Oils & Lubricants

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Understanding Lubricant Types and Their Applications

As a machine with numerous moving parts, a car relies on good lubricants to keep functioning as it should. A vehicle owner must ensure that each piece is properly oiled to facilitate movement. Using a lubricant is not enough: one must know the right one. The wrong engine oil can cause severe damage to components. You should be capable of identifying the lubricant that your car uses then pick the most suitable product. The problem is that the market is filled with oils of all kinds, and without sufficient knowledge, making this decision can be intimidating. A car owner should first be able to distinguish between the different types of lubricants and what they can do.

Greases

Automotive grease is oil that has thickeners such as lithium soaps added. The stickiness that these compounds give greases allows them to adhere to surfaces. Some greases are also blended with other particles such as Teflon (polytetrafluoroethylene), graphite and molybdenum disulfide. For this reason, grease will lubricate parts as well as form a film on the surface to offer protection from contaminants. It is why this lubricant is recommended to prevent rusting of car parts. The high viscosity of greases can make them unsuitable for some small parts due to the resistance they generate after lubrication. The wheel bearing, chassis and areas with grease fittings require this type of lubricant. Grease varies in consistency, so the degree of thickness that you need when lubricating different parts dictates the right product. Grease lubrication is ideal for machines that are not used very often to make up for the lack of regular oiling. Greases come in categories like white grease, which is waterproof and suitable in areas where you can’t have water. High-temperature grease is used in the wheel bearing, particularly in cars with disc brakes. The advantage of this lubricant is that even when it dries, it stays slippery. Then, there is the type of grease that doesn’t conduct electricity and is, therefore, ideal for parts with electrical connections.

Oils

Oils are the most diverse automotive lubricants. They are made with long polymer chains and get their various properties from additives. Oils that are designed to avoid corrosion of metal parts are added with corrosion inhibitors, those that protect against oxidation have antioxidants and oils that are meant to prevent surface deposits have detergents, and so on. It means that you have to know what function an oil product is intended for before picking it. When applied on surfaces, oils form a barrier that offers protection. Oils are ideal for lubricating small parts that move fast. However, they are not suitable for parts that come into contact with water. Although oils form a surface film, over time, water can absorb into the oil and degrade its adhesion. The viscosity grade differs from one oil to another. How thin you require the lubricant to flow will indicate the right viscosity. Most cars will have manuals on the right engine oil viscosity. Multi-grade oil is a popular recommendation because it offers some flexibility. When a multi-grade oil is exposed to low temperatures, it has one viscosity rating and when it is heated, the viscosity degree changes. Oils come in different classes, including transmission oil, which is responsible for keeping all the components in the transmission system lubricated. Transmission fluid serves more than one purpose. It is designed to condition seals in the system, grade against corrosion and keep temperatures low when the vehicle is running. Transmission fluid is also used in leak detection because it is brightly coloured. Gearbox oil is another lubricant that every vehicle needs to survive. It is built for high-temperature usage. A majority of gear oils have a viscosity degree of above 75. The manual transmission and differential are the two sections of a vehicle that benefit from this type of lubricant.

Dry Lubricants

A car has parts that require lubrication but cannot stand exposure to oils. Dry lubricants serve as alternatives in such circumstances. These lubricants are sold in aerosol form but are extremely slippery to allow adequate lubrication. A dry lubricant can be silicone, PTFE, graphite or molybdenum disulfide. Alcohol or water is added to these particles to give them evaporation properties after application. Dry lubricants are suitable for car door locks, hinges and parts that need to stay clean.

Penetrating Lubricants

When a car has stuck bolts, corroded and seized nuts, this is the lubricant to get. A vehicle that has gone a while without property lubrication or has been in use for too long can have years of rust buildup and other debris. Penetrating lubricants are designed to get rid of such contaminants. They are typically low in viscosity and work on a temporary basis. The lubricating additives in these products allow them to get through minute cracks and break up corrosive builds. Whether you are buying transmission fluid, engine or gear oil, you must be careful about the type of lubricant you pick and its usability.

Frequently Asked Questions about Oils & Lubricants

Is it worth fitting a performance air filter?

Fitting a performance air filter can offer several benefits:

  • Improved Airflow: Performance air filters are designed to increase airflow to the engine, which can enhance performance.
  • Better Engine Efficiency: With improved airflow, the engine can operate more efficiently, potentially leading to better fuel economy.
  • Enhanced Throttle Response: Many users report a more responsive throttle, which can improve driving experience.
  • Longer Lifespan: Performance filters are often reusable and can last longer than standard filters, reducing replacement costs over time.
  • Potential Power Gains: Some drivers experience a slight increase in horsepower, although this can vary based on the vehicle and filter type.
However, the actual benefits can depend on the specific vehicle and driving conditions.

What are the cons of camming your car?

Camming your car can enhance performance, but it also comes with several drawbacks:

  • Increased Engine Wear: A camshaft can put additional stress on engine components, leading to faster wear and potential failure.
  • Reduced Fuel Efficiency: Performance cams often result in lower fuel economy due to altered air-fuel mixtures.
  • Compromised Driveability: Cams can affect low-end torque, making the car less responsive at lower RPMs.
  • Noise Levels: Performance cams can increase engine noise, which may not be desirable for all drivers.
  • Potential Emissions Issues: Altered engine performance can lead to higher emissions, potentially causing issues with regulations.
  • Cost of Installation: Upgrading to a performance camshaft can be expensive, including parts and labour.
  • Compatibility Issues: Not all engines are compatible with aftermarket cams, which can limit options.

