Using Diesel Generators in Cold Climates

February 20, 2019

 

Cold-Weather Operation Guidelines

1.Level Placement

  • Ensure the generator is placed horizontally to allow complete drainage of coolant from the radiator.
  • 2.Post-Drainage Procedure

After draining coolant, run the engine for ~1 minute to evacuate residual water from internal passages.

Troubleshooting Water in Oil Pan

Symptom: Coolant leakage into the oil pan during operation.

Root Causes:

  • Cracked engine block, cylinder head, or gasket failure
  • Damaged cylinder liner (internal/external)

Diagnosis & Repair:

1.Refill the radiator with coolant.

2.Inspect cylinder liners using a flashlight:

Check for water trails on inner/outer walls.

3.Examine the engine block:

In this case, a 25cm crack was found near the side cover, leaking under pump pressure.

4.Solution: 

For external cracks: Repair with cast-iron welding rods.

For severe damage: Replace the cylinder block

5.Post-repair: After overhaul, the generator resumed normal operation.

Pro Tips for Cold Regions

  • Preheating: Use block/glow plugs below 5°C (41°F).
    Oil Viscosity: Switch to SAE 5W-40 or synthetic oils.
    Fuel Management: Add anti-gel additives to prevent diesel waxing.
    Battery Maintenance: Use high-CCA batteries and insulation blankets.

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