Kansas City Diesel Engines
Throughout North America, diesel engines conjure up images of giant 18 wheelers and other large vehicles. Diesel engines are more popular in Europe, where they are commonly seen in cars. But why was the diesel engine invented and what separates it from gasoline engines? Rudolf Diesel, a German inventor, invented the process after he heard about the inefficiencies of gasoline engines. Gasoline engines, as initially conceived, were horribly inefficient. They only used 10 percent of heat created. The rest went to waste. Rudolf planned on inventing a newer, more efficient engine.
How Do Diesel Engines Work?
There isn't much of a difference between diesel and gasoline engines. At their simplest, both are combustible engines. Energy starts the up and down motion of the pistons. This motion rotates the crankshaft which starts the wheels of the vehicle to move.
Small combustions power both diesel and gasoline engines. Between gasoline and diesel engines, there is a difference in how those explosions happen. Diesel engines switch up the order of events. In a diesel engine, air is compressed first and then the fuel is injected. Diesel engines don't have spark plugs because air heats up when it's compressed.
Diesel Engines Today
In the United States, diesels are mostly found in heavier vehicles. Europe manufactures several models of commuter vehicles that are powered by diesel. As diesel improves, it's becoming more and more popular in the United States.
Christian Brothers of Kansas City
If you own a diesel engine in the Kansas City area, take it into Christian Brothers for maintenance, repairs, and tune-ups. Our auto repair specialists have extensive experience with diesel engines.