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The tendency of spark ignition direct injection (SIDI) engines to form injector deposits was investigated using engine dynamometer tests on a SIDI engine equipped with fan spray type injectors. Fifteen test fuels with varying 90% distillation temperature (T90), aromatics, olefins, oxygenates and sulfur levels were prepared to identify the effects of fuel properties on injector deposits. The results suggested that not only the T90 but also the number of alkyl substituent of aromatics had effects on injector deposit formation. Effects of detergents on the injector deposit cleanliness were also evaluated in this study.

A bench engine test for evaluating the fuel efficiency of automotive crankcase oils using modern engines was developed. The fuel consumption was primarily proportional to the viscosity of the oils down to 5 mm2/s at operating temperatures, indicating that the use of low-viscosity oil was effective in improving fuel efficiency. This may be because the oil film would be formed easily, since sliding parts, such as valve train systems, in modern engines are finely finished. Organo molybdenum dithiocarbamates were effective in improving fuel efficiency at high temperature. A 2.7% improvement in fuel efficiency relative to conventional SAE 10W-30 oils was achieved by the combination of low-viscosity SAE 5W-20 oils and organo molybdenum dithiocarbamates under constant operating conditions with engine speed 1,500 rpm and torque 37.2 N•m.

According to the principle of pH measurement, an on-board type engine oil deterioration sensor has been developed. The developed sensor is composed of a Pb and oxidized stainless steel electrodes. The sensor signal shows a good linear relationship to the quasi-pH value of the oil. Especially in the region where the oil deterioration proceeds, the remaining basic additives in the oil is easily estimated from the sensor signal.