freightliner cascadia, Driver Manual

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the engine malfunctions. If the driver doesn’t under-
stand how the warning system works, an engine
shutdown could occur, causing a safety hazard. See
Chapter 11 for more information.
Engine Break-In
Each engine must pass a full-load operating test on
a dynamometer before shipment, thereby eliminating
the need for a break-in. Before running the engine
for the first time, follow the instructions in the manu-
facturer’s engine operation manual.
Normal Operation
WARNING
Do not operate the engine in an area where flam-
mable vapors such as gasoline or diesel fumes
are present. Shut off the engine when in an area
where flammable liquids or gases are being
handled. Failure to observe these precautions
could result in serious injury or death.
Every engine has an operating range in which it per-
forms most efficiently. The operating range extends
from maximum torque rpm at the low end, to engine
rated speed at the high end. Most engines deliver
best fuel economy when operated in the low- and
mid-speed segments of the efficiency range and pro-
duce maximum horsepower at rated speed, which is
also the recommended maximum speed of the en-
gine. For further engine-specific information, refer to
the engine manufacturer’s operation manual.
Prolonged idling of engines is not recommended, and
is illegal in some states. Idling produces sulfuric acid
that is absorbed by the lubricating oil, and eats into
bearings, rings, valve stems, and engine surfaces. If
you must idle the engine for cab heating or cooling,
use the high idle function of the cruise control
switches. An idle speed of 900 rpm should be
enough to provide cab heat in ambient temperatures
that are above freezing.
If the engine is programmed with an idle shutdown
timer, 90 seconds before the preset shutdown time,
the CHECK engine light will begin to flash at a rapid
rate. If the position of the clutch pedal or service
brake changes during this final 90 seconds the idle
shutdown timer will be disabled until reset.
Cold-Weather Operation
Satisfactory performance of a diesel engine operating
in low ambient temperatures requires modification of
the engine, surrounding equipment, operating prac-
tices, and maintenance procedures. The lower the
temperature, the greater the amount of modification
required. For service products approved for use in
cold weather for your engine, see the engine manu-
facturer’s engine operation manual.
If satisfactory engine temperature is not maintained,
maintenance costs will increase due to greater en-
gine wear. If the engine coolant gets too cold, raw
fuel will wash the lubricating oil off the cylinder walls
and dilute the crankcase oil, causing all moving parts
of the engine to suffer from poor lubrication.
If the engine is in good mechanical condition and the
precautions necessary for cold-weather operation are
taken, ordinary cold weather will not cause difficulty
in starting or loss of efficiency.
The following points are important to observe when
operating in cold weather.
•
Check for cracks in the battery cases, for cor-
rosion of the terminals, and for tightness of the
cable clamps at the terminals.
•
Charge the batteries to full capacity. Replace
damaged batteries.
•
If equipped, turn off the load disconnect switch
after the engine is shut down to prevent battery
discharge.
•
Have the alternator output checked at an au-
thorized Freightliner service provider.
•
Check the condition and tension of the drive
belts.
•
Refer to the engine manufacturer’s operation
manual for recommended heaters, low-
viscosity lubricating oils, winter-grade fuels,
and approved coolants.
•
Periodically check the coolant mixing ratio
(concentration of antifreeze in the coolant). Add
more if necessary.
•
At outside temperatures below -4°F (-20°C), a
coolant preheater is recommended.
Engine Starting, Operation, and Shutdown
10.3