LO 10-7 Outline lubrication system maintenance and service procedures

Maintenance of Lubrication Systems

While the properties of oil and the lubricating system can seem complex, the most common considerations for a technician are when and how to change the oil. A technician will need to diagnose problems with oil circuits, coolers, and control valves fewer times, but failing to service engine oil can dramatically shorten engine life and lead to catastrophic and costly component failures. Overservicing an engine is often viewed as an effective maintenance strategy, but the quantity of oil used during a service and the accompanying cost of replacing oil and filters too frequently is inefficient. It also yields few, if any, meaningful benefits compared to timely service intervals. Understanding the factors that limit oil life and the methods used to evaluate the optimal service schedule are the most helpful service recommendations technicians can provide when advising customers.

Other relatively common conditions encountered by technicians are situations where a customer reports high oil consumption and excess engine oil in the crankcase or low oil pressure. These conditions often point to potentially imminent engine failure, which can be prevented with diagnostic inspections and service interventions.