TABLE OF CONTENTS
Topic Page
Copyrights iii
Limited Warranty iv
Technical Support v
Upgrades v
License Agreement vi
Remedies vii
Over 41,000 cars, pickups, vans, and utility vehicles
1940's to present are represented INTRODUCTION 1
INTENDED USERS 3
PROGRAM OVERVIEW 4
4N6XPRT Systems(R) Start the Program 4
Forensic Expert Software The Options Menu 4
EXAMINE VEHICLE SPECS 5
8387 University Avenue Unable to Find Vehicle 5
La Mesa, CA 91942 Vehicle Data Displayed 6
Print Data 7
Web Site: www.4n6xprt.com Search for Another Vehicle 7
E-mail: AutoStats@4n6xprt.com End Search and Exit 8
PRINT BLANK VEHICLE SPEC FORM 8
MANUFACTURERS / YEARS AVAILABLE 8
(800) 266-9778 AASHTO DESIGN VEHICLE SPECS 8
A CAUTION - 9
i
CAR PROFILE WITH DIMENSION LINES 10 COPYRIGHTS
MEASUREMENT PROCEDURE AND PRACTICE 11
Interior Dimensions 12 This manual and the software described herein
Center of Gravity (or Mass) 13 are COPYRIGHT 1990-2011 by 4N6XPRT SYSTEMS
Moments of Inertia 14 and Expert Witness Services Inc. All rights
Acceleration and Braking Data 15 are reserved.
Steering Factor 15
POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS OF THE DATA 16 This manual may not, in whole or in part, be
Steering Factor 17 copied, photocopied, reproduced, translated,
N.S.D.C. Range 18 reduced to any electronic medium or machine
DATA SOURCES 18 readable form without prior consent in
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS 20 writing from 4N6XPRT SYSTEMS or its parent
INSTALLATION 22 company.
4N6.BAT 24
VEHICLES IN EXPERT AUTOSTATS 26 4N6XPRT SYSTEMS, Qwic Calcs, and Autostats,
are registered trademarks. Other hardware,
DEFINITIONS Definitions-1 software, and products named in this manual
are registered trademarks of their respective
PRINT TO FILE OPTION Definitions-15 producing companies.
EXCHANGE FILE OUTPUT OPTION Definitions-15 In accordance with the COMPUTER SOFTWARE
RENTAL ACT OF 1990, this software may not be
SELECTED CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS SECTIONS rented, lent or leased.
49CFR571 - Table of Contents This software and its documentation may not
49CFR571.1 be provided by a "Backup Service" or any
49CFR571.3 other vendor which does not provide an
49CFR571.4 original package as composed by 4N6XPRT
SYSTEMS, including but not limited to all
49CFR581 original documentation, insertions,
registration cards, and software.
ii iii
52.2277013). In no event shall 4N6XPRT SYSTEMS, Expert
Witness Services , Inc., the program authors,
All rights not specifically granted are their distributors or retailers of this product
reserved by 4N6XPRT SYSTEMS. be liable for direct, indirect, incidental, or
consequential damages, or damages resulting
LIMITED WARRANTY from loss of use or loss of anticipated profits
resulting from any defect in the program.
The program is provided "As Is" without
warranty of any kind, either expressed or TECHNICAL SUPPORT AGREEMENT
implied, including but not limited to the
implied warranties of merchantability and The User has 30 calendar days from the date
fitness for a particular purpose. The user is of shipment or receipt to install and use this
fully and solely responsible for any and all program. During that 30 day period, the
uses of the program or the interpretation of publisher will provide technical information
any results. relevant only to the installation and running
of the program.
For a period of thirty (30) days from the date
of delivery, 4N6XPRT SYSTEMS warrants to the AT NO TIME will said Technical Support
original purchaser that the program disc media include the interpretation of results nor the
is free from defects in materials and "correct" ways in which to use this program.
workmanship under normal conditions of use and For that type of assistance you must retain an
service. accident reconstructionist. These may often be
found in the Yellow Pages of the phone book, or
Should the program fail to load or to display through various sources such as your local Bar
data on a vehicle known to be contained in the Association, or advertisements in legal
database within this 30 day period, the program journals.
disk(s) may be replaced upon authorization from
4N6XPRT SYSTEMS for return of the original UPGRADES
program disks.
