How to Make a Simple Car Engine

Materials

• 1/2-inch plywood
• 1/4-inch dowels
• 1/8-inch wooden dowels
• 1/16-inch wooden dowels
• Wood glue
• Sandpaper
• Paint (optional)

Tools

• Saw
• Drill
• Sanding block
• Paintbrush (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cut the plywood

Cut two pieces of plywood into 4-inch squares. These will be the sides of the engine block.

Step 2: Drill the holes

Drill four holes in each plywood square, 1/4 inch from the edge. The holes should be spaced evenly apart.

Step 3: Assemble the engine block

Glue the two plywood squares together, with the holes aligned.

Step 4: Make the crankshaft

Cut a 1/4-inch dowel into a 3-inch piece. This will be the crankshaft.

Step 5: Make the pistons

Cut two 1/4-inch dowels into 1-inch pieces. These will be the pistons.

Step 6: Make the connecting rods

Cut two 1/8-inch wooden dowels into 1-inch pieces. These will be the connecting rods.

Step 7: Make the valves

Cut two 1/16-inch wooden dowels into 1/2-inch pieces. These will be the valves.

Step 8: Assemble the engine

* Insert the crankshaft into the holes in the engine block.
* Attach the connecting rods to the crankshaft and the pistons.
* Insert the valves into the holes in the engine block.
* Glue the valves in place.

Step 9: Sand and paint the engine (optional)

Sand the engine to smooth any rough edges. Paint the engine, if desired.

Step 10: Test the engine

To test the engine, hold the crankshaft and turn it. The pistons should move up and down, and the valves should open and close.

Conclusion

You have now made a simple car engine! This engine is a great way to learn about how engines work. You can also use it to power small vehicles, such as go-karts.