freightliner M2 Plus 2023 Manual page 134

Engine Starting, Operation, and Shutdown
04/27/2017
Fig. 9.3, Top Tier Fuel Symbol
Adequate maintenance of the engine and the diesel
particulate filter (DPF) are the responsibility of the
owner/operator, and are essential to keep the
emission levels low. Good operating practices,
regular maintenance, and correct adjustments are
factors that help keep emissions within the
regulations.
The driver should be familiar with the vehicle warning
system in order to bring the vehicle to a safe stop if
the engine malfunctions. If the driver doesn't
understand how the warning system works, an
engine shutdown could occur, causing a safety
hazard. See Chapter 10, Optional Engine Systems
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
manufacturer's engine operation manual.
Normal Operation
WARNING
Do not operate the engine in an area where
flammable 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
performs 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
produce maximum horsepower at rated speed, which
is also the recommended maximum speed of the
engine. For further engine-specific information, refer
to the engine manufacturer's operation manual.
9.3
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
f470698
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 begins 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 is 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
practices, 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 manufacturer's engine operation manual.
If satisfactory engine temperature is not maintained,
maintenance costs increase due to greater engine
wear. If the engine coolant gets too cold, raw fuel
washes the lubricating oil off the cylinder walls and
dilutes the crankcase oil, causing poor lubrication to
all moving parts of the engine.
If the engine is in good mechanical condition and the
precautions necessary for cold-weather operation are
taken, ordinary cold weather does 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
corrosion 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
authorized Freightliner service provider.
•
Check the condition and tension of the drive
belts.