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What is the primary purpose of the hopper located in the oil supply tank of some dry sump engine installations?

  1. To allow for quick oil changes

  2. To reduce the time required to warm the oil to operating temperature

  3. To filter impurities from the oil

  4. To separate oil and fuel

The correct answer is: To reduce the time required to warm the oil to operating temperature

The primary purpose of the hopper located in the oil supply tank of some dry sump engine installations is to reduce the time required to warm the oil to operating temperature. The hopper provides a larger surface area for the oil, allowing it to heat up more efficiently when exposed to engine heat. This is particularly important in aviation engines, where optimal oil temperature is critical for engine performance and lubrication efficiency. By facilitating faster heating of the oil, the hopper helps ensure that the oil reaches its ideal operating temperature more quickly, enhancing the overall efficiency of the engine's lubrication system.