What Can You Do Now?
Ask drivers to look at idling habits and find times and places to simply switch off the engine. Here are some things to consider:
Engines should be switched off at loading docks and during rest and meal breaks. Most idling done in these instances is simply from habit; drivers think it's cool, or it's just something they've always done. Your job is to convince them that's it's wasteful, polluting and that they've got to change their ways.
Cut it off while sleeping. If the outside temperature's between 40 and 75 degrees, they should be able to sleep comfortably with blankets or a sleeping bag. Crank down the windows a little to get fresh air; accessory window screens can keep out bugs. If possible, they should park upwind of other trucks to avoid fumes.
Electric blankets are an alternative. But any electric accessory draws down the batteries and might prevent cranking over the engine in the morning. Install a low-voltage cutoff device if you intend to allow use of any electrical appliance for extended periods.
Some drivers argue that an idling engine forms a cocoon of sound that drowns out other nearby noise. It's a reassuring melody that lulls them to sleep. Oh? How about listening to music, or the recorded sound of rain or ocean waves, or yes, even a recording of an idling diesel?
Some drivers let the engine run to cool down the turbocharger and let the engine itself return to a more normal temperature after a long uphill climb that leads to a truckstop or rest area. OK, but make it five minutes tops, and consider the time the engine loafed getting into the parking spot.
An engine shouldn't be pushed when dead cold, so some warm-up time is needed. But electronically controlled engines run better than old engines while cold, and any engine can be babied as the driver heads for the highway, watching the temp gauge as the needle comes up.
Some drivers let the engine idle all the time because they're afraid it won't start. But any truck that's decently maintained will start every time. This requires watching the health of the batteries, alternator and cranking motor. Drivers should report any problems promptly and bug their bosses, including you, until they're fixed.
The idle-limiting parameter in any engine's electronic control module can be set to shut off after a predetermined time — five or 10 minutes, for instance. It can also be overridden when a driver needs to idle on really hot or cold nights.
The ECM records how much the engine idles, in minutes and percentages. Every engine maker has software that easily generates reports covering idling and other operations. Crank these out and show the reports to drivers so they know how they're doing. Posting reports on bulletin boards awards bragging rights to good drivers and puts peer pressure on recalcitrant ones.
The best incentive is to share some of the fuel savings with drivers. There are a number of ways, and at least one formula should work for any operation. Engine makers' software programs have suggested methods, and can manage an incentive program for you. Ask your engine supplier's representative about them.
Fuel Crisis continued...
