Re: Oil level guage

["Kirbert" <palmk@mailer.gadcomm.net>]

> From:          Cosmo <simond@london.informix.com>
> Failing that, I would be happy with just an indicator that showed
> low, ok, high.

Like the switch in the brake fluid reservoir.

I suspect that the problem with any such indicator is that the correct fluid 
level is only apparent when the engine is shut off.  When running, some of 
that oil is up circulating through the galleys, some is running down the 
sides of the crankcase, so the correct level is actually lower.  And 
cornering, braking, driving uphill/downhill will all screw up the readings.

Same problem with the oil filter bypass sensor idea.  It'd be easy to do, 
just install contacts in the bypass itself.  However, I strongly suspect that 
bypassing is not only a function of how plugged the filter element is, but 
also how fast the engine is turning and how cold the oil is.  Hence, a cold 
engine revved up will ALWAYS bypass, and having the light flicker on the dash 
has told you nothing about the real condition of the filter.

Believe it or not, I'd almost prefer a system with no bypass!  As the filter 
plugs up, the oil pressure would drop, providing a definite indication it's 
time for a filter change.  But car companies can't go this route, some people 
would still drive the cars forever without changing and the engine would 
starve for oil -- or the element would bust open and dump all that crud into 
the galleys.

 -- Kirbert      |     If anything is to be accomplished,
                 |     some rules must be broken.
                 |          - Palm's Postulate

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References:

• Oil level guage
• From: Cosmo <simond@london.informix.com>

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