How Do Car Engine Lifters Work?

Introduction

Car engine lifters are an essential part of the engine’s valvetrain. They are responsible for opening and closing the valves that allow air and fuel to enter the cylinders and exhaust gases to escape. Lifters are typically made of steel or aluminum and are located between the camshaft and the valves.

Types of Lifters

There are two main types of lifters: solid lifters and hydraulic lifters. Solid lifters are made from a single piece of metal and do not contain any moving parts. Hydraulic lifters, on the other hand, contain a plunger that is filled with oil. The oil pressure causes the plunger to extend, which in turn opens the valve.

How Lifters Work

Lifters work by transferring the motion of the camshaft to the valves. The camshaft is a rotating shaft that has a series of lobes that are designed to open and close the valves. As the camshaft rotates, the lobes push on the lifters, which in turn open the valves.

The amount of lift that a lifter provides is determined by the shape of the camshaft lobe. A lobe with a high lift will open the valve more than a lobe with a low lift. The duration of the lift is also important. A lobe with a long duration will keep the valve open for a longer period of time than a lobe with a short duration.

Lifter Failure

Lifters can fail for a variety of reasons, including:

* Wear and tear
* Lack of lubrication
* Overheating
* Damage from debris

When a lifter fails, it can cause a variety of problems, including:

* Loss of power
* Poor fuel economy
* Increased emissions
* Engine noise

Lifter Replacement

Lifters that are worn out or damaged must be replaced. Replacing lifters is a complex and time-consuming process that should be performed by a qualified mechanic.

Conclusion

Lifters are an essential part of the car engine’s valvetrain. They are responsible for opening and closing the valves that allow air and fuel to enter the cylinders and exhaust gases to escape. Lifters can fail for a variety of reasons, but they can be replaced by a qualified mechanic.