Cold-Weather Starting
Modern electronic engines do not normally require special starting aids. At low temperatures, oil pan heaters or water jacket heaters are sometimes used to assist in starting.
Warning: If using a cold-weather-start system, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding its use, handling, and storage. Many starting fluids are in capsules or pressure cans, and improper usage can be dangerous.
Do not attempt to use any type of vapor-compound start system near heat or open flame. Engine damage due to an explosion or fire in the intake manifold could result.
Do not breathe the ether fumes; doing so could result in personal injury.
Caterpillar
Turn the ignition switch to the on position (see Fig.).
Fig. 1, Ignition Switch Positions
If the engine doesn't start after 30 seconds of cranking, turn the key to the off position and wait two minutes; then repeat the starting procedure.
If the coolant temperature is less than 64°F (18°C), the engine will start up in the cold-start strategy. This reduces the amount of fuel available to the injectors, advances the timing, and controls white smoke emissions. The engine remains in the cold-start strategy until the coolant temperature rises above 64°F (18°C), or until it has been running for 12 minutes.
Important: Do not move the vehicle when it is in the cold-start strategy. Power will be noticeably reduced.
After a cold engine start of less than 64°F (18°C), Caterpillar electronic engines automatically idle at 800 rpm (for C–10 and C–12 engines), or 600 rpm (for 3406E, C–15, and C–16 engines). These electronic engine systems will adjust the idle speed to 700 to 750 rpm when the engine is warm enough to drive the vehicle.
Cummins
The cold-start system approved for use on Cummins engines has been based upon starting aid capabilities to –25°F (–32°C). For more information, see the Cummins Operation and Maintenance Manual .
Turn the ignition switch to the on position (see Fig.).
If the engine doesn't start after 30 seconds of cranking, turn the key to the off position and wait two minutes; then repeat the starting procedure.
Run the engine slightly above idle until oil pressure shows on the gauge. If oil pressure doesn't show on the gauge within 30 seconds of starting, turn the key to the off position and wait one minute; then repeat the starting procedure.
DDE S60
The engine may require the use of a cold-weather starting aid if the outside temperature falls below 40°F (4°C).
Turn the ignition switch to the on position and start the engine.
If the engine doesn't start after 30 seconds of cranking, turn the key to the off position and wait two minutes; then repeat the starting procedure.
Run the engine slightly above idle until oil pressure shows on the gauge. If oil pressure doesn't show on the gauge within 30 seconds of starting, turn the key to the off position and wait one minute; then repeat the starting procedure.
Mercedes-Benz
Caution: Never attempt to start any Mercedes-Benz electronic engine using ether or any other starting fluid. Serious engine damage could result.
The intake air preheater is activated by turning the ignition switch to the on position (see Fig.). If the engine is at normal temperature, the INTAKE HEATER indicator goes out after two seconds.
If the temperature is low enough to require the heater, the INTAKE HEATER indicator stays on while the intake air preheater warms up. After the indicator goes out, start the engine. If the engine doesn't start after about 30 seconds of cranking, turn the key to the off position and wait two minutes; then repeat the starting procedure.
Note: If the engine doesn't start on the second try, wait at least five minutes before using the intake air preheater again.