One of critical systems engine - lubricant. The resource and quality of operation of the internal combustion engine depends on its condition. The oil filled in the engine provides a thin film, thanks to which scuffing and other defects in rubbing pairs are eliminated. In order for the engine to work for a long time and not cause problems to the owner, it is necessary not only to change the oil on time, but also to periodically check its level. Today, cars are equipped with various sensors that allow you to control the level without leaving the car. But still, the most proven method is to use a dipstick to check the oil level in the engine. Today we will tell you how to use it, as well as how to check the remaining lubricant in the gearbox.
Engine oil plays an important role. It is important not only its pressure on the working engine, but also the residual level.
Yes, if everything is fine with the engine, there will be enough lubricant for the entire 10 thousand service life. But still, no one is immune from leaks. Experts recommend checking the level at least once every 2-3 weeks during daily use. Also pay attention to oil puddles that may form after parking. This may indicate problems with the crankcase seal or leaks in other connections.
note that this operation must be performed with the engine turned off and cooled down. How long do you need to wait? 15 minutes is enough for all the liquid to accumulate in the pan. This is the only way a dipstick for checking the oil level in the engine will show a reliable result. If this operation is done “hotly”, the result will significantly deviate from the actual one.
Another requirement is a flat surface. At the slightest ascents or descents, the dipstick for checking the oil level in the engine will show an inaccurate result. We also need a piece of dry and clean rags.
Where is the oil level dipstick located? This element is usually located in the exhaust manifold area. A typical engine oil level dipstick is yellow or red. It looks like the one shown in the photo below.
It can also be painted black. But in any case, its configuration and shape will remain unchanged. You can easily determine its location in the engine. After the engine has cooled down, we begin checking. We take the element out by the handle and wipe it with a dry cloth. Next, install it back into the hole. After a couple of seconds, the dipstick can be removed again to check the engine oil level. Now let's look at his testimony carefully.
On almost all cars it has two marks - MIN and MAX. There are also intermediate divisions. What is considered a normal level? The readings should be between these two marks (maximum and minimum) or slightly above average. If the lubricant is at the MIN mark, the engine will experience oil starvation. In this case, the level must be urgently restored. You only need to add oil of the same brand and viscosity that was previously used during replacement. After this, check the level again. If it returns to normal, install the oil level dipstick back until it clicks and tighten the filler neck.
As you can see, everything is quite simple. This operation does not take much effort. With timely checks, you can prevent engine damage, thereby extending its life.
It happens that the fluid level in the system drops. It often has to be renewed. Engine manufacturers note that natural oil loss should not exceed one liter per 10 thousand kilometers. If more, you have problems with the motor. What is the reason?
This is usually due to a malfunction. When they lie and scuff on the cylinder walls, the oil directly enters the chamber, where it burns together with fuel mixture. Externally, this factor can be identified by blue smoke from the exhaust pipe. But it may not always manifest itself. If you have a turbocharged engine, lubricant may also go to the compressor. This occurs due to faulty turbine bushings and impeller play. In any case, if the engine “eats” a lot of oil, this is a serious reason for diagnosis.
Nowadays, more and more cars are equipped with automatic transmission. Unlike mechanics, here the transmission of torque is transmitted not by a dry disc, but by ATP fluid. It circulates throughout the transmission under pressure. If the level is insufficient, serious problems with the automatic transmission may occur. Therefore, you need to know how to use the dipstick to check the oil level in an automatic transmission. It is located directly in the box and has a similar handle.
Before taking it out, the transmission must be thoroughly warmed up. The oil should reach an operating temperature of 90 degrees. A trip of 10-12 kilometers as usual is enough for this. After this you need to install the machine on flat surface. Then, with the engine running, move the automatic transmission lever to “Parking” mode. Next, open the hood and take out the dipstick to check the oil level in the box. If you have a car with a transverse engine (front-wheel drive), then this element will be located on the right side of the ICE dipstick. Next, wipe it with a dry cloth and install it back. After 5-10 seconds we take it out.
Just like on the engine, there are two marks here - minimum and maximum. The oil should be at least at the middle level. After checking, install the dipstick in place. If necessary, restore the level to normal.
It is worth noting that different cars have their own markings for the automatic transmission dipstick.
Thus, HOT means “hot” and indicates that the test should be carried out with the engine running. Some manufacturers require the box to be installed during diagnostics. If the dipstick says COLD, the check must be done with the engine turned off.
Experts do not recommend filling oil above the specified level. On an automatic transmission this can lead to increased pressure. Excess oil will be squeezed out through oil seals and other seals. If the dipstick shows a level higher than normal, you should lower it before operating the car. The same goes for the engine. The ideal mark is above average, not reaching the maximum. In this case, the lubrication system will do its job perfectly.
