that is a damned expensive way to produce heat. the fuel used by most diesels
is a tiny fraction of the total cost of usage. Most people who keep track of
ALL their costs associated with keeping an engine running shows costs to be
about $3 to $5 an hour for repairs and such, plus often something similar for a
rebuild.

Except, of course (like the broker I saw last week in Melbourne FL), who claim
80,000+ hours as normal for a diesel engine before overhaul. (the damned
engine in question had leaked oil ALL over the bilge in what was maybe 30
minutes of running an otherwise spick and span boat before we arrived)

Mich.,

I have another very good reason for running the engine. When you want
heat out of the "RED DOT HEATER"

I found my my engine run at a fast idle on a quart of fuel per hour.
That is less diesel than the heater.

When I winter sail, I keep the Pilothouse warm this way. Also, as long
as it's running, I'll drop it in gear and Motor sail.

Ole Thom