Engineworld

What is the Camshaft Seal all about? Like the crankshaft, the camshaft is an essential component of the combustion process that moves your car down the road. Its motion is responsible for instigating valve movement, which regulates the air/fuel mixture that fuels the “big bang.” The camshaft uses lobes (called cams) to push against and open the valves as the camshaft rotates (springs on the valves return them to their closed position) in sync with the pistons. Note: Both valves are closed during compression and combustion so that the combustion chamber is sealed. The camshaft seal fits between the camshaft and the cylinder head, sealing the camshaft between the top of the head and the valve cover. Like all of an engine’s internal moving parts, the camshaft must be well lubricated, essentially submerged in oil, to do its job properly. Without the camshaft seal, this lubricating oil would leak out of the engine block, befouling the engine bay and putting the engine’s internal comp

What is the Automatic Timing Advance Unit all about? Gasoline and diesel engines may seem similar, and they do work on the same basic principle of combustion, but they’re very different. They require significantly different steps taken to control fuel flow throughout engine operation. Diesel fuel takes longer to combust than gasoline, and in an operating engine, combustion can take place well after the timing hits top dead center (TDC). If this occurs, then it creates lag, which has a negative impact on engine performance. To combat lag, diesel must be injected before the timing reaches TDC to provide enough time for combustion to take place. This job is handled by the automatic timing advance unit. Essentially, the unit ensures that no matter what speed the engine is operating, fuel is injected with ample time for combustion to occur before TDC is reached. The automatic timing advance unit should be located on the fuel pump itself, and is operated by the engine's primary d

Automatic Shutdown Relay Replacement What is the Automatic Shutdown Relay all about? When you turn the key for your ignition to start, many different things happen. The fuel pump turns on, sending gas from the tank, through the lines, to the injectors. The battery sends voltage to the ignition system, which creates a spark, igniting fuel vapor and starting your engine. However, if the automatic shutdown relay (ASD) is not working, none of this will happen. The automatic shutdown relay controls the power that is supplied to the ignition, the fuel pump, and the injectors, as well as other components. It is only activated for a few seconds during cranking, and is then turned off. Depending on the make and model in question, the automatic shutdown relay could be located under the hood, under the dash, or in another position. As with any other electrical component, your automatic shutdown relay is subject to wear and tear, and frequent stopping and starting of the engine will ex