Your Fuel System
by: Kevin Schappell
The fuel system feed your engine the gasoline/diesel it needs to run. If anyone of the parts in the system break down your engine will not run. Let's look at the major parts of the fuel system,
Fuel tank: Basically a holding tank for your fuel. When you fill up at a gas station the gas travels down the filler tube and into the tank. In the tank there is a sending unit, which tells the gas gauge how much gas is in the tank.
Fuel pump: On newer cars the fuel pump is usually installed in the fuel tank. Older cars have the fuel pump attached to the engine or on the frame rail between the tank and the engine. If the pump is in the tank or on the frame rail then it is electric and is run by your cars battery. Fuel pumps mounted to the engine use the motion of the engine to pump the fuel
Fuel filter: Clean fuel is critical to engine life and performance. Fuel injectors have tiny openings, which clog easily so filtering the fuel is the only way to prevent this. Filters can be before or after the fuel pump, sometimes both.
Fuel injectors: Most domestic cars after 1986 and earlier foreign cars came from the factory with fuel injection. Instead of a carburetor to mix the fuel and air, a computer controls when the fuel injectors open to let fuel into the engine. This has resulted in lower emissions and better fuel economy. The fuel injector is basically a tiny electric valve, which opens and closes with an electric signal. In the picture below you can see the injectors towards the outer part of the intake. By injecting the fuel close to the cylinder head the fuel stays atomized ( in tiny particles ) so it will burn better when ignited by the spark plug.
Carburetors: A carburetor takes the fuel and mixes it with air without computer intervention. While simple in operation, they tend to need frequent tuning and rebuilding. This is why most newer cars have done away with carburetors in favor of fuel injection.
Common Problems:
I would say the most common problem is a clogged fuel filter. Make sure you follow your manufacturers recommendations as to when you should change the fuel filter. This information should be in your owner’s manual. Symptoms include sputtering at high speeds or engine not starting at all. Always check the ignition system first, if that's ok then the next suspect is the fuel filter.
Next most common problem is the fuel pump failing. Most modern electric fuel pumps can be heard when you turn the key on. If you don't hear the pump running and your car will not start, it could be your fuel pump. The first thing a mechanic will check is the relay, which sends power to the pump. If this is operating correctly then the pump will have to be replaced.
Last but not least are dirty injectors. While the fuel filter does a good job of filtering the fuel, it's not perfect. Over time deposits and tiny particles lodge themselves in the injectors. This can clog and injector and prevent it from delivering the fuel the engine needs. It can also cause an injector to stick open and send too much fuel into the engine. A regular addition of fuel system cleaner like STP Injector Cleaner, or Techtron fuel system cleaner can help keep your injectors clean. Most gas stations, department stores and all automotive parts stores will have a good cleaner available. Add it to your empty tank right before you fill up and it will clean as you drive. I recommend doing this every 3 months to keep your injectors performing like new. Mechanics also offer a cleaning service where they actually disconnect the fuel line and flush cleaner through the engine. This is only necessary when you let your injectors get to a point where they can not be cleaned by a store-bought product. Regular use of a good in-tank cleaner will keep you from having to pay for this service.
Where do you buy your gas?
Believe it, or not, it can make a difference. Always buy from a well know national brand service station. Gas stations, which are not affiliated with one brand of gas, tend to get whatever is left at the end of the day from the delivery truck. One day them might get Texaco, and Exxon another. Also water mixed with gas will cause problems with your engine. The engine will not run right, plus the water will promote rust in the fuel system. I have experienced this when I purchased gas at some no-name gas stations. Your car will feel sluggish and sometimes refuse to run if there is enough water in the gas.
Octane rating tip!!!!
Putting super in the tank will not get you any more performance or gas mileage unless specifically recommended by your cars manufacturer. If your owners manual says put in 87 octane...... DO IT. You are throwing money out the window if you are filling up on Super or Premium and you only need Regular.
