What is suggested as a possible cause for a high amount of oil consumption in a diesel engine?

Worn bearings can lead to high oil consumption in a diesel engine because they affect the engine's overall lubrication system and can cause oil to leak more easily into the combustion chamber. When bearings become worn, the tolerances increase, allowing oil to escape where it normally shouldn't. This not only reduces the amount of oil available for proper lubrication but can also lead to increased oil burning during the combustion process. Proper lubrication is crucial for maintaining engine performance and longevity, and when oil consumption increases due to worn components like bearings, it can indicate deeper issues within the engine that need to be addressed.

Old oil and high temperatures can certainly contribute to various engine problems, including oil breakdown and burning, but the direct relationship of worn bearings to increased oil consumption specifically highlights a mechanical failure leading to excess consumption.