Steve
Member III
I've been mystified on various positions regarding running our diesels to charge a battery bank while at rest, for say several hours. I can understand both sides of the argument, however, is the load of an alternator on a diesel enough to off-set what would be considered a harmful no-load condition or idle? Or does simply having enough RPMs the key.
Apparently here is what happens when a diesel engine is idled:
-Timing gear backlash [gear rattle] is maximized, leading to increased wear
-The cylinders get glazed, leading to low compression
-The engine is run at below operating temp, leading to carbon accumulation in the combustion chamber, injector tips, piston rings, piston crown, valves heads, seats, and stems, exhaust manifold, etc. Carbon on these parts will lead to accelerated wear, and possible piston ring sticking and low engine compression.
-Also, the injected fuel gets past the piston rings, because the engine is not at the correct temperature, and dilutes the lube oil. This compromised oil is sent to ALL the engine bearings, where it increases bearing wear.
With all that in mind, would it not make sense to run in reverse while charging on the hook for a load (their goes the transmission!). Does sound stupid.. or is it?
Apparently here is what happens when a diesel engine is idled:
-Timing gear backlash [gear rattle] is maximized, leading to increased wear
-The cylinders get glazed, leading to low compression
-The engine is run at below operating temp, leading to carbon accumulation in the combustion chamber, injector tips, piston rings, piston crown, valves heads, seats, and stems, exhaust manifold, etc. Carbon on these parts will lead to accelerated wear, and possible piston ring sticking and low engine compression.
-Also, the injected fuel gets past the piston rings, because the engine is not at the correct temperature, and dilutes the lube oil. This compromised oil is sent to ALL the engine bearings, where it increases bearing wear.
With all that in mind, would it not make sense to run in reverse while charging on the hook for a load (their goes the transmission!). Does sound stupid.. or is it?
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