lhamblin
Surrey BC
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Joined: 07/05/2008
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This is our first year of full timing and is the first time we have been docked at one location for longer than a month. We have been docked for 3 months and have one more month before we head out for the next 9 months.
We have a trickle charger attached which keeps our chassis batteries charged when hooked up to shore power.
Should one be firing up the diesel engine from time to time when parked for 3 to 4 months?
Our coach has a Cummins ISL 400HP.
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Gale Hawkins
Murray, KY
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Joined: 07/22/2007
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Larry since you are keeping up the batteries I can not think of any reason to fire it up. Diesel engines in equipment often set all winter without being started. I would start it up a few days before you plan to move just to make sure it will move and no brakes are stuck. Are you going to change the oil before hitting the road or is that not due yet?
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rv2go
Somewhere between Knoxville, TN and the coast.
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Joined: 12/26/2000
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IMO, you will be alright. If you do crank it up, make sure you run it long enough to get to the operating temp. You might want to check and see what the Cummins Manuel states.
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klutchdust
Orange, California
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Joined: 06/09/2004
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Unless you need to charge the batteries let it sit, diesels don't mind.Always warm up well before you move.
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Economical Handyman
S. California
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Joined: 02/19/2004
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If you use the search box at the top of the page will get you more info.
Most advise if you start it, then run it down the road so EVERYTING comes up to operating temps.
DeWayne & Judy
04 3810 Dutch Star
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djevans
Tennessee
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Joined: 03/24/2002
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So far, I agree with the replies. The main engine, if you DO start it, should be run until it gets thoroughly hot, say a 30 minute drive. BUT, I wouldn't start it unless you "need" to.
Generators are a different matter, even if diesel. That, I would start and run, "under load," (at least a 50% load) for AT LEAST 20 minutes, once a month.
Don . . . near 36.171N 086.784W, TN near here
WA4ZFN
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Deen
Vancouver, WA
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Joined: 12/07/2000
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I sent an email to Cummins on this very subject, the answer was do not start the engine UNLESS you can drive the rig for a minimum of 30 miles at highway speeds, otherwise don't bother. Direct answer from Cummins.
Just ideling a diesel doesn't get it hot enough to burn off the contaminates in the oil and even adds to them. It must get up to full operating temps to do any good.
Deen - Vancouver, WA
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5rFozz
SoCal
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I'm no expert, but I'm thinking I would start it up every-now-and-then to get the oil splashing around to keep things lubed up and possibly keep seals from drying up. Maybe contact Cummins and see what they recommend. I like the idea of driving it and getting everything up to operating temperature.
1992 Ford F350 7.3 diesel crewcab dually
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Airstreamer67
Pineville, LA USA
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Joined: 11/07/2002
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Manufacturers do not recommend a long warm-up or idle time. Usually, they recommend you start the engine, let the oil pressure get up, and drive off without demanding lots of power until it is warmed up. Diesels don't really warm up when idling without a load on them.
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LetsRV
Portland, OR.
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I'm with Deen, I also contacted Cummins and they said if you don't intend to use it (drive it around) then don't bother starting it. Diesels like to be driven (lots of miles) but don't mind sitting when not in use.
We are all good at something.....
I just happen to be a good bad example.
Occasionally in error but never in doubt.
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