

Preface

—

J

As comfort and safety in automobiling depend to a very large extent upon the skill of the driver, it should be the aim of everyone who undertakes to drive a car to acquire a knowl¬ edge of the approved methods of driving.

The object of this book is to present such information in a convenient, practical manner, so as to make it compara¬ tively easy for any motorist to acquire skill in the manage¬ ment and care of his machine. Study and practice combined will surely develop the expertness which is needed nowadays at the wheel, being demanded alike by the interests of the automobilist and of the non-motoring public. The careless or ignorant driver is a menace, not only to the safety of the public, but also to that of his passengers. The daily experi¬ ence of every motorist demonstrates the need for carefulness in driving and there is no longer any excuse for ignorance.

The methods of driving prescribed in this work are those that have been found best in actual experience on the road. From these pages the motorist can learn how to start, drive and manage his car under all conceivable circumstances. The best methods of caring for the car when not in use are also plainly shown, as well as the manner in which a car should be laid up when necessary.

Several chapters are devoted to the causes and remedies for various difficulties that may be met with in starting the engine, also those due to loss of power. Causes of involuntary stops are likewise indicated and the proper remedies prescribed. The properties and economical use of gasolene are discussed and many valuable hints and tips for the gasolene consumer are given. Then the operating mechanism of a modern car is described and the various forms of change speed gear are made clear by non-technical text and plain illustra¬ tions. There is also an interesting chapter on the choice of a car, intended for the benefit of those who contemplate enter¬ ing the ever-growing ranks of the automobile fraternity.

Thus it will be seen that this work is not only a complete textbook for self-tuition in the art of automobile driving, but also a handy reference book in cases of trouble due to difficulty in starting, involuntary stops, loss of power, etc., and a store¬ house of practical information on the care and maintenance of the motor car. T. H. R.

v l

Contents

Page

1. AUTOMOBILE DRIVING—General Instructions 7

Starting the Engine—Advancing the Spark— How to Change Speeds—Use of the Clutch —The Control Levers—Principles of Gear Changing—The Engine Speed as a Factor— How to Get the Best Work Out of a Motor— Skidding or Sideslip.