What is the Crankcase?

• A. The area around the crankshaft and crankshaft bearings
• B. The space between the piston rings
• C. The valve cover
• D. The intake manifold

Answer: (A)

The crankcase is the area around the crankshaft and its bearings inside the engine block, forming the lower portion of the engine and housing the oil that lubricates moving parts. It provides containment for the crankshaft’s rotation and the main and connecting rod bearings, and is designed to keep oil in while keeping dirt and debris out. The oil pan is typically attached to its bottom, storing the engine oil used for lubrication and cooling.

The space between piston rings is part of the piston assembly and relates to sealing the combustion chamber, not the crankcase. The valve cover sits on top of the cylinder head and seals the valve train. The intake manifold carries the air-fuel mixture into the cylinders.