It is anticipated that from time to time
Should the program or data prove defective in upgrades reflecting additions and
any way, the Buyer shall assume the entire cost improvements to the program will be made.
of all necessary servicing, repair, Registered Buyers having a current address on
replacement, or correction, AND NOT 4N6XPRT our files will have the opportunity to obtain
SYSTEMS, Expert Witness Services Inc., the the Upgrade at a saving of at least 25% over
program authors, their distributors or the list price of the program.
retailers of this product.
iv v
LICENSE AGREEMENT (3) May Not modify or translate the program
or documentation;
Limited Non-Exclusive License Agreement: (4) May Not disassemble the program or allow
This program, disc media, and manual are its disassembly into its constituent source
provided to the registered purchaser on a codes.
non-exclusive basis subject to the
limitations set forth below. 4N6XPRT SYSTEMS, Expert Witness Services,
Inc., and the program authors SPECIFICALLY
The Registered Buyer: DISCLAIM ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR
(i) May use the program on only a single IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY
INTEL 80XXX based computer at a time; IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR
(2) May concurrently have this program loaded FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
on one "non-portable" computer at the
"office", one "non-portable" computer at the IF ANY PROVISION OF THIS AGREEMENT IS FOUND
residence, and one "portable" computer, at a VOID OR UNENFORCEABLE, IT WILL NOT AFFECT THE
time, provided that only one copy of the VALIDITY OF THE BALANCE OF THIS AGREEMENT,
program is being used at any time; WHICH SHALL REMAIN ENFORCEABLE ACCORDING TO
(3) May back up the program disc(s) on to ITS TERMS.
another compatible media for archival
purposes only. USE OF THE PROGRAM INDICATES THE BUYER'S
(4) Shall acknowledge the copyright and ACCEPTANCE OF THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE
copyright owner on all publications of the Copyright, THE Computer Software Rental Act
results of this program, whether such of 1990, THE Limited Warranty, AND THE
publication is done in some printed form or License Agreement.
whether it is done verbally or pictorially.
If the Buyer does not accept the terms and
The Registered Buyer: conditions in their entirety, the original
(i) May Not electronically transfer the program disks and all documentation shall be
program from one computer to another over a returned to the point of purchase AT THE
Network system; BUYER'S EXPENSE.
(2) May Not distribute copies of the program,
or the accompanying documentation to others REMEDIES
either for a fee, or without charge;
[EXCEPTION limited portions of the All claims, including litigation, shall be
Documentation may be photocopied ONLY FOR tried in San Diego, California, under the
attachment as an Exhibit to a Deposition, or relevant laws of the State of California.
as an Exhibit in a Court of Law.] DWV - 12/91
vi vii
experience not immediately possessed by the
EXPERT AUTOSTATS ordinary layperson.
Weight and dimensional data on more than 41,000 cars,
pick-up trucks, vans, and utility vehicles.
Because both its history and its most
probable applications will be in the sphere
Copyright 1991-2008 by
4N6XPRT SYSTEMS of potential litigation, this program
La Mesa, CA
91942 provides some of the information that a
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED "forensic expert" would provide. The authors
of this program have over 31 years of
INTRODUCTION combined experience in using the data
contained in this program to provide the
This program provides dimensional information kinds of answers to attorneys and insurance
on over 41,000 four-wheeled motor vehicles adjusters that are required in a full
(curb weight less than 6500 pounds) collision analysis and accident
manufactured after about 1946. The farther reconstruction.
back in time, the fewer dimensions are avail-
able, however. The curb weights have been
gleaned from various published sources of
manufacturer's specifications, as well as
from data obtained directly from the
manufacturer. This weight represents the most
common engine/transmission combination for
that model year.
1 2
INTENDED USERS of the PROGRAM OVERVIEW:
EXPERT AUTOSTATS Program
START THE PROGRAM: It is presumed that the
The information contained within this user has sufficient knowledge of the
program was gathered primarily for use in the operating system (DOS) of the computer to
evaluation and reconstruction of vehicle which this program was installed to find the
accidents. As such, it is of considerable use correct directory (\4N6XPRT). To start the
and value to professional accident program type AUTOSTAT.
reconstructionists and accident investi-
gators. However, it will also be of value to The first screen displays the program title,
the regular patrol officer, governmental copyright notice, and credits. The second
traffic engineers, fleet safety managers, screen briefly explains the program.
insurance adjusters, judges, and attorneys.