Do camshafts change engine sound?

Yes, camshafts can change the engine sound. The design and specifications of a camshaft influence the timing and duration of valve openings, which affects the engine's performance and acoustics. Factors that contribute to changes in engine sound include:

  • Lift and Duration: Higher lift and longer duration can create a more aggressive sound.
  • Profile: Different camshaft profiles can alter the exhaust note.
  • Engine RPM: Camshafts designed for higher RPMs may produce a different sound compared to those for lower RPMs.
  • Engine Type: The overall engine configuration (e.g., V8, inline) also affects how camshaft changes impact sound.

Why do cammed cars sound choppy?

Cammed cars sound choppy primarily due to the characteristics of the camshaft profile. Here are the main reasons:

  • Lift and Duration: A camshaft with higher lift and longer duration allows more air and fuel into the engine, creating a more aggressive sound.
  • Overlap: Increased overlap between the intake and exhaust valves can lead to a rougher idle, contributing to the choppy sound.
  • Idle Speed: Cams designed for performance often require a higher idle speed, which can accentuate the choppy noise.
  • Exhaust Note: The changes in exhaust flow dynamics due to the cam profile can alter the exhaust note, making it sound more aggressive and choppy.

Does camshaft affect acceleration?

Yes, the camshaft does affect acceleration. The camshaft controls the timing and duration of the engine's valve openings, which directly influences engine performance. Key factors include:

  • Valve Timing: Proper timing allows for optimal air-fuel mixture intake and exhaust gas expulsion, enhancing engine efficiency.
  • Lift and Duration: Higher lift and longer duration can improve power output at higher RPMs, which can lead to better acceleration.
  • Engine Tuning: A camshaft designed for performance can shift the power band, affecting how quickly the engine accelerates.
In summary, the design and specifications of the camshaft play a crucial role in determining how effectively an engine can accelerate.

Does camming a car make it louder?

Camming a car typically involves installing a performance camshaft, which can indeed make the engine louder. This increase in noise is due to several factors:

  • Increased Airflow: A performance camshaft allows for greater airflow into and out of the engine, which can enhance the exhaust note.
  • Higher RPMs: Cams designed for performance often operate at higher RPMs, producing a more aggressive sound.
  • Exhaust System Interaction: The camshaft can change the way exhaust gases exit the engine, potentially amplifying the sound through the exhaust system.
Overall, while camming a car can lead to a louder engine sound, the extent of the increase will depend on the specific camshaft used and the overall setup of the vehicle.

How much does it cost to replace a camshaft?

The cost to replace a camshaft can vary significantly based on several factors, including the make and model of the vehicle, labour costs, and whether you choose an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part or an aftermarket part. Typical costs include:

  • Parts: Ā£200 to Ā£1,000
  • Labour: Ā£300 to Ā£800
Overall, the total cost for camshaft replacement can range from approximately Ā£500 to Ā£1,800. Always consult with a mechanic for a precise estimate based on your specific vehicle.

Do camshafts increase horsepower?

Yes, camshafts can increase horsepower. They play a crucial role in controlling the timing and duration of the engine's intake and exhaust valves. Upgrading to a performance camshaft can enhance airflow, improve engine efficiency, and increase power output. Benefits of a performance camshaft include:

  • Improved airflow into and out of the engine
  • Increased torque and horsepower at higher RPMs
  • Better throttle response
  • Optimised engine performance for specific driving conditions
However, the extent of the horsepower increase depends on various factors, including the engine type, other modifications, and tuning.

What does a higher lift camshaft do?

A higher lift camshaft increases the amount of valve lift, allowing the engine to draw in more air and fuel during the intake stroke. This can lead to improved engine performance in several ways:

  • Increased Airflow: More air entering the combustion chamber can enhance combustion efficiency.
  • Higher Power Output: With better airflow, the engine can produce more power, especially at higher RPMs.
  • Improved Torque: A higher lift can also contribute to increased torque, particularly in performance applications.
  • Enhanced Throttle Response: The engine may respond more quickly to throttle inputs due to improved airflow dynamics.
However, it is important to consider that a higher lift camshaft may require additional modifications to the engine, such as upgraded valve springs and potentially changes to the engine's tuning.

What makes a cam aggressive?

An aggressive camshaft is characterised by several key features that enhance engine performance. These include:

  • Increased Lift: Higher lift allows the engine to draw in more air and fuel, improving combustion efficiency.
  • Longer Duration: A longer duration keeps the intake and exhaust valves open for a greater portion of the engine cycle, allowing for better airflow.
  • Steeper Ramp Rates: Faster opening and closing of the valves can lead to more power at higher RPMs.
  • Overlap: Increased overlap between the intake and exhaust valves can enhance performance by improving scavenging of exhaust gases.
  • Profile Shape: The specific shape of the cam lobes can influence how the engine responds at different RPMs, with aggressive profiles typically favouring high RPM performance.
These characteristics contribute to a camshaft that provides more power and responsiveness, particularly in performance-oriented applications.

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