11/14/2008 WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: • Identify major engine components • Identify engine component functions • Identify related items • Provide basic use, installation and warranty information MAJOR COMPONENTS & FUNCTIONS ∗ Engine Block — Holds the cylinders and crankshaft. On “pushrod” engines, the block also holds the camshaft. On “overhead cam” (OHC) engines, the camshaft(s) are in the cylinder head(s). Engine blocks come in various configurations including in-line three, four, five and six cylinders, V-blocks (V6, V8 & V10), and horizontally opposed (Porsche, Subaru and older air-cooled VW). Usually made of cast iron, some blocks may also be aluminum with or without iron cylinder liners. Cylinder bores experience wear and may have to be bored or honed to oversize when the engine is rebuilt. ∗ Cylinder Heads — Mounted atop the cylinders, these hold the combustion chambers, valves, upper valvetrain components and spark plugs. Heads may be cast iron or aluminum. Cast iron heads usually have integral valve guides and seats, but some have replaceable guides (big block Chevy V8s). All aluminum heads have replaceable guides and seats. Heads may crack or warp if the engine overheats. The head may need to be resurfaced if the head gasket has failed. ∗ Crankshaft — A rotating cast iron or forged steel shaft with throws and counterweights that transmits the up and down reciprocating...
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