The OPTIONS MENU: The third screen to be
displayed is the Options Menu. At the present
time, the options available are:
3 4
EXAMINE VEHICLE SPECS Option: When the If either the desired year is not in the
Examine Vehicle Specs option is selected, the database, or the manufacturer is not listed,
next screen will ask for the MAKE OF VEHICLE. try to find a similar type vehicle for use in
Type in the manufacturer, e.g. Ford, and hit first approximation estimates. THEN, as time
<ENTER>. permits, Fax us the Make, Model and Year and
we will attempt to include it in a subsequent
Next you are asked for the YEAR OF VEHICLE. upgrade.
Type in the year, e.g. 1989, and hit <ENTER>.
Vehicle Data Displayed: When you have the
Next you are asked for a BODYSTYLE. Enter C, Make, Year, and Model that you want, hit y or
V, P, or U depending upon whether the vehicle Y. The computer will locate your vehicle and
you want is a Car, Van, Pickup, or Utility display the first screen. {The search time is
vehicle dependent on the speed of your computer, and
the number of models in the database for that
You are then asked for the MODEL OF VEHICLE. make.}
A window will appear listing the available The first data screen to be displayed
models for that model year. If the model you contains information on the Length, Width,
want is not on the first screen, either begin Height, and Weight for the chosen vehicle. At
typing the name of the model, use the up and a minimum, you will see values for the
down arrows on the keyboard, or use the Page Length, the Wheelbase, the Width, the Height,
Up and Page Down keys to scroll up and down the curb Weight, and the curb weight
the list. Continue until you find the model distribution. For many vehicles there will
desired. Highlight the model and hit <ENTER>. also be displayed additional dimensional
information. {As additional measurements are
If the desired model is not shown, it is most taken by our staff, the "holes" will be
probable that your model designation is filled, and the information will be issued in
simply a trim option on the basic vehicle. In future upgrades.}
that case, choose a vehicle similar in number
of doors, basic model name, (and wheelbase You may print the contents of this first data
and length, if known) to the vehicle desired. screen, or continue directly to the second
screen of information.
UNABLE TO FIND VEHICLE: If the vehicle you
are looking for was not found by the program, The second data screen displays information
you will get a window on the screen pertaining to acceleration, braking, drive
containing instructions as to how to proceed. wheels and tires, interior dimensions, and
steering. The minimum data displayed will be
5 6
the information on whether the drive wheels another vehicle, hit N when you get screen
are Front, Rear, 4x4, 4x2/4x4 or All. #4.
The N.S.D.C. range at the bottom of Screen #2 End Search and Exit: To end the search
is the range of years for which most body process and return to the Option Menu, hit Q.
dimensions parts are interchangeable on that
model. PRINT BLANK VEHICLE SPEC Form: This
option will print out a two page version of
Again, data screen #2 may be printed at this the tabular form with no data. This form may
time, or postponed until the end. be used to obtain required information from
either an accident vehicle, or an exemplar
The third data screen displays calculated vehicle. The information would be in the same
values related to front profile, Center of order and format as contained on the first
Gravity position for the unloaded car, Tip- two pages of the three-page print-out
over stability index, and calculated Moments described previously.
of Inertia. You may print this screen, or you
may proceed. MANUFACTURERS & YEARS AVAILABLE: Selecting
this option will display several successive
Print Data: The data may be printed out in screens showing the names of the
one of two forms. manufacturers contained in this database, and
the years covered for each manufacturer.
(I) If you want only the information
contained on one data screen, hit P before AASHTO DESIGN VEHICLE SPECS: The American
going on to the next screen. Association of State Highway and
Transportation Officials promulgates various
(2) If you want all of the data printed out standards and recommended practices
in a traditional tabular format, wait until pertaining to road design, and to vehicle and
after the third screen is reviewed. Hit any pedestrian movement and control. A standard
key to bring up the fourth screen. THE ONLY set of measurements is recommended for use in
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN data screen #3 and screen evaluating the movement of various types of
#4 is the bottom line. If you hit P at this vehicles on roads and parking facilities.
time, {and your printer is on} you will get There are a total of 15 different vehicle
three pages of 0utput. Be sure that Your types or combinations for which AASHTO has
Printer Paper is set at TOP Of Page before recommended standards. The dimensional data
You choose this option. for these 15 Design Vehicles are contained in
this option. A discussion of these vehicles
Search for another vehicle: To search for begins on page 19 of A POLICY on GEOMETRIC
7 8
DESIGN of HIGHWAYS and STREETS 1990.
