![]() The most basic definition of the term horsepower is rate at which “work” is done. ![]() These improvements will apply a greater downward force on the crankshaft increasing the rotational force. This change allows a smaller, more efficient engine to create similar torque (and horsepower) to a 6 cylinder nonturbo.Įnlarging the bore and stroke also increases engine torque. BMW has replaced naturally aspirated 6 cylinder engines with turbocharged 4 cylinder engines. Remember, Torque = Force x Distance, the greater the piston force downward the greater the torque. The more fuel, the greater the explosion or pressure pushed down on the crank by the piston. Turbos compress more air into the engine which then requires more fuel for combustion. The socket represents the rotational center of the crankshaft, producing the torque. To adapt the above example in terms of engine torque, imagine the force being pushed down as the piston and the socket wrench arm being the crankshaft arm. If you are having trouble removing lug nuts from a car using a 1-foot long wrench handle, use a breaker bar (or wrench) with a 3-foot handle and the torque increases three times with the same force you applied with the 1-foot long wrench. The above equation is the beauty of breaker / cheater bars. This force (10lbs) applied at a distance (1 foot) creates 10lb-ft of rotational force, torque, to the nut. Imagine holding a 1 foot long wrench on a nut and applying 10 lbs of force to the end of the wrench with your hand. A practical example of torque:Īpplying a force to a lever arm at a certain distance creates torque. This force is then transferred to the transmission, drive shaft, differential and ultimately the vehicle's wheels. Torque is a twisting force created by the crank shaft. It can be a very complex subject matter to understand in technical terms but we will explain them in a general automotive sense before going into slightly greater detail. ![]() But not many people truly understand what torque and horsepower mean. Horsepower and torque are two terms thrown around the car community quite often. What is the difference between horsepower and torque?
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