Do you let a diesel pickup idle?

[froggy47]

I was just curious. I know an 18 wheeler w/ reefer needs to idle, I know cop cars with loads of electronics need to idle, K9 needs to idle to keep dogs cool.

But for the average Ford/Chevy/Dodge diesel pickup is there some mechanical reason that guys will leave them idle for what seems like no reason?

:)

[bradfordsvettes]

They use very little fuel idling my guess is that they feel it is less wear and tear on batteries ,starter and alternator with frequent starts or maybe just lazy. I would shut it down if my vehicle Steve

[bradfordsvettes]

They use very little fuel idling my guess is that they feel it is less wear and tear on batteries ,starter and alternator with frequent starts or maybe just lazy. I would shut it down if my vehicle Steve

[ChuckG]

My neighbor has a HUGE Ford diesel pick-up (yes, he's about 4'11") he let's idle for HOURS.

I think it's only to annoy us with its gurgling.

Won't he be happy when I toss it in drive and lock the doors?

[c4c5specialist]

HI there,
From a Duramax point of view, why not?
As noted, they use very little fuel while idling, but alot when they first start up.
Starter usage can also be an issue. Generating heat could also be a reason.
2008/2009 Duramax have an issue about EGR cooling and carbon buildup, so until the new calibration is available, I wouldnt do that with this particular model, but all the others, why not?
Allthebest, c4c5

[froggy47]

Originally Posted by c4c5specialist

HI there,
From a Duramax point of view, why not?
As noted, they use very little fuel while idling, but alot when they first start up.
Starter usage can also be an issue. Generating heat could also be a reason.
2008/2009 Duramax have an issue about EGR cooling and carbon buildup, so until the new calibration is available, I wouldnt do that with this particular model, but all the others, why not?
Allthebest, c4c5

Are you saying that they run VERY RICH f/a mixture until they warm up?

Worse than a gas fuel inj engine?

I don't know much re: diesel. Never had one. Drove a diesel car in Spain for about a week. Messy filling up, diesel really reeks.

Thanks.

:)

[c4c5specialist]

HI there,
No.
The exhaust gas carries carbon particles, and at idle, cannot burn them off or push them out of the EGR cooler assembly.
So, it plugs up, creating the condition.
Allthebest, c4c5

[motorman]

diesel locomotives are never shut down once they are started when new till time for overhaul.

[leadfoot]

This site will shut down if free loaders dont get off their ass and feed the pig wayyyy over due Thanks

[leadfoot]

OOppps my apology as I see you have attempted to feed the pig. Thank you for hanging out a fellow with your experience is valuable to have around. Thanks again for the link to the LS3 info