Cold Weather Operation
i07003037
Cold
Weather
Operation
Perkins
Diesel
Engines
can
operate
effectively
in
cold
weather.
During
cold
weather,
the
starting
and
the
operation
of
the
diesel
engine
depends
on
the
following
items:
• The type of fuel that is used
• The viscosity of the engine oil
• Cold starting aid
• Battery condition
• Ambient air temperature and altitude
• Parasitic load of the application
• Application hydraulic and transmission oil
viscosities
This section will cover the following information:
• Potential problems that are caused by cold-
weather operation
• Suggest steps which can be taken to minimize
starting problems and operating problems when
the ambient air temperature is between
0° to−40 °C (32° to 40 °F).
The operation and maintenance of an engine in
freezing temperatures is complex . This complexity is
because of the following conditions:
• Weather conditions
• Engine applications
Recommendations from your Perkins distributor are
based on past proven practices. The information that
is contained in this section provides guidelines for
cold-weather operation.
Hints for Cold-Weather Operation
• Achieving operating temperature will help prevent
the intake valves and exhaust valves from
sticking.
• The cooling system and the lubrication system for
the engine do not lose heat immediately upon
shutdown. An engine can be shut down for a
period and the retained heat within the engine will
allow the engine readily start.
• Install the correct specification of engine lubricant
before the beginning of cold weather. Refer to this
Operation and Maintenance Manual, “Fluid
Recommendations” for the recommended
viscosity of oil.
• Check all rubber parts (hoses, fan drive belts)
weekly.
• Check all electrical wiring and connections for any
fraying or damaged insulation.
• Keep all batteries fully charged and warm by
ensuring that the engine is allowed to operate at
normal operating temperature.
• Fill the fuel tank at the end of each shift.
• Check the air cleaners and the air intake daily.
Check the air intake more often when you operate
in snow.
• If equipped, ensure that the cold weather starting
aid is operating correctly
• For jump starting with cables in cold weather, refer
to the Operation and Maintenance Manual,
“Starting with Jump-Start Cables.” for instructions.
Viscosity of the Engine Lubrication
Oil
Correct engine oil viscosity is essential. Oil viscosity
affects lubrication properties and wear protection that
the oil provides for the engine. Refer to this Operation
and Maintenance Manual, “Fluid Recommendations”
for the recommended viscosity of oil.
At temperatures below −10° C (14° F) damage to
engine components can occur if the engine is
allowed to operate at high load and speed
immediately after starting.
Recommendations for the Coolant
Provide cooling system protection for the lowest
expected outside temperature. Refer to this
Operation and Maintenance Manual, “Fluid
Recommendations” for the recommended coolant
mixture.
In cold weather, check the coolant often for the
correct glycol concentration to ensure adequate
freeze protection.
Engine Block Heaters
Engine block heaters (if equipped) heat the engine
jacket water that surrounds the combustion
chambers. This heat provides the following functions:
• Startability is improved.
• Warm up time is reduced.
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