Vibration Theory and Terminology: Cycle

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Pontiac G5 Pursuit, 2007 Pontiac G5, and 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Powertrain Vibration Cycles

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Callout	Component Name
1	1st Cycle
2	2nd Cycle
3	3rd Cycle
4	Time

Fig 2: Identifying Vibration Cycles In Powertrain Components

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Callout	Component Name
1	Spindle
2	Pinion Nose

The word cycle comes from the same root as the word circle. A circle begins and ends at the same point, as thus, so does a cycle. All vibrations consist of repetitive cycles.