The feed adjustments jar loose, and should be inspected frequently.
(121) Oil Cup Failure.
Oil cups should be cleaned out frequently with gasoline or kerosene, as any gum or lint will interfere seriously with the feed. They should be adjusted and filled frequently to prevent any possible chance of a hot bearing.
Oil cups should be as large as possible in order that they may be left for considerable periods without danger of a hot box.
Cold weather affects the oil feed to a considerable extent, especially with small oil cups, and they should be kept as warm as possible. When heavy oils are used a cold draft will stop the feed.
Oils may be made more fluid in cold weather by the addition of about ten per cent of kerosene.
(122) Hot Bearings.
A hot bearing is almost a sure sign of insufficient oil, and the trouble should be located and remedied immediately. Oil pumps stopping, clogged oil pipes or holes, frozen oil, or oil leaks are common causes of hot bearings.
Never allow an engine to run with a hot bearing for any length of time, as the bearing or piston may seize tight and wreck the engine. Inspect the journals frequently to see if they are above normal temperature. A hot, binding bearing often causes the effect of an overload on the engine, slowing it down, and increasing the governor and fuel feed, this is followed in a short time by the bearing seizing.