How much fuel does a 460 diesel consume at idle for one hour?
2 Answers
For diesel engines, there is usually no such thing as idle speed. If you need to know the idle fuel consumption of a diesel engine, you can approximate it by checking its speed characteristic curve or load characteristic curve based on its idle speed value. Below is relevant information about diesel engine idling: 1. Definition of diesel engine idle speed: Diesel engine idle speed typically refers to the operating condition where the diesel engine runs without load. For automotive diesel engines, it refers to the engine speed in neutral gear. For diesel engines used in power generation, it usually refers to a certain no-load speed after startup, generally above 0.8 of its rated speed. 2. Recommendation: It is not recommended to idle for long periods while waiting, as it consumes a significant amount of fuel.
As a long-time diesel vehicle driver, I estimate that a 460-horsepower diesel engine consumes approximately 1.5 to 2.5 liters of fuel per hour at idle, depending on weather and vehicle condition. In winter, fuel consumption increases when the heater is on, and the same applies to air conditioning in summer. Older models with less responsive fuel pumps may consume even more. I've noticed some owners habitually idle for extended periods while waiting, which not only wastes fuel but also leads to carbon buildup and engine damage. To save money, I typically idle for just a few minutes before shutting off the engine and perform regular maintenance to ensure a clean fuel system, effectively reducing consumption by about 0.2 liters per hour. Proper trip planning can help avoid unnecessary idling time.
