This invention relates generally to the art of internal combustion engines and more particularly to an apparatus for preventing accumulation of products of incomplete combustion during periods of extended idle.
In the field of automotive vehicles, and particularly diesel operated trucking vehicles, it is known that products of incomplete combustion which are not removed via the exhaust of such engines accumulate within combustion cylinder walls. This leads to damage to rings and overall engine damage. The problem is particularly severe in diesel engines which can result in partial plugging of injectors causing irregular spray patterns and partial firing. Such accumulations will eventually result in high oil consumption, excessive smoke, loss of power, and reduced fuel efficiency.
In the utilization of over-the-road trucking vehicles, particularly diesel vehicles, it is common practice in cold weather to maintain such vehicles at idle during periods of non-usage. Such idle periods may be for periods of approximately one hour during which time the driver operator has meals or may be for periods of eight to ten hours while the driver obtains lodging. Such extended periods of idle are necessary in cold weather to assure that the vehicle will continue to be operable during such cold weather. The problems discussed above regarding accumulation of combustion products are particularly severe during periods of extended idle.
Prior to the invention herein disclosed there has been no attempt to confront this problem.