"Exploring the Effects of Oil Cooler Deletion on Tractor Engine Operation"

Cost reduction remains a significant challenge for engine manufacturers, particularly for off-highway application vehicles. An optimal engine lubrication system, encompassing engine oil and an oil cooler, is critical for thermal management and minimizing frictional losses. This system ensures adequate lubrication and cooling of engine components, thereby maintaining optimal performance. This study investigates the implications of oil cooler removal in a 45HP inline engine tractor. Various validation trials were conducted, including high ambient temperature tests under worst-case conditions, high coolant temperature scenarios, and a rigorous tractor killer test. In the latter, the tractor underwent 100 hours of operation on a PTO bench at maximum engine RPMs. Despite an observable increase in lubricant oil temperature during these tests, the tractor did not exhibit any component seizure or failure. The findings aim to determine whether the inclusion of an oil cooler is essential for the engine's operational reliability. Based on the comprehensive validation program, the study provides insights into the necessity of an oil cooler for efficient engine performance under extreme conditions. This research offers valuable guidance for optimizing hardware selection and cost-effective design strategies in off-highway vehicles, ensuring robust performance without compromising reliability.