idling for a long time.

[murphyslaw]

ok so ppl have told me different things about letting these idle.

When it gets really cold I leave the truck idleing while im workin in the field, so i dont have to fight with getting it started and its nice and warm all the time. Doing this It idels for anyware from 2-8 hrs depending on what I have to do.

what are the after affects of this on the engine. Some have told me to drop the idle way down when doing this. while others have told me to bump the idle up while doing this.

there is no power available in the field to plug it in or I would, I get to plug it in at the shop.

what you guys think being the 6.2 ppl.

[Robyn]

Set things up so you can run the engine at around 900 to 1100 RPM
Add a cable assist throttle to bump it up and hold it.
This will keep plenty of oil throw off getting to the pistons and rings and such as well as the cam and lifter areas.
The only detriment would be if you have an auto tranny. The forward clutches dont like long term spinning without being used. There is a small amount of wear that goes on with the steel plates and the friction plates rubbing together. If you have a stick its no sweat.

[DmaxMaverick]

I've done it with every Diesel equipped pickup/SUV I've had. If yours doesn't have a high idle solenoid, installing one is easy. On my '85, I rigged a manual switch to it, and set the RPM at 800. Plenty to keep it warm in 0

[murphyslaw]

I live in anchorage, Ak but work 3 weeks on and 3 weeks off. I use my own rig when working and drive it from anch. to prudhoe bay to do maint at carrying pump stations. the fuel I use while up there is free. sorta, i dont pay for it but someone does. have thought about the blue heat but thats kinda expensive. will look into the espar.