The Shape of the Crankshaft

The Shape of the Crankshaft Points : the shape of the crankshaft, crankshaft oil seals The shape of the crankshaft depends upon the number of cylinders in an engine. The firing order of an engine depends on the shape of the crankshaft. Not all four, six, eight or twelve cylinder engines fire the same sequence respectively, the disposition of the cranks on the crankshaft, in certain cars, being different for engines of the same number of cylinders. In other cases, although the disposal of cranks may be the same, the disposal of the cams may alter the firing sequence. Crankshaft Oil Seals Crankshaft oil seals keep oil leaking out the front and rear of the engine. The oil pump forces oil into the main and connecting rod bearings. This causes oil to spray out of the bearings. Seals are placed around the front and rear of the crank to contain the oil.