Operating a Diesel Vehicle in COLD Climates
Hi
I'm toying with the idea of taking my diesel Hilux into Siberia. I want to spend a good 3 months or so, and wish to travel along the Kolyma Highway Yakutsk - Magadan. By most accounts, come the summer melt (June / July) this road becomes pretty much impassable. I wish to get into Siberia in what is the European spring, i.e. Mar / Apr / May time, when Siberia will be around -20C (very generally speaking of course), rather than the frigid -40C in winter.
Now I realise that Diesel fuel, radiator coolant, and the oils in the gearbox / diffs stuffen up and even freeze (coolant) at very low temps (don't know about engine oil or brake / clutch fluid??) My question is, at what sort of temperatures would it become necessary to either keep the engine running continuously / warm all these parts up?).
I know plent of North America gets to around -15 / -20C in winter, so I guess these temps are OK?
Any experience / knowledge appreciated!
|