Mercedes-Benz
While you are driving, watch for any signs of engine problems. If the engine overheats, uses excessive fuel or lubricating oil, vibrates, misfires, makes unusual noises, or shows an unusual loss of power, turn the engine off as soon as possible and determine the cause of the problem. Frequently, engine damage may be avoided by a quick response to early indications of problems.
- Use the tachometer to determine when to shift. Follow the pattern on the shift lever when moving through the gears.
- Depending on the vehicle gearing, the posted speed limit can sometimes allow operation in either of the top two gears; however, for improved operating efficiency (fuel economy and engine life), operate in the top gear at reduced rpm, rather than in the next lower gear at the maximum rpm.
- Cruise at partial throttle whenever road conditions and speed requirements permit. This driving technique permits operating within the most economical power range of the engine.
- Use lower gears in steep downhill driving. Normally, the gear used to descend a hill is the same gear used to climb a hill of the same grade.
- Never allow the engine to exceed the rated speed. Use the exhaust brake and the optional constant-throttle brake, if installed, to lower engine rpm below the rated speed.
- Never allow the engine to idle for more than 30 minutes.
Excessive idling can cause oil to leak from the turbocharger.
Caution: Stop the engine at the first sign of malfunction. Almost all malfunctions give some warning to the operator before significant damage occurs. Many engines are saved because alert operators heed the warning signs (sudden drop in oil pressure, unusual noises, etc.) and immediately shut down the engine.
Caution: Long periods of idling are not good for an engine because the combustion chamber temperatures drop so low that the fuel may not burn completely. This will cause carbon to clog the injector spray holes and piston rings, and may result in stuck valves.
If the engine coolant temperature becomes too low, raw fuel will wash the lubricating oil off the cylinder walls and dilute the crankcase oil, causing all moving parts of the engine to suffer from poor lubrication.