Hi! Pilot in training here! I’m looking to find some good resources for information on the mechanics for a Cessna 172S. I’ve only had a couple lessons so pardon and incorrect phrases or terms I use and please tell me what they are actually called 
. So far, what I’m learning is along the lines of "do this if you want to do this maneuver " but I’d really like to know what goes on “under the hood” so to speak.
Alexandria,
Well, the Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (PHAK) and the
Airplane Flying Handbook (AFH) will help you understand the aerodynamics of
each maneuver. The Pilot Operating Handbook (POH) has a section that
describes the aircraft’s systems. If you want to know even more detail then
you’ll need to figure out how to get your hands on a Maintenance Manual,
but to be honest, unless you plan on becoming an A&P (Airplane and
Powerplant) mechanic then you don’t need to know anymore about your
airplane than what is in the PHAK, AFH, POH, and any other information your
CFI or flight school gives you.
Tory
Alexandria,
The FAA has some great technical manuals free online. Take a look here: https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aircraft/
Adam