A CAUTION -
9 10
MEASUREMENT PROCEDURE AND PRACTICE:
EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS:
11 12
measured along the center of the vehicle. Front leg room is measured from the seat
back at the seat pan to the base of the
The wheel track is measured from the center accelerator when the front seat is at the end
of the tires on one side to the center of the of its backward travel. Thus, the front leg
tires on the other side. The track is room is the maximum value.
influenced by the tire size and profile on
the measured vehicle. Normally, this will not The rear leg room is the distance from
be more than a 2-inch variation from one the back of the hips to the back of the front
vehicle to another of the same make and seat when the front seat is either at the end
model. of its travel, or 40 inches as measured for
the front leg room. That distance is highly
All height measurements are based to an dependent on the angle of the front seat
extent on the tire size and profile, as well back. In the case Of an adjustable seat back,
as the air pressure of the tires. Other tires this distance could be decreased by 2 to 3
may have a 2 to 3 inch effect on these inches with some drivers.
values.
Measured data was obtained from both
The bumper heights are measured from the ground published sources and staff measurements.
to the top of the bumper.
CENTER OF GRAVITY Or MASS)
The height of the front of the hood is
obvious in some cases, and is a "best The C.G., or center of mass or center of
estimate" for both those newer vehicles with gravity, of the unloaded vehicle is
very sloped hoods and very short grills. In determined as follows:
those cases it is considered as the
intersection of two rulers placed upon the Fore/aft position is determined by weight
respective surfaces of hood and grill. distribution on the front axle,
13 14
height. evaluation should be tempered with caution!
The values are based upon the empty, no
The distance to the front or rear bumper occupant vehicle. In any accident, it is
refers to the distance along the vehicle mid- extremely unlikely that the vehicles are in
line. This is the axle to bumper distance + that condition. Therefore, the final
the C.G. to axle distance. calculations involving values of this type
should be adjusted for the effects of load on
The distance to a corner of the vehicle both weight and location of the center of
is the hypotenuse of the triangle formed by gravity (or center of mass).
the C.G. to mid-line of bumper : mid-line of
bumper to bumper corner : bumper corner to ACCELERATION and BRAKING DATA:
C.G.. Although the program does not currently
do the C.G. to wheel calculation, that The acceleration times and hard non-skid
distance is simply the hypotenuse of the C.G. braking distance information upon which the
: axle : wheel triangle. acceleration/deceleration values are based
were taken from published test results.
MOMENTS OF INERTIA
This data should be considered as a guide to
The Yaw, pitch and Roll Moments of Inertia the optimum driver performance.
are determined based upon the data reported by
Garrott, et al., in Accident Reconstruction The results are highly dependent on the skill
Journal vol 1(3), 24-31, (1989). of the driver. It is not unusual to find test
results on the same model vehicle which
Some authors and formulas use terms such differ by 3-5 seconds for the 0-60 mph
as "moment of inertia", "mass moment of acceleration test, or by more than 25 feet on
inertia", or "polar moment of inertia". These the 60-0 mph braking test.
all refer to what is called the "Yaw moment of
inertia" in Garrott's paper and in this print- STEERING FACTOR:
out. This value refers to the Moment of inertia
of a rectangular mass rotating in the X-y plane The Steering Factor is the ratio of the
about a vertical, or Z-axis passing through the amount of rotation of the steering wheel to
center of mass, or center of gravity. the amount of movement of the steering tires.
The basic values were obtained from various
The values reported in the program published sources. Calculations were made
print-out are best approximations. As such within the program to provide a consistent
they can be used for a "first approximation form. The value assumes a constant ratio from
evaluation, BUT the end result of the lock-to-lock. It may not be exact for some
15 16
vehicles. The interior dimensional data, as well as the
seatbelt and airbag information, is useful in
If the value is high, e.g. 24:1, the driver the evaluation of occupant injury dynamics.
is likely to under steer, and take a turn too
wide. If it is low, e.g. 10:1, the driver is The Original Equipment Manufacture (OEM) tire
likely to oversteer, and turn too sharply. size is sometimes useful in evaluating tire
effects or changes in tires. Both the OEM
POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS OF THE DATA: tire size and the wheel radius are of use in
evaluating the effects of larger or smaller
The curb weight information is essential in tires on steering, speedometer readings, and
the evaluation of both conservation of handling.
momentum and kinetic energy calculations.
