Friction

When two metal parts rub against each other, there is friction. The friction causes the metal surfaces to wear away and actually decrease in size, however minutely. The purpose of lubrication is to separate the moving parts with a thin film of oil so they don't touch each other and frictional wear does not occur. The oil film is created when the engine is on and the lubrication system is pressurized with the oil pump, but it collapses with the engine off.

CAUSE OF FRICTION
CAUSE OF FRICTION

Therefore, most frictional wear takes place when the engine is just started, since the oil hasn't yet been sufficiently pressurized to create a thin film between all of the parts. In fact, over 90% of frictional wear occurs at engine start and in the first 10 seconds of running. Amazingly, the wear caused by one cold engine start is about the same as 500 miles of highway driving with a warm engine and good oil!

To minimize frictional wear, it is important not to repeatedly start and stop the engine. Unnecessary engine starts add engine wear that is otherwise avoidable. Furthermore, avoid fast accelerations or heavy hauling; high engine loads increase wear because the extreme forces on the parts squeeze out the oil film. Also, reduce short trips where operating temperature is never achieved. They contribute to mechanical wear when the oil hasn't achieved its full lubricating capabilities.


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