For the injection system to function correctly in internal combustion engines, certain mechanical components indicate the engine's position.
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Camshaft sensor: Role, operation, and diagnostics
The camshaft is a crucial component for the proper functioning of the engine, as it manages the opening and closing of the intake and exhaust valves. It is an integral part of the combustion cycle, allowing the engine to "breathe." The timing chain or belt transmits the crankshaft's rotational speed and is equipped with a cam that presses on the valve according to the engine's rhythm.
A sensor is installed on the camshaft and sends information about the piston's combustion cycle to the engine control unit, enabling it to inject fuel into the correct cylinder at the right time.
Crankshaft position sensor: Operation and faults
The crankshaft position sensor, also known as the crankshaft sensor, informs the engine control unit of the piston's position so it can calculate the engine speed and adjust fuel injection accordingly.
However, for an engine operating in four phases (intake, compression, power, and exhaust), the piston at top dead centre can be in either the compression or exhaust phase, depending on the combustion cycle. To determine this information, the computer relies on camshaft sensors that provide these data.
Flywheel: Operation, faults, and symptoms
The flywheel allows other components, such as crankshaft position sensors or camshafts, to assist the transmission and clutch but can exhibit malfunctions with symptoms that are hard to detect.
The flywheel is a mechanical disc-shaped component located between the engine and the clutch, ensuring transmission between the two. It is also designed to regulate and stabilise the engine's rotation to reduce turbulence caused by the cylinder. For this reason, the flywheel is quite heavy (between 5 and 10 kg) and features springs in dual-mass models. The teeth around the disc also allow the starter to engage via gears to crank the engine during startup.