2004 Chevy Silverado Vehicles idles for excessive time

2004 CHEVROLET SILVERADO
25,000 MILES • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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LEO URBAN
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Vehicle idles about 20 hours per day and when driven it moves at low speed for short distances. We have regular maintenance program but the idle time is taking it's toll on the engine.

Couple questions, is there a formula to figure actual mileage based on engine hours? Are there any schools of thought on preventive maintenance plans for vehicles in the category.

The vehicle is an Air Force Security Forces Truck that sits on post 365 a year, engine running AC on high.
Mar 10, 2010 at 10:00 AM
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MERLIN2021
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 17,250 POSTS
Leo, I dont have a formula for converting idle time into mileage, but the truck will carbon up faster than if you drive it, so every six months get a can of GM engine decarbon, sold at any GM parts counter, follow directions on the can. Also leave the hood open just at the pop. How often do you change the oil? Once per month is probably a good idea, and if you switch to total synthetic, you could stretch it to 2 months...keep all fluids topped off. Dont park on grass to avoid grass fires from catalytic converter heat!
Mar 11, 2010 at 8:44 AM
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