5. Explain how a visual inspection during an engine test can help detect problems. (5 marks) 6. Why is it important to record engine test results, and how can they help with future maintenance? (5 marks) 7. Name two signs that an engine has a problem. (2 marks) 8. What tool is used to check engine problems?
Answer (1)
A visual inspection during an engine test can help detect problems by allowing engineers to physically observe the engine and related components. They can look for signs such as leaks, corrosion, or wear and tear that might not be obvious in diagnostic tests. Visual cues like unusual smoke color or loose connections can quickly point out anomalies that need further investigation.
Recording engine test results is important because it creates a documented history of the engine's performance and any issues that have arisen. This information can be crucial for troubleshooting and identifying patterns or recurrent problems over time. It can also assist in planning future maintenance by highlighting specific areas that need attention and ensuring that all aspects of the engine are checked and evaluated based on previous issues.
Two signs that an engine has a problem include unusual noises (like knocking or grinding) and excessive smoke. Unusual noises can indicate issues with internal components, while excessive smoke, depending on its color, can signal problems such as burning oil (blue smoke) or unburned fuel (black smoke).
A common tool used to check engine problems is the On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) scanner. It connects to the vehicle's computer system and reads error codes that can point to malfunctioning sensors, circuits, or components, providing a starting point for identifying engine issues.
