Re: 3208T will not start
Reply #25 –
I think we have all heard this advice (Don't start it unless you can drive it ____ minutes/miles). Most of us probably try to comply, but let's face it, in some cases it is simply not possible. Occasionally, you have to start the big engine without moving the coach very far, or when it will only run in place for a few minutes. SO, what are the possible harmful effects of this transgression? Like many things in life, doing something "bad" one time, might not be as harmful as doing the "bad" thing all the time. Damage from bad habits tends to be cumulative over time, and I believe that is the case here.
Running any engine without getting the oil up to operating temp may cause some water (condensation) to accumulate in the crankcase. How much water? Well, that is the question...and probably a hard thing for a layman to quantify. Different conditions - different results. High or low ambient temperature, high humidity, size of engine, volume of oil in crankcase, length of running time. etc. We all (should) know what oil looks like when it has a LOT of water in it: kind of a creamy white color. If you see that on your dip stick, you already have BIG problems.
But what about before it gets to that point? Can you have enough water in your oil to cause damage, without it being obvious? The linked article may enlighten you on that question. It might also persuade you to DO YOUR BEST to avoid starting the engine without completely warming up the oil. It is still going to happen occasionally... When it does, do as Roger mentioned above; at the first available opportunity get the coach out and drive it hard. This will evaporate most of the moisture in the crankcase, and hopefully avoid long-term harm to the engine.
Water In Oil Contamination
Topic: 3208T will not start