An Analysis of Friction Reduction Techniques for the Direct-Acting Valve Train System of a New-Generation Lightweight 3-Liter V6 Nissan Engine

An investigation was made of techniques for reducing the friction of lightweighted direct-acting valve train systems. The techniques examined included improving the cam/follower surface finish and reducing the valve spring load. The characteristics of each approach and the valve train friction reduction obtained with each one were clarified by experimentation and analysis.

As a result, the friction reduction techniques analyzed in this work reduce the friction level of a direct-acting valve train by approximately 40% in comparison with the previous valve train.

These techniques have been applied for the direct-acting valve train system of new-generation, lightweight, 3-liter V6 Nissan engine.