Engine - Extensive Cold Weather Idling Precautions

84ford21

Article No. 84-1-13

IDLE - EXTENSIVE AT SUB-ZERO CONDITIONS (6.9L DIESEL) - SERVICE PROCEDURES


LIGHT TRUCKS 1983-84 F & E SERIES WITH 6.9L DIESEL ENGINE

This information is directed to the owner who does not have access to an electrical power source to operate the engine block heater for engine starting aid in sub-zero temperatures. As a result, the owner may allow the engine to idle for prolonged periods (such as overnight) in ambient temperatures below - 10~ F (- 25~ C). Extended periods of engine idling will dilute the engine oil with unburned fuel.

NOTE: For cold weather vehicle operation at temperatures below -10~ F but not above 20~ F, engine oil SAE 5W-30 SF/CC or SF/CD has been approved for use.

To minimize dilution/deterioration of the engine oil when the engine idles for extended periods, the owner should adhere to the following:

1. The vehicle should be operated at normal highway conditions for a minimum of one hour, before resuming extended periods (overnight) of engine idling. This will raise the engine oil temperature, and purge the unburned fuel from the engine oil.
2. Use a 5W-30 SF/CC or SF/CD engine oil.
3. As specified in the Owner's Guide, Severe Service Operation - Extended Idling, Page 34, the engine oil must be changed at 2,500 miles, or 3 months interval.

The owner should be advised that extended idling will increase engine oil consumption. The owner should check the engine oil level daily after the engine has stabilized at normal operating temperatures at normal highway conditions (not after extended idling - the oil is too cold and thick for accurate level readings).

WARNING: NEVER IDLE ENGINE IN CLOSED AREAS. NEVER SIT IN A PARKED OR STOPPED VEHICLE FOR ANY EXTENDED AMOUNT OF TIME WITH THE ENGINE RUNNING. EXHAUST GASES, PARTICULARLY CARBON MONOXIDE, MAY BUILD UP. THESE GASES ARE HARMFUL AND POTENTIALLY LETHAL.
The owner should also be advised that extended idling will cause accumulation of moisture in the exhaust pipe. The moisture and resulting wet, sooty film will cause high exhaust smoke levels. The moisture and smoke will dissipate when the engine is operated at normal highway conditions.

OTHER APPLICABLE ARTICLES: None
WARRANTY STATUS: "INFORMATION ONLY"