Cummins Engine Operation Steps Under Cold Weather

Cold – Weather Protection

1. For cold-weather operation, use of permanent type antifreeze with rust inhibitor additives is recommended.

2. Drain the cylinder block and heads on all engines by opening the petcocks and removing the drain plugs, heat exchanger or other “water cooled” accessory is used, open the petcock and drain. Failure to properly drain the engine and accessories may cause serious damage during freezing weather.

3. Immersion-type water and oil heaters are available for engines used in cold-weather operations and to maintain temperatures to permit the engine to operate at full load at start-up.

Engine Operation in Cold Weather

Satisfactory performance of a diesel engine operating in low ambient temperature conditions requires modification of the engine, surrounding equipment, operating practices and maintenance procedures. The colder the temperatures encountered the greater the amount of modification required and yet with the modifications applied, the engines must still be capable of operation in warmer climates without extensive changes. The following information is provided to engine owners, operators and maintenance personnel on how the modifications can be applied to get satisfactory performance from their diesel engines.

There are three basic objectives to be accomplished:

1. Reasonable starting characteristics followed by practical and dependable warm-up of the engine and equipment.

2. A unit or installation which is as independent as possible from external influences.

3. Modifications which maintain satisfactory operating temperatures with a minimum increase in maintenance of the equipment and accessories.

If satisfactory engine temperature is not maintained, higher maintenance cost will result due to the increased engine wear, poor performance and formation of excessive carbon, varnish and other deposits. Special provisions to overcome low temperatures are definitely necessary, whereas as change to warmer climate normally requires only a minimum of revision. Most of the accessories should  be designed in such a way that they can be disconnected so there is little effect on the engine when they are not in use.

The two most commonly used terms associated with preparation of equipment for low temperature operation are “Winterization” and “Arctic Specifications”.

Winterization of the engine and or components so starting and operation are possible in the lowest temperature to be encountered requires:

1. Use of correct materials.

2. Proper lubrication,low temperature lubricating oils.

3. Protection from the low temperature air. The metal temperature does not change, but the rate of heat dissipation is affected.

4. Fuel of the proper grade for the lowest temperature.

5. Heating to be provided to increase the engine block and component temperature to a minimum of -25°F [-32°C] for starting in lower temperatures.

6. Proper external heating source available.

7. Electrical equipment capable of operating in the lowest expected temperature.

Arctic specifications refer to the design material and specifications of the components necessary for satisfactory engine operation in extreme low temperatures to -65°F [-54°C]. Contact Cummins Company, Inc., or the equipment manufacturer to obtain the special items required.

For additional information on cold weather operation, obtain Service Bulletin No. 3379009 “Engine Operation in Cold Weather,” from the nearest Cummins Distributor or dealer.

Caution: “Anti-leak” antifreeze are not recommended for use in Cummins Engines. Although these antifreeze are chemically compatible with DCA water treatment, the “anti-leak” agents may clog the coolant filters and render them ineffective.