Monaco DIPLOMAT 2004, Owner'S Manual

Page: 400 / 446

DIPLOMAT 2004
10 • 400
CHASSIS INFORMATION
Low viscosity oils, used for winter operations, will aid in starting. Synthetic oils,
or oil with adequate low temperature properties used for Arctic operations where the
engine cannot be kept warm when shut down, will aid in starting.
The use of synthetic oils should not be used to extend drain intervals. Extended
oil change intervals can decrease engine life and possibly affect the engine warranty.
Oil additives should not be used unless the oil supplier or oil manufacturer has
been consulted and provided positive evidence or data establishing satisfactory
performance in the engine.
NOTE: The engine does not require a "break-in" procedure.
Following the maintenance guidelines in the engine manufacturer OEM Manual
recommendations for the engine will help to extend engine life and improve per-
formance, resulting in cost efficient operations. A good maintenance schedule
begins with a daily awareness of the engine and its various systems.
Function of Engine Oil:
If a lubricating oil is to work in an engine it must be capable of performing
various functions. Lubrication of the moving parts is the primary function. The
lubricating oil should be able to form a film between metal surfaces preventing
metal to metal contact and reducing friction. When there is a metal to metal contact,
friction heat is generated. Welding of the part can occur and metal transfer will
result in scuffing or seizing. The film of oil contacting the surfaces will provide
cushioning and shock dampening as well.
Cleaning is another function. The oil should perform as a cleaner in the engine
by flushing contaminates from critical components. These contaminates should be
removed in the filtration system or during the course of an oil change. Oil will
provide a protective barrier to prevent corrosion of non-like metals.
Internal components of the engine require cooling. The primary coolant system
cannot provide this cooling. Oil will transfer heat by contacting the various
components then transferring to the primary cooling system at the oil cooler. The
uneven surfaces in the combustion chamber are filled to act as a combustion seal
within the cylinder liner and other internal components.
Synthetic Engine Oil:
In extreme environments, where ambient temperatures can be as low as
45º C (-50º F), a petroleum-based oil will not perform satisfactorily in diesel
engines. Synthetic oils were developed for these type applications. These synthetic
oils are blend from ether and/or hydrocarbon based oils. Chemically reacting lower
molecular weight materials to manufacture lubricants of desired properties produce
these base oils. All synthetic based oils must meet the API category III
classifications and SAE viscosity grades.
NOTE: Synthetic oils and petroleum based oils should never be mixed.