If you are a car enthusiast, you must have heard about Subaru engines. These engines are popular for their reliability, durability, and performance. However, to understand how a Subaru engine works, you need to have a clear understanding of its components.
What is a Subaru Engine?
A Subaru engine is an internal combustion engine that powers Subaru vehicles. It is a four-stroke engine that uses gasoline as fuel. The engine has several components, each playing a crucial role in its operation.
Components of a Subaru Engine
The main components of a Subaru engine include:
- Engine block
- Cylinder head
- Pistons
- Connecting rods
- Crankshaft
- Camshaft
- Valves
- Timing belt/chain
Engine Block
The engine block is the foundation of the engine. It is a large metal casting that contains the cylinders, pistons, and other components. The block also has openings for coolant and oil passages.
Cylinder Head
The cylinder head sits on top of the engine block and holds the valves, camshaft, and spark plugs. It is responsible for sealing the combustion chamber and providing a surface for the head gasket to seal.
Pistons
The pistons are cylindrical components that move up and down inside the cylinders. They are connected to the crankshaft via connecting rods and are responsible for transferring the force of the expanding gases to the crankshaft.
Connecting Rods
The connecting rods connect the pistons to the crankshaft. They are responsible for transferring the force of the pistons to the crankshaft, which converts the linear motion of the pistons into rotary motion.
Crankshaft
The crankshaft is a large metal shaft that converts the linear motion of the connecting rods into rotary motion. It is responsible for driving the transmission and ultimately the wheels of the vehicle.
Camshaft
The camshaft is responsible for opening and closing the valves in the cylinder head. It is driven by the crankshaft via a timing belt or chain.
Valves
The valves are responsible for controlling the flow of air and fuel into the engine and the exhaust gases out of the engine. They are opened and closed by the camshaft.
Timing Belt/Chain
The timing belt or chain connects the crankshaft to the camshaft and ensures that the valves open and close at the right time in relation to the position of the pistons.
Conclusion
A Subaru engine is a complex piece of machinery that requires all its components to work together seamlessly to deliver the performance and reliability that the brand is known for. Understanding the components of a Subaru engine and how they work together can help you appreciate the engineering that goes into these engines.