Remedies for Common Oil Contamination Problems

Engine oil contamination causes numerous equipment failures. Here are eight remedies that may help solve common oil contamination problems.

Fuel is the primary engine oil contaminant, more so with out-of-date carburettor engines. The fix is to tune the engine: timing, start plugs, plug wires, distributor cap and carburettor tuning.

Corrosion Another cause of oil contamination are the corroded pulleys. To keep these pulleys in good shape, it is advised to sand pulleys smoothly and powder-coat them, this will keep the belt clean to a base while expanding belt life. You have the option to refinish or replace your corroded pulleys.

Drive Belt Clean poorly adjusted belts form dust that saturates the engine compartment, and it is pulled through the fire arrester or air intake. Keeping the belt pulleys aligned and maintaining the right belt tension will decrease dust in the engine intake.

Leaks While the engine's running and the vessel is afloat, even minor water leaks from fittings can let droplets fly into the engine by means of the fire arrester. In this way, check cautiously for water leaks while the engine is running. Tighten clamps and fittings, and change any hoses as required.

Cracks A cracked block or fumes or intake complex may permit water drainage. Operate the engine with clean oil. If the engine "makes oil" (the oil level increases) and if the oil seems milky, water is getting in.

Foam Fastened on the underside of the engine bring forth as a sound-stifling material, Foam weakens after some time and finds its way into the engine, again through the intake. Visibly damaged foam or brittle to the touch indicates removal or replacement.

Sticky Exhaust Valves An unclosed valve may draw water back through the ventilation system. Due to excessive running of the engine a sticky valve becomes normal, leaving deposits on the valve seats and stems, consistent upkeep is the way to avoidance.

Overheating Regardless of whether brought about by an awful water pump or obstructed cooling passages from sucking lake rubbles, overheating can prompt water leaks, even though it typically takes seriously higher temperatures to bring about cracks in cylinder heads and blocks.

Remember: Many engine failures are caused by lack of maintenance, resulting in filter blockages, engine pump failures, overheating and then breakdown.