Setting up a new implement and a diesel engine

[whitenorth]

This is the first diesel I have ever owned and I have always never started it unless I was going to be using it where it would get to working temperature.

I've read/heard that you really shouldn't start a diesel engine unless you plan getting it to working temperature. This is true for gas engines also but again, I've read/heard it is harder on a diesel engine than on a gas engine.

So, I just bought a quick hitch and would like to get it and the one implement (for now) setup. This is the first time where I'd want to start it but, wouldn't be using it enough to get it up to full running temperature. How much harm would it cause to start it up, let it warm up some so that the HST isn't starting out cold either, setup the quick hitch and implement and then shut it off? I'd think I'd be okay as long as I didn't make the short start stop cycles a frequent habit but, asking as I'm still learning the idiosyncrasies of a diesel engine. I really don't want to be setting this up at a time that I need/want to use it.

 

[Shawn T. W.]

You will be fine!

Depending on the ambient air up "north" (sounds chilly up there, wherever you are) yes, I'd let the engine run at a "high idle" about 500 rpm over the lowest it will idle for at least 5 minutes if under 32°F (0°C) ... If your only raising and lowering the three point to get it adjusted and hooked up that is more than fine, and just puttering around not under a load to pick up the attachment is also fine.

Depending on what your tractor is it can also vary on how important it is to really work it hot ... Most of the newer emissions diesel don't like a lot of idling or short sessions ...

 

[whitenorth]

Sorry, I knew I forgot something. This is a 1990 Ford 1520 with the HST.

They are talking rain/sleet/snow for the tonight and tomorrow. Probably not enough that I'd need to use it. I'd probably wait for some warmer weather to do it anyway.

 

[Shawn T. W.]

That's not as critical to get warmed up to "full temp" everytime ... In my opinion the getting hot, is to disapate any moisture that may have formed from condensation ... In both engine and transmission.

But your hydraulics will be happier once warmed up to 100°F+ ...

 

[scootr]

I am guilty of starting the tractor for small tasks over and over - for years...my bad I suppose but honestly I never had one quit.

 

[Shawn T. W.]

If it's 80°F+ out, I'll start and once oil pressure is up, I'll start moving, but don't really "work it" until the temp needle comes up a bit