Engine Construction and

Principles of Operation

Chapter 4
Objectives
 Explain simple engine operation.
 List the qualities of gasoline that make it an
efficient fuel for small engines.
 Explain why gasoline is atomized in the small
engine.
 Identify the basic components of a small
engine and describe the function of each part.
How does an Engine Work?
Gasoline
 Hydrocarbon fuel (mix of hydrogen and
carbon)
 Gas should
 Ignite readily, burn cleanly, resist detonation
 Vaporize easily w/o vapor lock
 Free of dirt, water, and abrasives
Octane Number
 Ability to resist detonation

 Low Compression = Regular

 High Compression = Premium

 Video 1

 Video 2
Octane Number

 Lead

 Oxygenates

 Ethanol
How does gasoline burn?
 Liquid?

 Vapor?

 Atomizing
Containing Our Explosion
 Minimizing Lost Energy

 Combustion Chamber
Questions on Page 71
Cylinder Block
 Keeps all parts aligned

 Cast Iron

 Aluminum Alloy
Cooling Fins
 Function

 Design
Crankshaft
 Major rotating part of the engine

 Forged or Cast Steel with precisely machined

and ground bearings
Crankshaft
 Counterweights

 Crankpin or Connecting Rod Journal

 Throw

 Flywheel

 PTO
Crankcase
 Rigid and Strong

 Keep Parts Aligned

 Hold Oil and Keep Out Dirt

Piston
 Straight line driving member of the engine

 Subject to direct heat from combustion

Piston
 Adequate clearance to allow for expansion

 Piston rings
 Compression Ring:

 Scraper Ring (Compression):

 Oil Ring:
Piston
 Ring grooves

 Characteristics of a Piston

 Wrist Pin (Piston Pin):

 Retainers
Connecting Rod
 Connects piston to crankshaft

 Bearings

 Bearing Cap
Intake and Exhaust Ports
 Ports (Two Stroke)

 Poppet Valves
Poppet Valves
 Intake (Usually Larger):

 Exhaust:
Poppet Valves
 Valve Face

 Valve Seat

 Valve Stem
Poppet Valves
 Valve Guide

 Valve Spring

 Valve Rotator

 Retainer (Keeper)
 Pin
 Collar
 Keyhole
Valve Lifter or Tappet
 Link b/w camshaft lobe and valve stem
Camshaft
 Timing Gear

 Lobe

 Compression Release

 Position?
Flywheel
 Three Functions
 Momentum

 Cooling

 Ignition/Accessories
Objectives
 Explain simple engine operation.
 List the qualities of gasoline that make it an
efficient fuel for small engines.
 Explain why gasoline is atomized in the small
engine.
 Identify the basic components of a small
engine and describe the function of each part.