Chapter 10: Introduction

After studying this chapter, you should be able to:

LO 10-1 Explain the purpose, function, and operating principles of diesel engine lubrication systems.

LO 10-2 Describe the purpose, properties, function, composition, types, and applications of diesel engine lubricating oils.

LO 10-3 Identify and describe the purpose and function of oil additives.

LO 10-4 Describe the composition of synthetic oil and outline the advantages and disadvantages of synthetic oil.

LO 10-5 Identify and describe the types, functions, construction features, and applications of diesel engine lubrication system components.

LO 10-6 Identify and describe the purpose, types, and operation of oil filtration systems.

LO 10-7 Outline lubrication system maintenance and service procedures.

LO 10-8 Describe the purpose of scheduled oil sampling and outline the steps to properly obtain an oil sample.

LO 10-9 Identify potential causes of high oil consumption, the purpose and function of oil level sensors, and maintenance procedures to correct oil consumption.

A number of trucks you service at your repair center haul time-sensitive loads, which means there is almost no tolerance for breakdowns on the road. To ensure that these vehicles do not experience any kind of mechanical problems when in service, you have been tasked with developing a preventive maintenance (PM) schedule and identifying inspection and service criteria to present to customers as part of a maintenance agreement. Part of PM involves lubrication system service. As you prepare the maintenance schedule, consider the following:

1. Identify potential problems with the lubrication system that could lead to a breakdown or road service call.
2. Outline maintenance practices and inspection points of the lubrication system requiring attention during PM services. Explain your service recommendations.
3. Outline some of the more important factors of lubrication system maintenance that promote extending engine life and reliability.