What does the crankshaft do in an engine?

The crankshaft plays a crucial role in an internal combustion engine by converting linear motion into rotational motion. As the pistons move up and down in the cylinders due to combustion, the crankshaft transforms this vertical (linear) movement of the pistons into a spinning (rotational) movement. This rotation is essential for driving the vehicle’s transmission and ultimately turning the wheels.

Understanding the role of the crankshaft is fundamental to grasping how the engine operates as a whole. The successful conversion of energy from the combustion process into mechanical energy allows the engine to function effectively, making the crankshaft integral to the engine's design and performance.