198 Vehicle care
Engine oil system
The engine is dependent on oil for
lubricating critical areas subjected to
high friction loads:
• The cylinder walls
• The pistons and rings
• The valve stems
Some oil from these areas is carried
into the combustion chamber
and burnt during the combustion
process.
Other factors that contribute to the
rate of oil consumption in the engine:
• Worn pistons, rings, valve stems
and guides
• The way in which the vehicle is
operated
• The quality and grade of oil
• The oil level and dilution
Operation of the vehicle
High speed driving and heavy towing
increases engine temperature, which
lowers oil viscosity, causing more oil
to reach the combustion chamber
and get burnt away.
Quality and grade of oil
If an oil is too ‘thin’ (low viscosity),
the oil consumption will increase.
Use only the recommended grades
of oil. See Recommended fluids,
lubricants and parts on page 241.
Oil level
Maintain the required oil level.
Over filling causes:
• Oil to splash onto the cylinder
walls
• Excess oil to be drawn into the
combustion chamber and burnt
• Oil in the sump to become
aerated causing damage to the
engine
Use of oils that do not meet the
dexos™ specification may result in
reduced performance under certain
circumstances.
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