Can low rpm damage the engine?

[Christ]

I've been told not to idle the engine for extended periods as the chronic low oil pressure/flow can cause damage and premature wear. I don't remember reading anything on it though, and I've never had a need to actually test it.

[RH77]

Originally Posted by Christ

I've been told not to idle the engine for extended periods as the chronic low oil pressure/flow can cause damage and premature wear. I don't remember reading anything on it though, and I've never had a need to actually test it.

The main point -- not only is idling a potentially damaging proposition (especially extended idling during colder temperatures at startup), but is innately inefficient. 0 MPG.

Luckily, there is plenty of research by well-respected fuel economy experts, on the topic of idling. Even if it's -30F without an EBH, I start up, throw it in gear, wait for the fluid to kick the auto into gear, and slowly drive away (then pop it into 2nd to get the most out of the fast idle).

The previous paragraph contains an important EcoMod reference: the engine block heater. If I only had access to a 120VAC plug anywhere I park. 365/24/7 -- but on a timer. In the winter, maybe 3 hours -- summertime is about an hour.

Nevertheless, the added warmth allows a variety of efficient post-start benefits: including improved oil viscosity and flow. End of story.

Bear in mind that the grid is more efficient than your engine.

RH77

[Christ]

When I start the car, cold or not, I let the engine RPM stabilize before taking off... this usually takes 5-10 seconds after it starts. This is usually enough time to grab the seat belt, put it on, and put the car in gear.

[ElTruckCarMan]

Yes Especially with age. my first three cars suffered this fate before I learned.
Your piston rings need a oil film, low rpms limits lubrication, and increases soot and blowby, both of which will further lower your lubrication. esspically if your car has over 150,000 miles, your better off getting power in the normal operation rang. when i was 16, i needed to get all over the place with very little founds so I did this EVERY WHERE I WENT all three of my first cars died of bad pistons rings. I used to get 40+ MPG AS A DELIVERY DRIVER!!! fast my friends i was fast and i was about efficiency. like its been said high milage is a diffrent kind of extreme on engines. Just becuse your not, go fast doesnt mean your not asking alot of your engine!! one thing you can do to help is ENGINE BREAK this helps suck oild back onto the cylinder walls.

1978 Elcamino 5speed 350, 30 mpg 253 hp has a truck bed

[MetroMPG]

Welcome to the forum, ElTruckCarMan !