Stuck the engine in the car - how to recognize and what to do?
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The closer to the complete destruction of the unit, the easier it is to say that the symptoms mean a jammed engine. Why? The beginning is innocent and often coincides with other glitches. Therefore, usually no mechanic can tell when the whole process begins. However, it is known how this can be prevented. Find out so that you are not threatened with a major overhaul of the drive unit!
What is an engine jam?
Many components of the cylinder block are made of metal. These are parts that perform rotational or reciprocating motion. Of course, they do not touch, because there is an oil film between their surfaces. Thanks to him, it is possible to cool the entire engine and eliminate the destructive effect of friction. It is this process that is responsible for each seized engine. So, the main culprit of the problem:
- low oil level or its complete loss;
- poor quality oil.
Engine jamming - symptoms of a malfunction
How does a stuck engine behave? You can understand this when you take two metal parts in your hand and start rubbing them against each other. You will immediately notice the sound that accompanies such friction. Also, you have to use a lot of force to move things. It's the same with the engine, which tends to stall. A seized engine will make a metallic clatter depending on which components have been stripped of lubrication. It also produces more heat and "gets tired" during operation. How can you watch it?
How to check if the engine is stuck?
You can find out in several ways. First, look at fuel consumption. Is it at a constant level, as always? Have you noticed an increase in fuel consumption lately, although your driving style has not changed to a more aggressive one? Secondly, a jammed engine heats up more. Is the coolant temperature within manufacturer's specifications? Thirdly, pay attention to the noise - do you hear a characteristic metallic knock when the engine is running?
Stuck engine - sound symptoms
Engine jamming is indicated by symptoms in the form of sounds. Bearings without lubrication will be audible especially at idle. In turn, the jamming of the camshaft will make itself felt every second revolution of the shaft. Regardless of which components have rubbing surfaces, knocking or knocking will occur regularly at regular intervals. It can acquire a different sound under the influence of engine speed.
Engine jamming symptoms - what else indicates a malfunction?
In addition to the factors mentioned above, how the car drives is also important. If you're having trouble accelerating and feel like your car has lost power, this could very well be a sign of progressive engine wear. If all problems come together, you will get a complete picture of a person who is facing a very serious problem of destruction. What can be done to prevent this?
Does a stuck engine spin? It depends
If the bearing or camshaft is damaged, the engine will probably start. You will hear the characteristic sounds mentioned above. A seized engine with damaged cylinder surfaces behaves differently. Then, under the influence of swelling of the pistons, they stop in the engine compartment and there is no chance that the car will start. In fact, any attempt to start the unit can aggravate the situation.
Jammed engine - repair the unit
At the moment we are talking about a major overhaul. If the problem is with the bearings, they can be replaced with new ones, but the entire engine will also need to be inspected. What for? Small filings can cause abrasion of subsequent surfaces, such as cylinder liners. As a result, the engine starts to eat oil and compression drops. In the worst case, when it comes to a stuck motor, a replacement of the assembly is necessary. Dlaczego?
Why is it sometimes necessary to replace a stuck engine?
Under the influence of the connection of metal elements to each other (friction temperature can cause welding), the following sometimes occurs:
- punctures of the engine block;
- piston melting;
- cracks in the head.
Then the only economically reasonable solution is to buy a new motor and replace it.
How to prevent engine seizure?
You have to take care of the correct operation of the car, so as not to worry about a jammed engine. Why? You already know that the friction problem comes from the lack of an oil film. Therefore, first of all, replace it regularly with a quality product designed for your engine. Another question is the correct replacement interval. Usually a mileage of 10-15 thousand kilometers will be suitable. And finally, remember that you can not spin the engine to high speeds until it warms up. A seized diesel engine and a gasoline engine cause similar symptoms, and caring for these units is not much different from each other.
A seized engine is a really serious problem, and the replacement of the assembly is very expensive. So keep a few more things in mind. Engine damage and destruction can also occur as a result of an oil pan puncture. Therefore, be careful with all the holes, stones and islands that you take under the chassis of the car. Of course, the sudden loss of oil does not cause seizure, but it reacts. If this happens to you, turn off the engine immediately.
