Did you know that turbocharged diesel engines need to idle before being shut off? Idling helps reduce internal temperatures that could damage components.

Some engine and apparatus manufacturers recommend idling an engine for several minutes after the vehicle is brought to a stop. This allows the oil and coolant to transfer heat away from sensitive components, such as the turbocharger bearings and seals, and avoid damaging internal temperature spikes.

The recommended engine shut-down sequence is to stop the vehicle on a level surface, shift the transmission into neutral, set the parking brake, idle the engine for 3 to 5 minutes, turn the master switch off, turn the ignition switch off and finally turn the battery selector switch off. Never shut the engine down by turning the battery selector switch off first or alternator damage could occur. Consult the operation manual of specific engines and vehicles to confirm the correct idle times and sequence of operations.

This feature offers a variety of short tips and facts about apparatus specifications, maintenance and testing. Look for it every month. Submissions of 150 words or less are welcome from our readers, subject to editing. Send them to Senior Editor Chris Cavette at cavettes@ix.netcom.com