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Old 11-20-2012, 11:22 AM   #1
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Question about Snowbirding

My hubby is considering going from our normal full-timing (moving every 2-3 weeks) to only moving seasonally. He is worried about letting the MH sit for extended periods of time without "exercise", tho. Does it hurt the engine (400 Cummins diesel) to sit for 3 months at a time? Are there things that should be done to keep it in good shape? Thanks for any info.
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Old 11-20-2012, 01:16 PM   #2
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Quote:
Originally Posted by llmrealestat
My hubby is considering going from our normal full-timing (moving every 2-3 weeks) to only moving seasonally. He is worried about letting the MH sit for extended periods of time without "exercise", tho. Does it hurt the engine (400 Cummins diesel) to sit for 3 months at a time? Are there things that should be done to keep it in good shape? Thanks for any info.
As future full timers I have pondered this myself. Will be interested in responses you get. I had considered making a few two or three day trips in a period of "sitting". Partly because I like to drive it and partly to give it exercise. Had thought of maybe boondocking to save on double paying for sites but then long term is at a discount and a few nights out here and there should average in ok on the expense. Other than following the long term maintenance schedule I think you / we would be fine. But let's see what experience has to say. Thanks for bringing this up. Can't wait to join in the fun.
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Old 11-20-2012, 02:05 PM   #3
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I think you'll be fine. Lots of folks do just as you're pondering.

What you should not do, is start the diesel just to let it warm up... thinking you're helping keep it "fresh". Wait until you move so you can get a few hours of driving on it every few months.

Best of luck.

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Old 11-20-2012, 02:13 PM   #4
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Leaving it sit won't hurt it. It's better to leave it sit for 3 month, than start it 2-3 times @ month and let it idle. You either let them sit, or drive them until everything reaches operating temperature. We just arrived in Fl and I will not be starting mine until April.
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Old 11-20-2012, 02:18 PM   #5
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I am planning on letting ours sit for 3-4 months. I just worry about algea, fuel problems, and lubrication problems
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Old 11-20-2012, 03:39 PM   #6
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We've let it sit for 1-2 months at a time. The only thing we do is make sure our diesel tank is full and use a good additive to prevent degredation/algae. We usually fill up a few miles before our destination and add the additive at that time so that it has the chance to run thro' the engine.

Other than that the only thing we exercise regularly is the generator. Once a month fire-up and load for ~1 hour or so.
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Old 11-20-2012, 03:55 PM   #7
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Quote:
Originally Posted by WheelingIt View Post
We've let it sit for 1-2 months at a time. The only thing we do is make sure our diesel tank is full and use a good additive to prevent degredation/algae. We usually fill up a few miles before our destination and add the additive at that time so that it has the chance to run thro' the engine.

Other than that the only thing we exercise regularly is the generator. Once a month fire-up and load for ~1 hour or so.
That's what we do with the exception that we occasionally have left it for much longer. One turn of the key when we arrive to start driving and it fires up without a problem.
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Old 11-20-2012, 08:23 PM   #8
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I believe (in my opinion--don't take this to the bank--this advise is worth what you paid for it) that the idea of having to start an engine periodically started back in the days of natural rubber seals. They would dry out if not oiled. The new neoprene and other more modern materials do not dry. Starting an engine and letting it idle will cause condensation in the oil pan--not a good thing.
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Old 11-21-2012, 06:33 AM   #9
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I am concerned about mine sitting also, What kind of diesel additive is recomended? I currently use an anti-gel agent as I am in cold weather. Also an additive called Meaner Power Kleaner. Haven't experienced any problems. I do use fuel when sitting, as my diesel burner for Hydro-hot cycles. I do not start mine until we are ready to travel. Thanks, all info here is very usefull.

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Old 11-21-2012, 08:25 AM   #10
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This is what we use - STA-BIL Diesel Fuel Stabilizer, 32 oz: Automotive : Walmart.com . I couldn't say wether it works better than other products but it seems to be doing the job (i think).
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Old 11-21-2012, 08:36 AM   #11
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Thanks, everyone. I appreciate the info.
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Old 11-21-2012, 09:29 AM   #12
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We've used Stabil too.There was another thread on this recently where XDP Diesel Power Plus (buy online)or Biobor JF biocide (I gather West Marine sells it) also came highly recommended. If you're in an area w/ high moisture you definitely want something that contains a biocide (anti-algae).
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Old 11-22-2012, 11:57 AM   #13
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But do start the Gen monthly,not for the motor, but for the generator itself. 50% load for at least 1/2 hour. This warms the generator and dries it out.

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Old 11-22-2012, 12:10 PM   #14
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Quote:
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But do start the Gen monthly,not for the motor, but for the generator itself. 50% load for at least 1/2 hour. This warms the generator and dries it out.

LEN
And after all, isn't warm and dry what snowbirding is all about.
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