Auto Engines

Any and every automobile will be nothing more than an immobile piece of junk if its engine is removed. The internal combustion engine fitted into each and every automobile is the device that makes the 'auto' 'mobile' in the real sense. The auto engine performs many additional functions as well. Along with the auto battery, it is the primary source of power to all the components of the vehicle. All electrical components are powered by the engine.

The most commonly used form of auto engine is the one where fuel is compressed and ignited to lead to an explosive release of heat and gases, which in turn pushes the piston. This moving piston powers the crankshaft that is connected to the wheels of the automobile. Attempts to create an engine began way back in the 1700's. Jean Lenoir invented an internal combustion engine in 1860. While this engine was used to power an automobile, the achievement of inventing a reliable and workable automobile engine belongs to Gottlieb Daimler who invented the modern gas engine in 1885.

It is difficult to come up with a single name who can take credit for inventing auto engines. Work progressed simultaneously across many countries and even continents. Work done by Benz on the auto engine reached its zenith almost at the same time as Daimler. Even today, the process of refining and improving the auto engine is in progress. Car makers are trying to increase the number of cylinders, valves, compression ratio and other such specifications of automobile engines to improve its performance.

Although the basic design of the auto engine has not changed, a lot of research and development has gone into:

• The components of the engine
• The materials used to make engines.
• The fuel used in the engines

The racing industry has spawned a whole new type of auto engine. Racing cars have auto engines that are designed for maximum performance under the toughest conditions. Needless to say, car makers as well as those who customize auto engines to suit their personal requirements have learnt a lot from observing the performance of auto engines in high speed auto races.

The latest innovation in the field of new auto engines is the use of electronic chips and mini computers to enhance the performance of engines. Further, research and development by car manufacturers has led to improvements in the materials used to manufacture auto engines. For a very long time, cast iron was used to manufacture auto engine parts. However, aluminum alloy is also being used in engines by car manufacturers. This material is as strong as cast iron and is much better in heat dissipation as compared to cast iron.

Repairing or replacing the engine of the automobile is a big job. Auto engines do not come cheap. However, replacing the auto engine will work out cheaper than buying a new automobile. It is not compulsory for car owners to buy engines from manufacturer and dealers only. One can opt for used engines that are in good condition. You can find good quality used engines for a large number of cars and automobiles at Automotix