Mazda L3 engines
Content
The model called L3 is a four-cylinder engine developed and produced by the Mazda automobile concern. Cars were equipped with such engines in the period from 2001 to 2011.
The L-class family of units is a medium-displacement engine that can accommodate from 1,8 to 2,5 liters. All gasoline-type engines are equipped with aluminum blocks, which in turn are complemented by cast iron liners. Diesel engine options use cast iron blocks with aluminum heads on the block.
Specifications for LF engines
| Element | Parameters |
|---|---|
| engine's type | Petrol, four-stroke |
| Number and arrangement of cylinders | Four-cylinder, in-line |
| The combustion chamber | Wedge |
| Gas distribution mechanism | DOHC (dual overhead camshafts in the cylinder head), chain driven and 16 valves |
| Working volume, ml | 2.261 |
| Cylinder diameter in the ratio of piston stroke, mm | 87,5x94,0 |
| Compression ratio | 10,6:1 |
| Compression pressure | 1,430 (290) |
| Valve opening and closing moment: | |
| High school graduation | |
| Opening to TDC | 0-25 |
| Closing after BMT | 0-37 |
| High school graduation | |
| Opening to BDC | 42 |
| Closing after TDC | 5 |
| Valve clearance | |
| Intake | 0,22-0,28 (cold run) |
| graduations | 0,27-0,33 (on a cold engine) |
Mazda's L3 engines have been nominated three times for the title of Engine of the Year. They were among the ten leading units in the world from 2006 to 2008. The Mazda L3 series of engines is also produced by Ford, which has every right to do so. This motor in America is called Duratec. In addition, the technical features of the Mazda engine are used by Ford in the manufacture of Eco Boost cars. Until recently, L3 class engines with a volume of 1,8 and 2,0 liters were also used to equip the Mazda MX-5 car model. Basically, the engines of this plan were installed on Mazda 6 cars.
These units represent the format of DISI engines, which means the presence of direct injection and spark plugs. Engines have increased dynamics, as well as maintainability. L3 engine standard displacement 2,3 l, maximum power 122 kW (166 hp), maximum torque 207 Nm/4000 min-1, which allows you to get the highest speed - 214 km / h. These models of units are equipped with turbochargers called S-VT or Sequential Valve Timing. The burnt exhaust gases drive the turbocharger, which consists of two blades, into action. The impeller is spun in the compressor housing with the help of gases up to 100 min.-1.
Dynamics of L3 engines
The impeller shaft spins the second vane, which pumps air into the compressor, which then passes through the combustion chamber. As air passes through the compressor, it gets very hot. For its cooling, special radiators are used, the work of which enhances the engine power to the maximum.
In addition, the L3 engine has been technically improved over other models, with improvements in both design and new functional components. The regulation of the gas distribution phases has received a new format in these engines. The block, as well as the cylinder head, are made of aluminum for engines.
In addition, design changes were made to reduce noise and vibration levels. To do this, the engines were equipped with balancing cassette blocks and silent chains on the drive of the gas distribution mechanism. A long piston skirt was placed on the cylinder block. It was also complemented by an integrated main bearing cap. The crankshaft pulley applies to all L3 engines. It is equipped with a torsional vibration damper, as well as a pendulum suspension.
The auxiliary drive belt contour has been simplified for better maintainability. For all of them, only one drive belt is now arranged. The automatic tension adjusts the position of the belt. Maintenance of the units is possible through a special hole on the front cover of the engine. In this way, the ratchet can be released, the chains can be adjusted and the tensioning arm can be fixed.
The four cylinders of the L3 engine are located in one row and are closed from below by a special pallet that forms the crankcase. The latter can act as a reservoir for lubricating and cooling oil, an important detail for increasing the wear resistance of the motor. The L3 unit contains sixteen valves, four in one cylinder. With the help of two camshafts located at the top of the engine, the valves begin to work.
Engine elements and their functions
| The actuator for changing the valve timing | Continuously modifies exhaust camshaft and crankshaft timing at the forward end of the intake camshaft using hydraulic pressure from the oil control valve (OCV) |
| Oil control valve | Controlled by an electrical signal from the PCM. Switches the hydraulic oil channels of the variable valve timing actuator |
| Crankshaft position sensor | Sends engine speed signal to PCM |
| Camshaft position sensor | Provides a cylinder identification signal to the PCM |
| Block RSM | Controls the oil control valve (OCV) to provide the optimum valve timing to open or close according to engine operating conditions |
The engine is lubricated with an oil pump, which is placed on the end of the sump. The oil supply occurs through the channels, as well as holes leading fluid to the crankshaft bearings. So the oil itself gets to the camshaft and into the cylinders. Fuel supply is carried out using well-functioning electronic automation, which does not need to be serviced.
Recommended oil for use:
- API class SJ ACBA A1 or A3 with viscosity 52-30;
- API class SL ILSAC GF-3 with a viscosity of 5W-20;
- API grades SG, SH, SJ, SL ILSAC GF-2, GF-3 with viscosity 40, 30, 20, 20W-20, 10W-30, 10W-40, 10W-50, 20W-40, 15W-40, 20W -50, 15W-50, 5W-20, 5W-30.
Modification L3-VDT
The engine is a four-cylinder, 16-valve with a capacity of 2,3 liters and two overhead camshafts. Equipped with a turbocharged engine, in which fuel injection occurs directly. The unit is equipped with an air intercooler, ignition using a coil on a candle, as well as a Warner-Hitachi K04 type turbine. The engine has 263 hp. and 380 torque at 5500 rpm. The maximum engine speed that will not harm its components is 6700 rpm. To run the engine, you need type 98 gasoline.
Customer Reviews
Sergey Vladimirovich, 31 years old, Mazda CX-7, L3-VDT engine: bought a new car in 2008. I am satisfied with the engine, it shows excellent driving results. The trip is easy and relaxed. The only downside is the high fuel consumption.
Anton Dmitrievich, 37 years old, Mazda Antenza, 2-liter L3: the engine of the car is sufficient to get the most out of the trip. Power is distributed evenly across the entire rev range. The car performs well both on the track and in overtaking.
