Vacuum pump - how does a vacuum pump work in diesel engines?
Content
Usually vacuum pumps are associated with diesel engines, but in some cases they are also found in gasoline engines. What is a vacuum pump? In other words, it is a vacuum pump whose task is to create a negative pressure. For proper operation, it is extremely important:
- engine;
- brake system;
- turbochargers;
- HORN.
Check out the symptoms of pump problems and read how to fix them!
Vacuum - what is this pump for and where is it needed?
It is extremely important to understand the principle of operation of an internal combustion engine at idle. In units with a gasoline engine, there is usually no vacuum, because the vacuum in the intake manifold is able to generate the necessary values \uXNUMXb\uXNUMXbto maintain rpm. This does not apply to throttleless diesel engines. There, ignition at idle and the operation of, for example, the brake system is possible thanks to a vacuum pump.
Why is the vacuum pump an important element of the system?
What is a vacuum pump used for? It gives initial vacuum values to keep individual components running. In addition, in engines with unit injectors, vacuum is also responsible for increasing fuel pressure. Therefore, in these engines, the depressurization of the vacuum pump is extremely noticeable when the work culture deteriorates.
Vacuum pump - what does it do?
In addition to maintaining the proper vacuum in the vacuum engine, it is also responsible for the operation of the brake system while driving. In gasoline engines, power steering can work well due to the vacuum created by the intake system. In diesels, this is not enough. Therefore, thanks to the vacuum pump, it is possible to press the brake pedal without much effort, which, under the influence of vacuum, increases the pressure many times over. If not, you can observe what are the symptoms of a faulty vacuum pump.
Vacuum pump - symptoms of its operation
The most common sign of vacuum damage is reduced braking power. The turbocharger boost indicator can also go crazy if it is installed in the car. Ultimately, a breakdown can be identified by leaks from the pump housing itself. Of course, you need to know where to look if it's leaking. More often than not, however, it is problems with brake and clutch pedal control that make it clear that the vacuum is waiting to be replaced or regenerated. What to choose then?
Vacuum and correct negative pressure
Damage can be unambiguously confirmed by examining the amount of vacuum created. What kind of vacuum does a vacuum pump create? In standard car models, it should work in the range from -0,7 to -0,9 bar. The easiest way is to check it with a pressure gauge and finally make sure that the device is working. The most common cause of this state of affairs is wear or leakage of the vacuum pump.
Vacuum pump regeneration - is it worth it?
Much depends on the type of damage. If you are sure that the vacuum pump is leaking, just seal it. For this, special repair kits are used, which can be bought in online stores and stationery stores. Usually you will pay a few tens of zlotys and be able to do the work yourself. It is more difficult when the vacuum cleaner does not give the desired vacuum and you notice obvious signs of damage. It will then need to be returned to the recycling plant.
The last option (the most expensive) is to buy a new item. However, prices for such components are usually up to 3 times higher than for recycled ones.
Vacuum - what affects the life of the engine pump?
By creating a vacuum, the vacuum pump generates heat, so it must be cooled with engine oil. This is the main reason for his failure. Impurities floating in the oil and its poor quality can cause the pump to seize. That is why it is worth focusing on oils of very good quality and taking care of regular replacement at the frequency recommended for the engine. The state of the solenoid diaphragms in the EGR also affects the state of the vacuum, because it directs the vacuum to this element as well. Contaminants enter the vacuum pump and can destroy it.
A vacuum pump is required in diesel engines. You will feel it damaged after running the unit, poor braking, or oil and oil leaks. A seal is often the solution, but if the pump elements are stuck, the pump may need to be replaced. And this cost is even more than 100 euros, so it is better to take care of the unit. When changing oil, be guided by the quality of the product. In this way, you will also take care of the condition of the vacuum pump, which is lubricated with this oil. It is also worth checking for possible component fogging and seeing if there are any leaks in the machine.
