Cold Weather Operation - Perkins 2506 Operation And Maintenance Manual

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Cold Weather Operation

Cold Weather Operation
Perkins Diesel Engines can operate effectively in
cold weather. During cold weather, the starting and
the operation of the diesel engine is dependent on
the following items:
• The type of fuel that is used
• The viscosity of the engine oil
• Optional Cold starting aid
• Battery condition
The operation and maintenance of an engine in
freezing temperatures is complex . This 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
• If the engine will start, operate the engine until a
minimum operating temperature of 81 °C
(177.8 °F) is achieved. 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. This means that an engine can be shut
down for a period of time and the engine can still
have the ability to start readily.
• Install the correct specification of engine lubricant
before the beginning of cold weather.
• Check all rubber parts (hoses, fan drive belts, etc)
weekly.
• Check all electrical wiring and connections for any
fraying or damaged insulation.
• Keep all batteries fully charged and warm.
• Check the air cleaners and the air intake daily.
Personal injury or property damage can result
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from alcohol or starting fluids.
Alcohol or starting fluids are highly flammable
and toxic and if improperly stored could result in
injury or property damage.
Do not use aerosol types of starting aids such as
ether. Such use could result in an explosion and
personal injury.
Viscosity of the Engine Lubrication
Oil
Correct engine oil viscosity is essential. Oil viscosity
affects the amount of torque that is needed to crank
the engine. Refer to Operation and Maintenance
Manual, "Fluid Recommendations" for the
recommended viscosity of oil.
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 in order to ensure
adequate freeze protection.
Engine Block Heaters
Engine block heaters (if equipped) heat the engine
jacket water that surrounds the combustion
chambers. This provides the following functions:
• Startability is improved.
An electric block heater can be activated once the
engine is stopped. An effective block heater is
typically a 1250/1500 W unit. Consult your Perkins
distributor for more information.
Fuel and the Effect from Cold
Weather
Note: Only use grades of fuel that are recommended
by Perkins. Refer to this Operation and Maintenance
Manual, "Fluid Recommendations".
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Operation Section
Cold Weather Operation
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