A Bird’s Eye View Of Your Vehicle’s Engine
A car’s engine is more complicated than most people realize. In order to operate properly, it relies on the seamless function of several parts. From the intake manifold through which air travels, to the valves and cylinders that contribute to the ignition of the air-fuel mixture, this cacophony of components is complex. Yet, most drivers never learn how everything works.
Below, we’ll take a tour through your vehicle’s engine. I’ll describe the various cylinder configurations and explain the internal combustion process your car goes through while you’re on the road.
How Are The Cylinders Arranged?
Engines are designed with multiple cylinders that aid in the combustion process. Some cars have as few as three while others have up to twelve. The number of cylinders and the manner in which they’re configured are noted in the engine type.
For example, a 4-cylinder in-line engine means that the system has four cylinders that are configured in a straight line. By contrast, a V-8 comes with eight cylinders that are positioned to form a “V” (four cylinders on each side of the “V”). Many engines have a flat design. For example, a “flat 6″ has six cylinders positioned in two banks of three. All six lie flat.
The Internal Combustion Process
Each cylinder goes through a four-stroke internal combustion process. It is during this process that the fuel mixture is ignited and energy is used to propel your vehicle.
The first step is called the intake stroke. A piston within the cylinder’s combustion chamber lowers while an intake valve opens. The fuel mixture enters through the valve into the chamber. The valve closes and the piston begins to rise.
The second step is called the compression stroke. As the piston rises, it compresses the fuel mixture. By the time it has reached the top of its cycle, the piston has compressed the blend to a fraction of its beginning volume.
The third step is called the power stroke. A spark plug sits atop the combustion chamber. It produces a spark and ignites the compressed blend. The resulting explosion causes the mixture to expand within the sealed chamber. The piston is forced downward which powers the crankshaft. The rotation of the crankshaft propels your car.
The last step is called the exhaust stroke. Each cylinder has an exhaust valve that opens to allow the expanded vapor to escape. The piston rises in order to help push the remaining vapor out through the valve.
Keeping The Parts Operating Smoothly
Your vehicle goes through the combustion process thousands of times while you’re on the road. Each cylinder works individually to produce the necessary energy required to rotate the crankshaft, and thereby propel your car. Because your engine has several moving parts that aid in this process, motor oil is needed to reduce the friction. If your oil level declines to the point that it cannot provide enough lubrication for the moving parts, the friction will cause damage to the engine. And that will result in a costly trip to the mechanic.
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