Abstract: A low fluid sensor for an internal combustion engine. The sensor includes a base with helically threaded post and a float slidably mounted on the post. The float rotates about the post as it moves longitudinally along it. In the preferred embodiment, eccentric mounting of the assembly along with its lobe shape act in concert with the pitch of the screw threads and fluid viscosity to dampen the buoyant movement of the float against fluid turbulence. At a predetermined level a latch spring on the float contacts an ignition circuit terminal and grounds the engine ignition circuit. A catch holds the float at the pre-determined level, preventing engine starting, so that the sensor may only be reset by addition of fluid and re-insertion of the dipstick.

Abstract: A method is provided for replenishing lubricant to a piston ring groove to prevent microwelding between a piston and a piston ring from an engine. The method includes forming a plurality replenishment pockets on at least one surface of the ring; and disposing a lubricant (such as a dry-film) on the at least one side of the ring so that the plurality of replenishment pockets are substantially filled with lubricant and such that a layer of lubricant is applied to the at least one surface of the ring. During operation of the engine, the lubricant disposed in the plurality of replenishment pockets migrates onto the at least one surface of the ring and is deposited thereto to inhibit microwelding between the at least one surface of the ring and at least one of the upper and lower groove surfaces of the respective piston ring groove. The lubricant is preferred to be a dry-film lubricant.

Abstract: An air compressor with a cylinder head attached to a cylinder deck of a crankcase is disclosed. Openings are provided through the cylinder deck and cylinder head and elongated fasteners having a fastening complement are used to provide a compressed engagement between the deck and cylinder head. Using a fastener inserted through the openings and a fastener complement reduces the potential that the bore is distorted during assembly without adding material to the assembly that undesirably increases its weight or complicates foundry operations. Machining of the deck is also simplified by providing the opening therethrough.

Abstract: There is provided an improved plasma spray powder composition for producing bearing surface alloy on a metal substrate, e.g. cast iron, said powder being characterized by the presence therein of a substantial amount of iron, molybdenum and a relatively small amount of silicon. Carbon may also desirably be present in the powder. When plasma sprayed, these powders yield a coating on a metal substrate, e.g. a cast iron piston ring, which is wear and scuff resistant.

Abstract: A device for releasably locking an item in a panel aperture has a bridge on which are carried two wings each with a first edge nearer the bridge and a second edge more remote from the bridge, the first edges being spaced by less than at least part of the second edges. The second edge is an inclined edge, and the unconstrained spacing of the remoter ends of such edges is greater than the width of the panel aperture. When the item is introduced through the panel aperture, with the bridge leading and the wings trailing, a point of contact between the wings and the panel aperture moves onto the second edge, and inherent resilience of the device prevents return movement of the item through the panel aperture.

Abstract: A locking electrical plug has a casing from which there extends at least one prong containing a longitudinal slot within which there is pivotally disposed a locking hook with a hook portion projecting laterally from the slot. A spring loaded release button projects from the casing and is connected to the rear portion of the locking hook. A receptacle for the plug contains an aperture to receive the at least one prong, the aperture including a lateral enlargement to receive the projecting hook portion when the prong is inserted therein thereby locking the plug to the receptacle. Depression of the release button pivots the locking hook retracting the hook portion to unlock the plug from the receptacle.