About The Author
Kevin Schappell maintains http://www.carbuyersclub.com where he gives advice on buying, selling, insurance, and financing. A mechanical engineer and car guy, Kevin has decided to spend his online time helping others learn about automobiles. To learn more about how your car works, Kevin has created http://www.mycarwizard.com.
kevin@schappell.com
This article was posted on December 23, 2004
Se afișează postările cu eticheta gas. Afișați toate postările
Se afișează postările cu eticheta gas. Afișați toate postările
duminică, 25 decembrie 2011
Winter Car Care
Winter Car Care
by: Kevin Schappell
As the weather turns colder, it is time to think about your car for a second. A little preparation can go a long way to making your winter travels a lot safer. Here is a checklist to get you started.
1. Check the antifreeze. The freezing point can be checked with a simple tool available at any auto parts store. Make sure you check the antifreeze when it's cool. Opening a hot radiator can be a dangerous thing.
2. Check the air pressure in your tires. As the air gets cooler pressure drops in your tires. Maintaining your tire pressures will reward you with higher gas mileage and longer tire life.
3. Make sure you have the following items in your car.
Ice Scraper
Salt or sand for traction
Blanket in case you are stranded and need to keep warm
Good first aid kit (not just for winter)
Road flares
4. Check all belts and hoses. As the temperature drops rubber tends to stiffen and break allot easier. Make sure all your rubber hoses and belts are in tip-top shape.
5. Treat your gas tank to a can of gas line antifreeze before the cold weather strikes. The additive will remove any water in the system and prevent your fuel lines from freezing.
6. Check your tires for wear. Make sure you have plenty of tread left to get you through the snow. Nothing is worse than 3" of snow and bald tires.
About The Author
Kevin Schappell maintains http://www.carbuyersclub.com where he gives advice on buying, selling, insurance, and financing. A mechanical engineer and car guy, Kevin has decided to spend his online time helping others learn about automobiles. To learn more about how your car works, Kevin has created http://www.mycarwizard.com.
kevin@schappell.com
This article was posted on December 22, 2004
by: Kevin Schappell
As the weather turns colder, it is time to think about your car for a second. A little preparation can go a long way to making your winter travels a lot safer. Here is a checklist to get you started.
1. Check the antifreeze. The freezing point can be checked with a simple tool available at any auto parts store. Make sure you check the antifreeze when it's cool. Opening a hot radiator can be a dangerous thing.
2. Check the air pressure in your tires. As the air gets cooler pressure drops in your tires. Maintaining your tire pressures will reward you with higher gas mileage and longer tire life.
3. Make sure you have the following items in your car.
Ice Scraper
Salt or sand for traction
Blanket in case you are stranded and need to keep warm
Good first aid kit (not just for winter)
Road flares
4. Check all belts and hoses. As the temperature drops rubber tends to stiffen and break allot easier. Make sure all your rubber hoses and belts are in tip-top shape.
5. Treat your gas tank to a can of gas line antifreeze before the cold weather strikes. The additive will remove any water in the system and prevent your fuel lines from freezing.
6. Check your tires for wear. Make sure you have plenty of tread left to get you through the snow. Nothing is worse than 3" of snow and bald tires.
About The Author
Kevin Schappell maintains http://www.carbuyersclub.com where he gives advice on buying, selling, insurance, and financing. A mechanical engineer and car guy, Kevin has decided to spend his online time helping others learn about automobiles. To learn more about how your car works, Kevin has created http://www.mycarwizard.com.
kevin@schappell.com
This article was posted on December 22, 2004
Two and Four Stroke Engines: Fast and Simple Answers.
Two and Four Stroke Engines: Fast and Simple Answers.
by: Daniel Levy
A few fast responses and facts about Two and Four Stroke Engines.
Many years ago when I got hooked by motorcycles, I started to hear a lot about two and four stroke engines... It seemed there were (and there still are) strong opinions in pro and con of each of the engine types.
