Diesel engine storage

Fill the tank and use a biocide. The biocide is critical, it will keep microbial growth (algae, bacteria and fungi) out of your fuel. Don't start the engine until you are ready to use it, monthly starts are not necessary.

catkins wrote:
Have a Cummins Diesel MH. Now sitting parked for three months,two down one month to go. First time we have remained stationary for so long. Do I need to take the MH out and run it for a while or can I safely wait until we
Move in Mid-January ?? In AZ with low humidity and very mild temperatures. Thanks.

You have 2 choices. Doing nothing is likely the best choice as the engine will be just fine. The second choice is to start it AND drive it. You would need to drive far enough to bring everything up to operating temperatures. A nice 20 minute drive would be good. If you can't do that, do nothing.

If you can, run it and get it moving.
With a diesel MH the biggest problem will be the air brakes freezing up on you with inactivity.

Just be sure the starting batteries are kept charged. Might add some anti-gel to the fuel tank if it is cold outside.

MountainAir05 wrote:
Tractors sets for months along with boats. The rest of the people will tell you to drive it every month

Correct, a diesel engine is not like a gasoline engine. It is fine sitting for long periods of time. Diesel engines in military vehicles sometimes sit for years without being started. Then a fresh battery is installed and the engine starts. Just make sure your fuel is treated with a biocide such as Biobor JF to kill unwanted microbe growth and let it sit. I have parked mine for up to seven months without starting and had no problems.

Tractors sets for months along with boats. The rest of the people will tell you to drive it every month