Automakers

Cylinder deactivation reactivated

Chris Meagher says GM's cylinder deactivation system has had "a great launch. We've had no issues."
RT
By:
Richard Truett
October 02, 2006 05:00 AM
Cylinder deactivation

Automakers get about an 8% gain in fuel economy by shutting down half of the engine's cylinders. Here's how.

  • The cylinders are turned off by keeping valves closed, keeping out air and fuel.
  • In push rod engines, oil to the valve lifters is cut off on half the cylinders once the engine reaches cruising speed.
  • On overhead-cam engines, valves are closed by locking and unlocking lobes on the camshaft.

Imagine being General Motors engineer Chris Meagher.

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