The internal combustion engine is one of the most influential inventions of the modern era, powering everything from cars and trucks to boats and planes. But what are the main parts of a combustion engine, and how do they work together to produce power? In this blog post, we'll explore the basics of combustion engines so that you can understand your personal vehicle better.
Engine Block
The engine block is the main housing of the engine and is usually made of cast iron or aluminum. It contains cylinders, pistons, and a crankshaft, among other components. The cylinders are where combustion occurs, and the pistons move up and down inside the cylinders to convert the heat and pressure from the combustion into mechanical energy.
Cylinder Head
The cylinder head sits on top of the engine block and contains the valves, which control the air and fuel ratio in the cylinders and the exhaust gases that go out of the engine. It also houses the spark plugs, which ignite the air and fuel mixture inside the cylinders.
Intake and Exhaust Valves
Intake valves are responsible for letting air and fuel into the cylinders, while exhaust valves allow the combustion gases to exit the engine. The timing of the valve opening and closing is controlled by the camshaft, which is driven by the crankshaft.
Crankshaft
The crankshaft is a long, rotating shaft that controls the up and down motion of the pistons that powers the wheels or moves the vehicle. The timing of the crankshaft is controlled by the timing belt or timing chain.
Fuel System
The fuel system is responsible for delivering fuel to the engine, typically through fuel injectors or a carburetor. The air/fuel mixture is then delivered to the cylinders for combustion.
Ignition System
The ignition system is responsible for providing the spark that ignites the air and fuel mixture inside the cylinders. It typically consists of spark plugs, ignition coils, and electronic control module.
Lubrication System
The lubrication system is responsible for circulating oil throughout the engine to lubricate the moving parts and reduce friction and wear. It typically consists of an oil pump, oil filter, and oil passages throughout the engine.
All of these components have to work together in perfect harmony to produce power and propel your vehicle where you want it to go. If you're experiencing any issues with your engine, please bring your vehicle to our professional auto repair shop for a thorough inspection and diagnosis.