Turning circle information and steering
The weight distribution is based upon an factors can be of use in issues of turning
empty vehicle. It will usually move towards and situation avoidance.
the rear axle when occupants are present when
the engine is in front, and will move forward The information on Front/Rear drive can be
with occupants for a rear-engine vehicle. used to evaluate such things as the ability
to drive out of an impact vs. spinning out of
The wheelbase, width, height, and total control, as well as general handling and
length are important for consideration of a roll-over potential for smaller cars.
variety of spatial problems which can be of
significance in many vehicle accidents. The acceleration and hard, but nonskid,
braking information also is of value in the
The additional information related to front evaluation of expected and/or feasible driver
bumper, hood, and windshield height, and the performance in both causation and avoidance
distance from the front bumper to the hood, issues.
windshield, or axles is often quite useful in
estimating both crush damage depth and STEERING FACTOR:
pedestrian impact dynamics.
For a fixed frame, or single unit vehicle the
The rear bumper height is useful in amount of turn of the steering wheels for a
evaluating some aspects of rear-end particular turn may be found by dividing the
collisions relative to braking issues, as wheelbase (in feet) by the turn radius (in
well as questions related to sources of feet). The direct result is the tire angle in
primary vs. secondary vs. unrelated damage. radians. Multiply this result by 57.29578 to
convert the value to degrees of angle.
17 18
Multiplying the tire angle in degrees by the Edmunds Car and Truck prices@
steering factor tells you about how far the American Cars, vol. 2 and 3#
steering wheel must be rotated in order to American Light Trucks#
make the required turn. Motor Trend Magazine
Road & Track Magazine
For example, to negotiate a 30-foot radius Accident Reconstruction Journal
turn, a 99-inch wheelbase vehicle must turn NHTSA Crash Test data as published in
the steering tires about 15.8 degrees. If the the Accident Reconstruction Journal
steering factor is 20:1, the steering wheel
must be rotated about 316 degrees, or almost * - Signet paperback books
a full revolution. @ - Edmund Publication Group, West Hempstead,
N.Y.
N.S.D.C. Range: # - Krause Publications, Iola, WI.
The N.S.D.C. (No Significant Dimensional The AASHTO Design Vehicle data is based upon
Changes) dates indicate the range of years information found in A POLICY on GEOMETRIC
for which all of the dimensional information DESIGN of HIGHWAYS and STREETS, 1990, by the
is the same for a particular model. Given American Association of State Highway and
this data, you can find an exemplar model of Transportation officials, Wash. D.C.
a different year than the damaged car and
have confidence that the measurements are
applicable to your case.
DATA SOURCES
Manufacturers literature
Measurements by our staff (all of the
vertical and horizontal component
measurements, tire radius, etc.).
Comparison of values as given in many
automotive publications, including
(but Not limited to):
Consumer Reports magazine
Consumers Guide New/Used cars*
19 20
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS or better. Monochrome systems should have a
Hercules compatible graphics card.
Computer Compatibility:
Networks:
This program has been tested on several
varieties of "IBM clones" using one of the This program is not designed as a network
series of INTEL/AMD CPU chips. We have program. While it is being used on a network
experienced no problems with the 8088, 80286, in many customer locations, we have not
80386, 80386SX, 80486, or Pentium series tested it with any Networking system.
versions. A Math Co processor chip is NOT
required. Mouse:
Printer Compatibility:
Monitors:
21 22
INSTALLATION program has been installed. It is recommended
that one establish a menu in the root
The program must FIRST be installed from directory which will call and run this
the original floppy disks before it will run program.
correctly.
