A non-profit organization I work just replaced our old 1974 Gillig school bus with a 2000 Thomas MVP with a 3126 Cat. This bus came equiped with an intake heater and a high idle feature. What is the proper procedure for starting the engine on a cold morning? Do you have to wait to start the engine until the intake heater light turns off? I have noticed after the bus is started, the intake heater light remains lit for a few minutes while running. Also, how soon after starting is it ok to enable the high idle?

 

Yes, wait until the light goes out. I'd look for a block heater. Those kitty cats are cold natured. Wait until the oil pressure builds before high idle. It should come right up.

 

We have a whole pile of 3126's in Sterlings at work. Wait for the light to go out and crank until the engine is running. Let it sit and idle, it will idle up after a minute or so. Once it drops out of high idle, drive it gently if possible.