I bought a copy of "Auto Mechanics Fundamentals" based on this thread and I think it is definitely the book you're remembering. The exploding can image you describe is on page 9 and the first chapter builds up an engine from first principles like you've talked about. Thank you for recommending this, it's a great resource!
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FROM THE SHARED SHELF · 2006–2026 SAMPLE
Auto Mechanics Fundamentals
1 reader recommends it across 1 discussion
Topics are model-inferred labels.
Keep it on your reading list
THE WORD OF MOUTH
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