Automotive Firewall question

as newer vehicle construction has changed the rules. Here's an image of a firewall

http://www.hotrodssuperstore.com/19chfi.html

It was a single piece of metal with characteristics that help prevent engine fires from reaching passengers before they could get out. Older engines with carburetors, rubber hoses and fuel pumps near the area of the spark were vulnerable to gasoline spills and fires. The firewall was just a physical block between engine and passenger. I don't believe it included wheel wells specifically. As well, there was sometimes explosion shielding from flywheels and clutches but this was built into their housings. While a wheel well might afford some protection from a burning tire, I don't think the mechanic meant to suggest that. It sounds as if he was giving a point of reference. I am guessing the solenoid was for the starter motor. It would be physically attached to the motor and acted more as a relay to provide high current for the motor. The motor's gear contacts the flywheel directly. On older cars, the flywheel would be right in front of the firewall on one side or the other and the solenoid and starter motor there as well.

Fender well may be term you were thinking of.

Area of the fender on top of the wheel

The firewall is any portion that remains after an engine is removed, usually behind it(frt. mounted engine). The wheel wells of older cars may have extened into the firewall, if a wheel well section was removed(unbolted), then yeah remaining portion can be called part of the firewall but this is rare in todays autos. To be correct at least 100% of the time, just call it the engine compartment. -----Willy

As long as you and your mechanic understand each other, let it be.

".......referred to that wheel well area as the left side (as you face the entine compartment) firewall."

Err...correct....referring to a wheel well as the left side facing the engine compartment if in a sitting position within the vehicle and as you say, "..the firewall is normally describing the area directly in front of the front seat and the engine compartment.."
Some people would refer to the left side wheel well facing the engine compartment firewall while standing in front of the vehicle. . Need to be on the same page when talking left to right.

"So, the question is....if I referred to that wheel well area as a firewall would I be 'right or wrong' or just mistaken?"

Being around mechanics, drag race and stock car drivers, I've never heard of a wheel well being referred as a firewall.

"Fender Well". Left or right side.

Or "Engine Compartment" Left or Right side.

The "Firewall" simply separates the back of the engine compartment with the interior of the cabin. (front seat area)

George