Experimental determination of the optimum oil level in the engine pan during the tilt test

Abstract

An important condition for trouble-free operation and ensuring a long engine life is the proper operation of the lubrication system in all kinds of vehicle operating conditions. This is achieved by choosing the proper scheme and design of the lubrication system and requires, in addition to preliminary calculations, conducting experimental studies. A modern V8 engine with a conventional lubrication system with oil draining to the oil pan is being developed at FSUE “NAMI”. The article describes the engine lubrication system and presents some of its design features. Having been designed, the A-prototype engines was tilt tested to evaluate the performance of the engine configuration and to determine the optimum oil level range. The engine has been tested in different positions and angles, with different oil levels in the oil pan and at different speeds. The descriptions of the test stand and test conditions were given. The purpose of the tests was to assess the performance of the engine at all speed modes for longitudinal and transverse slopes of the vehicle in accordance with the requirements of the technical assignment. Critical factors were a high content of gas component in oil, oil pressure drop or high pulsation, the appearance of oil in valve covers separators. The obtained test results confirmed the engine’s efficiency and its compliance with the technical specifications. The minimum and maximum permissible oil levels, the location of the dipstick marks, the amount of oil to be filled at the beginning of the engine operation and during maintenance were determined. The necessary changes in the engine design were determined.