OILING SYSTEM: In the engine oiling system, oil collects at the crank case pan and is pulled up by the oil pump at the pick up screen. Then, after first pushing the oil through the oil filter, the oil pump forces the oil through oil passages to the top of the engine where it lubricates the valve train and cam shaft. It also forces it through oil passages in the main bearings and crank shafts so as to lubricate the connecting rod bearings, cylinder walls and timing chain or gears. Finally, the oil flow back to the crank case where it is picked up and recirculated again. The oil pressure release valve makes sure the oil pressure stays at a consistent level while piston rings and valve guides keep oil out of the combustion chamber. PERIODIC ENGINE MAINTENANCE INVOLVES: checking your engine oil levels, periodically replacing the oil and filter and checking for gasket leaks. Check your oil level with the engine warmed and turned off. Remove the dip stick, wipe with a rag, reinsert and again remove. Make sure the level is above the add line. If it isn't, add the appropriate amount of oil in order to reach the full line. Change the oil if it is particularly gritty, black or shiny. Changing your crank case oil and filter is the single most important maintenance feature that you can perform for your engine. It should be done at periodic intervals as outlined in your owner's manual. For simplicity sake, we have raised the car so that you can better see the location of the drain plug and the crank case. The drain plug is located at the bottom of the crank case which is the bottom most portion of your engine. When your engine is warmed, turned off and the vehicle is on level ground, remove this plug and allow the oil to drain for three to four minutes. Once the oil is completely drained, immediately replace the plug and move onto the oil filter. The location of your oil filter varies with each individual engine and again you'll need to refer to the owner's manual for your exact location. Once you have found the oil filter, take your oil filter wrench, install it over the oil filter and remove in a counter clockwise direction. Once the filter is off, apply a thin layer of oil to the new filter, spin it on and apply hand tight. Replace with the proper type and amount of oil for your car.
