Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Starting with no grid heaters in cool temps?

[GOT-Torque]

Anyone know how cold it must get before grid heaters are really required on a cummins?



I'm just looking for a little experience, will it smoke to beat heck when it gets down to 50 degrees? Or will it need to be close to freezing?

 

[DJb]

My 97 starts ok at 40 degrees without letting the heater heat up first and it does idle a bit rough at first but my heater does work so that might make a difference once it's running. It fires right up though without giving the heater time to do anything. Just used to getting in and hitting it and forgot about it. My heater works when the temps are below about 55 degrees... .

 

[ACoyle]

I started mine down to zero in NJ without waiting. It did complain and smoke. Only about 10 seconds though.

 

[mhenon]

I started mine well below freezing a time or two. Sounded like crab and put out a cloud of white smoke. . but did start. My grids have been disconnected from day one but I plug in the block heater at the least sign of cool weather.

Mike

 

[DJb]

Does this cause any problems in the engine running so cold without heated air etc? Does the fuel leave residue or something or does it eventually burn off?

 

[GOT-Torque]

Thanks for the feedback, I was just curious about running without the heaters installed when temps might fall into the 40's or 50's. I'll have them in for the winter for sure.