1. Engine: The engine was the heart of the car and provided the power to move the vehicle. Engines in pre-ECU cars were typically gasoline-powered and used a carburetor to mix fuel and air. The carburetor was controlled by a mechanical linkage that was connected to the accelerator pedal.
2. Transmission: The transmission was responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. Transmissions in pre-ECU cars were typically manual, meaning that the driver had to shift gears manually.
3. Ignition system: The ignition system was responsible for providing the spark that ignited the fuel in the engine. Ignition systems in pre-ECU cars used a distributor to distribute the spark to the correct cylinder at the correct time.
4. Fuel system: The fuel system was responsible for delivering fuel from the fuel tank to the carburetor. Fuel systems in pre-ECU cars used a mechanical fuel pump to draw fuel from the tank and deliver it to the carburetor.
5. Electrical system: The electrical system was responsible for providing power to the car's various electrical components, such as the lights, horn, and wipers. Electrical systems in pre-ECU cars used a generator to generate electricity and a battery to store electricity.
6. Cooling system: The cooling system was responsible for keeping the engine cool. Cooling systems in pre-ECU cars used a water pump to circulate coolant through the engine and a radiator to dissipate heat.
7. Exhaust system: The exhaust system was responsible for removing exhaust gases from the engine. Exhaust systems in pre-ECU cars used a series of pipes and mufflers to reduce noise.
These components worked together to control the operation of the car. When the driver pressed the accelerator pedal, the carburetor would open to allow more fuel into the engine. This would cause the engine to speed up and the transmission would shift to a higher gear. The ignition system would provide the spark to ignite the fuel and the exhaust system would remove the exhaust gases.
Pre-ECU cars were relatively simple machines compared to modern cars. However, they were still able to provide reliable transportation for millions of people.