So, we found out and the box. As for manual transmissions, there is a dipstick here too. The check is carried out in the same way “hot” (with the engine turned off). On manual transmissions that do not have such a dipstick, you should use the filler hole as your guide. It is usually unscrewed with a hex wrench. You need to pour oil until it begins to ooze out of this neck.
In a modern car, most diagnostic work, as well as checking the condition of components and assemblies, are increasingly left to electronics. Moreover, leading automakers promise that by 2025, engine oil will only need to be filled once and will last for the entire service life of the engine. In the meantime, any of us needs to know how to properly check the oil level in the engine, which is what we will do now.
At first glance, such a trivial task as checking the oil level can cause certain difficulties and anxiety for the owner - this can include a sudden increase in the level, a drop, or a change in the characteristics of the oil. All this can be tracked if the check is carried out properly and knowledgeably. In any engine, checking is done using a dipstick, which is always within easy access. It is inserted into a sealed hole in the cylinder block, and the other end is immersed in an oil bath in the engine crankcase.
Checking the oil level
Each dipstick, regardless of the engine model, has two marks- maximum and minimum lubrication level. However, there are certain conditions under which the probe readings may be incorrect. To minimize the influence of these conditions and determine the amount of oil in the engine crankcase as accurately as possible, it is necessary to use simple rules, outlined below.
To check the level correctly, and also to understand the main points of the process, we present the verification algorithm as accessible as possible:
A big mistake is to judge the level immediately after removing the dipstick. Control is carried out only after the dipstick is re-immersed in the crankcase.
- We find two marks on the dipstick - minimum and maximum. Normal level- the oil is between these two notches. Add oil only if the level is below the minimum or a few millimeters above it. It is also not advisable to keep the level at maximum.
It is worth remembering that in most engines with a full standard pan between the minimum and maximum on the dipstick, the total oil volume can range from 500 to 800 ml.
Additional nuances
The oil level should be checked as often as possible - at each refueling, during daily inspection, and if the car is operated periodically, then before each engine start. Adding oil should be done either on a cold or slightly warmed up engine. so that after topping up the dipstick readings are as realistic as possible. In this case, topping up is carried out with the exact brand of oil that was filled in before, or the brand recommended by the manufacturer.
It is better to add oil on a cold engine.
How often should I check?
The frequency of checking depends on the condition of the engine. But the frequency of oil changes greatly depends on the brand of engine, its power and design features. Eg, for low-speed, low-power engines, the normal replacement period can be 15 thousand km, but the regulations also depend on the quality of the lubricant.
In this case, you should be guided not so much by the regulations specified by the manufacturer, but by the results of the level check. Black and too thin oil on the dipstick- the first reason to change the lubricant and filter. Maintain your engine correctly and in a timely manner, good luck to everyone and your engine's millionth mileage!
Video about checking the engine oil level
An electronic meat probe is designed to measure the temperature inside a piece during cooking in the oven.
Based on the thermometer readings, they can determine whether the heat needs to be reduced or added. They also determine the remaining baking time. Using the tool is simple, the main thing is to choose the right accessory suitable for home culinary tasks. There are many options, so it’s worth studying the theory before going to the store.
If you are still wielding a knife and fork, piercing chicken, duck or boiled pork to check readiness, know that you are ruining the dish. A thick point damages the fibers, causing the product to lose its juice.
Checking the readiness of meat and poultry using a probe - old way, which appeared long before the invention of electronic thermometers. Previously, this tool was actively used by professional chefs in cafes, canteens and restaurants. The simplest tools were thin and sharp steel pins with a handle. Long needles were made from hard of stainless steel.
We used the probe simply - we stuck a long needle between the fibers of the meat, so as not to damage the integrity of the piece, to the middle, and then evaluated the result. If signs of a raw product remained on the metal, cooking continued.
Simple needle probes are also used to determine quality raw meat. The device takes samples from the depths of a carcass or piece for bacteriological and microbiological studies.
Modern devices are supplemented with thermometers. Monitoring the heat level is important to properly cook meat and poultry. For various types meat requires different heating temperatures. For large pieces, it is the temperature inside that is important, not the readings of the oven thermometer. For example, beef should be cooked at 65-75 degrees, and pork at 90.
Probes for determining the temperature inside the product are divided according to the type of thermometer into electronic, mechanical and alcohol-based.
Electronic more accurate, compact and convenient. The digital thermometer instantly calculates the temperature in the thickness of the piece, and the display displays it. Models are sold with memory and advanced functions that help determine the cooking time for different dishes. In line electronic probes There are options with a built-in and remote thermometer.
Mechanical with arrow and dial, easy to design and operate. The temperature is displayed on the scale, and some manufacturers describe the types of meat and the degree of frying for the convenience of housewives. Round thermometers are convenient for frying with a glass lid, as they do not take up much space in height.
Alcohol dipstick to measure the temperature of meat works on the same principle as a thermometer for water or air. The cheapest variety. It takes time to get accurate values.
