Crobson 20 #1 Posted November 30, 2022 Now that I've almost got the snowblower up and running, my next silly question is "Do I need to do anything to help keep the engine warm?" The Onan p220g doesn't have any thermostatic louvers or anything similar. Can I partially cover the flywheel fan's air intake to help the engine get up to normal operating temp? I'm already looking at spots to add a temp sensor, the stock gauge cluster is only partially functioning ATM. 1 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Achto 27,597 #2 Posted November 30, 2022 (edited) 1 hour ago, Crobson said: Can I partially cover the flywheel fan's air intake to help the engine get up to normal operating temp? Never block off any air intakes for the engine. There is no need to worry about the engine getting up to temp, it will be fine in the cold. Fact while working hard it will be happier in 0 degree outside temps than it would be in 80 degree outside temps. Edited November 30, 2022 by Achto 2 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Lee1977 6,663 #3 Posted November 30, 2022 I would be more worred the the rear cylinder fins are full of oil and dirt, mine were when I got it. 2 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
lynnmor 7,307 #4 Posted November 30, 2022 You might want to use 10W-30 oil in the winter and 30 in the summer. Other than that, it will be fine. 4 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
oldlineman 1,481 #5 Posted November 30, 2022 also synthetic oil will flow better in cold temps. Bob 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
peter lena 8,632 #6 Posted November 30, 2022 @Crobson personally use rough service incandescent light bulb in a reflector , under my engines , gives off just enough heat to , just warm the engine block . my sheds are cold , but my start ups are good , also use sta-bil fuel treatment in all my fuel . just a suggestion . pete 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites