How much fuel does a 460 diesel engine consume at idle for one hour?
3 Answers
For diesel engines, there is generally no such concept as idle speed. If you need to know the idle fuel consumption of a diesel engine, you can refer to its speed characteristic curve or load characteristic curve based on its idle speed value to obtain an approximate fuel consumption. Here is some relevant information about diesel engine idle speed: 1. Definition of diesel engine idle speed: Diesel engine idle speed usually 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 generator diesel engines, it typically refers to a certain no-load speed after startup, generally above 0.8 times its rated speed. 2. Recommendation: It is not advisable to idle for long periods while waiting, as it consumes a significant amount of fuel.
As a veteran heavy truck driver, I've conducted real-world tests on the idle fuel consumption of the 460 diesel engine. With its large displacement, this beast maintains a stable idle speed around 650 RPM, consuming approximately 1.5 to 2 liters per hour. Running AC adds another half liter. Our fleet often needs to idle for heating during winter unloading operations - burning over 10 liters during 7-8 hour nights, which adds up to thousands in extra monthly fuel costs. I recommend fellow truckers shut off engines during loading. Many new engines now feature smart start-stop systems that save 30% idle fuel compared to older models. Of course, actual consumption depends on oil condition and air filter cleanliness - if you notice black exhaust during idling, it's likely time to clean the fuel injectors.
With twenty years of diesel engine repair experience, I know idle fuel consumption best. For high-displacement engines like the 460, 1.8 liters per hour is the baseline for idle fuel consumption. However, there are several key variables: fuel consumption doubles during the first ten minutes of cold starts because the ECU enriches fuel injection; running the AC adds an extra 0.4 liters; and older, worn-out models may spike to 2.5 liters. During inspections, I use OBD to read real-time fuel injection data. If anomalies are found, I check whether the high-pressure fuel pump pressure is below 200 bar or if the EGR valve is stuck. Prolonged high idling is most damaging to the engine—carbon buildup occurs three times faster than during normal driving, and piston rings are prone to coking.
