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USMC46's avatar
USMC46
Explorer
Dec 29, 2018

Diesel Winter Maintenance

I have a Dutch Star 41 with a Cummins ISL 370. It is in covered storage in Missoula hooked to a float charger. My question is this. In the past, I have started the coach up every week or two weeks and let it run for a few minutes, and did the same with the diesel generator, Onan 7500. I do this even in the coldest of the winter months here in Montana. Is it good to do this, or should I just let the engine and generator rest through the winter and not start them up ? I have heard I should and I should not. Advice appreciated.
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  • USMC46's avatar
    USMC46
    Explorer
    Dec 29, 2018
    Bill

    Missoula averages in the months that concern me.

    High Lo
    January 34° / 19°

    February 40° / 23°

    March 49° / 28°
  • Trackrig's avatar
    Trackrig
    Explorer II
    Dec 29, 2018
    I leave mine sit in the cold weather - but you didn't really define what you're calling cold weather. Cold weather starting can be hard on things if they've been sitting. And only running it for a few minutes isn't doing either the engine or generator any good to heat them up and drive out any moisture.

    Cold weather is generally dry and doesn't hurt anything. I do start mine and run it for an hour in rainy wet weather.

    Bill

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