Idling And Shut Down Tips

Question 1

Idling and shut down is largely dependent on the situation, such as:

Answer 1

• cold weather
• hot weather
• emergency (on scene) status
• non-emergency status
• not in use

Question 2

Idling a diesel is damaging to the engine.

Answer 2

Idling produces sulfuric acid which breaks down the engine oil and eats into the bearings, rings, valve stems, and engine surfaces.

Question 3

“High idle” should be engaged to power

High idle brings engine speed up to approximately 1100 rpm

Answer 3

Emergency lighting
Cab lighting
Heat
Air conditioning 
Engine cooling

Question 4

What size alternator?

Answer 4

400 amp alternator
Which can only produce half of the rated power at idle
Full power at 1100 rpm

Question 5

Voltmeter should read

Answer 5

Approximately 13.5 to 14.8 volts on scene, with electrical load, or driving down the road
With maximum electrical load st high idle the voltmeter should still read 13.5-14.8

Question 6

A “no charge” state would be indicated by a reading of less than

Answer 6

12.8

Question 7

How long should the engine idle before pulling into the station?

Answer 7

2-4 minutes without a load.

This allows the engine to cool and permits the turbo charger to slow down