For most enthusiasts, dry sump oil systems are synonymous with racing cars. This is entirely logical since they are most commonly used in the automotive industry. However, the advantages of the dry-sump concept reach far beyond the world of cars and motorsport. They can be applied to practically any vehicle equipped with an internal combustion engine.
In addition to the dry-sumping of a huge range of automobiles, we have dry-sumped some of the world’s fastest drag motorcycles and offshore powerboats. Therefore, we thought we’d change things up and explore the world of dry-sumping on other types of transport.
Aircraft
The aerospace industry was one of the first to accept the dry-sump concept back in the 30s since pilots realised that conventional oil delivery was just not enough. During more demanding manoeuvres, sharp turns, climbing or diving, propeller engines experience very dangerous oil starvation, potentially leading to engine failure and crashes. So, dry sump systems (along with fuel injection) provide appropriate oiling and much-needed dependability.
But, don’t think that dry sump technology became obsolete as the world switched to jet-engined aeroplanes. Even modern aircraft, including smaller private planes and helicopters, make use of dry sump systems. In the world of acrobatic aeroplanes, dry-sump oiling systems are essential. Otherwise, all of those incredible stunts and manoeuvres that generate insane amounts of G force would instantly kill the engine.
Powerboats and Ships
The dry-sump system is the king in the air and at the sea since it has widespread use in various types of watercraft. Dry-sump oiling is commonly found on large diesel engines powering big tankers and cargo ships. However, it is also used on high-performance powerboats, offshore cruisers, and some jet skis. The reason is apparent. All boats experience extensive vertical (and lateral) movements when riding the waves, especially on open seas. Performance powerboats are known for jumping on the waves at high speed resulting in extreme gravity forces affecting the engine and thus oil delivery. We are sure that nobody wants to be stranded on the sea with the seized engine due to oil starvation, so this is where dry sump systems are a crucial piece of the puzzle.
Motorcycles
Motorcycles are another vehicle category where dry sump systems are pretty standard and have been for decades. In fact, the first dry sump motorcycles date back to the 30s, and Harley Davidson took the credit for being the first manufacturer to implement the feature in mass production successfully. Today, only 50cc scooters and select touring bikes are equipped with wet sump systems. Most of the enduro, cross or high-performance motorcycles all have dry sump systems. Similar to other vehicles we have mentioned, the main reason is the fact that motorcycles are prone to extreme lateral forces, which can cause oil starvation and damage.
The PACE Range
The Pacepump® range is designed to meet almost any installation. From the dry-sumping of pre-war classic sports cars to modern day Le-Mans cars, fast road cars to Touring cars, Formula Ford to Formula 1. We have dry sumped some of the world’s fastest drag motorcycles and offshore powerboats. We have the expertise and equipment to design and manufacture high-performance oiling solutions to your exact requirements. Get in touch with us today on 01775 723052 or email admin@nbe.co.uk to talk about your dry sump project.