Oven temperature probes can be included with your oven, complementing a standard thermometer. In this case, the accessory is connected to a special connector in the oven, and the temperature is displayed on an external thermometer. The advantage is that you only need to make one puncture. In advanced ovens, oven power control is adjusted automatically based on the temperature probe readings.
There are individual devices wired and wireless. Wireless models are convenient because the cord does not interfere with closing the oven door tightly, and you can control the baking without being in the kitchen. Electronic temperature probes consist of a thermometer with display and a stainless steel probe with a heat-resistant cord. Power usually requires readily available batteries. Compact devices have a built-in thermometer.
How to use a meat probe:
More detailed instructions you need to look for it in the kit with the devices or on the manufacturer’s website. All models are different, so there may be nuances and differences.
Interesting in this series temperature probes with two thermometers– one shows the temperature in the oven, and the second shows the product. This option is convenient for those who have a broken thermometer in the oven or are cooking in the oven.
When choosing a meat temperature probe, start by assessing the quality and strength of the needle, and only then move on to studying the functions and reliability of the thermometer.
The working part of the probe comes in different types:
Stainless steel – best material for the dipstick. Stainless steel is easy to wash and disinfect; it is not afraid of heat and water. The steel should be hard and the tip sharp. A thin working edge is important to ensure that the fibers remain intact and the juice does not leak out during the frying process.
The length of the probe depends on the products. For poultry carcasses, boiled pork, cutlets, steaks and schnitzel, a needle up to 10 cm is sufficient. For larger ones, it is better to buy professional tool at least 15 cm. However, do not forget that the temperature must be measured in the middle of the piece, so focus on half the thickness of the product.
Compact folding meat probes with the ability to measure temperature are convenient for storage, since the sharp part is removed. Suitable for home purposes. Some manufacturers include in the kit protective covers. Silicone covers are comfortable and safe.
Important point - heat resistance of the case. If you plan to leave the dipstick in the oven, then look for metal case With maximum heating up to 300 degrees. Operating range of universal models: from -50 to 300 °C. Also pay attention to whether the display will be visible when you rotate the pan.
Kitchen electronic meat thermometers operate on batteries. Their advantages are the accuracy and speed of temperature determination. On a digital display, values are displayed with an accuracy of fractions of a degree, while on a mechanical and alcohol display, the accuracy depends on vision and viewing angle. Decide what error is acceptable and what is more convenient.
If you like everything modern, then buy a digital device. But if you plan to use it very rarely, choose a mechanical one, otherwise the batteries will be wasted while waiting for cooking. And at the right moment it turns out that the thermometer does not work.
Additional features of electronic thermometers for products:
Based on the type of housing, two groups can be distinguished.
Meat thermometers with removable probe. These devices can be classified as professional. The design consists of a thermometer and a needle connected by a cord. The cord must be heat resistant to withstand hot air in the oven and do not melt from accidental contact with heated surfaces. Advantages - the working part can be removed and washed thoroughly without worrying about the electronics.
Compact models with built-in thermometers. The device in this design is more convenient, takes up less space, easy to care for. Recommended for home use. The housing may be heat-resistant or not - the choice depends on the purpose of the device and its use in the oven.
When comparing different probes with thermometers for meat, poultry and other products in stores, pay attention to temperature Range. Think about what dishes you need the device for. It’s one thing if it’s only meat and fish, and another thing if it’s warm milk or dough.
Some models operate in the range from 0 to 100 °C, others are accurate only in the range of 50-100 °C.
It is convenient if the temperature probe is equipped with a sound indicator. As soon as the temperature is determined accurately, a signal will sound. This will help you determine heat and cooking time more accurately.
For example, consider different variants probes for cooking meat in the oven, in a frying pan and on the grill, as well as models with extended capabilities.
Temperature probe Endever Smart-06 with LED display and backlight, it operates in the temperature range from 0 to 250 °C. Requires four AAA batteries for power supply. The meter cord is heat-resistant and can come into contact with food. There are automatic modes of six degrees of roasting for eight types of meat, a forward and reverse timer, and wireless data transmission. The device can be set up and left in the dish being prepared. It will indicate readiness with a sound signal.
Chinese Digital Thermometer for meat with stainless steel probe TP101 operates in the range from – 50 to +300 °C. This wide coverage makes the compact device almost universal. You can cook anything with it - from cottage cheese and dough to grilled meat and sausages, leaving it in the oven. The length of the working needle is 15 cm. For power, you only need a 1.5V coin cell battery. Attractive price - you can buy a dipstick for as little as 350 rubles in online stores. Suitable for outdoor barbecue.
Temperature probes help not only when cooking meat; they are convenient for measuring the temperature of dough, dough, milk, drinks and other dishes. If you have children or pets, such a device will ensure that baby or special food is comfortable to eat.
Be sure to have at least one probe with a thermometer in the kitchen so that the dishes are always tasty and properly prepared! But don't forget to adjust the heat to achieve the desired result.
