Engine Adjustments; Oil Pressure - Westerbeke 8.0KW-60Hz Service Manual

ENGINE ADJUSTMENTS
OIL PRESSURE
DESCRIPTION
The lubricating system is a pressure feeding system using an
oil pump. The engine oil is drawn from the oil sump by the
oil pump, which drives the oil, under pressure, through the
oil filter, oil cooler and various lubricating points in the
engine. The oil then returns to the oil sump to repeat the
continuous cycle. When the oil pressure exceeds the
specified pressure, the oil pushes open the relief valve in the
oil pump and returns to the oil sump, keeping the oil pressure
within its specified range.
TESTING OIL PRESSURE
To test the oil pressure, remove the hex head plug from the
oil manifold and install a mechanical oil pressure gauge in its
place. After warming up the ~ngine, set the engine speed at
1800 rpm and read the oil pressure gauge.
011 P ....
ure
Between 50 and 60 psi at 1800 rpm.
Note:
A newly started (cold) engine may have an oil pres-
sure up to 70 or 80 psi. A warmed engine can have an oil
pressure as low as 30 psi. Oil pressure will vary depending
on the load placed on the generator.
TESTING OIL PRESSURE
LOW OIL PRESSURE
The specified safe minimum oil pressure is 4.3 + 1.4 psi (0.3
+ 0.1 kg/em'). A gradual loss of oil pressure usually indicates
worn bearings. For additional information on low oil pressure
readings, see the ENGINE TROUBLESHOOTING chart.
OIL PRESSURE SWITCH
The generator is fitted with an oil pressure sender and an oil
pressure shutdown switch. Should the engine's oil pressure
drop below the safe minimum, the switch will open and shut
the engine down to prevent damage.
A
CAUTION:
OIL PRESSURE SWlrCH-Da nat use lack
pliers, vise grips or pipe wrenches an the ail pressure
switch. Use the correct sacket which is available tram
Snap-an, Prato, New Britain and others. Damage to the
switch will cause ail leaks and/or switch failure.
+
OIL PRESSURE
SWITCH
(NORMAllY OPEN)
r-_ _
~~.<J~ALlY
OPEN
K2RELAY
1
~
IGNITION
Oil PRESSURE
-.v WESTERBEKE
Engines & Generators
38