"Bruce in Bangkok" wrote in message
...
On Fri, 4 Apr 2008 11:01:39 +0200, "Edgar"
wrote:


"Lew Hodgett" wrote in message
news:iMjJj.10032$s27.7854@trnddc02...

"Bruce in Bangkok" wrote:

read a reference to one of your posts, quoted in part by Roger, that
sounded as though the RPM was only unstable at low RPM, I remember
something about 1,000 RPM.


Most diesels need to idle in the 1300-1500 RPM area in order to generate
enough waste heat to prevent
"wet-stacking" which will cause glazing of the cylinder walls, creating
a
VERY expensive repair.

Much better to cut out prolonged idling and get some load on sooner.
Start up, and by the time you have checked the exhaust for cooling water,
gone forward and cast off the mooring ropes the engine is ready to go.
In other words, just long enough to spread some oil around inside the
engine.
If you cannot get load on for some time then stop the engine until you are
ready.


Actually diesel engines aren't that sensitive. Certainly one should
not idle them for long periods - hours, but it does no damage to let
an engine idle while you are clearing up the lines or what ever. Ever
been into a truck stop on a winter morning and seen the lines of
Peterbilt's sitting there idling while the driver is in having
breakfast.

Bruce-in-Bangkok
(correct email address for reply)


I've had them idle all night... not sure what the idle speed was... wasn't
in charge, just a passenger.

--
"j" ganz @@
www.sailnow.com