Saturn Engine (Basic Operation)

Saturn Engine(basic operation)

Saturn Engines are internal combustion engines. Internal combustion engines work by utilizing combustion to power the major parts of the engine. When the ignition is turned on, the electric starter motor sends power to the vehicle's spark plugs; the spark plugs are directly connected to the engine's cylinder block, and the ignition spark starts the combustion process by igniting the fuel stored in the combustion chamber.

The combination of fuel and air in the chamber is what moves the cylinders up and down. Many modern Saturn vehicles utilize direct-injection technology to aid with start up. This technology adds fuel directly to the combustion chamber instead of through anintake.

The engine's cylinders are connected to the crankshaft. When the cylinders are powered, the crankshaft rotates and generatespower to the vehicle.When you depress the accelerator pedal in the vehicle, you are opening the throttle plate. This pushes morefuel and air into the chamber, generating more power and higher engine RPM. 

Most Saturn vehicles use VVT (variable valve timing) technology to improve general engine operations. VVT allows the timing valves and cam of an engine to customize air flow and timing patterns. This allows for more power and efficiency at higher engine RPM.


2009 Saturn Astra

 1.8L DOHC engine

The Astra’s standard 1.8L DOHC engine is a sophisticated, powerful and economical power plant. It uses variable valve timing to optimize power and economy, delivering 138 horsepower (103 kW) and 125 lb.-ft. of torque (170 Nm).

The 1.8L engine includes two continuously variable camshafts, a highly efficient oil/water heat exchanger and a MAP-controlled thermostat. It also has a deep-drawn exhaust manifold that incorporates the catalytic converter and a two-step intake manifold that uses a rotary sleeve instead of conventional flaps to actuate the transition between low-rpm and high-rpm airflow. This design minimizes flow loss for optimal performance and efficiency.

The 1.8L engine also has a strong, lighter-weight cast iron cylinder block. It weighs only 59.5 pounds (27 kg), comparable to many aluminum-block engines. Oil-spray jets are incorporated in the block to ensure optimal piston cooling.

A five-speed manual transmission is standard in all models and helps the Astra deliver its great fuel economy. An Aisin electronically controlled four-speed automatic is available.

The four-speed automatic incorporates neutral idle, a feature that automatically shifts the transmission to neutral during stops and eliminates converter drag on the engine. It also is equipped with an automatic throttle kick-down feature, which actuates immediate downshifting during wide-open throttle driving for more immediate performance.

For 2009, customers in colder climates can order an oil pan heater for both XE and XR models.

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