How often should I start a diesel engine?
I have a 24 ft Class C motorhome with a 188 hp Mercedes Benz engine. It is a 2014 Thor model. I keep it in storage. We travel for at least 3-4 days every 2 months but 3 months during the summer. How o...
Forum Discussion
RAS43 wrote:
Unless you are going to drive the unit long enough to get the engine up to operating temperature I say don't start it. I believe that short run cycles do more harm then good. Use a charger if possible to keep the battery charged. I use a 5watt solar charger for my truck which sits for weeks at a time and then I'll drive it on an errand of at least 20 miles. JMO
I agree, but let me elaborate.
If you start it, driver it long enough to get the OIL, not just coolant up to operating temperature. And, agree, 20-30 highway miles or do not start it.
Also, to minimize condensation, be sure to store with diesel tank full. I add a BIOCIDE if storing fuel over 2 months in the summer or 3 months in the winter.
