Cayman 2006 Chassis Information — Section 10 • 255
Cold Weather
In sub-freezing or extreme cold, engine oil becomes thick and battery output is reduced. Thick oil, combined
with less amperage available from the battery, increases diffi culty in starting the engine. It is possible to operate
diesel engines in extremely cold environments when the engine is properly equipped with the correct lubricants,
fuels and coolant.
The engine electronic system is equipped with cold start strategy referred to as cold mode. Cold mode limits
the power until coolant temperatures reaches 82º F. The engine in cold mode will idle at 800 RPM until the
throttle or service brake is pressed. The engine will then drop to the programmed low idle speed.
NOTE:
Power will be noticeably reduced if the motorhome is operated while in cold mode.
It may be necessary to pre-heat the engine due to ambient temperature. If it is necessary to pre-heat the
engine, it is recommended to use the block heater outlet in the engine compartment. The block heater will heat
engine coolant and the interior. An indication of 100º F or higher of the engine temperature gauge is suffi cient for
the engine to start.
Engine Block Heater:
The block heater cord is located in the rear (exterior) engine compartment. The cord
may be plugged into the outlet directly above the radiator. The block heater requires 120
Volt AC to operate. Hook to shore power, as this is more effi cient. The generator may
be diffi cult to start and it may take some time to pre-heat the engine. The block heater,
depending on engine size, is rated between 1000 and 1500 watts. The block heater cord
may be connected to a separate power cord as long as the power cord is rated for 1500 watts
and the outlet used must have a GFCI protected rate of 20 Amps. The engine may require
several hours of pre-heating before it will start. It is recommended to start pre-heating the
engine the night before departure. Remember to unplug the separate power cord.
NOTE:
The inverter should never be used for the power source. Rapid battery
drain and inverter shut down will occur.
Tips:
1. When operating below 32º F, the block heater enhances engine cold-start strategy by easing cranking and
helping to prevent engine misfi re and white smoke during starting.
2. Always follow recommended oil, fuel, and coolant specifi cations as outlined in the OEM Engine Manual.
Proper oil viscosity and coolant concentration eases engine starting and helps to avoid engine damage.
3. Allow the engine to idle until it suffi ciently warms for operation. Utilize the fast idle feature to quicken
the process. Wait to operate the motorhome for at least three minutes or until the coolant temperature
begins to move.
4. Check the air inlet and fi lter daily, or as necessary, when driving in snow conditions.
5. Demand on batteries increase during winter; check and service the batteries frequently to help ensure
trouble-free starts.
6. Start out slowly to allow the transmission and axle lubricants time to circulate and warm before putting
them under full load.
WARNING:
Do not use ether cold starting aids to start the engine as damage may occur.
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