Re: Timing Belt

[shields@tembel.org (Michael Shields)]

> Second, how come diesel engines can run so much higher compression?

For the same reason that diesels are known in the literature as
"compression-ignition" engines, as distinct from "spark-ignition" engines
(which most commonly burn gasoline).  The diesel engine's method of
ignition is to compress the mixture until it spontaneously detonates,
which is exactly what you want to avoid in a SI engine (where spontaneous
uncontrolled detonation is called "knock").
-- 
Shields.