Automotive engines maintenance and repair:

Engines require regular service so as to reduce malfunctions and also maintain optimal performance. In order to perform regular maintenance, mechanics usually abide by a checklist so as to ensure that the electrical system, brakes, injection system, carburetors, plugs and other parts are operating normally. Engine repair is therefore essential in auto operations.

When components of the engines fail, mechanics depend on different methods to identify and locate the precise problem. These experts are well known for their capabilities which include analyzing mechanical, fuel and even electrical problems. To accurately and quickly diagnose a problem, he must always be a good problem solver. He also has to understand how components work.

There are various steps that a mechanic takes when it comes to solving engine problems. For instance, he can undertake a comprehensive test of every cylinder so as to check for a failed head gasket. If the failure is between two cylinders, they will have low numbers. He then uses a compression tester hose to induce compressed air to each cylinder. After air has entered the cylinder, pressurized air will be produced by oil passages or cooling system leaks.

With these signs of damaged gaskets, the only way out is replacement. This will involve a process of cracking the head off. The procedure can be involving but also enjoyable to do. Nevertheless, one can prevent gasket failure by keeping the cooling system in good order & ensuring the engine is running correctly and in tune.

There are other internal parts that also wear. A good example is the timing chain or the timing belt. This is the connecting line between the camshaft and the crankshaft. This component is crucial since it helps in opening and closing of the valves at precise intervals. When this component wears, the valves timing changes gradually and eventually, reaches a point where there is need for replacement.

Before replacement process can begin, it is advisable to first clean the machine with a degreaser. A clean machine is usually easier to work with and prevents dirt from entering it during disassembly. Getting to the timing chain requires dismantling everything in the timing chains way.

This includes the radiator, alternators and air conditioning compressors. The machine is set to top dead center & an impact wrench is used to remove crankshaft pulley bolt and the pulley itself with pulley remover. After the timing chain is removed and replaced, one can now begin the assembling process.

Most of the oil pumps are gearotor pumps or gear pumps. They suck oil from the oil pan and then pressurize the oil passages of the machine. There are times when the demand of the engine exceeds the capacity of the pump. This is especially at high rpm. At this time, the gear rotor or gear becomes excessively sloppy due to excessive tolerances or wear. As a result, instead of increasing the oil pressure, oil leaks between the gears.

The only way to go about when this problem occurs is to bring the pump gear clearances into their specification. This is known as oil pump restoration. This is done by sanding oil pump cover and body on a flat surface. This could be a flat glass or even a surface plate. In some cases, engine repair process by high production engine rebuilders entails replacement of oil pump. This is because; oil pumps can be relatively inexpensive.