ASSESSING THE PERCEPTION OF VEHICLE OWNERS AND MECHANICS ON THE EFFICIENCY OF FUEL INJECTION COMPARED TO CARBURETOR ENGINES OF VEHICLES IN THE TAMALE METROPOLIS

ABSTRACT

The study assessed the perception of people on the efficiency of fuel injection and carburetor engines of vehicles in the Tamale Metropolis following an increase in the number of vehicles. The growth in the number of vehicles has significantly created a apperception on the efficiency and performance of carburetor or fuel injection engines. The study therefore evaluated the perception of people on the performance and efficiency of fuel injection and carburetor engines of vehicles using vehicle owners and mechanics in Tamale as a case study. The case study design was used, particularly targeting drivers, car owners and mechanics in the Metropolis. Using the questionnaires and interview, data was gathered. The key findings of the study revealed that, factors that determine engine fuel consumption includes the quantity of fuel used, vehicle owners need to examine the consumption capacity of vehicles before purchasing such vehicles. The most durable engine type in the market was carburetor engines. It was observed that, fuel injection engines were found to produce more emissions than the carburetor engines. The concerns of people and mechanics on the efficiency of the two engines types were found not to be the same. The advantages associated with carburetor engines include; carburetors can be adjusted. It is also possible to repair to ensure effective regulation of fuel consumption. Carburetor parts are replaceable and therefore do not need the services of an electrician. The study finally recommends that, the smoke emissions level should be examined by the prospective car owners and mechanics since it determines the fuel consumption level of vehicles. The most durable engine types, which were found to be the carburetor engines, should be the preferred choice of the owners when purchasing vehicles. Mechanics should seek for more skills on how to service fuel injection engine since they were found xii to be producing most emissions. In view of the fact that, concerns of people and mechanics on the efficiency of the two engines types are not the same, prospective should always insist on having the operational manuals of engines in order that, the needed information would be obtained to assist them make an informed decision concerning the purchases and maintenance of vehicles. Carburetors that can be adjusted should always to be procured. The parts for replacement should be made available to prevent carburetor frequent break down. Since carburetor repairs require no electrical services, it certainly will reduce cost during the repair of such vehicles, hence, the need to go for carburetor engines.