To ExiT the program move the cursor bar
At the prompt: to the bottom of the MENU screen, and hit
(a) Insert this disk into the <ENTER>.
floppy drive,
(b) Type {floppy drive}:INSTALL, then
hit <ENTER>, e.g. A:INSTALL <ENTER>
Follow the directions on the
monitor
23 24
4N6.BAT : manual, or any of the supplemental texts on
the market which pertain to your operating
The 4N6.BAT file is as follows - system.
echo off
{Drive to which \4N6XPRT was installed}
Cd\4N6XPRT
AUTOSTAT
echo.
echo.
echo.
echo.
echo.
echo.
echo.
echo off
{Drive with \4N6XPRT } cd\4N6XPRT
AUTOSTAT
C:
MENU
25 26
Expert AutoStats Manufacturer List Expert AutoStats Manufacturer List
(March 1, 2008) (March 1, 2008)
CHRYSLER 1946-2008
ABARTH 1950-1969 CISITALIA 1947-1952
AC 1947-1992 CITROEN 1945-1993
ACURA 1986-2008 CONNAUGHT 1948-1954
ALFA ROMEO 1946-1995 CORBIN 1999-2003
ALLARD 1946-1954
ALPINE 1963-1970 DAEWOO 1999-2002
ALVIS 1947-1967 DAF 1959-1973
AM GENERAL 1976-2006 DAIHATSU 1988-1992
AMC 1958-1988 DAIMLER 1946-1967
AMPHICAR 1961-1968 DATSUN 1958-1984
ARMSTRONG 1945-1960 DE TOMASO 1967-1989
ARNOLT BRIST 1954-1961 DELAGE 1946-1953
ASTON MARTIN 1948-2008 DELAHAYE 1947-1954
AUDI 1967-2008 DELLOW 1949-1959
AUSTIN 1947-1975 DELOREAN 1981-1982
AUSTIN HEALE 1953-1970 DENZEL 1957-1960
AVANTI 1965-1985 DESOTO 1942-1961
DETAMASO 2000-2000
BAT INC 1998-2003 DEUTSCH BONN 1955-1961
BENTLEY 1946-2008 DKW 1954-1963
BERKELEY 1956-1960 DODGE 1940-2008
BERTONE 1984-1990 DORETTI 1954-1955
BIZZARRINI 1965-1969 DUAL GHIA 1960-1963
BMW 1952-2008
BOND 1953-1958 EAGLE 1986-1998
BORGWARD 1949-1961 EDSEL 1958-1960
BRISTOL 1947-1976 ELVA 1958-1966
BUGATTI 1949-1996 EXCALIBUR 1972-1972
BUICK 1946-2008
FACEL VEGA 1954-1964
CADILLAC 1946-2008 FAIRTHORPE 1955-1962
CHECKER 1960-1972 FERRARI 1947-2008
CHEVROLET 1931-2008 FIAT 1947-1983
27 28
Expert AutoStats Manufacturer List Expert AutoStats Manufacturer List
(March 1, 2008) (March 1, 2008)
29 30
Expert AutoStats Manufacturer List Expert AutoStats Manufacturer List
(March 1, 2008) (March 1, 2008)
31 32
Expert AutoStats Manufacturer List Expert AutoStats
(March 1, 2008) Data Definitions and Sources
(March 1, 2008)
UTILIMASTER 2000-2001
Published Data - PD - Data Sources include, but
VAUXHALL 1957-1962 are not limited to: Manufacturer
VESPA 1958-1961 brochures, Manufacturers Web Sites,
VOLKSWAGEN 1946-2008 Manufacturers Press Kits, Vehicle labels,
VOLVO 1944-2008 Vehicle window price stickers, and
publications such as: Car & Driver, Road
WARTBURG 1956-1966 & Track, Motor Trend, Popular Science,
WILLYS 1946-1964 Consumer Reports, Truck Index, Consumer
WOLSELEY 1949-1965 Guide, Edmunds Guide, Kelley Blue Book,
YUGO 1986-1992 and NADA Official Used Car Guide.
ZUNDAPP 1956-1958
Personal Measurements - PM - Measurements
obtained by staff of 4N6XPRT Systems
33 Definitions - 1
Expert AutoStats Expert AutoStats
Data Definitions and Sources Data Definitions and Sources
(March 1, 2008) (March 1, 2008)
Curb Weight Distribution - (PD) - The published Total Length - (PD) - Centerline measurement,
average curb weight distribution, either may or may not include rear bumper and/or
in percentage or in actual pounds. bumper guards, depending upon the vehicle
and the data source.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) - (PD) - The
published maximum GVWR with standard Wheelbase - (PD) - Measurement from the center
equipment. of front axle to:
A) the center of the rear axle on
Number of tires on Vehicle - (PM) - The two-axle vehicles,
physical count of tires on the vehicle in B) a point midway between the two
contact with the roadway. rear axles on three-axle
vehicles,
Drive Wheels - (PD) - The drive axle which C) the middle of the middle axle of
provides the motive power for the vehicle: the rear three axles on
- Front - front axle; four-axle vehicles.
