Automatic lubricant replenishment system for engines with sump - includes mercury switches preventing overfilling when engine is at angle

摘要

Lubricant replenishment system restores sump oil level automatically from an outside reserve each time the engine is stopped, and several alternative layouts are given, eg electric operation, closed reservoir. An ignition-linked valve in the line to the sump permits flow only when the engine is stopped; the line enters the sump at the desired level so that flow stops when the oil reaches this. Electric operation, open reservoir, is controlled by a float switch at the desired level in the sump, wired into the circuit as required. Pneumatic operation, closed reservoir. The top of the reservoir is connected to the air intake system so that the reservoir is under vacuum when the engine is running. This draws a ball valve in a goosenecked vertical pipe in the sump against its seat. The valve is also lifted against its seat when the oil reaches the desired level.