4-Cycle Engine Theory; Intake; Ignition And Power; Compression - Generac Power Systems GTH760 Service Manual

4-CYCle eNGINe THeorY

If the engine is to run properly, four (4) events must occur in the proper sequence and at the correct time. These events are
(A) intake, (B) compression, (C) ignition and power, and (D) exhaust.
(A)
The piston is travelling from top dead center (TDC) to bottom
dead center (BDC). The cam has opened the intake valve. The
piston's downward movement in the cylinder creates a partial
vacuum in the cylinder. Air at atmospheric pressure is drawn
into the cylinder through the carburetor and is mixed with fuel
in the carburetor. The fuel-air mixture flows through the open
intake valve into the cylinder. When the piston reaches BDC,
the intake stroke is over.
(b)

CoMPreSSIoN

As the piston reaches bottom dead center (BDC), both the
intake and exhaust valves are closed. The piston moves upward
toward TDC and the fuel-air mixture is compressed. Just before
the piston reaches TDC, ignition occurs.

INTAke

(C)

IGNITIoN ANd Power

By the time the piston reaches TDC , combustion is already in
progress. The intake and exhaust valves remain closed as the
expanding gases of combustion force the piston downward.
(d)
The exhaust stroke begins when the piston has reached
BDC and has started its upward movement. The intake valve
is closed. The exhaust valve is open to let gases escape.
4
eXHAuST