How often should I start a diesel engine?

Engineers debate the same thing so there is no perfect answer. I run mine once a month for about 15-20 minutes until the temps come up. I idle it up to about 1200 RPM after a few minutes and even run the AC sometimes. Nobody is going to show you a credible graph of one way versus the other so you might as well just follow your manufactures recommendation.

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.

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

midnightsadie wrote:
I have a MB diesel to, in the garage , no need to start it, diesels can sit for years and fire right up, do put a trickle charger on the battery if you can.and the house battery to.

One should be careful in leaving their diesel trucks for years. Seals, gaskets and other things dry out, as well as the Diesel fuel degrades as does oil. To state a diesel truck could be started without being freshened up is not something I would ever follow.

First, fuel degrades and there is debate on whether to keep a fuel tank filled or not, to stop condensation. Diesel will form organic material that will clog filters.

It would be best to maintain a habit of starting and driving the vehicle once a month, to exercise the shocks and tires, as well as the suspension. Keeping D-Con and other material in the engine compartment will help keep the pest from chewing down your wire insulation and reflective material around your turbos and engine parts.

Keeping your batteries charged with ensure longevity and in areas different than yours, Freezing temperatures, it will keep them from freezing.

b

I have a MB diesel to, in the garage , no need to start it, diesels can sit for years and fire right up, do put a trickle charger on the battery if you can.and the house battery to.