As Internet wasn't available, and as I was worried about other aspects or motorcycle riding back then, I left that question unanswered for a long time.
If this is your case or if your are interested in these two kind of internal combustion engines, in the next few lines I hope to give you a few fast answers and some resources to get more in depth information.
Just keep reading...
Here are some facts about two and four stroke engines:
TWO STROKE ENGINES
Cycle - Two Strokes:
Compression (intake+compression)
Combustion (combustion+exhaust)
Take a look at the cycle in: http://science.howstuffworks.com/two-stroke2.htm
Advantages of two stroke engines:
The engine fires - spark plug ignites - once every revolution of the crankshaft.
They produce twice the power than four stroke engines.
They are much simpler than four stroke engines. Fewer parts to worry about.
Disadvantages:
You have to mix two stroke engine oil with gas, and depending on your consumption, this might be expensive.
They last less. Lubrication is not as efficient as in a four stroke engine with heavy oil.
Do not use gas efficiently.
Pollute more.
FOUR STROKE ENGINES
Cycle - Four Strokes:
Intake
Compression
Combustion
Exhaust
Take a look at the cycle in: http://science.howstuffworks.com/engine4.htm
Advantages of four stroke engines:
Last longer than two stroke engines
More efficient use of gas
Pollute less than two stroke engines
Disadvantages:
More complicated. Many more parts to worry about.
Half as powerful as two stroke engines (for equivalent engines)
Fires once every two revolutions.
If you want to learn more about two stroke and four stroke engines, take a look at the pages I mention above. You will find extensive information and diagrams that will solve all of your doubts.
Well I hope this gave you some basic information and helped you answer some FAQ about two and four stroke engines! :-)
Enjoy the ride!
Daniel Levy
About The Author
Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com. He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great info visit http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com.
by: Daniel Levy
A few fast responses and facts about Two and Four Stroke Engines.
Many years ago when I got hooked by motorcycles, I started to hear a lot about two and four stroke engines... It seemed there were (and there still are) strong opinions in pro and con of each of the engine types.
As Internet wasn't available, and as I was worried about other aspects or motorcycle riding back then, I left that question unanswered for a long time.
If this is your case or if your are interested in these two kind of internal combustion engines, in the next few lines I hope to give you a few fast answers and some resources to get more in depth information.
Just keep reading...
Here are some facts about two and four stroke engines:
TWO STROKE ENGINES
Cycle - Two Strokes:
Compression (intake+compression)
Combustion (combustion+exhaust)
Take a look at the cycle in: http://science.howstuffworks.com/two-stroke2.htm
Advantages of two stroke engines:
The engine fires - spark plug ignites - once every revolution of the crankshaft.
They produce twice the power than four stroke engines.
They are much simpler than four stroke engines. Fewer parts to worry about.
Disadvantages:
You have to mix two stroke engine oil with gas, and depending on your consumption, this might be expensive.
They last less. Lubrication is not as efficient as in a four stroke engine with heavy oil.
Do not use gas efficiently.
Pollute more.
FOUR STROKE ENGINES
Cycle - Four Strokes:
Intake
Compression
Combustion
Exhaust
Take a look at the cycle in: http://science.howstuffworks.com/engine4.htm
Advantages of four stroke engines:
Last longer than two stroke engines
More efficient use of gas
Pollute less than two stroke engines
Disadvantages:
More complicated. Many more parts to worry about.
Half as powerful as two stroke engines (for equivalent engines)
Fires once every two revolutions.
If you want to learn more about two stroke and four stroke engines, take a look at the pages I mention above. You will find extensive information and diagrams that will solve all of your doubts.
Well I hope this gave you some basic information and helped you answer some FAQ about two and four stroke engines! :-)
Enjoy the ride!
Daniel Levy
About The Author
Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com. He loves motorcycles and Web development. For more great info visit http://www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com.
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