
Automobile engine two major mechanisms are the valve train and the crankshaft connecting rod mechanism, while the five major systems are the starting system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, and supply system. The automobile engine is the device that provides power for the vehicle, determining its power performance, fuel economy, stability, and environmental friendliness. Automobile engines are categorized into diesel engines, gasoline engines, electric vehicle motors, and hybrid motors. Methods for maintaining an automobile engine include: 1. Regularly changing the engine oil and oil filter; 2. Using lubricants of appropriate quality grades; 3. Periodically cleaning the radiator; 4. Maintaining the three filters; 5. Keeping the crankcase ventilated; 6. Regularly cleaning the crankcase; 7. Periodically cleaning the fuel system.

This is what I hear most often from students during car repairs. The two major mechanisms of an engine are the crankshaft connecting rod mechanism and the valve train mechanism. The former converts the reciprocating motion of the pistons into rotational power, while the latter controls the opening and closing of the valves to manage intake and exhaust. The five major systems are also straightforward: the ignition system is responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture with spark plugs, the cooling system uses radiator coolant to dissipate heat, the lubrication system applies engine oil to reduce friction between parts, the starting system relies on the battery and starter motor to fire up the engine, and the fuel supply system acts like blood vessels, delivering gasoline into the cylinders. These components function like organs in the body, each with its own role. If the lubrication system fails, the engine could seize up and be ruined. Remember to change the oil regularly and check the belts—it can save you a lot on repair costs.

A veteran driver with over 20 years of experience shares this insight. The engine has two core mechanisms: the crank-rod assembly acts like legs and feet to transmit force, while the valve train functions like lungs for breathing. Let me analogize the five major systems: the fuel system is the chef that feeds the engine, the cooling system is the temperature regulator, the ignition system is like striking a match, the lubrication system applies oil, and the starting system is the alarm clock that wakes it up. Especially during cold starts, the starting system works the hardest—a dead battery means no spark. Remember to switch to low-temperature oil in winter; otherwise, the lubrication system can't keep up, leading to seized bearings. Plus, modern cars have made valve trains smarter—VVT (variable valve timing) technology even saves fuel.

Last time, during the car club lecture, we focused on this topic. Among the two major mechanisms, the crank-connecting rod mechanism connects the piston and the crankshaft via the connecting rod, while the valve train controls the valve opening through the camshaft. The five major systems include: the fuel system injects fuel for power, the cooling system dissipates heat through water circulation, the lubrication system builds an oil film for protection, the ignition system fires during the compression stroke, and the starting system uses a motor to drive the crankshaft. A special reminder: if the engine is shaking due to a misfire, it's most likely an issue with the ignition system, with spark plug carbon buildup being the most common cause. If the fan continues to run after parking, it's the cooling system at work—no need to panic. Regular maintenance every 5,000 kilometers mainly focuses on lubrication and cooling, the two critical aspects.

From a mechanical perspective, the two major engine mechanisms operate like a dance duo. The crankshaft-connecting rod mechanism acts as the lead dancer, converting vertical motion into rotation; while the valve train keeps the rhythm by controlling intake and exhaust timing. The five major systems serve as the support team: the fuel supply system delivers gasoline, the cooling system regulates temperature, the lubrication system provides protective coverage for friction points, the ignition system sparks at critical moments, and the starting system supplies initial power. Turbocharged vehicles particularly rely on lubrication and cooling systems, as high-temperature sludge can clog oil passages. Modified cars require careful fuel supply matching to avoid air-fuel ratio imbalance, which can increase fuel consumption. Regular use of fuel additives to clean carbon deposits is essential.


