Medium Duty Operator's Manual - Peterbilt Motors Company

STARTING AND OPERATING THE VEHICLE
NOTE: In colder climates where the temperatures
are often below freezing, sufficient warmup
for turbocharged engines is especially important.
Chilled external oil lines leading to the turbocharger
will slow the oil flow until the oil
warms, reducing oil available for the bearings.
Watch the engine oil pressure gauge for a
warming trend before increasing engine idle
speed (rpm).
3. Continue the engine warm-up until the coolant temperature
reaches at least 130°F (54°C). At this temperature,
you can use partial throttle. Wait until the
coolant temperature is at least 160°F (71°C) before
operating at full throttle. See “Operating Manual
Transmissions” on page 96.
WARNING! Exhaust fumes from the engine
contain carbon monoxide, a colorless and
odorless gas. A poorly maintained, damaged,
or corroded exhaust system can allow carbon
monoxide to enter the cab or sleeper. Failure
to properly maintain your vehicle could cause
carbon monoxide to enter the cab and cause
serious illnesses.
WARNING! Never idle your vehicle for prolonged
periods of time if you sense that
exhaust fumes are entering the cab. Investigate
the cause of the fumes and correct it as
soon as possible. If the vehicle must be driven
under these conditions, drive only with the
windows slightly open. Failure to repair the
source of the exhaust fumes may lead to personal
harm.
Idling the Engine
Under most circumstances, continuous idling of your
engine merely wastes fuel. In severe Arctic weather conditions,
however, you may need longer idling to be sure all
parts of your engine are fully lubricated.
CAUTION: Do not allow your engine to idle, at
low rpm (400–600 rpm), longer than five minutes.
Long periods of idling after the engine
has reached operating temperatures can
decrease engine temperature and cause
gummed piston rings, clogged injectors, and
possible engine damage from lack of lubrication.
The normal torsional vibrations generated
can also cause transmission wear.
Medium Duty (R05/09) Y53-6008A – 93 –