- Rear - rear axle;
- 4x2 - 2 axles, 1 powered (working Front Bumper to Front Axle - (PM, PD) -
from rear to front); Centerline measurement from the front of
- 4x4/4 Wheel Drive - 2 axles, 2 the front bumper to the center of the
powered, usually the front axle front axle. Sometimes published, often
is only part time switchable times requires personal measurement.
powered;
- All Wheel Drive - Similar to 4 Front Bumper to Front of Front Well - (PM) -
Wheel Drive but the front axle Centerline measurement from the front of
is full time powered or powered the front bumper to the bottom front
on demand; corner of the front wheel well.
- 6x4 - 3 axles, 2 powered.
Front Bumper to Front of Hood - (PM) -
Centerline measurement from the front of
the front bumper to:
A) the 'breakpoint' where the slope
transitions from primarily vertical
to primarily horizontal;
Definitions - 2 Definitions - 3
Expert AutoStats Expert AutoStats
Data Definitions and Sources Data Definitions and Sources
(March 1, 2008) (March 1, 2008)
B) hood line on vehicles which have no Rear Bumper to Rear of Trunk - (PM) -
breakpoint or differentiation between Cars: Centerline measurement from the rear
front bumper and hood such as the of the rear bumper to the
Dodge Viper or Mitsubishi 3000; 'breakpoint' where the slope
C) hood line on vehicles which are rounded transitions from primarily vertical
such as the VW Beetle. to primarily horizontal.
Pickups: Centerline measurement from the
Front Bumper to Base of Windshield - (PM) - rear of the rear bumper to the top of
Centerline measurement from the front of the tailgate.
the front bumper to point where the Vans & Utility Vehicles: Centerline
windshield line intersects the hoodline. measurement from the rear of the rear
bumper to the transition point where
Front Bumper to Top of Windshield - (PM) - the rear begins to slope towards
Centerline measurement from front of the front of vehicle.
front bumper to point where the windshield
line meets the gasket at the top of the Rear Bumper to Base of Rear Window - (PM) -
windshield. Cars: Centerline measurement from rear of
the rear bumper to the point the
Rear Bumper to Rear Axle - (PM) - Centerline trunk line meets the rear window
measurement from the rear of the rear line.
bumper to the rear of the rear axle. When Pickups, Vans, and Utility Vehicles:
published overall length or wheelbase Centerline measurement from the rear
differs from the actual measured values, of the rear bumper to the gasket at
the Rear Bumper to Rear Axle measurement the bottom of the rear window.
is calculated as Total Length - (Wheelbase
+ Front Bumper to Front Axle). Maximum Width - (PD) - Published overall width
of the vehicle measured at the widest
Rear Bumper to Rear of Rear Well - (PM) - point. Normally the width measurement
Centerline measurement from the rear of excludes the side mirrors.
the rear bumper to the bottom rear corner
of the rear wheel well. Front Track - (PD, PM) - Measured from the
centerline of one front tire to the
centerline of the other front tire.
Definitions - 4 Definitions - 5
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Ground to Hood - top front - (PM) - Measured Ground to Base of rear window - (PM) -
from the ground to: Cars: Measured from the ground to the
A) the 'breakpoint' where the slope point the trunk line meets the rear
transitions from primarily vertical window line.
to primarily horizontal, Pickups, Vans, and Utility Vehicles:
B) hood line on vehicles which have no Measured from the ground to the
breakpoint or differentiation between gasket at the bottom of the rear
front bumper and hood such as the window.
Dodge Viper or Mitsubishi 3000,
C) hood line on vehicles which are all Front Seat Shoulder Width - (PD) - The interior
rounded such as the VW Beetle. measurement from one side of the vehicle
Definitions - 6 Definitions - 7
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Rear Seat Shoulder Width - (PD) - The interior Wheel Radius - (PM) - The radius of the tire
measurement from one side of the seating measured from the ground to the center of
area to the other at 'shoulder height' of the axle.
a seated occupant in the rear seat.
