How does oil travel through the engine of a Cessna 172?

Oil in the Cessna 172 travels through the engine primarily from the engine-driven oil pump. The oil pump draws oil from the sump, where it is stored, and pressurizes it to circulate throughout the engine. Once the oil is pressurized, it flows through various components of the engine for lubrication, cooling, and cleaning.

The purpose of the strainer screen is to filter the oil and remove any debris or contaminants before oil reaches critical parts of the engine. So, while the routing through the strainer screen is an important part of maintaining oil cleanliness, it does not reflect the primary flow path of how oil is distributed through the engine.

The exhaust muffler shroud and hydraulic system are not involved in the oil circulation process of the engine. The exhaust muffler shroud is indeed part of the exhaust system, helping to dissipate heat, while the hydraulic system pertains to other functions like landing gear operations and is not involved in oil circulation. Thus, understanding that oil travels from the pump and is filtered before use emphasizes the oil's journey through the engine and its importance in maintaining optimal engine performance and longevity.