Water hammer occurs due to the penetration of water into the chambers of the internal combustion engine. With the subsequent impact of the pistons on the resulting water plug, the engine breaks down
Causes and consequences of engine water hammer
A water hammer most often occurs when a car drives into a deep puddle at high speed. Pressurized water enters the air filter and then into the combustion chambers. Water hammer is also possible when there is a high water level on the road, for example, during a heavy downpour or flood, and the driver is forced to drive under such conditions. In this case, the liquid itself flows into the engine air duct.
Unlike fuel or air, water is not compressed in a motor. After the liquid has entered the engine cylinders, the following occurs. Moving up on the compression stroke, the piston rests against the water barrier. The pressure inside the cylinder increases tens or even hundreds of times. In this case, the engine seeks to complete the cycle and bring the piston to the top point. The cylinder, into which water has penetrated, stops almost instantly, hitting the water plug.
Engine breakdowns during water hammer always require serious repair. These include bent connecting rods, bent or broken pistons, and piston pins. The most difficult breakdown during water hammer is the rupture of the engine block.
How to avoid water hammer
It is advisable to go around deep puddles. You cannot rush over them at high speed, raising fountains of spray. When driving this way, there is a high probability that water will get into the air filter and into the engine cylinders. You need to soberly assess the capabilities of your car. Naturally, a jeep is less likely to "drown" in a large puddle than a low runabout.
In a heavy downpour, when city roads turn into rivers, it is better not to drive at all. However, if a trip is necessary or the element played out during the journey, you should move at a low speed of up to 10 km per hour.
If the engine stalls after passing through a deep puddle, you do not need to try to start it. The resulting water blockage can lead to serious damage. It is necessary to open the hood and unscrew all the spark plugs, since it is not known which cylinder the water got into. Next, you should disassemble the air filter casing and touch the filter itself. If it is wet, water has indeed entered the engine.
You can try to start the engine with the plugs removed. Most of the water should come out of the engine. However, you cannot insert the candles back and continue to move. It is recommended to call a tow truck and take the car to a service station to completely dry the engine.
