Got a L2800, running 0w15 synthetic in Ontario. My question is how long do I wait for things to warm up before using the rig? I've been told everything from 20 seconds to waiting until it is at operating temp. I typically run it at 1000rpm until I see the temp starting to rise, then work it. In extreme cold (which hasn't been a problem so far this year) I usually wait until it is up to temp.
How long?
- Thread starter Sparky2k
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85Hokie
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Equipment
BX-25D ,PTB. Under Armor, '90&'92-B7100HST's, '06 BX1850 FEL
I am gonna go out on that limb and say that your tractor is in a shed - but not heated at all. 0w will help - the hydraulics are the hard part to heat up. Many will go inside and drink a couple of cups of coffee while she warms up - running at 1K is fine and will increase warm-ups across the board too.
to really answer your question would be to get block and magnetic heaters for the engine and the hydraulic sump. If you are seeing your gauge move on the dash - then I would go ahead and proceed to move along.
I like to go up to 1200 rpm and let it set there for at least 5 minutes. If it's real cold a little longer won't hurt, it will help. The big thing to me (which you already do) is don't just crank it and let it sit there at low idle. 1000 - 1200 rpm not only helps it warm up faster but it will insure you have proper oil flow and make sure everything is getting enough lubrication. Even when warm I prefer to let mine idle around 1200 if it's going to sit for a while.
Speaking of "How Long". On a BX, how long should I hold the key at the glow plug before starting in cold weather? Not that Ohio has had any cold yet.
