Engine oil plays a vital role in the smooth running of the engine, reducing fuel emissions, and improving the engine’s performance. Engine oil is a lubricant that consists of base oil enhanced with various additives (anti-wear additives, detergents, dispersants, and viscosity index improvers). The engine is the heart of a motorbike. An engine is made of different motor parts that work together to convert the fuel energy into mechanical force. In doing so, the parts come in contact, and friction is created. Hence engine oil is required for smooth running of the bike and for a healthier and longer engine life.
Functions of Engine Oil:
- Lubrication:
Engine oil is used to make sure that lubrication is provided to all parts of the engine in order to reduce friction and wear. This ensures that the engine runs smoothly, and have a longer lifespan - Cooling:
Exposure to different temperatures and friction between engine parts tends to heat the engine of the bike. Efficient engine oil helps in cooling the oil. The oil temperature should never go above the flashpoint of the oil, and thus oil with high heat resistance is recommended. - Cleaning:
All engine oils are made up of base oil and additives. The additives help to keep the engine clean by cleaning the carbon formation collected on the parts. It clears the accumulated deposits, sludge, and microscopic debris from the engine and unclogs it. - Protection from Corrosion:
The additives in the engine oil help to slow down the process of corrosion caused by the oxidation of metal parts thereby giving the engine a longer lifespan. - Act as a seal:
Engine oils provide space between the piston and cylinder, These gaps are filled by the engine oils to optimize engine performance and efficiency.
It is important to change the engine oil periodical. This is is because the oil gets dirty from the combustion process blasts past the piston rings. Also, as the miles stack up, it leads to viscosity breakdown and insufficient lubrication. Other Additives get worn out and used up too. And while the base oil itself is extremely durable and will last for thousands of miles, it’s important to change the engine oil in order to press the reset button on all those critical additives. Also, to adhere with the manufacturer’s warranty period, it is advisable to change the engine oil as suggested by manufacturer.