Tire Size (OEM) - (PD, PM) - The published base
Rear Seat to Headliner - (PD) - The distance equipment tire size, when available; when
from the point where the seatpan meets the no published size is available the tire
seat back, up to the inside of the roof. size observed on the vehicle at the time
of measurement. When the vehicle is
Seatbelts - (PD, PM) - The minimum observed equipped with two different sizes of
seatbelt setup for the model and N.S.D.C. tires, one on the front and a different
range listed. size on the rear, (such as the Plymouth
Prowler) the front, usually smaller of the
Airbags - (PD) - The minimum number of two, tire size is listed.
airbag(s) standard for the model and
N.S.D.C. range listed.
Definitions - 8 Definitions - 9
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Brake Type - (PD) - The minimum standard brake parts, and/or commentary as to lack of
setup for the model and N.S.D.C. range changes to the vehicle together with no
listed. change in overall length, wheelbase,
width, height, and minimal change in Curb
Braking, 60 mph -> 0 (Hard pedal, no skid, dry Weight. In the 1990's it is not uncommon
pavement) - (PD) - the minimum published for the N.S.D.C. range to be less than the
braking distance. Time (t), deceleration actual interchangeable body part range due
(a), and G-force are calculated using to constantly changing safety
standard formula. (Seatbelt/Airbag/Brake) information.
Acceleration, 0->30 mph, 0->60 mph, and 45->65 Tip-Over Stability Ratio - CALC - The stability
mph - (PD) - The minimum published ratio is an indication of how likely a
acceleration times. Acceleration (a), and vehicle is to tip over or slide if
G-force are calculated using standard sliding sideways. One way of looking at
formula. the stability ratio is what would the
coefficient of friction of the tires on
Transmission Type - (PD) - Standard equipment the roadway have to be to cause the
or most commonly sold transmission for the vehicle to roll instead of slide. The
model and N.S.D.C. range listed. ratio is also the tangent of the Lean
Angle, which if exceeded, will result in
Rated Bumper Strength - (PD, PM) - Published a rollover.
bumper strength or compliance with bumper
strength standards at the time of the The labels UNSTABLE, RELATIVELY STABLE, or
vehicle production. Bumper strength STABLE relate to tip over potential as
compliance is based primarily on the follows:
Consumer Reports 'bumper basher' tests. If - Less than 1.00 is UNSTABLE.
the bumper strength is published as 2.5 - A value greater than or equal
mph or no value is published, the to 1.00 and less than 1.25 is
displayed value is ____ mph. RELATIVELY STABLE.
- A value greater than 1.25 is
N.S.D.C. - (PD, PM) - 'No Significant STABLE.
Dimensional Change', as identified by
Mitchell Manual interchangeable major body
Definitions - 10 Definitions - 11
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NHTSA Star Rating - CALC - The Federal from the ground is calculated based
Government has finalized their STAR upon Body Style, in combination with the
RATING system for what they term the number of Doors in the case of the cars.
STATIC STABILITY FACTOR (SSF). This was The inches from ground value will be
publishedin the Federal Register Vol 66 calculated at 38%-40% of the Overall
No. 9 pg 3395 on January 12, 2001. The Height. The data for refining the
information is also located at 49 CFR 575. calculation came from work done by Dr. W.
Riley Garrott, et. al.
Definitions - 12 Definitions - 13
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YAW 1.03*Weight - 1343 The third screen of data for the Expert
PITCH 1.12*Weight - 1657 AutoStats program contains an option to
ROLL 0.22*Weight - 235 Print to File, which is selected by
entering the character "F". This option
Front Profile Information - CALC - Calculated will allow you to send the output to a
values dependant upon having 'detail file name which you designate. This name
dimensions' referencing the front bumper must be at least 1 character in length and
and height above ground for each point. no more than 8 characters in length. All
"Print to File" filenames will have an
Angle of Steering tires at Max Turn - CALC - extension of .VEH and will be contained in
Calculated value based upon wheelbase and the same directory as the Expert
turning circle. AutoStats program.
Definitions - 14 Definitions - 15
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Definitions - 16 Definitions - 17
CFR Services available online via GPO Access
http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/cfr-table-search.html